The Reigatian Magazine 2019

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N C O M M U N I T Y

THE REIGATIAN 2019

TO BE A PILGRIM LIKE A STICK OF ROCK, THE BLUE AND WHITE OF REIGATE GRAMMAR SCHOOL RUNS RIGHT THROUGH PHIL DRURY (RGS 1984-1991) READ HIS JOURNEY FROM RGS TO CITI ON p38

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

CONTENTS

04

WELCOME

FEATURES

Notes from the Headmaster and the Head of Foundation

38

07

Phil Drury (RGS ’91) walks us through his journey from Deputy Head Boy at RGS to Managing Director for EMEA at Citi

CHANGING LIVES

An update on the bursary campaign

08

IMPACT REPORT

What weʼve accomplished since 2012

10

FOUNDERʼS DAY

Celebrating our Founder, Henry Smith

12

LAUNCH OF THE JON FIELDER MUSIC FUND

As well as enhancing their experience of school, results show that playing an instrument actually improves students’ academic outcomes

14

FOUNDATION ACTIVITIES

From sporting events and music recitals, to community fundraisers, dinners and drinks receptions, 2019 proved to be a busy year

22

RGS PROFESSIONALS

Our network goes from strength-to-strength

26

GLOBAL EVENTS

What have our overseas friends been up to?

30

REUNIONS AND EVENTS

From Silver and Gold Reunions to big birthdays and regional gatherings, our community enjoyed rekindling old friendships in 2019

34

TO BE A PILGRIM!

42

BAFTA AWARD-WINNING WRITER INSPIRES STUDENTS

Screenwriter and Producer, Chris Lang (’80), best known for the critically-acclaimed ITV crime drama, Unforgotten, spoke to students about his incredible career

44

RGS PUPIL TURNED ’80S POP LEGEND

The Vapors’ lead singer, Dave Fenton (RGS ’71) talks break-ups, the BBC strike, and getting the band back together

46

SPOTLIGHT ON…

Interview snippets from our community

47

WORKING IN HONG KONG

Shortly after moving to Asia to work on a renewable energy project, Connor Richardson (RGS ’14) found himself playing rugby for the Overseas Old Boys

48

THE BEST SCULPTURES I’VE EVER MADE

Rebecca Errat (RGS ’10) dedicates her award-winning sculptures to her first art tutor, the late Mr Edwards (RGS staff 1990-2018)

50

THE CONSERVATION OF BIG BEN Engineer, Clare Hartley-Marjoram (RGS ’09) shares her excitement on managing one of the UK’s highest-profile heritage projects

51

SCHOOL VISITS

Whether for careers talks or to take a tour, in 2019 we welcomed several members of our Reigatian community back through the doors

55

RECOLLECTIONS AND MEMORIES

Four Reigatians talk stern teachers, National Service and the part that RGS played in shaping their futures

62

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Discover the legacy (and abrupt dismissal) of Headmaster, Reverend John Gooch (RGS staff 1862-1878)

66

REIGATIAN NEWS

Celebrating our communityʼs successes

72

SCHOOL NEWS

Get a glimpse into the wealth of achievements from across the school, including performance, music, art, sport and more

79

PUBLICATIONS

From childrenʼs fiction to business books...

80

DEATHS AND OBITUARIES We pay tribute to fond friends

87

BIRTHS AND MARRIAGES

88

MERCHANDISE

Treat yourself or a friend to unique gift

90

MEET THE FOUNDATION TEAM

AWARDS AND HONOURS

Degree information from recent graduates

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WELCOME FROM THE HEADMASTER

high achieving. The school scores some of the best exam results in the country so the RGS approach to focus on the whole child seems to work well!

Throughout 2019 our students enjoyed amazing adventures, made life-long friends, secured memories and developed talents and experiences that are all part of how we cherish childhood.

We all know, from our own school days, that there is more to a great education than the goings-on of the classroom. So much is learned on the playing fields, from shows and productions, debating and public speaking, in adventurous activities, on school trips, in volunteering, as a cadet, doing DofE, offering community service and all the many wonderful joys of the extracurricular programme at a top school. Those aspects of life bring balance and a sense of joy: they develop teamwork and leadership; help students learn from victory and from defeat.

In 2019, Reigatians secured record examination results and where over 95% of our Sixth Form leavers held offers to Oxbridge, medical school, American,

European and Russell Group universities, I am particularly proud of each and every one of our students. However, I am equally delighted that the amount of volunteering and support for the local community saw RGS awarded the School of the Year award for our community engagement work.

Reigate Grammar School also secured the School of the Year 2019 award for its work in pastoral care and wellbeing in the annual, prestigious Times Education Supplement (TES) Independent School Awards. The lead judge was Natasha Devon MBE, former Government Mental Health supporter.

Natasha said RGS stood out as a “School which understands mental health as a universal issue”. This is about each and every member of our Reigatian community understanding the importance of caring enough to make a difference. The judges understood that our priority as a school is pastoral care based upon a belief that happy and healthy children go on to become

“The TES Independent School Awards are a roll-call of the most impressive institutions and individuals.”

Ann Mroz, Editor of the TES.

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Reigate Grammar School was nominated for more awards than any other school in the country and we were in good company with other nominated schools including Eton College, Wellington College, Brighton College, Caterham and Epsom College.

This award came just after winning the Independent School Parent award for RGS’s partnership work and community outreach.

We were delighted to be recognised for the work we are doing within the community including sharing our facilities, school partnership projects with the state sector, the volunteering work that our Reigatians carry out and the impressive Changing Lives bursary programme that helps with social mobility.

Of course, it is the daily experience of each child in our care that matters more than any award and we remain conscious that we will always have students, families and staff in our community where, for a variety of reasons, things are tough. It is nice to see our work affirmed, which we should definitely celebrate, but this recognition must only serve as a spur to do even more to help children and others in our community to stay healthy and to support them when things are far from easy.

I hope that you enjoy this edition of the Reigatian Magazine.

Shaun Fenton Headmaster

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

FROM THE HEAD OF FOUNDATION

For our headline feature, Phil Drury (RGS 1984-91), promotes the importance of belonging to a globally connected community. At Reigate Grammar School (RGS), we challenge our pupils to maximise their opportunities and fulfil their potential; we charge them be a pilgrim, to go out into the world and embark upon a journey of noble purpose.

Once a Reigatian, always a Reigatian! Philip Drury exemplifies this spirit, possessing those noble Reigatian virtues of resilience, determination, optimism and kindness.

Having first met Phil ten years ago in New York, it was clear that this was a man on a journey, in possession of an undeniable affection for his alma mater. Reading his piece raised my spirits, highlighting the importance of friendship, affinity and being part of something bigger. A proud advocate of our Changing Lives campaign, Phil is a role model, mentor and sponsor of children from disadvantaged backgrounds. All part of his own noble journey.

2019 was an extremely successful year.

Reigate Grammar School was awarded

UK Independent School of the Year for Wellbeing and Pastoral Care. This, aligned to another bumper set of academic results, justifiably led to the assessment by the Good Schools Guide of “Happy Kids, Great Results”. Meanwhile, in the Foundation, we were thrilled to welcome our 50th Changing Lives 1675 Scholar to RGS, whilst also achieving our fundraising target of £1m within the calendar year. Providing the widest range of activities and events ever, allowed us to broaden our community engagement. Our role is to reach out, connect, engage and ask. Thus, our focus remains, as always, the health of our global Reigatian community and the support given by you towards our important award-winning Changing Lives social mobility campaign.

Turn to page eight to discover the significant impact we have achieved to date.

I have a rewarding job, whereby I get to meet the incredible young children who aspire to attend RGS through the receipt of a transformational Changing Lives bursary.

However, it is a job that is both frustrating and emotionally challenging, particularly when the funds available do not match demand. With over four million children

The 2011 gathering of the American Friends of RGS

in the UK living in poverty* demand will remain high for some time. In our own borough of Reigate and Banstead, an estimated 5,000 children under the age of 11 are living in deprivation. Since 1675, RGS has provided opportunities to children in need and we are determined to maintain these opportunities and offer hope to our local community. This is our ethos, and is the reason why my team and I get out of bed every morning.

The significance of the need for the Changing Lives campaign was perfectly illustrated by Cindy Morris at our Henry Smith Club Dinner in May (page 16), hosted by our brilliant President, Sir Peter Gershon (RGS ’66). As a foster parent who has looked after over 100 crisis children in the borough, she spoke with passion about the impact we are making with one of her charges. The knowledge of what RGS provides – not just in the classroom, but though the broad extra-curricular opportunities and pastoral support – emphasises the importance of bursaries and the stable environment a school like RGS provides. This message was reinforced by our other special guest for the evening, Lord Cooper of Windrush (RGS ’81), an assisted-place recipient himself, who stressed the true impact of bursaries. Andrew Cooper was Head of Political Strategy for David Cameron and established his own research and campaign company, Populus.

The RGS Foundation does not have any rich endowment or alternative source of funding for bursaries. Indeed, we rely entirely on the philanthropic support of our community.

Our campaign goal for 2025 (RGS’s 350th anniversary) is to have the necessary funding to sustain a minimum of 50 students, on 100% bursaries, within the school at any one time. We will achieve this through a combination of gifts and regular donations as well as by building an investment fund with a long-term view to accrue interest.

We are making good progress, but to reach this goal, we need the support of our community. The key is participation

*Figures presented by the Child Poverty and Social Mobility Commission

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WELCOME FROM THE HEAD OF FOUNDATION

and the strength in numbers. As Phil Drury, in his brilliant feature, concludes, “The Foundation connects people back to the school… it reminds us how much we all owe to RGS.” As this edition highlights, as a community we are becoming increasingly connected and better engaged – we are getting stronger.

It may be a coincidence that a large number of Reigatians were in Japan for the Rugby World Cup (page 27) when we learned that it was a former pupil who sang the iconic track, Turning Japanese (page 44)! Elsewhere, we reconnected with a BAFTA award-winning writer (page 42), whilst learning about a brilliant young engineer who is currently working on the Big Ben restoration (page 50)! Our Archivist reveals some interesting insights into an infamous former Headmaster (page 62), and we hear wartime memories from a wonderful Reigatian (page 58).

What an incredible community we have!

In summary, 2019 has been another packed year, with a wide range of news, achievements, and activities. We are only as good as the sum of the parts that make up our Reigatian community and the support you give. Therefore, I wish to express my sincere appreciation to those who have contributed to this edition and to those that have supported the school and Foundation throughout the year: THANK YOU! This annual publication comes at the end of a long and intensive cycle and I wish to thank the work of the team, especially Caroline Donald and Nikki Burch, who, with amazing contributions from so many people, have ensured that this edition is ready for your enjoyment.

RGS HEADMASTER CHAIRS THE HMC We were incredibly proud of Headmaster, Shaun Fenton who, for the 2018-2019 academic year, served as Chair of the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference (HMC).

This was the first time, in the 148-year history of HMC, that the Headmaster of RGS has been Chair, and, we believe may be the first time that any school in Surrey has held the post.

HMC schools are some of the biggest and most successful independent schools in the world, characterised by their excellence in pastoral care, co-curricular provision, academic standards and classroom teaching. Members include Eton, Wellington College, Royal Grammar School Guildford, Winchester and Harrow.

Shaun Fenton has already been engaged in HMC for some years, having served on the Universities Committee, the Education Committee and the Inspection Committee. He has also served as Chair of the South East Division twice and, having completed his term of office, now holds the role of Vice Chair of the HMC.

“He who would valiant be…

His first avowed intent to be a pilgrim”

He explained: “Everything I do is driven by my pride in, and passion for, the RGS community and my determination to see the school continue to thrive in this ever-changing world. Through my HMC role, we are well placed to contribute to the national education policy debates in areas such as exam reform, curriculum development, pastoral care, teenage mental health and more. Also, as RGS offers approximately twice the proportion of bursary places as the independent sector average, we are especially well placed to offer some leadership in the use of bursaries to promote social mobility.”

Sean Davey Head of Foundation

Congratulations on a fine year as the top school leader in the country and for raising the profile of Reigate Grammar School.

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N E R D L I CH OU Y K N A H T

CHANGING LIVES Update The RGS Foundation is delighted to welcome its 50th Changing Lives bursary student to start their journey here at Reigate Grammar School.

The Changing Lives campaign launched in January 2014 at The Mansion House in London, with the sole focus of addressing social mobility in and around the local area.

Over the past five years, we have been overwhelmed by the constant support from the Reigatian community. Collectively, former pupils, parents (past and present), staff, governors and friends in offering hope and opportunity to children of great potential and need.

ONLINE AUCTION

Giving Day 1 May 2019

Thank you to all those who participated in our first ever online auction, we are delighted to announce that over £4,000 was raised for the Changing Lives bursary campaign.

On 1 May 2019 we held our first-ever Changing Lives Giving Day and what a day it was! The response from the Reigatian community was overwhelming.

Spanning an entire week, the Reigatian community competed against each other to snap up some wonderful auction items. Thank you to all those who viewed, participated and shared and, most importantly, submitted bids!

With over 90 donations, we raised just over £13,000 – a phenomenal collective achievement in a 24-hour period. One comment, from a former 1675 Scholar, really hits home why our work is so important:

We are also eternally grateful to all those who generously donated auction items, ranging from a luxury Cornish getaway on the Lizard Peninsula, to the opportunity to play in the Pro-Am Classic at TPC Sawgrass, Florida.

If you have access to an auction item that you think would be appealing to bidders in the 2020 auction, then please do let us know!

All proceeds from this auction went directly into the campaign and are used solely to support children that have the potential, but not the financial means, to thrive here at RGS.

OVER

£4,000 RAISED

Having been brought up on a Council estate, with no money, and losing my parents at a young age, I managed to achieve a senior executive position within a major bank. Everyone should have this opportunity and Changing Lives helps with this ambition. If you can dream it, you can do it.

THANK YOU …to those who made 2019

a year that changed a life 07

T H E R E I G AT I A N 2 0 19

Changing Lives campaign, launched 2014:

IMPACT REPORT

An update on what the RGS Foundation has accomplished – with the help of our Reigatian community.

£6,239,474 Total raised up to the end of 2019

£2.1M £516,000 into our Investment Fund

disbursed to the school for bursary support 2019

WHERE THE MONEY HAS COME FROM

30% of our engaged community are giving

2,563 donors have given to the Changing Lives campaign

COMMUNITY GIVING     

Regular gifts: 27% One-off donations: 21% Events and sponsorship: 7% Gift Aid: 9% Other*: 36%

*Legacies, bank interest, investment fund interest

MAJOR GIFTS

52% 24% 24%

BENEFACTOR sponsoring a child for the full seven years

PATRON sponsoring a child for a year through a one-off gift

HENRY SMITH CLUB collective giving

08

433 of our donors give regularly

EVENTS

174 35 6,399 events held

of which were RGS Professionals events

attendees

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

WHY I GIVE

A GLOBAL COMMUNITY Australia Bermuda Canada China Egypt France Hong Kong

Indonesia Italy Netherlands New Zealand Singapore Spain Switzerland

Thailand UAE UK USA Vietnam

*countries where we have held events

14,954 11,696 78%

(living) people on our database

active members of our community

It sounds daunting to consider the cost of a bursary, but collectively we can have a tremendous effect in allowing a deserving young person the benefit of an RGS education.”

Michael Lloyd (RGS 1981-1986), RGS Foundation Ambassador

20 current donors in North America 7% of income has come from North American donors Four children have been supported through North American giving alone

of our community are engaged with our work

OUR TARGET FOR 2025 – OUR 350TH ANNIVERSARY

50 £4m

fully-funded Changing Lives bursary students in the school at any one time.

Current numsbe=r3of0 funded place

in our Investment Fund

THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR GIVING

st a Can you sacrifeeicse ajuweek to couple of coffa life? Doing this help change ars will give a for seven ye ucation at RGS. child a full ed at rgs.foundation/ Donate onlineonate-now support-us/d

£10 £20

168 people giving £10/month = one child’s school fees for a year 84 people giving £20/month = one child’s school fees for a year

All figures include donations received between September 2012 (prior to the official campaign launch in January 2014) and December 2019

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FOUNDERʼS DAY CELEBRATE FOUNDER’S DAY ON TUESDAY 5 MAY 2020

The great philanthropist, Henry Smith, left £1,000 in his will to “educate the poor boys of Reigate”. This led to the founding of Reigate Grammar School in 1675.

Five years from now we will be celebrating the school’s 350th anniversary. In preparation for this approaching milestone, we have introduced Founder’s Day, with the first one scheduled for Tuesday 5 May 2020 – around Henry Smith’s birthday.

The day acts as a reminder of the benefits of being a Reigatian: the sense of belonging and shared values; the journey that starts when you join RGS; the opportunities, friendships and connections that you enjoy as a result of your relationship with the school. We’d love you to help us celebrate the life-long pride of being a Reigatian pilgrim.

Raise a glass to Henry Smith

We are calling on all members of our Reigatian community to help us mark this day. With this edition of the Reigatian Magazine, we’ve enclosed a copy of our Founder’s Day booklet and your very own RGS coaster! Discover more about Henry Smith’s colourful life and philanthropic vision and, wherever you are in the world, raise a glass to our founder and to RGS on this day. Take a photo, with your coaster, and share this with us on social media, or pop it in an email to foundation@reigategrammar.org.

“Over recent years I have come to understand what Henry Smith has meant to my family as well as to RGS and the wider community. At RGS I inherited a rich legacy. I can trace my lineage directly back to Henry Smith’s sister and if it were not for him, not only would RGS not exist, but neither would I!” Clive Wilkinson (RGS 1952-1959), 11 times great-nephew of Henry Smith 10

G+T or cup of treat?ipple, Whatever younder's Day use your Fou in us in coaster and jo Smith! toasting Henry

I’m raising aglass to Henry Smith! rgs.foundation

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N C O M M U N I T Y

WHAT DOES BEING A REIGATIAN MEAN TO YOU? LET US KNOW!

I was fortunate to receive an excellent education at RGS, not confined solely to classroom studies. I also sang in the choir, played in the orchestra and acted in the plays. It is easy to forget how much these activities contribute to young lives and continue to enhance your later years.

Graham Samuel (RGS 1958-1966)

RGS is here for our community In difficult times, the need for communities to pull together is greater than ever. Community is about an interdependence and a willingness to support one another and we already know just how amazing the Reigatian community is. The Foundation team wants to reaffirm our commitment to you: We reach out in friendship to engage and build relationships, connect our community and develop the Reigatian network, inform through communications and we ask for support.

While we're facing such uncertainty, one thing you can be certain of is that the RGS Foundation team is here to help. If there is anything you need, even if you just want a chat, please pick up the phone: 01737 222231. Or help us keep up everyone’s spirits by joining us on social media to share memories and photographs of your time at the school and to reconnect with old friends. Help us to help you. Our community is only as strong as the sum of its parts, so thank you for your continued support.

 Facebook: Reigatian Community

(facebook.com/groups/reigatiancommunity)

 Twitter: @foundationRGS

(twitter.com/foundationRGS)

Instagram: @RGSfoundation (instagram.com/rgsfoundation)

The friends, memories and experiences we have had at RGS will shape our future, and have paved the way for the rest of our lives.

We will always have RGS in common and will never forget it. It is part of us.

Dannie Harris (RGS 2008-2015) and James Taylor (RGS 2008-2015), former Head Girl and Head Boy My two years at Reigate Grammar School shaped the woman I am today. The friendships I made there will last a lifetime, and the academic achievement paved the way for the career I have. I am honoured to be able to play a small part in helping other people create such a great foundation for their adult lives.

Cath D’Arcy (RGS 1984-1986) As part of the Reigatian community we appreciate all that RGS has done for our children, they have matured into fine young adults, who are well prepared to embrace the next stage of their lives.

Laurie and Amanda Kerr, former RGS parents 11

LAUNCH OF THE JON FIELDER MUSIC FUND

There are over 500 performances and more than 35 concerts each year. Schools like ours know that driving up standards requires a more sophisticated and richer approach than merely focusing on the 3Rs.�

Shaun Fenton, Headmaster

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T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N C O M M U N I T Y

In 2020 the RGS Foundation is launching the Jon Fielder Music Fund as part of the Changing Lives campaign.

36% of students who learnt a musical instrument achieved A*s in their A levels, while the figure was 28% for non-musicians. Similarly, 43% of musical instrument-learning students achieved A grades, while only 36% of non-musicians secured an A.

Our 1675 scholars may not have had access to music before arriving at the school; they may not have had the opportunity to play in an orchestra, jam in a rock band or sing in a festival hall. The aim of the Jon Fielder Music fund will be to offer free lessons to our Changing Lives students as they start their journey at RGS. Not only will it enhance their experience at the school but Reigate Grammar School has been looking at the link between musical instruments and academic success and the results from our 2018 A levels show a compelling argument in favour of music.

“It is data like this that reaffirms my commitment to provide a wealth of musical opportunities in the curriculum, through learning an instrument, through choirs and ensembles, through house events and more” Shaun Fenton, Headmaster Interested in finding out how you can bring music to a child’s life? Email Catherine Hutchison: cxh@reigategrammar.org.

More than half (58%) of students learning to play more than one instrument at RGS achieved an A* in their A-levels in 2018. In comparison, our school also found that students who learned a musical instrument achieved better results than their non-musician peers.

Evidence that learning an instrument improves academic success Musicians learning MORE THAN ONE instrument (11 pupils)

A* 58%

A 33%

B 8%

Musicians learning JUST ONE instrument (28 pupils)'

A* 36%

A 43%

B 11% C 7%

Non-musicians (113 pupils)

A* 28%

A 36%

B 23%

C 9%

Jon Fielder was the beloved Director of Music at Reigate St Mary�s and also worked with students at RGS. Jon inspired a love of music and was passionate about creating opportunities for all.

Sadly, Jon passed away suddenly in 2015.

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FOUNDATION ACTIVITIES REIGATE CHARITY 7s 2019 SUNDAY 3 MARCH

After a fallow year in 2018 – courtesy of the ‘Beast from the East’ – the annual Hiscox Reigate Charity 7s returned with a bang on Sunday 3 March at RGS Hartswood. With new additions to the line-up the standard of teams in attendance was of the highest quality.

We were delighted to welcome former England star and current England 7s Assistant Coach, John Brake, as our special guest.

This year marks five years since the launch of our important social mobility campaign: Changing Lives. The Hiscox Reigate Charity 7s tournament plays a vital part in generating awareness and raising funds for this worthwhile cause.

We are delighted to announce that in 2019 the tournament raised over £12,000.

Thank you to everyone for their support.

Above and left: RGS girls and boys teams in action Below: Cup winners, Epsom College

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Out on the pitches, the weather once again played a significant part in proceedings with players, coaches and supporters experiencing wet and windy conditions throughout the day. Despite the inclement weather, the standard of rugby on show across both tournaments, was magnificent.

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

NEW PARENTS� WELCOME RECEPTION TUESDAY 29 JANUARY

Epsom College were ‘School of the day’ winning both the Boys and Girls Main Cup Tournaments. The boys marched on through the elimination stages of the cup knocking out Wellington, Whitgift and Brighton College in the final, without conceding a point – quite an achievement!

Our informative welcome evening took place in January in the Old Library at RGS. The Headmaster opened by welcoming our guests and spoke of the broad Reigatian community and how as Reigatian pilgrims we are all travelling on a special journey as our children progress through the school.

The girls continued this impressive defensive record by beating Wellington and Reigate Grammar School in a similar fashion, taking home the trophy with a 31-0 victory over RGS, along with some rather muddy kit.

Jonny Hylton (RGS 1992-99), Development Executive, explained more about the RGS Professionals Group. Special guest and former student, Imogen Allard (RGS 2006-11) from Financial Lifestyle Management spoke about the benefits and opportunities of collaborating with the Foundation.

The girls teams progressed from their group into a Cup, Plate and Shield roundrobin group of three. With league points accumulated, the winners of each group were crowned champions of the three main competitions.

He handed over to Sean Davey, Head of Foundation, who introduced the work of his department and the ways in which parents can support that work.

The Foundation works hard to make our Reigatian community as inclusive as possible through a variety of events and the successful RGS Professionals Group. Whether you are a current or former pupil, parent, member of staff, or friend, we welcome your connectivity and involvement with the Reigatian community.

Our enormous thanks go to Hiscox our Principal Sponsor. Also to Return2Play, official Medical Partner, and Kukri as official Kit Supplier.

SUMMARY OF RESULTS BOYS TOURNAMENT Cup winners Plate winners Shield winners Bowl winners

Epsom College Hampton Reed’s Reading Blue Coat

GIRLS TOURNAMENT Cup winners Plate winners Shield winners

Epsom College Wisbech Oundle

The Kukri Players of the Tournament: Henry D (Brighton College) Grace C (Epsom College)

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FOUNDATION ACTIVITIES

HENRY SMITH CLUB DINNER 2019 THURSDAY 16 MAY

Sir Peter Gershon (RGS 1958-1965), Henry Smith Club President, hosted the annual Henry Smith Club Dinner in May. Members enjoyed a delicious meal of T-bone steak at the awardwinning M Restaurant in Victoria. We were delighted to welcome our special guest, and keynote speaker, Andrew Cooper, Baron Cooper of Windrush (RGS 1973-1982).

Lord Cooper is the co-founder of the research and strategy consultancy Populus Ltd and between March 2011 and October 2013 he worked as Director of Strategy in the Prime Minister’s Office for the then Prime Minister, David Cameron.

Lord Cooper gave an entertaining and informative after-dinner speech about his work and opinions on the current political climate, Brexit and what might possibly happen in the near future. As well as this, he shared his beginnings at Reigate Grammar School, how he was fortunate to have an assisted place, which allowed him to attend the school.

“No one in my family had been to grammar school before, and no one in my family had been to university. I was the penultimate year of the 11+ entry at Reigate Grammar

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School… It was only because the fees were covered at that stage that I was able to stay.

My parents could not have afforded to pay and, therefore, I strongly support the idea, purpose and achievements of the Henry Smith Club and the Changing Lives campaign.”

The Henry Smith Club is a very special group. Established five years ago, the club is a key driver of the important social mobility work at the school. Currently, through their collective support, Henry Smith Club members are sponsoring eleven children at RGS who would otherwise not be able to attend.

One of the highlights of the evening came from Cindy, a foster mother of a child currently supported by Henry Smith Club members. Cindy spoke of her heartfelt gratitude, the life-changing journey they have begun with RGS and the wonderful opportunities made available for her foster son.

“Although I am not his biological mum, I am the person fulfilling that role, and am incredibly grateful to you for giving him so many positive opportunities and experiences and providing him with the tools to reach his full potential.

Connor’s thirst for knowledge is relentless.

I knew that I had a duty to find him the best education, sports and music opportunities I could. I had a responsibility to find him the best place for his secondary education; somewhere that could nurture his enthusiasm for knowledge and encourage his desire to achieve.”

I was blown away at how open and welcoming Reigate Grammar School was.

They offered him a place and told me there were people out there who could offer funding. I cannot tell you how humbled we both were. I knew he was in the best hands that a parent could want for their child, thanks to you.

I can’t ever thank you enough for all you do for us and the amazing children you support. Connor is showing other children in care that they can achieve high and be the best they can. Thank you for taking the time to listen to our story, and for your ongoing generosity.”

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

SEATS OF LEARNING MUSIC RECITAL THURSDAY 20 JUNE

INVITATION TO JOIN THE HENRY SMITH CLUB “I firmly believe that a good education is a powerful enabler of social mobility and am extremely proud to be the President of this important philanthropic group.

I urge you to join the Henry Smith Club so that together we can continue to change the lives of future students of RGS and help them fulfil their potential.”

Sir Peter Gershon CBE President, Henry Smith Club (RGS 1958-65)

In June, we welcomed back to school the sponsors of our Seats of Learning initiative, who were treated to a special music recital.

The Seats of Learning initiative helps provide life-changing opportunities for talented children through the sponsorship of chairs in the refurbished Old Library. We are grateful to all those in our community who have collectively helped us raise funds for bursaries through this initiative and it was a delight to ‘show off’ our students’ talents.

The recital gave us a wonderful opportunity to thank our sponsors and give them the chance to see the chairs in the Old Library. Many chairs are sponsored in memory of a loved one and it was a pleasure to welcome these families to the school. Our audience was impressed and delighted with the exceptionally high quality of performance delivered.

“I can’t tell you how much my daughter, son-in-law and I enjoyed the recital. It brought tears to my eyes to hear how professional all the musicians are and especially to know that Laurie had probably spent some time in that very room so many years ago.

He would have loved the recital too as he was a great music lover.”

The Henry Smith Club (HSC) supports children who possess talent, ability, potential and dedication, but lack the financial means to benefit from the educational experience RGS offers.

Membership of the HSC is through an annual donation of £1,675, for a minimum seven-year term (the school cycle of a child). By joining the HSC, you can help provide bursarial support for a child who needs it.

Membership benefits • Have a significant impact on the life chances of a talented young child • Gain membership of an important network of like-minded individuals • Receive invitations to the Henry Smith Club Annual Dinner (21 May 2020) • Get exclusive annual HSC mailings • Collect a handmade bespoke membership pin • Receive a membership certificate Sign up online at: rgs.foundation/ support-us/henry-smith-club/ or contact us at foundation@ reigategrammar.org for further information.

THE PROGRAMME Callum S – Mozart Horn Concerto in E flat Finlay N – Rodney Bennett Samba Matty O – Chopin Etude in G flat Quartet – Borodin Notturno Edie W – Over The Rainbow Alex P, Ellie M, Finlay N – Summertime arrangement Yerin H and Seoyuon C – Bach Double Concerto movement

Find more information about sponsoring a chair on our website: rgs.foundation/support-us/chairs.

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FOUNDATION ACTIVITIES

FOUNDATION GOLF DAY THURSDAY 27 JUNE

The picturesque Reigate Heath Golf Club was the host venue for the popular annual RGS Foundation Golf Day sponsored by Devine Homes.

In its ninth consecutive year, players were treated to 18 holes on a course in magnificent form, basking in the late-June sunshine.

Once again, we would like to thank the generosity of Barry Devine (’90) for his ongoing support for this event.

The day plays an important part in raising awareness and support for our Changing Lives social mobility programme, which transforms the lives of some wonderful and deserving children. This year was no exception and we are delighted to announce that just under £5,000 was raised on the day. A superb achievement!

As for the golf itself, it was the elite pairing of Russ Simmons and Ed Bartlett who blew everyone else out of the water to win the overall tournament. Rich Lewis played an incredible first shot of the day on the ninth to take home the nearest-the-pin award and it was Russ Simmons again(!) who wielded his big set of shoulders for the longest drive.

The day culminated in a delicious BBQ (courtesy of celebrity chef Tony Tobin), raffle and auction whilst the sun slowly disappeared over the rolling Surrey hills. A fitting way to end a wonderful day.

Thank you to all those who joined us in 2019 and we hope to see you again on 25 June 2020. To secure a place, please email foundation@reigategrammar.org.

RIDE REIGATE SUNDAY 7 JULY

We had a fantastic day at Ride Reigate, cheering on our team as they pedalled 100k and raised an incredible £1,000 for the Changing Lives campaign.

The intemperate weather did not deter our incredible cyclists from doing their best and we are so grateful to them for their efforts for such a great cause. Every penny raised goes towards funding bursaries for local children through the Changing Lives campaign.

Thank you for your sweat, tears, oil and all the Deep Heat that helped make it happen!

Want to take part in Ride Reigate on 12 July 2020? Get in touch if you’d like to join the RGS Changing Lives Team: email foundation@reigategrammar.org.

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HOUSE OF COMMONS RECEPTION THURSDAY 12 SEPTEMBER

On Thursday 12 September the RGS Foundation hosted an evening at the House of Commons. Two hundred members of the Reigatian community attended, made up of new parents, former pupils (representing the years 1945-2018!) and friends.

talented young people – some of whom we heard from on the night.

The evening was complemented by wonderful music from some of our current music students, Matthew O on the piano and Isabelle A on the flute. We were privileged to hear memorable solos from

Maddy Withers (RGS 2010-17) who showcased her euphonic skill, developed whilst studying music at RGS and Oxford.

“It was amazing to hear about the work the Foundation is doing and a delight to meet some of the talented children that the Foundation has helped.” RGS parent.

The House of Commons Terrace Pavilion provided an idyllic setting to raise awareness of the work of the Foundation, particularly focusing on the important work of the Changing Lives campaign, which was celebrating its fifth year.

Since its launch, over £5 million has been raised and we are delighted to announce that our 50th bursary recipient started their transformational journey at RGS in September 2019. Our work is not yet done, but we are delighted to have made such a difference to such incredibly bright and

RUN REIGATE

SUNDAY 15 SEPTEMBER

Early on a sunny Sunday morning in September, Reigate Priory Park was bustling with energy and excitement as runners prepared themselves for the sixth annual Run Reigate.

The 2019 event was more exciting than ever, with glorious music and a buzzing event village, which created a wonderful atmosphere.

People arrived in their thousands to take on the challenge of either the 5k, 10k or half marathon, bringing with them an army of supporters.

The hot weather and hilly course made it hard work, but it was fantastic to see so many happy faces crossing the finish line.

An enormous thank you goes to all those individuals who ran for the RGS Foundation in their matching Changing Lives running vests. All money raised goes directly to the Changing Lives campaign, providing bursary support to gifted young children whose potential is far greater than their financial means.

If a challenge event takes your fancy, then why not join us on 20 September 2020? Email foundation@reigategrammar.org.

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FOUNDATION ACTIVITIES

REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE MONDAY 11 NOVEMBER

On Monday 11 November, RGS remembered and honoured those who died in the pursuit to secure and protect our freedom.

The whole school took part in a service, with a two-minute silence, and wreaths were laid at the school’s memorials.

Our very special thanks go to Stephen Fisher (RGS 1983-1990) for travelling to RGS from Italy to read the Act of Remembrance in the service.

The Last Post was played and the RGS Choir Polyphony sang Abide with me.

An invited group from across the Reigatian community attended a special service in the school’s Memorial Garden.

We will remember them.

DREAM STEAM SOCIAL WEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER

November saw a spectacular RGS Foundation evening – a real once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Guests of the annual Dream Steam Social were treated to a talk by Wayne Barnes, 2019 International Referee of the Year, who had recently returned from the Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Once again, the incredibly hospitable Stephen Chenery (RGS 1982-1985), owner of Steam Wine Bar, hosted this event. Stephen went all out to welcome members of the Reigatian community and to help raise vital support for the Changing Lives campaign. We are delighted to announce it was a spectacular success with over £16,000 raised on the evening for this important cause.

A gifted and natural speaker, Wayne produced a candid and articulate account of his early days as a referee in his beloved Forest of Dean, through to being voted the third most hated man in New Zealand… quite a journey!

Our thanks to Stephen for hosting this fantastic event and to Wayne Barnes for generously taking the time to join us and give us a taste of what rugby on the international stage is like.

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Most importantly, thank you to everyone that attended and charitably supported the evening, it was a resounding success.

Following the popularity of this year’s event, we are holding the next Dream Steam Social on 18 November 2020. Tickets cost £80. Register by emailing foundation@reigategrammar.org.

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1675 LEGACY TEA SATURDAY 27 APRIL

2020 EVENTS CALENDAR Why not come visit us or get involved in the many activities we have planned? Rekindle friendships from the past, network with other professionals, be inspired by our current students, or join us for a fundraising event... Here is some of what the Foundation will be up to: 27 April RGS perform in concert at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank (Postponed, date TBC) 5 May Founder’s Day – celebrating Henry Smith 6 May Changing Lives Global Giving Day (Postponed, date TBC) A repeat of our successful Giving Day in 2019, when we ask the wonderful Reigatian community to do some good over a 36-hour period. This day provides us with the opportunity to make an impact on the lives of some local children in need.

Every gift, no matter its size will make a difference. Collectively, we can make a huge impact!

It was wonderful to welcome members of the 1675 Society to RGS in April for the annual legacy tea.

We were delighted to welcome new members and those considering joining, following the release of our new Changing Lives film and legacy campaign at the Back-toSchool Day at the end of 2018. Those present are all committed supporters of the school and the Changing Lives campaign.

They have the RGS experience in common, as well as the incredible generosity of support through a gift in their Wills.

Our special guests enjoyed a welcome coffee with the Heads of School, Amy B and Mark J – on their first day of their new student leadership positions. Our guests were able to impart a few words of advice to help them in their new roles!

The Headmaster gave an update on school news and answered some questions covering a range of topics, from entrance exams to the new RGS International Schools development programme.

The lovely warm weather allowed for a leisurely tour around some of RGS, including the Harrison Centre and Old Library, where guests were delighted to seek out their sponsored chairs, and see CCF in action in the playground.

21 May

Henry Smith Club Dinner (Postponed, date TBC)

19 June Gold Reunion (Class of 1970) 25 June

Foundation Golf Day, Reigate Heath Golf Club

12 July

Ride Reigate

RGS Professionals Summer BBQ (TBC)

July (TBC)

10 Years On! (Class of 2010)

12 September

Graduation Brunch (Class of 2016)

20 September

Run Reigate

2 October Back to School Day and 1675 Society lunch Reunion for all years from the 1930s to 1975 (and members of the 1675 Society) 8 October

RGSP Golf Day, Royal Ashdown Golf Club

October (TBC)

1980s Reunion For all those who left RGS between 1980-1989

November (TBC) Remembrance Day Service 18 November

Dream Steam Social

December (TBC) RGSP Festive Drinks

At the time of going to print, all event dates were under review.

Please check our website, rgs.foundation/events for the latest information.

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THE REIGATIAN NETWORK INAMO RESTAURANT: DIGESTING ‘TECH BITES’

RGS PROFESSIONALS CHARITY GOLF DAY

Members of the RGS Professionals Group were thrilled to meet at the impressive inamo (the lowercase ‘i’ is correct!) restaurant in historic Covent Garden in March. Our thanks go to Lee Skinner (RGS 1985-1992), CEO of inamo, for hosting and delivering a fascinating talk on the innovative use of technology in his restaurants.

The RGS Professionals golfers returned to the magnificent Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club for the sixth year in succession, raising money for the Changing Lives campaign.

The course was in superb condition and the day was blessed with sunshine.

THURSDAY 28 MARCH

Lee studied Hotel and Catering Management at Westminster and built his experience of the hospitality sector with companies such as McDonald’s, Kout Food Group and Feng Sushi, before becoming CEO and part-owner of inamo Restaurant and Bar Group.

Under his leadership, inamo has expanded to three restaurants and has become a market-leading and multi-award-winning brand, known for bringing technology to the sector. inamo has won the OpenTable Diners Choice award for the last four years, won Time Out and Love London awards, and was voted as having the best sushi in London by Design My Night. It is also one of the top first date venues on match.com.

As Lee said, “If the date isn’t going well, at least you can play with the projector!”.

At the Restaurant and Marketer Awards 2019, inamo won the Best Use of

Technology award for the games room in its Soho restaurant, and again won the OpenTable Diners Choice award.

Those attending the RGS Professionals event were treated to a fascinating talk about the inamo business model; how its unique (and patented) projector technology not only creates a fantastic atmosphere for diners, but also gives customers the ability to order for themselves, limiting the interruptions to their dining experience.

The benefit to the restaurant is the ability to get live feedback from customers and use customer data to tailor the experience to each user. inamo plans to open another two restaurants in the near future.

Having sampled the restaurant’s delicious signature dish of dragon rolls, attendees – who spanned multiple generations and covered a range of professions – stayed on for several hours to network and chat with other members of the Reigatian community.

THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER

It was the team led by former pupil Justyn Jackson (’88) that took the main spoils of the day by scoring the most points. Gez Watkins (’97) hit a monstrous drive on the 12th hole to win longest drive and Rob Wakeford played a cracker on the difficult 9th to bag the nearest-the-pin award. The popular Thunderball Challenge was won by Mark Garner (’83), David Hylton (RGS parent) and Bent Petersen, taking home a bottle of whisky each. The day was capped off with a delicious traditional roast dinner with all the trimmings – always a highlight!

We are extremely grateful to those that supported the day and to everyone at Royal Ashdown Forest for making us feel so welcome.

The next RGS Professionals Charity Golf Day is Thursday 8 October 2020.

Right: An example of some of the innovative dishes available at inamo Below: Some of the younger members of the RGS Professionals Group enjoying themselves!

Sean Davey, Nick Torlot (RGS 1970-78), Mark Elsey (RGS 1974-78) Governor and Chair of the Foundation, and Ted Kennedy (former parent)

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 Reigate Grammar School Professionals THE BAROMETER ON CHANGE, MOORHOUSE THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER

October saw a terrific gathering of Reigatian Professionals, putting their heads together to discuss change management.

Enormous thanks go to our wonderful host Stephen Vinall (RGS 1983-1988), Partner at Moorhouse Consulting.

Stephen kicked off the evening by sharing his fond memories of RGS, about Moorhouse and the journey it has been on.

As a company, Moorhouse focuses on the challenges that organisations face while implementing change. For the past eight years, it has produced the industry-leading Barometer on Change annual report, which identifies and explores key themes facing top industry professionals and organisations.

“Playing an active role in society and the communities in which we live and work is one of our firm’s core values, and I am proud that we as a firm help fund a bursary for one of the pupils that the Foundation supports.”

Economic conditions, Brexit, environmental factors and climate change and technology are disrupting all industries. What do business leaders need to focus on to thrive? Our speakers shared some of the knowledge on the three focus areas of the report: courage, agility and talent.

This included, “Dealing with change

requires innovation and adaptation, without losing momentum” and, “Talent means having the most talented staff, operating at their best level”.

RGS PROFESSIONALS FESTIVE DRINKS

introduction covering the 300-year shared history of the firm and RGS (RGS was founded in 1675 and Morrisons in 1729).

Today, many clients and staff are connected to the school, including company partners being RGS alumni and many more who have children studying at the school.

WEDNESDAY 7 DECEMBER

Redhill was full of festive cheer when the RGS Professionals met for drinks, moreish mince pies and warming mulled wine. How fantastic to have our first ever Surrey-based professionals event! We were delighted to see so many of our Reigatian community, in particular, all those based locally who appreciated meeting closer to home.

Managing Partner of Morrisons Solicitors, Paul Harvey, welcomed us with a fantastic

Talks were followed by Q&As on each topic, then networking. A fascinating, thought-provoking evening!

Morrisons Solicitors are huge supporters of the Changing Lives campaign, currently funding a bursary student at the school.

They have also supported the Foundation by providing guidance on gifts in Wills.

Our sincere thanks to Morrisons Solicitors for hosting the event.

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THE TOPIC OF WILLS It’s a subject we might not want to think about, but a Will is probably one of the most important documents you will ever have prepared. Large or small, you will have accumulated an estate which will no doubt be important to you. Your Will provides the vehicle to carry out your wishes for all of your assets, ensuring they are left to those you love and want to benefit rather than being governed by statutory rules of intestacy.

R

easons for making a Will can include owning property, owning a share in a business, having children, living with a partner, planning to marry, protecting your assets, and ensuring you have left provision for children from a previous marriage. There are important factors to consider when making a Will, and some myths regarding what happens to your estate on death, let’s look into these: My spouse will get all my estate anyway Not necessarily – if you die without a Will your estate is governed by the laws of intestacy. The division of assets will depend on whether you have children, and how your assets are held. Your estate may not end up with the security for your spouse you might have wanted.

Consider your children If you have children under the age of 18, you’ll want to ensure that they are looked after by the appointment of guardians in your Will. Your Will can include a trust to take care of their financial needs until they are old enough to inherit and look after their own finances. Guardians can decide with who the children can live and where, and will be responsible for them while they go through education.

What about your business?

If you own company shares or are a Partner in a business, you will need to take advice on how the business should operate after your death, and what will happen to your interest. We can advise on business property relief to make the most of any allowances you may be entitled to.

Getting married won’t affect my Will This is not true. If you marry, your Will is automatically revoked. You must make a new Will at this time. If you get divorced, your Will is still valid, but your ex-spouse is effectively 'read-out' of your Will, but it is always wise to get legal advice at this point.

Can I preserve assets for my children?

If you are in a second relationship, with children from the first marriage, you may wish to benefit your current spouse/partner, but ensure that there are assets preserved for your children.

My family can sort everything out Those entitled to your estate under intestacy might not be the people you would like to inherit. A Will enables you to appoint suitable persons to be your executors; the people or person who are responsible for carrying out your wishes.

If you do not have a Will there could be a significant delay in dealing with your estate or property, simply because there is no one to take on that role.

Wills are complicated It’s true that Wills must comply to legal requirements in order to be valid, but that is exactly what you will need to ensure, so that your wishes are carried out. Morrisons can guide you through the requirements and explain why they are needed.

Can I include foreign assets?

Morrisons can advise you on dealing with foreign assets and whether these would be covered by your UK Will.

What about leaving a gift to charity?

Leaving a gift to charity in your Will can make a massive difference to the charity and can be very beneficial for tax purposes.

The gifts are exempt from inheritance tax, and if your charitable gifts are at 10% (of the baseline amount) of your estate, any inheritance tax payable is reduced from 40% to 36%.

It is always prudent to get good strong legal advice, taking into account your individual situation and requirements. This is one of the most important documents you will ever make, and you must ensure you choose your advisor wisely. Everyone has differing needs and every Will is different. RGS Foundation has partnered with Morrisons Solicitors, whose team of experts are available to listen to your needs and can offer the best advice to achieve your desired outcome, providing a professional and up-to-date Will.

As solicitors, the team at Morrisons have many years’ experience of Will-writing and are generally able to see you within a few days of enquiry. For those who may be unable to attend Morrisons offices, the team can offer home visits.

Please contact Morrisons for more information or a quote

01737 854500 www.morrlaw.com

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GLOBAL EVENTS INTERNATIONAL GATHERINGS Our huge thanks to all those who help host, and turn out for, our international gatherings – we hope to see these spin-offs expand into other parts of the world in 2020.

HONG KONG THURSDAY 5 SEPTEMBER

We were delighted to have two gatherings in Hong Kong in 2019. The first at Three Blind Mice bar in the centre of Hong Kong, to coincide with the world famous HK10s tournament. It was great to see Max Coyle (RGS 2012-2017), former

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND SATURDAY 20 JULY

In July, Reigatians met to catch up and connect in Auckland – it goes to show that wherever you are in the world, there will be a Reigatian! There are plans afoot for a round of golf in New Zealand in spring/summer 2020 and another get together for drinks.

Left to right: Nick Pittaway (’92), Alistair Pringle (’92), Steve Pilgrim (’86) and Ed Kidd (’98)

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Harlequins RFC professional, playing for the Overseas Old Boys. The group met again on Thursday 5 September. A huge thank you to James Ward (RGS 1997-2005), owner of the exquisite Mr Brown restaurant and bar in Ship Street for hosting the group.

Our thanks go to Lawrence Webb (RGS 1969-1977) and Grant Kennedy (RGS 1976-1980) for their continued support as Ambassadors for the region, and for their assistance in arranging the events.

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We now have regional WhatsApp groups springing up for internationally-based alumni to keep in touch. Contact the RGS Foundation office to join a group near you: email foundation@reigategrammar.org.

GENEVA THURSDAY 11 APRIL

We were delighted to welcome Swiss members of the Reigatian community to our first ever European RGS gathering in the heart of Switzerland’s second biggest city, Geneva.

At the wonderful venue, Boulevard du Vin, situated on the banks of the RhÔne, Reigatians met to exchange stories and reminisce about their RGS days.

Left to right: Ross Wenzel (’98), Andy Clayton (’86), Jonny Hylton (’99), Gregg Turner (’95), Steve Lynch (’86) and Mark Doswell (’69)

Our huge thanks go to Steve Lynch (’86) and Gregg Turner (’95) for their help in getting this first event off the ground. It was also fantastic to see Ross Wenzel (’98), who featured in our popular RGS Professionals Member Spotlight series, Andy Clayton (’86) who had recently relocated from New Zealand with his family and Mark Doswell (’69) who has been living in Switzerland for the last 40 years.

With good company and good local wine the evening passed far too quickly with the discussion turning to organising the next leg of the RGS European Tour… Amsterdam? Paris? Rome?

JAPAN

Charlie Lee (’95) and John Bramhall (’80)

RUGBY WORLD CUP

Emily Woolacott and Rachel McKevitt (’11)

Although not an official gathering, a number of Reigatians, who are keen rugby fans, travelled to Japan for the Rugby World Cup. Here are a few of the photos they sent us…

Charlie Lee (’95) with fellow fans

Simon Cuthbert (’08)

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GLOBAL EVENTS

OVERSEAS AMBASSADORS The Reigatian community continues to spread around the globe.

From New York to New Zealand, there are members of the community in most continents either working, with their families or enjoying a well-earned retirement.

AMERICA: New York City Michael Lloyd

AMERICA: Seattle David Mycroft

CANADA: Vancouver Matt Falkner

Left RGS: 1986 Interests: Golf, fishing and field sports Family: Married to Jill with one daughter, Julia Career: Head of Trading

Left RGS: 1976 Interests: Sailing, U19 County Rugby Coach Family: Married with two children Career: Now retired

Left RGS: 1980 Interests: Rugby, airlines Family: Married to Michelle with two children Career: Aviation security

AUSTRALIA: Sydney Neil Brett

AUSTRALIA: Brisbane Chris Smedley

AUSTRALIA: Melbourne Raymond Buckett

Left RGS: 1980 Interests: Music, speedway and rugby Family: Married to Simone with four daughters Career: Mortgage and Independent Financial Advisor

Left RGS: 1985 Interests: Real English public houses Family: Married to Sarah with three children Career: General Manager

Left RGS: 1966 Interests: Travelling, AFL and cricket Family: Partner Lorraine, three sons and four grandchildren Career: Pharmaceutical industry

AUSTRALIA: Perth Karl Hackett

NEW ZEALAND: Auckland Ed Kidd

NEW ZEALAND: Auckland Stuart Donald

Left RGS: 1990 Interests: Investing, judo, American football, wine, gaming with my wife and kids Family: Anna (famous author), Lucian and Asher Career: Mining, Rio Tinto

Left RGS: 1998 Interests: Property, rugby, technology & start-ups Family: Married to Rochelle with three boys Career: Civil Engineering and Commercial Property plus he runs a software start-up business

Left RGS: 1978 Interests: Sports (rugby, cricket, golf, basketball, tennis), adventure and travel Family: Married to Annabel with three boys Career: Head of Agriculture for a global forestry business

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SINGAPORE Ryan Younger

SINGAPORE Ben Jones

THAILAND Mark Blashfield

Left RGS: 1991 Interests: Cold beverages Family: Married to Aileen with one daughter, Charlotte Career: Oil industry

Left RGS: 1994 Interests: Sports and travel Family: Married to Michelle with two children Career: Oil and shipping

Left RGS: 1991 Interests: Kayaking, surfing, sailing and most types of motorsport Family: Married with two sons Career: Investment management and trading

HONG KONG Lawrie Webb

UAE: Dubai Campbell Steedman

UAE: Dubai Paul Thornton

Left RGS: 1977 Interests: Open water swimming, rugby and running Family: Married to Vivien with three (mostly) grown up sons Career: Finance

Relationship: Parent of Alumni Interests: Golf, dining and fine wines Family: Married to Sally with two children Career: Partner at White & Case with vast Middle-Eastern experience

Left RGS: 1995 Interests: Fitness, golf and a Southampton FC supporter Family: Married to Nadia with three children Career: Construction Delay Expert

SWITZERLAND Gregg Turner Left RGS: 1995 Interests: Sports, especially golf Career: VP of sponsorship at CAA Eleven

We are grateful to our RGS Overseas Ambassadors who are the points of contact for anyone wanting to meet up with existing established Reigatians.

If you are living, travelling through, or visiting any of these territories please email foundation@reigategrammar.org so that we can put you in touch with your local Ambassador.

Bumped into a fellow Reigatian while overseas? Tell us who, where and when (send photos, too, if possible). Email: foundation@reigategrammar.org.

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REUNIONS AND EVENTS 10 YEARS ON! CLASS OF 2009 REUNION SATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

Sarah Perry, Grace Denley, Guy Duhig, Maddie Kuhler, Anna Harvey, Dom Williams, Taz Cooper, Clare Hartley-Marjoram, Ben Constant, Martyn Minear, Cara McGoogan, Thomas Brown, Blaize Harris, Danielle Smith, Jack Miller, Alex Goddard, Simon Hope, Tom Herrington, Grace Burns, Elliot Hart and Joe Hatton

Over 40 members of the class of ’09 descended on Steam Wine Bar in September for their 10 Years On Reunion (how can it be that long?). It was a roaring success and wonderful to catch up with everyone and hear about upcoming weddings, work and travel plans... and so much more!

A huge thank you to Stephen Chenery (’87) for hosting us for this brilliant occasion.

We’re looking forward to seeing the class of 2010 reunion this September.

All in attendance (but not all in photo): Fergus Andrew Alex Angelakis Alex Bartlett Katie Blackburn James Brooker Tom Brown Grace Burns Stewart Colquhoun Ben Constant Taz Cooper Will Crow Grace Denley

Andrew Dorgan Chris Douse Guy Duhig Blaize Harris Elliot Hart Clare Hartley-Marjoram Anna Harvey Joe Hatton Christie Hedge Tom Herrington Simon Hope Maddie Kuhler Lance Lohse Cara McGoogan

Jack Miller Martyn Minear Sarah Perry Georgia Pritchard Simon Rivers James Robey Henry Schlaefli Dani Smith Alex Smith Ben Talpade Harry Vaughan Dom Williams Adam Wing Daniel Woodbridge

MR ROBIN BLIGH CELEBRATES HIS 90TH BIRTHDAY WEDNESDAY 13 MARCH

In March, we were honoured to host former member of staff, Mr Robin Bligh (RGS staff 1953-1994) for a special lunch to celebrate his 90th birthday. Former colleagues joined us, along with current staff and students as we met Robin and took him to the Peter Mansfield Hall (PMH) where he enjoyed a delicious classic RGS roast dinner and birthday cake. Robin was presented with gifts from the school including a newspaper from the day he was born, 13 March 1929, and a book of memories and quotes from his time at RGS. Thanks to all those who sent contributions and photos for Robin’s book.

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SILVER REUNION SATURDAY 27 APRIL

In April, the Foundation team was delighted to host a reunion for those who left the school between 1992 and 1994. Fifty former students came back to school, many for the first time since their student days, to meet up with old classmates and see the school as it is today.

Many were astounded by the changes – both in the people present (all good ageing, of course!) and in the school itself.

Headmaster, Shaun Fenton, warmly welcomed everyone, enlightening us on the latest school news. He made a special request to all to deliberate whether they can help someone within the RGS network; perhaps offering a chat about opportunities at their business, or a look at their CV. It is, after all, who you know, not what you know!

We launched into the grand tour of the new Harrison Centre, the Old Library (fleetingly passing the old tuckshop by the playground) before heading back to the Studio Café (formerly the canteen) for food and refreshments.

REGIONAL GATHERINGS TUESDAY 12 FEBRUARY

OXFORD In February, 25 Sixth Formers, who are considering applying to Oxford, travelled to see the University. We are grateful to Sophie Gunning (RGS 2015-17) for giving them a tour of Brasenose College. Our special thanks to Dr Benjamin Skipp (RGS 1992-00) Lecturer and Tutor for hosting our alumni event, and Maddy Withers (RGS 2010-17) for the tour around Hertford College and insightful admissions presentation. The evening gathering was held, with alumni, in the Drawing Room of the Principal’s lodgings at Hertford College. A relaxed affair, with cheese and wine, enabled everyone to catch up with contemporaries for the first time since their school days.

MONDAY 25 NOVEMBER

BRISTOL The Bristol gathering was held in November at a bar in central Bristol with alumni spanning eight decades (1940s-2010s).

Guests arrived with photos and school memorabilia, which triggered many memories of happy school days.

Music was a theme at both events. A good rendition of He Who Would Valiant Be added a flourish to the Oxford evening, but another school song surfaced in Bristol thanks to The Very Reverend David Frayne (RGS 1945-1953), who produced the score as he best remembered the school song from his time.

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REUNIONS AND EVENTS

THE CLASS OF 2015 GRADUATION BRUNCH SATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

In September, we were delighted to welcome back the Class of 2015 for their Graduation Brunch.

Every year, we invite those who left the school four years ago to return to celebrate their university graduations and to reconnect with their old classmates back at RGS. 2019 was no exception and it was wonderful to hear how many have graduated, recently taken first steps in their careers or are about to embark

on around-the-world travel. With 60 in attendance, there was a fantastic atmosphere and it was clear that this was a particularly close year group. Those connections and friendships formed at RGS have stood the test of time (and distance) over the past four years.

The event took place in the Harrison Centre’s Sixth Form space – quite a change from the Class of 2015’s common room!

Following a speech and toast from the

SUPPORT FOR THE REIGATIAN COMMUNITY We’d like to remind everyone, at every stage, that the Foundation is here to help! Whether you’re looking for work experience, internships, introductions or contact information for one of our Overseas Ambassadors... get in touch: email foundation@reigategrammar.org.

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Headmaster, guests either took a tour of the school or went to rediscover old haunts in Reigate.

We look forward to catching up with this lovely year group again in 2025 for their 10-Years-On event! We’d like to invite all of our recent graduates to join the RGS Professionals Group on LinkedIn (linkedin.com) or type ‛Reigate Grammar School Professionals’ into the search bar.

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

If you would like to arrange a reunion or gathering, please get in touch for some support from the Foundation office.

GOLDEN REUNION CLASS OF 1969

FELIX PEARCE’S 50TH BIRTHDAY

In June 2019, we welcomed back 30 alumni and their partners for the annual Golden Reunion – this year we were celebrating 50 years since the Class of 1969 left the school (including those who stayed on for ‘Remove’.) For some, this was their first visit back to school since they left, and we set out to make them feel very welcome.

When you’re holding a party, it’s useful to own your own pub! Held at The Prince Regent in Streatham, there was a good turnout of Reigatians to celebrate with Felix (fondly known as Eric!).

THURSDAY 20 JUNE

THURSDAY 20 JUNE

Our guests met at reception and, after catching up with old classmates, were given a tour of the school by our Sixth Form Foundation Ambassadors. Although some areas of the school have changed beyond recognition and new buildings and facilities added, the fundamental values of the school remain the same (and as the Headmaster commented, perhaps the smell too…!).

Tours ended in the Old Library where guests joined other members of the Reigatian community for the Seats of Learning music recital and were treated to wonderful performances from some of our talented student musicians.

Whilst lunch was served in the Headmaster’s garden, everyone enjoyed catching up with all the news and browsed over copies of the Pilgrim magazines from 1961-1969.

After lunch, Third Form History students joined our visitors for a ‛living history’ session, with the students asking guests about life at RGS in the swinging sixties, compared to life at school now. Tea and scones were served and, before departing, everyone was encouraged to come back and visit again soon.

Back row left to right: Paul Rowlinson (1979-1985), Martin Russell, Brian Woodford (1983-1990), Felix Pearce (1979-1987), William Conacher (RGS 1979-1985), Hendrik Kleinsmiede (1983-1986), Ben Cockburn (1985-1990). Front: Cath D’Arcy (1984-1986), Ed Thesiger (1978-1984)

Below, back row left to right: Bob Harden, Robert Ashurst, Peter Cowl, Tim Whittle, David Taylor, Alan Meade, Michael Thomas, Nigel Cawthorne, Tony Newman, Clifford Weight (’72), Terence Weight, Mark Doswell, Shaun Fenton (Headmaster). Front row left to right: Robin Bligh, Steve Torn, John Adcock, Roy Collard, Nicholas Bentley, Alan Hudson, Richard Sperry, Alan French, Steve Robinson, Geoffrey Long

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AWARDS AND HONOURS

EMEA ALLIANCES & CHANNELS ROOKIE OF THE YEAR AND MULESOFT GROWTH AWARD

BEST BROADSHEET FEATURE WRITER OF THE YEAR In April, Mick Brown (RGS 1962-1967) was judged the best Broadsheet Feature Writer of the Year at the National Press Awards.

Mick is a journalist who has written for several British newspapers, including The Guardian and The Sunday Times. For many years, he has contributed regularly to The Daily Telegraph.

He is also a broadcaster and author of six books. He wrote the first biography of Richard Branson and has written books on American music and the politics of reincarnation in Tibetan Buddhism. His most recent book was a biography of the eccentric record producer Phil Spector, the most successful producer of the 60s, who went on to produce John Lennon and George Harrison, and is currently serving a life sentence for murder.

Jemima Dickinson (RGS 2003-2010) EMEA Alliances and Channels Rookie of the Year and MuleSoft Growth Award.

Promoted into her role as Channels and Alliances Manager for the UK and Ireland in May 2018, Jemima was given the EMEA Rookie of the Year award for her achievements in her first year of alliance management.

“As part of a growing organisation, we often find ourselves wearing multiple hats and my role managing our relationship with one of the large consultancy firms provided a huge opportunity for career progression. In addition to quota attainment, our company is focused on personal and professional development and awards accolades to celebrate our core values. Earlier this year, I was awarded the ‘Growth Award’ for my work with our sales leadership team and for supporting capability and sales pipeline growth for some of our boutique consulting partners.”

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THE ICE MONSTER CHILDREN’S FICTION BOOK OF THE YEAR

TOP 30 UNDER 30 ACCOLADE In 2019, Camilla Ayling (née Finnegan, RGS 2003-2010) won the accolade of being one of the Top 30 Under 30, which recognises emerging talent in the wealth management industry.

Camilla worked for Barclays and Rathbone Brothers before becoming Equity Analyst at Legal and General Investment Management in 2019. At the age of 26, Camilla is one of the younger winners of this coveted accolade, with most making the list tending to be concentrated nearer the 30 mark.

“Gloriously, snortily funny.”

TINA GAISFORD-WALLER, HUNTING RAVEN BOOKS

We thought we had been a bit light on news from David Walliams (RGS 1981-89) recently! So let us fix that now…

We were delighted to hear that David Walliams’ novel The Ice Monster won Children’s Fiction Book of the Year in 2019!

It was recognised at the British Book Awards, with other prizes going to authors including Michelle Obama and Sally Rooney. David accepted the award before inviting illustrator Tony Ross to join him on stage to share the moment. Judge Tina Gaisford-Waller, of Hunting Raven Books, described The Ice Monster as “Gloriously, snortily funny.”

The Ice Monster is a comedic adventure based on the unlikely friendship between a ten-year-old girl and a 10,000-year-old mammoth. A truly magical tale, The Ice Monster contains the incredibly important message that heroes come in all shapes and sizes.

In addition to The 30 Under 30, Camilla was delighted to be a finalist for the Role Model of the Year award in the 2019 Women in Investment Awards.

Critics sometimes complain that Walliams’ celebrity status gives him an unfair advantage in a children’s market that is full of talented, but neglected, writers.

But that does a disservice to his supremely engaging writing style and his instinct for knowing what children want from their stories and characters. He is often pitched as the modern-day Roald Dahl and, aside from him and J K Rowling, it is hard to imagine that anyone has had a greater impact on children’s reading in recent memory.

Turn to our ‛Publications’ feature on p79 to see David’s most recently published collection of children’s literature.

“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire” (W.B. Yeats). My fire was lit at Reigate Grammar School.”

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UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION ACTIVITIES 2019 HONOURS Congratulations to all those who graduated in 2019 and we wish you all the very best of luck with your future chosen careers. Don’t forget to join the RGS Professionals Group for networking, connectivity and support in a professional environment.

 Reigate Grammar School Professionals

Oluwaseun Adeniran University of Leeds Geography BA Hons 2:1 Charlie Axelrod University of Bristol Cellular and Molecular Medicine BSc 1st

Theo Flack Imperial College London Chemistry PhD Alex Flanagan University of Bath Politics with Economics BSc 2:1

Madeleine Barratt University of Nottingham Modern Languages with Business BA Hons 2:1

Madison Ford University of the Arts London (UAL): London College of Fashion Fashion Contour BA (Hons) 1st

Kayleigh Bruno University of Nottingham Biology BSc Hons 2:1

Emma Foster Royal Veterinary College Intercalated degree in Comparative Pathology BSc 1st

James Day University of Reading Geography (Human) BSc Hons 2:1

Hannah Gamber University of Nottingham Architectural Studies BA Hons 2:1

Jack Elliss University of Exeter Economics BSc (Hons) 1st Alfie Edwards University of Sheffield Human Geography BA 2:1

David Gent University of Bath Mathematics BSc 2:1 Laura Gent University of Birmingham Physiotherapy BSc 1st

Miranda Harding Durham University Anthropology and Archaeology BA 2:1 Dannie Harris Drama Centre London at The University of the Arts London Acting BA 1st Laurence Hobden University of York “The Morphologically Informed Perceptual Enhancement of Spatial Audio” PhD Finty Hunter University of Cambridge English BA 2:1 Maria Ionescu University of Cambridge Natural Sciences – Genetics BA (intercalated into medical degree) 2:1 Freddie Kenyon Durham University Law LLB 1st Timothy Frank Lafosse University of Warwick Chemistry MChem 1st

Sophie Edwards Loughborough University Human Biology BSc 2:1

Adam Graham University of Nottingham Medicine Bachelor of Medical Sciences, Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery 2:1

Dorothy Elliott University of Warwick Classics BA 1st

Katherine Grimstone University of Birmingham Psychology BSc 2:1

William Medcalf University of Oxford Physics MPhys 1st

Emma Findlater University of Oxford Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry MBiochem 1st

Charlotte Hanwell Durham University Combined Honours in Arts (Spanish and English Literature) 1st

Cara Moore University of Bristol French and Italian BA 1st

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Fenella Lloyd Durham University Philosophy BA 1st

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

CLASS OF 2019 RESULTS Over 95% of the Class of 2019 received Russell Group, Oxbridge or Medical School offers. Two thirds of grades secured by Reigate Grammar School students were at A* and A, and 90% of grades were at A*-B. The average grade profile was AAA and the school has achieved record value-added progress scores.

UNIVERSITY HONOURS SUPPLEMENTARY YEARS

Louis Prosser Durham University Mathematics MMath 1st

Rachel Clement Loughborough University Sport and Exercise Science BSc 1st Graduated 2018

Matthew Postles University of Exeter Mechanical Engineering MEng 1st Holly Prince University of Exeter Spanish BA 2:1 Saniya Puri Queen Mary University of London Information Technology Management for Business (with year in industry) BSc(Eng)(Hons) 2:1 Tom Quick University of Loughborough Sport Management BSc 2:1 Eleanor Riches University of York Politics with International Relations BA Hons 1st Jonty Russell University of Bath Maths MSc 2:1 Evangeline Scott Durham University Geography BSc 2:1 Claudia Shead University of York Business Management (with a year in industry) BA 2:1

Alanah Sheridan The University of Sheffield Molecular Biology September 2015 July 2019 MBiolSci 1st GlaxoSmithKline University of Sheffield award Rose Stanley University of Bristol Physics MSci 1st

Isabel Elsey University of Kent Law LLB 1st Graduated 2018

Sean Stewart University of Manchester Politics MA Merit

Kieran Jackson University of Exeter History and Politics BA 2:1 Graduated 2018

Laura Ussher University of Exeter Business and Management with Industrial Experience BA 1st

Sophie Luck University of Leeds International History and Politics BA 2:1 Graduated 2018

Thomas Vaughan University of Liverpool Business Management BA 2:1

Jamie Russell University of Manchester Bio Medicine MSc 1st Graduated 2018

James Wright University of Bath Politics and International Relations BSc Hons 2:1 Chris Yarnall University of Salford Marketing BA 1st Henry Zhang London School of Economics and Political Science Economics BSc 1st

We endeavour to obtain as many university honours as possible but occasionally this is not possible.

If you did not appear in this year’s university honours list and would like to feature in a future edition, please let us know and we will add you to the supplement in next year’s list. Email: foundation@reigategrammar.org.

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FEATURES

TO BE A PILGRIM! PHIL DRURY RGS 1984-1991

A proud Reigatian, who sings To be a Pilgrim with a passion, he has been on his own colourful journey of self-discovery which has once more brought him back to Surrey and his alma mater!

each other for the Reading Prize each year.

I was involved with most of the school plays – there were no girls at RGS at the time, so I’m pretty sure I was dressed as a woman in some of my earlier roles!

Class of 1991 Under XVs 1st team, Phil is back row third from the left

From modest beginnings “I lived in Banstead with my family. I had three older siblings who all went to the local comprehensive school. I was aware that I was given different opportunities to my siblings – indeed it’s something they remind me of to this day! My brother was 12 years older than me and we shared a bunk bed.

Mum went back out to work to put me through Reigate Grammar School (RGS), but I think you appreciate things more when it comes with sacrifice.

The nuns at St Anne’s Primary School in Banstead singled me out as a fast runner and my father suggested I apply to RGS given its excellent reputation for sport. I sat the entrance exam for Lower First and didn’t get 38

in! I took the exam again the following year and passed! I went on to be Deputy Head Boy alongside Kevin Banfield (RGS 19831991) with Myles Harrison (RGS 1983-1991) as Head Boy. We were close friends and a good team. Myles and I competed in a decathlon at the England Schools National Championships and the three of us played 1st XV rugby together.

I loved RGS straight away and launched myself into extra-curricular activities. I lacked academic confidence in the very early years but that changed as I progressed through the school. I joined the debating society and started to take an interest in politics and public speaking. James Delbourgo (RGS 1983-1991) and I would compete against

RGS introduced me to a diverse range of interests and I built great friendships.

Whenever I see old friends from RGS today it feels like we are still at school. Rob Willock (RGS 1983-1991) is Godfather to Isabel, my youngest daughter. We were encouraged to get involved in lots of different things and the whole year supported one another.

We had a talented mix of individuals and the environment was competitive. My family was always very supportive – my Mum would come to watch after-school sport matches and we’d travel home on the bus together.

As I headed towards GCSE years I gained in confidence academically and went on to study Economics, History and English at A level.

The teachers at RGS were committed characters and left a very positive impression: Mr Louis was Deputy Head and led the drama productions; Mr Wheatley was a strict Head of Physics; Mr Grant taught English on the lawn; Mr Jones was a passionate Head of Sixth Form. The rugby coaches all played the role of personal mentors (Bligh, Clarke, Russell, Nicholson, Bader, Mansfield) but Mr Reid specifically coached us at U12 when we reached the final of the Rosslyn Park Sevens and at 1st XV when we reached the semi-final of the Daily Mail National Schools Tournament.

Mr Tout was an exchange teacher from New Zealand who demanded the very best from us on the rugby field and in the classroom (Economics).

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“One of the things I loved most were the church assemblies – we actually sang To be a Pilgrim at my wedding because I had such fond memories of belting that out in church!”

University days At RGS I took each day as it came and was not looking ahead to a career. We were encouraged to study subjects where we had genuine interest and enjoyment. I decided to go to Exeter University because it had a good reputation on both academic and athletic fronts and I loved the wide open campus.

I felt very prepared for University after school. RGS provided an education in life which enabled me to feel comfortable in all surroundings. This continues to be important in my role today at Citi where I might be advising a steel manufacturer in Ohio, a technology company in Berlin or a government in the Middle East. The ability to engage and relate to individuals from all walks of life is critical. The banking sector has not helped itself with regard to public perception over the years, however, we have a great opportunity today to enable growth and progress in our communities

At Exeter I read Politics and Economics but I was not particularly focused beyond University. I was delighted that Richard Murphy (RGS 1988-1990) also decided to go to Exeter and we had the opportunity to play rugby together at Twickenham for England Students (pictured below).

and the Jet Programme (jet-uk.org) to teach English in Japan. I was offered three (not the Bank of England) of the four options. I knew that I wanted to explore the world, having gone to Exeter straight from RGS, and that I did not have conviction on a future career path.

When I recruit for Citi I am not looking for the banker at university, rather the individual who is well-rounded, hard-working and competitive. It is important to love what you do in order to make the sacrifices required to be the best and to avoid burn out. My clients know that I care more about them and will outwork the competition to maximize results on their behalf.

In Japan I was based in Tateyama, a beautiful coastal town about 100km from Tokyo.

No-one spoke any English in Tateyama and it was fortunate that a rugby club in Tokyo made contact and offered to pay the expense of the bullet train at weekends in return for playing time. It was in Tokyo that I met several bankers who asked if I had considered a career in finance. At the end of a very enjoyable year in Japan and travel throughout Asia I joined Schroders on the graduate training programme.

In my final year of university I had interviews with Bass Brewery, Jones Lang, Bank of England

Right: RGS Rugby Canada Tour 1990, Phil is in the middle in the leather jacket Below: Firm rugby buddies, Phil Drury and Richard Murphy at Twickenham as England Students. They also played together at RGS and toured Canada in the Sixth Form

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FEATURES

Embracing the world of banking I worked at Schroders from 1996-2000 and managed to combine life as a banking Analyst/Associate with competitive rugby at London Irish and Rosslyn Park. In January 2000 I returned from millennium celebrations in Thailand to headlines announcing that Schroders had been acquired by Salomon Smith Barney (Citigroup). Senior leaders from New York visited and I said that I would be interested in moving to the US. They invited me over the following week and I stayed for sixteen years. Immediately I was struck by the decisiveness of US corporate culture.

I learnt a lot in my first four years at Schroders, which has deep family roots and a long history of advising corporates and governments around the world. Citigroup was an amalgamation of different cultures including the fast-paced trading culture of Salomon Brothers and the broad-based retail network of Smith Barney. I felt that my education at RGS and Exeter, and training at Schroders, helped me to differentiate in the US. Ultimately a good banker needs to have great judgement and that comes through experience. The UK provided a global perspective, culture of tradition and long-term advisory, while the US was more commercial, innovative and demonstrated quicker decision making.

Once again rugby played a role in my new beginning – this time in the US. I had just arrived when I received a call from New York Athletic Club inviting me to play in the semi-final of the National Tournament in St Louis. I lasted 15 minutes of the game before needing twenty-five stitches across my forehead! That was some first day in the office on Monday morning and my colleagues have remembered ever since! I met Megan, my wife, four months after moving to New York. We married in 2004 in Washington DC and had three children (Juliet, Alexander and Isabel). We lived on a horse farm in Millbrook, Dutchess County (New York).

I ran Equity Capital Markets in the Americas through to 2015. I returned to London in late 2015 to lead our financing activities across Capital Markets (Equity and Debt). In the summer of 2018 we merged our Corporate and Investment bank with Capital Markets to form BCMA (Banking Capital Markets and Advisory). I am now Head of BCMA for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

It’s great to be back in the UK. Citi physically operates in 55 countries across EMEA. I very much enjoy the diversity of my current role, navigating geopolitics and cultural differences throughout the region. RGS is never far away, however, as Jan Skarbek (RGS 1981-1989) runs our UK investment banking business!

Class of 1991 Under XVs 1st team, Phil is back row 3rd from the left

Working well within a team is critical in banking. The team is always more important than the individual. I have had many highs and lows at Citi. Some of my lows have provided me with very important experiences, lessons learned and have increased the bond that I have with the firm and colleagues. It is relatively straightforward to be successful in a bull market, but the true test of character is seen during challenging times. In the US, I experienced the dotcom boom/bust, 9/11 World Trade Center attack and Global Financial Crisis. Since returning to the UK I have had to navigate sanctions and Brexit.

Finance is a very exciting area in which to work. I embrace the transition from shareholder value to stakeholder value.

Citi operates at the heart of the pervasive trends in our society, whether that is sustainability, digital disruption or gender equality. Every year we run a programme called Volunteer Africa, where we send 30-40 Analysts/Associates to Kenya and Uganda for six weeks to work with a micro-enterprise. I usually visit our teams, and the local entrepreneurs, with other management team members and it is a very refreshing experience to see the difference that our people can make.

Reconnecting with RGS I have a real passion for RGS and love being back in Reigate. But as a parent I am conscious that children should choose their own path. Whenever you move with work you don’t know how long for and so we opted for ACS Cobham, given that the children were young ages and the school is accustomed to international transition.

Everyone has fully embraced living in the UK and in particular the sports (football, rugby, cross county, athletics and equestrian).

We really try to make the most of being here and travel extensively.

I very much enjoy Sunday mornings at the Old Reigatian’s Rugby Club as Assistant Coach to the U12’s under the leadership of JD Burton (RGS parent) and Ben Hamps.

The last time I was at Old Reigatian’s was at pre-season training while at Exeter University.

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T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

“You are socially mature when you leave Reigate Grammar, able to walk, and be comfortable, in all environments, which is key in my role now.”

RGS American Friends The RGS network is special. My daughter, Juliet was playing football in Millbrook, New York when someone heard an English accent and asked where I was from. It was Nina Jackson who is married to Dan Jackson (RGS 1987-95). We reconnected immediately and our families became great friends.

Sean Davey contacted me and we met for dinner in NY with Mike Lloyd (RGS 1981-86).

Mike was a basketball hero of mine when I was in the First Form at RGS and Mike was a Sixth Former! The RGS Foundation has done a great job in reconnecting the RGS global alumni network.

I forgot my gum shield, ran into the prop forward’s head and knocked my two front teeth out. Mike Hynard accompanied me to Redhill Hospital where they did some miraculous emergency dental work! Seeing several old faces on the U12 rugby circuit including Giles Sharman (RGS 1983-1991), Ben Cockburn (RGS 1985-1990), Chris Bates (RGS 1980-1988) and Louise Hodges (RGS 1989-1991) brings back great memories!

Being a role model I am proud to be a senior manager at Citi, with 30,000 employees in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). Our most important asset is our people and we want to recruit, retain and promote the very best talent in the world. We are committed to gender equality and have set industry-leading standards and targets.

I think it is important that students at RGS believe that anything is possible if they work hard and commit. I am very involved in recruitment at Citi and have successfully moved the firm into a direction of embracing a broader range of universities and subjects in order to attract a diverse range of talent.

I know many alumni share the same passion for the school as I do. RGS offers the very best education and so much more. I will always remember our church assemblies on Monday mornings with the whole school present. We sang To be a Pilgrim at my wedding because I have such fond memories of belting it out with everyone in church.

where alumni support their alma mater.

Importantly it wasn’t the amount that mattered it was the level of participation.

The target is 100%. Imagine the impact we could have if RGS came anywhere close to this level of support!

I am supportive of the Changing Lives bursary campaign and I am very proud of the student I sponsor. It is inspiring to see his level of focus and commitment. I thank the Foundation for keeping me up-to-date on his progress.

My advice to other members of the Reigatian community? Contribute! It doesn’t matter how much, it’s participation that’s most important.

Give whatever you feel comfortable with – it scales up very quickly through participation!

Supporting the Changing Lives campaign I feel passionately that great children deserve a great education irrespective of their financial position. I also believe that you need competitive schools such as RGS, which offer the best possible environment for those students who are prepared to work hard and commit.

In the US, I saw first-hand the level of commitment to philanthropy in the US,

Twelfth Night cast from 1990, Phil is bottom left

How much do you owe RGS? Gift the same incredible education that you enjoyed at Reigate Grammar School to a deserving child. Donate to the Changing Lives bursary fund, either by setting up a regular gift or making a one-off payment. Visit rgs.oundationsupport-us/donate-now.

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FEATURES

BAFTA AWARD-WINNING WRITER INSPIRES STUDENTS CHRIS LANG RGS 1973-1980

In November, we were delighted to welcome back Chris Lang (RGS 1973-1980). Chris has written and produced numerous primetime British dramas, but is best known for his critically-acclaimed ITV hit and BAFTA award-winning crime drama Unforgotten.

“RGS gave me two incredible things: my career and some amazing friendships that last to this day. Right from the start I was introduced to the arts. I performed in plays such as Hamlet and A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream and was starting to think that this was a potential career. At 15, I applied to the Surrey Youth Theatre, then to the National Youth Theatre and got into both. In Lower Sixth I applied to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) and was offered a place!

For a long time I wanted to be an actor and started by doing local theatre. Within my first week, I met another young actor: Hugh Grant. We became good friends and one day the theatre Director said, it’s our 20th anniversary, we need to put on some sort of show. Together, Hugh and I wrote some funny sketches to perform, which went down incredibly well. This demystified the idea of being a writer for me.

We went on to write a whole show, toured the country, went to the Edinburgh Festival and ended up on TV. This led to our own TV show – I was now a proper paid writer!

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Unforgotten (ITV) stars Nicola Walker as SCI Cassie Stuart and Sanjeev Bhaskar as DS Sunil Sunny Khan

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

“RGS gave me two incredible things: my career and some amazing friendships that last to this day. Right from the start I was introduced to the arts.”

I continued to write comedy… for Jonathan Ross, Jack Dee. In the late 80s, I decided to write something more substantial and started on my first screenplay. This got me onto The Bill, which had an unusual format with a self-contained story each episode.

It was filmed as soon as they felt the script was ready. My first half-hour long episode took me a year to write! I stayed there for 2-3 years, worked on Casualty, Soldier, Soldier – primetime dramas. In 1999, I wrote The Glass, which featured John Thaw – the first production where I had done all the work myself. This launched a new phase of my career, making dramas through my own production company.

are many routes to success. Your focus, ambition and drive are as important as your qualifications.”

Where do you find inspiration?

Writing about the human condition is largely what I do – I want to understand what makes people tick. On a practical level I keep my eyes and ears open – seeing the interesting turns that my friends’ lives have taken or reading the newspaper and thinking ‘this might make a good opening for a story’. So inspiration is literally all around me on a daily basis.

I have made several 2-, 3- and 4-part series for various channels: ITV, BBC, Netflix and US channels. In 2013 I created Unforgotten, which is about to start shooting its fourth series. In 2016, I created Innocent, which is about to start shooting its second season.

In 2017 I created The Hook Up Plan – the second season has just aired and shooting is about to start for the third season. Next year will be busy and I have lots of other projects in the pipeline, too.

How did you start writing for Netflix?

This is a good example of the patience you need in this industry. The first series I made for Netflix was actually a screenplay I’d written 11 years earlier that had been rejected by everyone else.

A producer I had worked on a few series with asked whether I had anything else, so I dug out this dusty old script. He came back a week later and said, ‘Actually, I showed it to Netflix and they want to make a series out of it’. A week later, I received a call from Netflix.

What motivated you to study hard when you were at RGS? RGS was a very academic school with peer pressure to do well. I never entertained the notion of not studying hard.

I’d urge you to find the thing that you are passionate about. Passion will get you further than any academic qualification – it’s important to have those, but there

What is the difference between working for broadcasters like ITV versus Netflix?

When Netflix launched they had a reputation for giving you the money, then stepping back with their input being less intrusive than big broadcasters.

This might have been true early on, but the differences are becoming less and less,

and it’s becoming less advantageous for producers. It’s sexier, because it appeals to a younger audience, but the deal isn’t necessarily more attractive. The landscape is changing every day, so it will be interesting to see what happens in the next five years.

What has been your biggest challenge?

Failure! It took me a long time to learn to deal with rejection and I suffered with depression, but you learn to have less fear of failure as you get older. It isn't easy. You have to devote yourself 100% to this career and produce a lot of material. The ratio of pitches to shows that actually get made is about 100:1, so you have to throw a lot of mud at the wall.

What is your biggest achievement?

I’m most happy with Unforgotten – every series has received a BAFTA nomination. Although I tell myself that these things shouldn’t matter and that award ceremonies are nonsense.

(How can you judge something that’s so subjective?). But still… it’s won 3 BAFTAs! But more than that, with Unforgotten I was creatively in control – from initial inception through to final production – so it’s as near to what I originally devised as it’s possible to get.”

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FEATURES

RGS PUPIL TURNED ’80s POP LEGEND...

DAVID FENTON RGS 1964-1971

Dave Fenton (RGS 1964-1971) was the lead singer with the band The Vapors, which had a worldwide hit in 1980 with Turning Japanese (number one in Australia, number three in the UK, US Top 40, etc).

Dave was playing folk clubs around Surrey from the age of 15, before going to Nottingham University to study law, and play in folk clubs there. Dave qualified as a solicitor in 1977, and formed The Vapors in 1978. In 1982 Dave quit The Vapors, which finished the band. He then worked in sound engineering at Croydon’s Cartoon Club, as well as continuing to play live with a new band, TVC. He eventually returned to law, becoming a successful music lawyer and ultimately working as the Musicians’ Union’s first in-house solicitor.

He took early retirement in 2016, and reformed The Vapors with original guitarist Edward Bazalgette and bassist Steve Smith, alongside TVC drummer Michael Bowes.

They recorded a third album early in 2019 with award-winning producer Steve Levine, (released early 2020), and spent the rest of 2019 touring the US and UK. We were delighted to chat to Dave and ask him about his incredible journey since leaving RGS. What is your fondest memory from your time at RGS? There are so many! Great friendships probably. Or perhaps the day the swimming pool turned purple(?!). Or being asked to be a Prefect.

What caused the band to go its separate ways in 1982?

Everything went right in 1979 – record deal, publishing deal, professional management – but in 1980, everything that could have gone wrong did go wrong.

To start with, our record label (United Artists, whose roster included The Stranglers, The Buzzcocks, and Dr Feelgood) was bought by EMI, and all the people that had signed us were made redundant. The day the follow-up single to Turning Japanese (titled News at Ten) was due for release, the tour manager and I went to EMI to meet with our new Head of Artists and Repertoire (A&R), who was completely unaware our new single was out!

Then our managers, John Weller (Paul’s father) and Bruce Foxton asked to be released from their contract. The Jam had their first number one when we were at number three in the UK charts, but The Jam’s commitments meant John and Bruce could not always be there for us. The Jam would be touring in Europe while The Vapors were touring the US. They couldn’t be in two places at once, so, having lost our record label we then lost our management.

Spring 1980 saw a strike at the BBC, so Top of the Pops was off the air for some weeks.

News at Ten was the highest new entry that week but with no Top of the Pops to remind people who we were, we lost momentum.

This was pre-MTV and pre-internet, and there were few outlets for band videos, even though we had made one. The final straw was when we played what was to be our seventh single to EMI’s Head of A&R. He took us for a drink afterwards, telling us how good it was, then went back to the office and cancelled the recording session. No explanation! It just seemed simpler to leave the band than try to rectify all these problems with no manager to help.

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What might have happened if you had carried on?

Who knows? The early eighties saw the rise of electronic music so maybe we would have gone the same way as a lot of guitar-based bands at that time. On the other hand, there are plenty of ’80s guitar bands still out there so maybe we would have survived. Now we’ve re-formed it feels like we never split up anyway!

Tell us how it unfolded that Turning Japanese was such a big hit?

It was quite a whiIe between the release of that single in January 1980 and it peaking.

It really started when, for the first time, I was woken up by my radio alarm playing my song! A timely John Peel Session, and getting on the BBC Radio One playlist, saw the single go up a few places each week until it got into the top ten. It peaked at number three – thanks to The Jam jumping in at number one and Dance Yourself Dizzy sticking at number two. Then it started to sell in America, Canada and Australia, so we chased it around the world for a while.

Do you remember where you were when you found out you were in the top three?

Absolutely! We were in Townhouse Studios with Vic Coppersmith-Heaven recording tracks for our first album, when we heard.

There was much celebrating as The Jam was at number one at the same time and we shared a producer and manager.

What makes the law and music go well together, do you think?

When I went back to the legal profession in 1994 I had a choice of going back to High Street practice (conveyancing, wills, probate, divorce, etc) probably somewhere on the south coast or doing music law, in London. I chose the latter, and my experiences in the band certainly helped me when advising other musicians.

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Of course, there is no such thing as ‛music law’ in reality. The relevant laws that impact bands and musicians include copyright, performers’ rights, contracts, partnerships, maybe trademarks… The list goes on.

Were you close with Ed, Steve and Howard even over the years that you weren’t working together?

We were in touch occasionally for the odd birthday celebration, but we didn’t meet up on a regular basis or hang out together as I moved to London and the others stayed around Guildford.

What are the most significant changes in the music industry over the last 35 years?

Musicians are probably better informed these days as so much information is available on the internet. But by comparison with the eighties, when tickets to gigs were cheap and records expensive, records are now cheap (or even free at gigs) and tickets to live concerts are expensive. That’s a complete turnaround, but probably reflects the lack of a timely response from the music industry to the advances of technology over the years. Record companies are now offering not only downloads and CDs, but all the old formats like vinyl and cassette. More choice for the consumer but an unexpected return to old formats.

You have been touring and gigging again since 2016. What brought you back together, and why now?

It seemed the obvious thing to do when I took early retirement in 2016. Three of the four original members said yes so are in the reformed band. Only Howard Smith (drums) decided not to, as his partner had just given birth! He is replaced by the excellent Michael Bowes who teaches drums at Brighton Institute of Modern Music (BIMM). There are occasions when Ed’s (lead guitar) film work takes him away

The Vapors, photo by Derek D’Souza, www.blinkandyoumissit.com

and he can’t perform with us. On those occasions, my son, Dan, has been filling in.

How much new music are you writing and what are your plans?

We had a shortlist of 20 new songs to choose from for our third album, which we recorded in February and March 2019 with producer Steve Levine. We chose 12.

What is the best place you have ever performed?

We’ve just finished the ‛Lost 80s Live’ tour in the US, which was mostly amazing 5,000- to 10,000-seaters some in the open air. Check out the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre on the riverfront in Detroit.

But first time around we played smaller venues and, of those, Whiskey a Go Go in LA sticks in my mind. It was our first ever gig in the USA, and it sold out so we slotted in a second show on the same day, which also sold out. Pretty exhausting but fun.

Sometimes the more intimate gigs are more fun than the 2,000-seaters.

and US. We only did four gigs in 2016, but the reaction was far better than expected, with many fans travelling from abroad, so we’ve just kept going. Our first trip to the US after reforming was crowdfunded by fans who’d been pressing us to come over.

Both here and in the US I would say more of our fans are probably our age, judging by the bald heads! But I’m also noticing younger faces – some of them related to the older faces! And everyone seems to know all the words, so that keeps me on my toes. And they’re not just fans of that one single.

What do you think your 14-year-old self would think of what you are doing now?

That I should have retired when I had the chance probably! But my kids are very supportive, as are the fans, so I’ll keep going while I still can and as long as I don’t embarrass anyone.

Are your followers the same or is it all a new, younger fanbase these days?

I was surprised at the response when we reformed and just how much affection there still was for the band, both in the UK 45

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FEATURES Read the full interviews on our website at rgs.foundation

SPOTLIGHT ON...

Members of the RGS Professionals Group do amazing things! Discover the interesting, inspiring and insightful career journeys of our Reigatian network – here are some snippets from those we spoke to in 2019.

Want to network with like-minded individuals? Join the RGS Professionals Group via LinkedIn (Reigate Grammar School Professionals) or by emailing foundation@reigategrammar.org.uk

LOUISE FEGAN

ROSS WENZEL

“I am a Partner within the Corporate and Commercial Team at Morrisons Solicitors. As well as general corporate/commercial work, I specialise in the buying and selling of dental practices all over the UK (it is a great achievement to be a member of NASDAL (the National Association of Specialist Dental Accountants and Lawyers). My day is largely taken up with advising clients and negotiating with the other party’s solicitors, drafting documentation and facilitating the proposed terms of a transaction. I am also responsible for managing four trainee solicitors across the firm’s five offices.”

“I was made a Partner at Kellerhals Carrard (a Swiss law firm that is renowned for managing sports law disputes) in 2014 and have been head of the sports team since that time. I have had the opportunity to work for some of the most prominent sports organisations in the world and to attend various editions of the Olympic Games as external counsel for the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The majority of my time is spent doing cases before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in areas such as anti-doping, football, governance, etc.”

BOLA LAFE

KARL HACKETT

“I am the Founder and Managing Director of Opus Innovations Ltd. I set up Opus to develop innovative healthcare products that provide practical solutions to everyday issues. The last few years have seen the company evolve into an environmental sustainability company, and we now only involve ourselves with products that are of benefit to people, animals and the planet. Our 100% biodegradable plastic-free eco wipes won Best New Mother & Baby Product at the 2019 Natural & Organic Europe awards.”

“I work for global mining company Rio Tinto in the iron ore division. We supply about 340 million tonnes of iron ore per year which is made into steel to build bridges, roads, cars, buildings, fridges, etc. I lead a team that uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to provide decision-making tools to the teams that run our mines, ports and rail network. Rio Tinto is a world leader in automation with fully-autonomous haul trucks, mining drills, and a 2.5km-long autonomous train.”

RGS 1987-1989

RGS parent

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RGS 1990-1998

RGS 1982-1990

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

WORKING IN HONG KONG CONNOR RICHARDSON RGS 2007-2014

After finishing his bachelor’s as part of his integrated master’s degree, Connor Richardson moved to Hong Kong to work at China Light and Power (CLP). This was a 12-month placement focusing on the implementation of a new solar energy incentive to increase the penetration of distributed generation in Hong Kong.

“Much of Asia is starting to join the global energy transition to help meet the rising demand for power with a greater percentage of renewables. This particular incentive scheme was based on the UK’s 2010 Feed-in-Tariff (the one where you get to sell the electricity from your solar panels back to the grid). This sort of renewable generation, known as ‛distributed generation’, is particularly attractive to countries without the huge amounts of land required for major renewable projects. However, when you start putting lots of generators on the consumers’ side of the grid, you get two-way power flow, which can lead to all sorts of problems.

In planning for renewables, there’s something known as the ‘maximal hosting capacity’. This is a technical max amount of distributed generation that the grid can handle before you need to start upgrading your powerlines. My role at CLP was to identify where this technical max would be hit first on the Hong Kong grid and to draft an investment plan outlining how to spend on new powerlines.

This was an incredibly exciting role and it was very rewarding to be part of the energy transition.

Aside from the work, moving to Hong Kong was pretty unnerving as I had no family or friends out there. I had travelled a lot before, but

Above: The team at China Light and Power.

Below: Connor with fellow Reigatians at a Hong Kong gathering

this was the first time I’d committed to more than a few months in one location. Plus, as an intern in Asia, I had no entitlement to holiday or even sick leave, so I had no opportunity to come home during my year. Luckily, I was put in touch with the surprising large community of Reigatians in Hong Kong, who meet up regularly for drinks. I must thank Lawrence Webb (RGS 1969-1977) in particular, who encouraged me to get into the Hong Kong rugby scene, a decision that defined most of my social life! After four years out of the sport, I played weekly matches for a local team known as The Wizards. I was back in the rugby community and had the pleasure of seeing our very own Max Coyle (RGS 2012-2017) who played for Lawrence’s Overseas Old Boys team in the Hong Kong 10s tournament as well as bumping into Sean Davey at the Hong Kong 7s.

Shortly after the rugby season ended, the controversial extradition bill was announced, kicking off the ongoing protests. I am now safely back in Manchester, completing my master’s year, but many of my friends are still out on the streets every week. It is easy to get worked up about our own political situation in the UK but experiencing the issues in Hong Kong certainly puts things into perspective.”

“I am incredibly grateful for my time in Hong Kong, I had a wonderful experience and met some amazing people. To anyone moving to a new country long-term, I recommend getting in touch with the RGS Ambassadors, you will be surprised how many of us there are all over the globe!”

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FEATURES

THE BEST SCULPTURES

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T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

REBECCA ERRATT RGS 2005-2010

In the summer of 2019, Rebecca graduated with a BA (Hons) first class in Technical Arts and Special effects. In the same year, she was awarded the Merlin Magic Making and Madame Tussauds prize for the best figurative concept at the New Blades Exhibition in Islington.

“The Metamorphosis of Dr Jekyll is a series of three portrait sculptures inspired by the character in Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel. I’ve depicted the serenity of Dr Jekyll (bronze), the strain of his metamorphosis (cold cast iron resin and wax) and the captured Mr Hyde (wax).

The first time I sculpted a portrait was with Mr Edwards (RGS staff 1990-2018) 14 years ago when I was 11, and it was awful, but he didn’t think so!

Mr Edwards was my first art tutor at RGS. He took the time to tell my parents and me that he thought I had a talent in art and this recognition, his teaching and encouragement stayed with me through my years of studying and trying to figure out where my future was leading. Over the past five years, when I would go back to Reigate to help create the drama productions, we would catch up. I would show him all the artwork I had been busy making and he always showed an interest and gave an enthusiastic smile.

Looking forward, I hope to gain work in the industry in sculpting and design. I am beginning this journey as a Junior Moulder and Caster for Madame Tussauds, having been offered a full-time job as a result of my final-year work: The Metamorphosis of Dr Jekyll. Here’s to Mr Edwards.”

To see more of Rebecca’s incredible work, visit her website: rebeccaprops.co.uk. Or follow her on Instagram: @rebeccaprops.

The Metamorphosis of Dr Jekyll

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FEATURES

THE CONSERVATION OF BIG BEN THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT

CLARE HARTLEY MARJORAM RGS 2001-2009

We were excited to speak to Clare (RGS 2001-2009), an engineer with Sir Robert McAlpine Special Projects, who is working on one of the UK’s highest-profile heritage projects: the conservation of The Queen Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament.

Clare Hartley-Marjoram manages the sequencing and quality assurance of a variety of subcontracts, through their design development, offsite manufacture and installation.

Her job includes about 10,000 external stone repairs, and squeezing a passenger lift into the old vent shaft using a slim, 65m scaffold tower.

“A point-cloud survey of the masonry ventilation shaft showed us exactly where existing obstructions are, and confirmed the lean from plumb.

This leaves a tiny clear vertical zone to squeeze the lift car and its steel structure into.” she says.

Clare is, in general, working out the sequencing and technicalities of how they are taking the tower apart, and putting it back together again, safely, to a high quality, and without it taking too much longer, as the public are

missing it! Clare said, “I am so proud, and feel so privileged to have been given the opportunity to bring such a special building back to its original beauty.”

The Elizabeth Tower, home of Big Ben, is one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. The huge black hands and numbers on the clock face feature everywhere from tourists’ photos to the BBC news credits. The North Dial, which overlooks Whitehall and the Embankment, is now fully visible after the surrounding scaffolding was removed and it is actually blue!

After her A levels at RGS, Clare studied Civil and Architectural Engineering at Bath University. On working as an engineer, she said, “I would encourage anyone considering engineering to go for it, as it is a great career!” Clare is helping to inspire current students by talking as part of the RGS Careers Convention.

“I am so proud, and feel so privileged to have been given the opportunity to bring such a special building back to its original beauty.”

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T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

If you would like to visit the school, we would be delighted to welcome you back for a tour, please email foundation@reigategrammar.org.

SCHOOL VISITS

Geoff Longstaff (RGS 1989-1997) gave a talk to First Form – RGS visit June 2019

Kassi Slade, née Denman (RGS 1994-2001) – RGS visit March 2019

Len Goodman (RGS 1940-1945) – RGS visit May 2019

Paddy Williams (RGS 1998-2005) and partner Maria – RGS visit May 2019

James Reader (RGS 1987-1992) – RGS visit October 2019

Phillip Giddings (RGS 1959-1967) – RGS visit July 2019 from Colombia

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VISITING LECTURERS AND SPEAKERS

“ HOLDING ONTO THE EJECTION HANDLE, I THOUGHT, ‛I HOPE THIS WORKS!’” ALAN HUDSON RGS 1962-1969

Air Commodore Alan Hudson (RGS 1962-69) visited us in October to talk to CCF cadets about his experience as Station Commander at Lossiemouth and the time he had to eject from a Jaguar jet.

At the time of the incident, Group Captain Hudson was Station Commander at RAF Lossiemouth. What started for him as a bright and sunny day in October 1999 became a day of a series of unfortunate and rare occurrences. It ended in a lucky escape for the senior officer when he was forced to eject over the Moray Firth, after reporting a fault with the aircraft. On his visit, he told us more about what happened:

The fuel dump valve jammed On very rare occasions, the Jaguar fuel dump valve has been known to jam.

This means the dumping of fuel procedure has to be done as close as possible to the airfield. Once in the right place, I opened the dump valve, reduced the fuel-to-landing weight, switched the valve to closed and headed down for a visual recovery into Lossiemouth.

“The sun was shining. It was a beautiful day and I hadn’t been in the air long before I had forgotten about the paperwork and in-tray that can tend to get you down as a Station Commander.

Air traffic control radioed to tell me I still had fuel coming out the back. Remember I told you that on very rare occasions the fuel dump jammed? Well mine had! The only way to stop the fuel was to trip my circuit breakers.

One of my hydraulics systems failed A flashing red light started to go off in the cockpit, intermittently, so the cause was not immediately obvious, until I noticed one of my hydraulic gauges was oscillating before it dropped to zero. I was losing pressure – I needed to get home.

I attempted to return to base at RAF Lossiemouth but was forced to ditch the aircraft into the water rather than endanger nearby communities.

On the aircraft are two independent hydraulic systems so if one fails, you have a backup. The chances of losing both are slim. I was too heavy to land, so had to climb to above 10,000ft in order to dump the excess fuel (this is so it evaporates before it hits the ground so as not to upset the neighbours).

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The second hydraulics system went down I just started to break, without air-brakes, but this wasn’t a problem as, once I put the flaps down, I would start to slow dramatically and would be able to land.

I realised that I was flying too fast. Strange, I thought, as I had set all the engine settings correctly and I should be going at the right speed. Something was wrong.

I deduced that the flaps and undercarriage weren’t down, hence why I hadn’t slowed down. Checking my hydraulics, it became clear that my second hydraulic system had now failed (remember I said two independent hydraulic systems give you a back up? Mine had just gone).

At this point, I upped the call to Mayday.

I was in constant radio contact with the

squadron to try to reset the undercarriage.

I carefully followed the long list of instructions from them for this technical solution. The crux of it was I had to turn everything off except the engine, then turn everything back on again (classic!).

Time to eject!

At this point, my controls jammed. This is because when you run out of hydraulic fluid the controls freeze. Taking stock, I had engines running, electrics, even air conditioning – a perfectly working aeroplane, except that I couldn’t steer… so I couldn’t control it. This left me two choices: either remain sitting where I was and see where we crashed, or jump out.

I was quite keen on maintaining good relationships with the locals and crashing a plane into their town was not going to go down well (no pun intended!). I managed to turn very, very slowly until I was pointing out to sea again.

At this point I prepared myself to eject So I tightened my straps and, holding onto the ejection handle, I thought ‘I hope this works!’.

In a simulator scenario it is all very smooth, you pull the handle, the canopy comes up slowly, you step outside, they hand you a cup of coffee and it’s all good.

It is a bit more exciting in real life! I have to admit that I briefly closed my eyes – not surprising on experiencing around 17Gs up my behind as I ejected. It is very common to black out with this amount of pressure and I may have nodded off at this point.

If anyone tells you air is soft – do not believe them! If you hit air at 250 mph it is very hard indeed. It wakes you up very quickly.

This all happened in mere seconds, but it was like slow motion for me.

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SCHOOL VISITS

Right: A handle from a Jaguar ejection seat and the remains of the control column from the crashed Jaguar recovered from the Moray Firth

Waiting to be rescued I was hanging off the ‛chute, all set with lifejacket inflated, gently floating down to Earth when at that moment, the biggest Nimrod I ever saw came through my legs.

In reality, it was 200 feet below me, but even then, 200 feet away from a Nimrod mid-air is far too close!

The Nimrod was looking for me as they’d heard that I had ejected. Putting two and two together and making five, they had calculated that by this point I would be in the water, so they descended to 2,000 feet and stared to hone in on the emergency beacon attached to my lifejacket. They had accurately tracked it, but were unfortunately looking down to the water for me. If only they had looked up they would have seen me waving at them! Luckily, there wasn’t a second Nimrod behind them (I thought the first one was on the approach to RAF Kinloss which meant another one would be close behind) or it would have taken me out.

Because of the strong wind, I hit the sea at 25 knots, which meant my feet hit the water, immediately followed by my face.

It was a bit like coming off water skis.

The water was very cold – about 13 degrees. Adrenalin alone got me into my dingy. Ensconced safely in it and looking towards the helicopter coming to get me, I had an irrational thought. In the life raft is a survival pack, which contains a bag of goodies and sweets. I was desperately trying to get into it before my rescuer

could get to me. I don’t know what made me think this was the most important thing at the time.

Being Station Commander, I knew all the guys and was expecting the rescuer to have a familiar face. However, it turned out it was his first day! It was a bit of a surprise for both of us. I never did get hold of my box of sweets either.

Back on solid ground It was an alarming experience, but all was well after some painful physio. We made both the papers and the television news, and I did get to fly an aircraft again before I finished my posting the following January.

They recovered the remains of the Jaguar and discovered the cause of the problem: it turns out that the hydraulic systems had been cross-connected during a regular maintenance check a week before.

So instead of two hydraulic systems I had one big figure of eight and this one catastrophic error was what caused the aircraft failure.

I was presented with the only remaining piece of the Jaguar and a box of sweets from a survival pack, to keep as a memento!

I was surprised when I listened to the recording from air traffic control, how calm I sounded, which just goes to show how good the training is.”

“I have to admit that I briefly closed my eyes – not surprising on experiencing around 17Gs up my behind as I ejected. It is very common to black out with this amount of pressure and I may have nodded off at this point.”

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SCHOOL VISITS

DAVID CURTIS RGS 1966-1973

The Music department was delighted to host conductor David Curtis (RGS 1966-1973) for a workshop with staff and as a guest-conductor of the school’s symphony orchestra.

David was the founder of the renowned Orchestra of the Swan, and has a wealth of knowledge as a conductor of varied groups and repertoire. He put the staff through their paces with issues of conducting technique, interpretation and communication, then took a detailed approach to working with the orchestra.

His perceptive and empathetic style elicited great sounds from the student players – this was excellent input as the group prepared for their performance at Cadogan Hall.

ReiMUN & GUEST SPEAKER LEE ADAMSON RGS 1970-1977

Mr Adamson shared with us what is most inspiring and interesting about a career with the UN. Most notably, the feeling of being part of something that is striving towards what you might call ‘higher values’.

The opportunity to work as part of a truly global team and the travel opportunities have been incredible.

We were delighted to host the 23rd annual ReiMUN in 2019. A programme that focuses on dignity, justice, respect, law, social progress and freedom, tolerance and peace – fundamental principles. The Headmaster welcomed our speaker, Lee Adamson (RGS 1970-1977), Head of Media and Communications at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

It is said of the shipping world that if it stopped, half the world would starve and the other half of the world would freeze.

That statement symbolises how profoundly important the shipping industry is. 80% of global trade is carried on ships. When ships travel from one country to the other, for example, the receiving country wants to know that that ship adheres to the appropriate international standards of safety.

Fortunately, delegations from the member countries of the IMO, an United Nations body, meet several times a year to agree, discuss and

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adopt regulations for shipping. They each arrive with their different points of view.

Some are big ship owning companies, others cargo recipients, a few represent countries with fragile environments – increasingly important voices to be heard.

Lee has worked for the IMO for almost 30 years, and within the maritime industry for over 40. Starting out in journalism after leaving RGS in 1977, he has seen some amazing achievements and experiences at the IMO.

“I have been lucky enough to visit the Solomon Islands and Antarctica, where we were making a film about new rules and regulations to protect the polar environment. It’s a world full of opportunity in which you feel you are making a valuable contribution.”

Lee stressed the skill of debate to our MUN delegates, in which the focus is not on ‘beating’ your opponent but rather on negotiation, stating, “If it is not win-win, then there is no win”.

“Yes it is a debating chamber, but the number of times delegates have to vote on something is so rare it is almost memorable. Almost everything is done by consensus. If you can find a consensus, then the practical outcome is much more likely to be global enforcement and global implementation of what’s been agreed.”

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

RECOLLECTIONS & MEMORIES LOOKING BACK ON A BYGONE GENERAL ELECTION CLIVE RUSSELL RGS 1958-1965

As we woke up to the results of another general election, my mind turned back to the general election of 1959 when I was in my second year at The Grammar School.

Obviously, in those days there was no internet, iPads, smart phones or any other means of communication except for the radio. A small portable transistor was smuggled into the Prefects room, which in those days was the room at the top of the main staircase next to what previously was the gymnasium, but has been transformed, I understand, into the Old Library. This room was just above the Headmaster’s study, so both parties could keep an eye

on the happenings in the playground, with a view to quickly breaking up potential fights.

As the election results came in, they were chalked onto a small blackboard and displayed in the window overlooking the playground. We had very little understanding of politics at the time, so without realising what we were doing, a huge cheer went up from the crowd gathered below every time a Conservative

won another seat, and a general moan of despair was heard if the Labour Party was seen to be gaining. Perhaps more importantly, the same board was later used to display the updated position of the Test Match.

I am not sure that the Headmaster of the time, Mr T W H Holland, was particularly impressed by the raucous crowd gathered beneath his window!

“A small portable transistor was smuggled into the Prefects room, which in those days was the room at the top of the main staircase next to what previously was the gymnasium, but has been transformed, I understand, into the Old Library”.

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RECOLLECTIONS & MEMORIES

INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE DONALD

THE MEMORIES OF GEOFFREY BROWN RGS 1942-1948

Arriving at Geoffrey’s home I was greeted by his wife, Joan.

We admired the beautiful exterior of their house, their heavily scented roses and their miraculously reborn wisteria. It is a charming, delightfully-presented cottage, a comfortable and loving home. Photo frames and sentimental items are dotted around, all hinting at the individual chapters of their life story together.

We wound our way through the cottage, to where Geoffrey waited for us, admiring the phenomenal view of the garden (where ‘pesky’ pheasants and parakeets roam freely) and the view stretches out towards the Pilgrims Way. From here, they told me they have a fantastic view of the Brockham fireworks, and every year they host an open house for their family and friends to come and watch.

Geoffrey was recovering from a recent operation, but this didn’t hold him back and I fancied he would have been happy to talk for hours! Geoffrey speaks fondly of Reigate Grammar School, starting the interview saying, “At the time, you never realise it, but I owe so much to Reigate Grammar School. You only know that when you start to establish your life. You are on a long course when you leave school, with pluses and minuses along the way. I have been fortunate enough to enjoy an acceptable percentage of pluses.

It has been good to me. Life has been good.”

“The funny thing is you benefit from the school, not by being at the school but the realisation of how good the school has been.”

Geoffrey joined Reigate Grammar School in 1942. At the time, his father paid the extortionate price of nine Guineas (approx. £10) a term, which must have seemed like a fortune. At school, he was introduced to rugby for the first time. “I thought it a barbaric game, but on leaving school I went on to play for the ORRFC in the first XV for 12 years!”

Geoffrey’s Headmaster was Mr Clarke (or Boke as he was known).

“He was always quite a disciplinarian, very forthcoming in using the cane, which he used prolifically.” Geoffrey recalls every so often seeing a queue of boys standing outside his office for disciplining, but doesn’t elaborate on how many times he might have found himself in the same queue.

Although Geoffrey says he didn’t do particularly well academically, he and those in his ‘Remove’ class showed great promise by the end of their time at school. He explained that out of the 20 or so of them, about 12-15 ended up being highly successful in life.

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Fond memories of school

“I remember Prefects wearing boaters at St Albans Road on sports day. Another memory of St Albans is smashing the clock by hitting it with a cricket ball!”

The Brown family had been living in London, but following a near miss with a German bomber on his walk to school, the family moved to Earlswood. Geoffrey went to school at Radnor House, Redhill, then onto RGS. “Dad did the right thing by me.”

He had only been at RGS a short time when he and his brother, along with 50 or so other RGS boys were evacuated to South Wales for three to four months, to the villages of Nelson and Treharris. They stayed with a Mr and Mrs Thomas. Perhaps due to their son Terence always getting them into trouble, it wasn’t a very pleasant experience!

They attended Pontypridd Grammar School within 48 hours and the boys were moved up two classes – they clearly were leaps and bounds ahead of the local children academically!

One of the most memorable things for Geoffrey was in about 1944, travelling into Cardiff Station and seeing another train full of Japanese prisoners of war – a memory that has stayed with him to this day. “It’s the kind of thing that impresses on you and leaves a mark on your mind.”

Of teachers, he remembers Mr Gutteridge and Sid Andrews (both Maths Teachers): “Andrews could be a rude sort, even after leaving school. On queueing for the bank at Natwest, I heard this voice shouting at me ‘Brown, what are you doing in this queue?

You weren’t intelligent enough to be in a queue in a bank!’”

“The funny thing is you benefit from the school, not by being at the school but the realisation of how good the school has been. Even now, I think, wasn’t I lucky. It is one of the best independent schools in the country. It’s a lovely school and the atmosphere amongst the kids is fantastic.”

West Germany. He spoke of the great sympathy he felt for the local West Germans and how discombobulating it was to see them build an opera house so soon after the war when whole cities like Dresden had been destroyed. “They built the whole thing in about three months.”

After his National Service, he joined Courtaulds (a company that specialised in plastics and wall claddings) and worked on large projects for British Airways – for the British Overseas Aiways Corporation (BOAC) – and on the original QEII. His life’s work took him into property development, but his real passion is for his family and for rugby!

What’s your greatest love?

His wife “The best investment I ever made was in my wife. She has been a great asset to me, a great comfort and a great companion.

I appreciate her very much. (Although, I can’t put her down to Reigate Grammar School!)”

And what is your greatest regret?

“Turning down an offer to go into business with Peter Harrison!”

A varied working life Geoffrey, like most of his generation, started his career (in an accountant’s office for Southern Rail in Dorking) before completing two years of National Service in the Army – based in Hamlin,

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RECOLLECTIONS & MEMORIES

THE MEMORIES OF DERRICK SIMMONS RGS 1943-1949

Childhood memories

“My first memory was of the night that Crystal Palace burnt down in 1936 so I must have been three years old at the time. We could see the fire from our kitchen window.

My most favourite memory was with my cousin, watching aircraft from the top of the terminal building at Croydon Airport. We saw two large biplanes – Hadrian and Hannibal (manufactured by British aerospace company Handley Page) – and the three-engined Junkers 52s of Lufthansa.

In late 1938, I had my tonsils out in Sydenham Children’s hospital.

After about a week, I was sent home with instructions that I must have half a pound of ice cream every day for six weeks. My young brother was naturally aggrieved by this and was mollified by being given a large spoonful every day.

“During a History lesson, I found my uncle’s initials and the date ‘1918’ carved into a desk.”

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Wartime memories

Another favourite memory is earning sixpence for stacking bundles of wheat into ‘stooks’ to dry in the sun and gathering them up into haystacks. The wheat was cut in a spiral, starting at the perimeter of the field and going round, finishing in the centre. As we approached the centre, rabbits would run out, which we chased – they were a valuable addition to the meat ration!

I recall carrying my gas mask on the walk to and from school.

If we were on the way to school when the air-raid siren sounded, the mothers living along Frenches Road would come out and grab us and take us into their houses or into their air raid shelter.

We were slowly introduced to the hazards of war over months and we spent time picking up souvenirs in the shape of used cartridge cases, etc.

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School memories

At 10 years old, I took the 11+ exam and, having passed, I was awarded a scholarship by the Reigate Borough Education Committee, for which I will be eternally grateful.

My Form Master was Mr ‘Sid’ Andrews. He was a stern disciplinarian, as I soon found out when I accidentally threw a paper airplane at him in the Friends meeting house. I got three or four good whacks with a ruler for that. From that moment on I was well behaved.

During a History lesson, I found my Uncle’s initials and the date ‛1918’ carved into a desk in my history lesson.

At 14 years of age I took the Ordinary Schools Exam and obtained seven credits and a pass. I failed French, but later found out that after a beer I was quite fluent.

My father bought me a motorcycle. I spent about six months overhauling it. On turning 16, I rode it to school and parked it amongst the trees at Broadfields. Mr Andrews was most impressed. The next day the battery went flat during the day and I faced the agony of being towed home by two friends on bicycles.

On another occasion, I came out to find it hoisted up a tree and, although I had my suspicions, I never did find out who did it.

I had enjoyed my time at school but when the time came, I was glad to leave. It was only in my mid 20s that I really appreciated what the school had done for me.

“My Form Master was Mr ‘Sid’ Andrews. He was a stern disciplinarian, as I soon found out when I accidentally threw a paper airplane at him in the Friends meeting house.”

Working life

I was called up to National Service in August 1951 and I passed the interview and testing at RAF Hornchurch. I had my first ever flight in a Tiger Moth aircraft which was fascinating as it just drifted off the ground at about 40 miles an hour. As there was a fairly strong wind, when the pilot throttled back, we flew backwards across the airfield. He then went on to throw the aircraft all over the sky in an aerobatic session. Ever since then I have loved flying but sadly those days have passed for me now.

I trained as an airborne Radar Mechanic (AI). We worked hard, but I particularly enjoyed working in Germany where discipline was less strict than in the UK! All good things come to an end and, at the end of my service in 1954, I became a Laboratory Assistant at Mullard Research Laboratories (later Philips Research Laboratory), where I worked until my retirement in 1991 and continued part-time as a consultant until my 70th birthday in 2003.

I worked on a wide variety of projects including helium/neon gas lasers in the infrared and visible red regions of the spectrum.

I worked on the development of gas discharge matrix display devices, smart cards and microwave circuits.”

Born: Croydon Education: Christ Church School (just off Sumner Road), Frenches Road Infant School and RGS Moved to Redhill: Christmas 1939 National service:

Radar Mechanic (after being ‘chopped’ from pilot training!)

Career:

Electrical engineering at Philips Research Laboratory

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T H E R E I G AT I A N 2 0 19

RECOLLECTIONS & MEMORIES

THE MEMORIES OF MICHAEL FODEN

RGS 1943-1949

After all the water that has run under the bridge since leaving Reigate Grammar, Michael admits that his recollections are somewhat hazy. He tells us that his standout memory was of Donald Campbell visiting the school to talk about his recordbreaking cars and boats.

“Looking back, it was a Vl Doodle Bug bomb landing at the bottom of my grandparents' garden in 1944 that began my career journey. My father decided that for the school holidays we should be in a safer place, so evacuated my mother, sister and myself up to Greasby in the Wirral to one of his cousins. Their son Kevin was 15 and was told to look after me at 10.

He had already decided to go to sea so from time-to-time we’d take a trip on the Liverpool Overhead Docklands Railway, where you could look down on the ships in the docks loading and discharging in a hive of activity. He also introduced me to ship modelling which I carried on with when we returned home. The seed was sown but remained latent.

I joined the HMS Worcester training ship – an old three-masted wooden waller – berthed on the Thames at Greenhythe in Kent on Friday 13 January 1950. (Friday the 13th is generally a bad omen). I was a new boy and as such was the lowest of the low.

“I enjoyed my time on the ship. However, in retrospect, which took a long time to come to me, I had done well because of the quality of teaching I had received at Reigate Grammar in those earlier days at the school.”

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It was six terms over two years before I left with a high rank (and the captaincy of the rugby team!). I enjoyed my time on the ship, however, in retrospect, which took a long time to come to me, I had done well because of the quality of teaching I had received at Reigate Grammar in those earlier days at the school.

I joined a shipping company named Port Line. My first ship was the Port Wellington sailing to New Zealand via Fiji.

The homeward bound sailing via the Panama Canal was uneventful until we reached the Bay of Biscay where we ran into an horrendous storm with mountainous seas and storm-force headwinds. I was on the 12am-4am watch with the Third Officer. We were slowed down as we pitched into 20-25 feet of angry seas, each time taking tons of water onto the foredeck and creating vast amounts of spray due to the strong wind.

Then came the seventh wave – one that rolls over the top of the one we were pitching into. We took this huge double wave, which crashed down onto the hatch cover below the bridge and was forced upwards by the bridge front superstructure to the bridge height of 60 feet, breaking a window and flooding the wheelhouse. The ship shuddered to a halt, shook herself from side-to-side and started to settle as though she was

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“Homeward bound via the Panama Canal was uneventful until we reached the Bay of Biscay when we ran into a horrendous storm with mountainous seas and storm force winds to head into.”

foundering with the weight of an extra 1,000 tons of water aboard. The ship shed this extra load very quickly and we returned to a normal, uncomfortable ride within a short time, except that those of us on the bridge were very wet. It was a very scary moment in retrospect. The story as far as I am concerned doesn’t end there.

On the afterdeck we were carrying a cargo of wool bales stacked some 12-feet high. My job each day was to read thermometers which bung down a central ventilator into the upper cargo deck.

I was doing that in the narrow space between the two stacks of wool bales when we unexpectedly took a large sea on the afterdeck which rushed through the gap at about six-feet high and hit me with full force out onto the deck on the far side.

I flung myself flat onto my face as I was washed across the deck to the railings on the ships side. Quite a fright I can tell you.

In general, major dramas rarely happen on well-run ships, however, on another of our trips we were going to Australia via the Suez Canal. Arriving at Port Said we had a period of time to wait for the Pilot. The Captain decided to anchor and, to stop the ships forward motion, went astern on the engines. The Pilot came aboard and we proceeded to the buoyed channel leading to the canal. The Pilot kept

instructing the Helmsman to keep the ship steady in the centre of the channel and not to let the ships head wander. Eventually the poor man proclaimed he was doing his best and had the wheel hard over at times to bring the ships head back to the centre.

The engine rev counters were also at odds at the very slow speed we were doing with one much higher than the other.

The Captain phoned the engine room and spoke to the Chief Engineer who said he couldn’t reduce the faster one any more otherwise the engine would stop. The Pilot refused to take us any further and we tied up alongside a jetty. A diver that was called found that our starboard propeller was missing. It must have happened when we went astern during our anchoring earlier.

A salvage crew looked for the propeller for three days without any luck as the propeller was obviously spinning when it came off and as it hit the seabed buried itself in the soft sand.

We were then ordered to return to the UK on one engine at a very low speed. It was a bit of luck for me as I got a promotion!

I stayed at sea until 1965 when, having married in the meantime and with two small children, I left seafaring and found a position in the packaging industry.

A major change but also an enjoyable one.

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T H E R E I G AT I A N 2 0 19

FROM THE ARCHIVES

BY ARCHIVIST, PETER BURGESS

On one of the last occasions that I called on the late Aubrey Scrase (RGS staff 1955-1995), “Aubs”, at his home in Blackborough Road, he showed me a bulky volume containing a large number of documents, carefully pasted onto the numerous pages, in many cases carefully annotated in a meticulous hand. This turned out to be a record kept by the Master of the Grammar School from 1862 to 1878, Revd. John Gooch.

JOHN GOOCH: THE MASTER THROWN OUT! Aubs, like a boy caught with something that he knew he should not have in his possession, asked me in a pleading tone of voice “I suppose you want me to give this back to you for the archives”.

Against my better judgement, I suggested that if he was interested in keeping hold of it for the time being to browse the contents, I had no problem with him looking after it, as long as I could take a few photos of some of the more interesting pages. So it was that Aubs kept hold of this fascinating volume.

John Gooch

Sometime after Aubs passed away, I remembered that this volume had never made its way back to me, and I had some regret that I had not chased it up.

But I need not have been concerned.

In 2019, I received a note from the RGS Foundation team saying a book had arrived in the office from Gooch’s days, and I started to wonder – has the “scrapbook” returned? Well, indeed, it had, and I have now had the opportunity to look at it more thoroughly.

Who was John Gooch?

Gooch was an interesting character.

There is no doubt that he was a good Master of the school, and for his abilities alone, he was well-chosen. He was elected to be the first Master of the school, following a four-year closure 62

from 1859. This was brought about following decades of decline in standards, and in the number of boys attending.

The old School House was vacated, and a new building erected by 1862.

Meanwhile the Charity Commissioners undertook an enquiry and as a result, in 1860 the Court of Chancery, with funds from local charities which were obsolete or had surpluses, like Ladbroke’s Charity and the Bell Rope Charity, put the school on a new footing with an income of £230 a year. There was to be a new governing body of twenty-four, including two Vicars, the Churchwardens and nominees of the Borough and the Foreign, the last two being the only surviving representatives of the old Vestries.

In 1861, an invitation was published seeking applicants for the new Master of the school, and there were 52 applicants, from which a short-list of four was made. Each was invited to attend a meeting of the Reigate Charities Trustees, and The Rev. John Gooch M.A. travelled down from Wolverhampton where, for 16 years, he had been Second Master of the Grammar School. The invitation to attend is carefully preserved in the ‘scrapbook’.

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The Order in Chancery of 1860 contained forty-nine articles the chief of which were: The Trustees were to pay the Headmaster up to £300 a year.

The curriculum to include: Christian Religion; Greek and Latin; French, Mathematics, English Literature and Composition; sacred and profane History; Geography; Reading, Writing and such other Languages, Arts and Sciences, “Together with Drill and Physical exercise as the revenues of the School will admit”.

French was 15 shillings a quarter extra, payable in advance.

There were to be prayers morning and evening with a saving clause on grounds of conscience.

The Headmaster must be a member of the Church of England and a graduate of an English, Scottish or Irish University.

Above: RGS 1885

He must live in the house provided and not underlet, nor was he to hold any cure of souls. He might take up to twenty boarders. All boys must be at least eight years old, fit and of good character, and able to read and write to be eligible for admission. They had to leave when fifteen years old but at the Trustees� discretion might stay on for a further year. An usher could be appointed when the numbers reached thirty and another when fifty or more.

Every boy was to pay sixpence a week “head money” for pens, ink, fire, light, books, stationery.

There was to be an annual examination of the boys by an examiner appointed by the Trustees.

His appointment was confirmed at a meeting of the Trustees at the White Hart Hotel on 19 November 1861, a date carefully recorded alongside relevant press cuttings from Wolverhampton, praising his achievements as Second Master at the Wolverhampton Grammar School.

Renovations to the school

The ‘scrapbook’ reveals Gooch’s dedication to his role of Headmaster, and a meticulous approach to recording his time in that role. Gooch preserved numerous press reports of anything relating to the school and its governance. Some of these are finely annotated with his comments and observations. One page contains three early photographs of both the new and old school buildings, but they are, sadly, very faded. It is likely these date from his earlier days at the school, as the old school house was demolished by 1871.

In addition to the press cuttings and photographs, there are leaflets for school events, and invitations to Reigate parents to apply for free elected places at the school for their boys, as Foundation Scholars.

Although a new school house had been built when Gooch started his headship in Reigate, only a few years later it was apparent that the new building was proving inadequate, and a new Master’s house was built to replace the much older original school house, and a major extension was added to the 1862 school.

The new Master’s house survives today as the school administration block, and it was in the enlarged school that a significant event occurred at the end of Gooch’s time as Headmaster. However, it is first necessary to set the scene for the eventual dramatic finale which occurred in September, 1878.

An unjust dismissal

The following narrative is, for the main part, taken from a display set up in 1975 to commemorate the school’s tercentenary, and describes the confrontation that took place in 1878, between the Governors and the Headmaster...

On 6 April 1878 the Clerk to the Governors gave six months’ notice of dismissal to the Rev. John Gooch.

He had been Headmaster for sixteen years and the only Headmaster since the re-opening of the school in 1862.

He felt that he had been unjustly dismissed and the majority of the Vestry, led by the Vicar of St. Mary’s, the Rev. J.N.Harrison, supported him. The notice of dismissal raised fundamental questions about the school and caused widespread controversy. It was followed in September by a scene at the Annual Distribution of Prizes when the Vicar publicly denounced the Chairman of the Governors as being “worse than Ahab”, but more of this later. The clash of personalities also contributed to the controversy – neither the Vicar nor the Chairman nor the Headmaster could be called a lightweight.

The Governors dismissed the Headmaster because numbers in the school were falling. The revenue from the Charities was only about £370 and the governors needed revenue from more fee payers from the middle class.

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

Dismissal letter

Further, the reports of the examiners spoke of an unsatisfactory standard of work in certain departments and the Governors held the Headmaster responsible. They were not obliged to give reasons for dismissal.

The case for the Governors is not fully demonstrable in the cuttings preserved in the scrapbook, but to gain an idea of their line of argument, the comments of Mr. Hesketh at Vestry meetings shed some light on this, and those reports were preserved by Gooch in his book.

Gooch was an interesting character. There is no doubt in my mind that he was a good master of the school, and for his abilities alone, he was well-chosen.

The Headmaster rejected all these arguments. He attributed some fall in numbers to the New Scheme of 1874 under which the Foundation Scholars were reduced from 20 to 10. Before the New Scheme came in, numbers were going up. He alleged that the Governors interfered with his work and showed a lack of confidence in him, yet when the annual recitations and prize distribution took place, they were not interested.

Five had never attended the ceremony, four attended once only and when the examiners brought down copies of boys’ work to show the Governors at a viva voce examination, not one of the Governors was present. He claimed to have given sixteen years of hard work to the school and to have had a big hand in the replacement of the dilapidated old school building by a much finer edifice.

There were many former scholars who could testify to his achievements.

The majority of the Vestry expressed strong sympathy for the Headmaster and thought he had been shabbily treated. He had no right of appeal against dismissal. The Charities had been founded expressly to provide for education for the poor boys of the parish, whereas Hesketh and the Governors were more interested in making the school a place of learning for the middle class. Hence the bias in the syllabus towards Latin and Greek instead of the ‘modern’ subjects which would prepare a boy for a job in the town.

It is possible that the Rev. J.N. Harrison and some of the Vestry retained some antipathy towards the Governors

Churchyard gate

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following the dispute over the introduction of the New Scheme, when the requirement that the Headmaster be in Holy Orders was dropped.

Governor absence

Gooch had six months’ notice, and dutifully continued executing his role as Headmaster to the end of his notice period. This included arranging the annual distribution of prizes for the boys, and it was of this occasion that we have a very colourful narrative preserved in the scrapbook, as well as an excellent sketch drawing of the event, from one of those present. Carefully written out in the scrapbook is an account, believed to be the words of A.J. Polley, one of the boys, of what transpired in the school on 28 September: “In 1878 the annual distribution of prizes and recitations did not take place at the close of the summer term, as usual, partly in consequence of the Headmaster having received notice of dismissal, and partly from a difficulty in deciding the Martin Exhibitions, and the want of any resolution thereon by the Governors.

After the re-opening of the School the Chairman told the Headmaster that several of the Governors were anxious to be present at the distribution of the prizes, and the 28 of September at 11.30am was fixed upon as most convenient, before the dismissal of the school. At the appointed hour only the Chairman and the Vicar were present with the Head and Assistant Master and the boys. After waiting till nearly 12 O’clock, no others appearing, the Headmaster at the request of the Chairman presented the prizes, remarking upon certain particulars (viz. his own illness which had prevented his making due preparation for the examination; the viva voce examination, at which time the Examiner brought specimens of the boys’ work, for the inspection of the Governors, but none of them were present; and also some omissions, and manifest errors in the report, arising no doubt from accidental circumstances), the Chairman then made

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Two drawings, which may also be the work of A.J. Polley, capture the moment, and they certainly fit the maxim that a picture is worth a thousand words.

a few observations, and gave away the Martin Exhibitions.

After a short pause, the Vicar, who sat at the south end of the room, rose, and said he should like to say a few words, as it was the last time they might meet under such circumstances, and he then added (approaching the table at the Chairman’s request) somewhat as follows: “I think, Mr. R.H, it would have been much better if you had kept away on this occasion. I wonder how you can show yourself here after the mischief you have caused. You are like Ahab, indeed worse than Ahab, for he did wait till he got possession, and you cannot but expect that God’s curse will come upon such conduct.”

Here the Chairman suddenly rose up ‘pallidus ira’, seized his hat, put out his hand, saying “Good morning Mr. G.” and rushed to the door. The boys, ‘temere sibilantes cuncti simul ore fremebant’ (which the Master suppressed), and the Vicar walked out ‘plausu maximo’; the Master rebuked the disorder, and called the boys around his desk, and said:

“Now boys, this scene of course ought not to have occurred, and you ought not to have displayed any feeling, but I must say this, that as this time was especially fixed on by the Governors for the distribution of the prizes, and many, I was told, were anxious to be present, I do not think their absence is very complimentary, either to their Chairman, or to the Masters, or to you boys, or to your parents, or shows much anxiety for the welfare of the school.

Now go home, and come on Monday with lessons prepared.”

It can scarcely be believed that the Chairman, who had deserted his post of duty, drew up his own statement of the occurrence, had it entered on the minutes at a Governors’ meeting in the afternoon, and blamed the Master for “want of discipline”!

Harrison and Gooch left a legacy of their alliance, in stone. In 1877, the tower of St. Mary’s church was renovated and clad in a Jurassic limestone. Harrison used some of the old material from the tower to erect a stone gateway between the school and the graveyard. On a stone above the gateway, he had inscribed the words: “Haec porta saxix

turri ecclesiae antiqua ablatis extructa est”. This gateway was built with stones taken from the old tower of the church.

After John Gooch was dismissed he added the cryptic inscription:

IO GO MAG EJECT 1878 Which is shorthand for: Johannes Gooch Magister Ejectus 1878 (John Gooch the Master thrown out 1878) In 1917 the gateway collapsed and was rebuilt. By 1966 the key stone was loose and the arch dangerous. It was decided not to repair it. The arch was taken down and the two stones with their historic inscriptions were set in the supporting pillars which were repointed and levelled off.

As a boy of the school 1967-74, I well remember the remains of this gateway and its inscriptions, and used it regularly to go to and from the town centre via Church Walk, rather than walk along the main road. Now this route is blocked, but I wonder if deep within the bushes and undergrowth, this legacy of a cause célèbre in the history of the school still stands in testament to a troubled year.

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REIGATIAN NEWS BEER AND BUBBLES FESTIVAL

Old Reigatians RFC completed their two-season partnership with charities supporting those living with motor neurone disease (MND) and funding much needed research into the condition with a “Beer and Bubbles Festival” at the end of April.

While David played rugby at school, participating in the inaugural overseas tour to Canada in 1975 led by Alan Reid (RGS staff 1971-2017) and Alan Sims (RGS staff 1964-2001), he defected to football after university. He remains Vice-Chairman of Reigatians AFC and his three sons play for the club.

Among the organisers were Old Reigatians David Setters (RGS 1968-75) who lives with the progressive, terminal neurological condition and Paul Shrimpton (RGS 1966-73) along with their wives, Helen and Lois. Lois sadly lost her brother-in-law, Richard, to the disease. The other key members of the team, Nick and Tania Fensom, were similarly affected by the loss of their close friend, Alie, in 2016.

Over the two seasons the rugby club raised around £35,000 for MND charities including the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation launched by the well-known Scotland international, Doddie Weir, who was diagnosed in 2017 and who continues his high-profile campaign to raise funds and awareness. Events included a quiz night, a golf day, lunches, dinners, raffles and auctions.

MND is a progressive, terminal neurological condition that kills around six people in the UK every day. A third of those diagnosed die within a year and 50% within two years. Muscles gradually weaken, taking away an individual’s ability to use his/her arms, to walk, swallow, speak and ultimately to breathe. The lifetime risk of contracting MND is as low as one in 300, which is similar to the far better known multiple sclerosis (MS).

The rugby club kindly supplied the venue and many local firms, large and small, were also involved in sponsoring and providing the all-important beer and prosecco. Beers from across the country were on offer with Pilgrim Brewery coordinating and supplying the refreshments. Reigate law firm, MW Solicitors, were the lead sponsors, supplying the souvenir festival glasses.

Susy Radio and BBC Surrey provided live coverage, while some excellent local bands, including Trust Me Jack and Groove Hoover, performed a variety of covers from across the decades to keep the crowd of well over 500 entertained.

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For the 2019/2020 season the club is to continue its relationship with neurological conditions by supporting Parkinson’s UK.

“The festival raised the amazing sum of £14,000 for our two chosen charities, the East Surrey branch of the MND Association and All about Alie,” David explained. “Being told you have MND is devastating. There is currently no cure but research seems to be accelerating, so there is hope. I am relatively fortunate to have a more slowly-progressive version, having been diagnosed in 2012. That gives me the opportunity to get involved in events like this and there is nothing more uplifting than to be supported by old schoolmates, including those from the rugby and football clubs.”

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REIGATIANS RECRUITED FOR TOP US UNIVERSITIES

USA COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP

Steph and Taylor Weber (RGS 2012-2019), outstanding hockey players at RGS, have taken their talents across the pond to play and study in the US.

Congratulations to Jemma Woods (RGS 2017-19) who secured a full athletics scholarship to the University of New Hampshire, where she started in September 2019, studying Health Sciences with a coaching minor.

Steph plans to major in Media and Journalism at the University of North Carolina, one of the top public universities in the country.

Her team, the Tarheels, finished the season as NCAA Division One National Champions with an undefeated Record of 23-0. “What an amazing experience to be part of this team and to win a National Championship!” says Steph.

Taylor is a freshman at Harvard University in Boston, studying Psychology and hopes to pursue a career in marketing. The Crimson team, came second in the Ivy League with a 13-4 record. The Harvard team earned the NFHCA Division One National Academic Team Award for the second-highest grade point average in the US. “The opportunities here are endless,” says Taylor of Harvard, “I want to be involved in everything!”.

Jemma is pictured above helping the University of New Hampshire to defeat Holy Cross University – looks like she’s off to a good start!

REIGATIAN ACTRESS IS LAUGH-OUT-LOUD FUNNY

THE SURREY TROPICS The cricket team, The Surrey Tropics, has been playing together for five years and is still going strong in the Clapham League.

Left to right: Elliot Hart (’09), Simon Hope (’09), Alex Goddard (’09), Matt Rowell (’09), Ben Hatton (’10), Ben Constant (’09), Jack Miller (’09), Chris Douse (’09)

Naomi Petersen (RGS 1998-05) had a fantastic year featuring in one of Alan Ayckbourn’s sparkiest new plays Birthdays Past, Birthdays Present, which covers protagonist Adrian’s sheltered life.

Naomi plays four different women in the production: Grace, Faith, Charity and Hope – ranging from a bold sex worker to a shy church-mouse – with detailed skill. Naomi (pictured right) is also Head of Creative Development at leading London improv comedy theatre The Free Association (thefreeassociation.co.uk). where she teaches and performs.

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REIGATIAN NEWS

FUNDRAISING FOR CHANGING LIVES AT OLD REIGATIANS On 20 April the RGS first XV played a fixture against the RGS Old Boys at the Old Reigatians RFC. Paddy Scarr (RGS 2011-18) and Sam Jones (RGS 2011-18) put together a supporters lunch and match tea in celebration of those returning to Reigate. Thank you to Sam and Paddy for arranging a raffle in aid of the Changing Lives campaign.

Back row, left to right: Theo Petit (’18), John Clayson (’18), Theo E, Nick Pangalos (’18), Matt N, Hugh McKendrick (’18), Joe J, Fin McCartney (’18), Dan Grant (’19), Adam Mendoza (’18), Will T, Nick B, Sam Archer (’19), Ed M, Tom Box (’18), Owen K, Patrick F-J, Josh W, Gus Day (’18) Middle row, left to right: Hasan Huseyin (’18), Mark Pangalos (’18), Paddy Scarr (’18), Sam Jones (’18), Dan Westley (’19), Gus McGilligan (’18), Dan Fitzgerald (’20), Hamish Broderick (’18), Tom Wilbraham (’19), Howard Docker (’19), Daniel Heron (‘18), Johnny Bridges (’19), Josh Martin (’19), Alex Moroni (’19) Front row, left to right: Nat K, Ibbi Ali (’18), John Clayson (’18), Fergus McGoogan (’18)

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REIGATIANS INTERVIEWED ON BBC BREAKFAST

PERSONAL CHALLENGES FOR A CAUSE

Peter Mountney (RGS 1990-1998), Odin Vision CEO, was spotted on BBC Breakfast in May answering questions about Odin Vision and University College London’s Earth Scan project. He discussed how they are using space technology and artificial intelligence to improve the detection and diagnosis of cancer.

On the same weekend that we gathered for the Silver Reunion, Kirstie Donald (RGS 1990-1992) was taking on a marathon challenge for Broome Park Nursing Home, a residential home that cares for those who require nursing or personal care.

“Running the marathon and raising money was a way to say thank you and give something back to the Broome Park community. My father, Brian Wickens (RGS 1951-1958) is a resident at Broome Park. He has been living with advanced Alzheimer’s for many years now. My husband also completed the Three Peaks Challenge to raise money, and from the amount we collectively raised, Broome Park is building an outdoor sheltered area for the residents to enjoy when the weather is warm.” Kirstie smashed her target and raised over £3,000 for the home. She completed the marathon in 3 hours 50 minutes. We were sad to miss her at the Silver Reunion, but glad to hear how well she did for a good cause.

Another 15 minutes of fame came to Mike Ellis (RGS 2012-14) on BBC Breakfast in September representing Team Vitality in a 10-minute segment discussing why #esports is heading into classrooms. Team Manager and Coach, Mike ‛Gregan’ Ellis, did a fantastic job of explaining the career opportunities available to the 2.5million live viewers who tuned in. An incredibly positive story that goes a long way to helping change the perception of video games.

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REIGATIAN NEWS

PASSING OUT Will Kernick (RGS 2005-12) received his commission this year following his phase one Officer training at Sandhurst. Will is commissioned into the Royal Welsh, which is an armoured infantry single battalion regiment operating on a vehicle called Warrior. After his phase two specialist training he will be in charge of a platoon of roughly 30 troops and four Warriors.

A PRESTIGIOUS OXFORD BLUE Lucy Donovan (RGS 2008-15) played as Vice-Captain of the Women’s Blues team in the 119th Oxford v Cambridge Varsity Hockey Match. One of her coaches is Johann Perera (gap-year Hockey Coach at RGS 2015-16) who also plays for the Men’s Blues.

Tell us your news!

We love to hear what adventures our Reigatians have been enjoying, so please send your news (with photos) to: foundation@reigategrammar.org.

Those of you who use Facebook can also keep us updated via the new ‛Reigatian Community’ group (facebook.com/groups/reigatiancommunity).

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REIGATIAN SPORT RUGBY 2018-19 After the excitement of reaching the play-offs in the previous season, and so narrowly missing promotion, this season was disappointing as injuries and availabilities affected all three of our sides. We also made little progress in meeting our objective of running four sides, although it was pleasing to see the growing success of our veterans XV who won both the league and cup.

The under 21s provided the highlight to the season, winning the Surrey Under 21s cup. All credit to the players who produced a series of impressive performances including victories over Dorking, Old Reedonians, Cobham and Guildford.

Off the field we continue to enhance our facilities. The new tarmac entrance represents a marked improvement and, with the generosity of our President Sir Peter Harrison, we are extending the north of the clubhouse which will significantly expand our storage facilities. The club’s financial position continues to improve – a testament to the efforts of Calvin Bunyan and Cathey Haughton. The season included a very successful Six Nations Dinner with guest of honour, Ian Robertson, and a well-attended Club Ball. We also continued to raise significant funds for charities, which exceeds £80,000 over the past five years.

Thanks are due to all the volunteers and the efforts of the committee, particularly Club Secretary Peter Tharp and Treasurer Peter Duff.

Next season looks as though it will present a tough league challenge to our First XV but with the talent and flair that we have coming through, the objective must be to encourage the retention and integration of the quality that we have at our disposal.

During the course of the season we lost John Buchanan who contributed much to the club as a player and committee member. He will be remembered most fondly as ‛the sponge man’ whose appearance on the pitch signalled for immediate recovery of an injured player. He will be greatly missed and our condolences go to his friends and family.

There were successes within the club and the competitions won by our U21s, U13 Boys and U13 Girls were a great reward to the efforts of the players, coaches and managers involved. It is especially pleasing to record the enjoyment experienced by all the age groups.

Peter Tharp (RGS 1954-1962) ORRFC Hon Secretary

HOCKEY 2018-19 In the 2018-19 season the first XI in Surrey Division Two finished seventh out of twelve, one place up from the previous year and with eight wins out of 22 matches. The seconds continued in Surrey Open League Division One and finished eighth out of twelve. The thirds continuing in Division Four finished eighth out of ten.

Old Reigatian Hockey Club top goal scorers

The club nominated Adam J from RGS for Young Sports Person of the Year in the Reigate and Banstead Awards and he was voted runner-up.

The 2019-20 season has been difficult with the loss of some players and a large number with injuries.

The beginning of 2020 saw Josh and Rob swap third place several times. Josh has averaged nine goals per season mainly for the firsts compared to Rob’s four goals per season average. Rob started playing as a forward for the club in 1982 but didn’t get his first goal until the ’84/85 season. He took eight goals in his first fourteen years at the club, then someone pointed him in the right direction!

By Christmas the firsts had three draws but no wins, although one did come at the start of the new year, and they and the seconds are bottom of their divisions.

Ian Whiteman (RGS 1953-1961)

An end-of-season match between present and former players

While the top two club goal scorers will remain uncontested for a while, there’s been a battle for third place. Rob Evans edged ahead of Josh Evans (no relation) to take third place, both having passed Arthur Offen’s longstanding record of 146 goals, which Matt Bushaway nearly beat with 142 before emigrating to Australia.

Bear in mind that Terry Skeet has scored 290 goals so far and Andy Warr could still come out of retirement to add to his 515. Based on average scoring rates, Josh should catch up with Andy in 2060, whereas Rob will beat Andy’s record at the age of 142. Defending legend Tom Grist has scored three goals in 49 years so he should be level with Andy War in 8,500 years!

The club is keen to recruit new players to challenge these records, so please contact Rob Evans on 07718 128575 or email re@hotmail.co.uk if you would like to find out more about playing for the Old Boys. Training is free and all are welcome (see orhc.info for latest dates and times).

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SCHOOL NEWS MUSIC CONCERT

LES MISÉRABLES

In December, over two hundred musicians from First to Upper Sixth Form performed to a capacity crowd at the beautiful Cadogan Hall in Sloane Square.

In December, the Concert Hall was transformed into a graffiti-covered concrete bunker for the spectacular production of Les Misérables.

The musicians provided a range of choral, ensemble and orchestral music of a quality that would not be out of place in any concert by resident orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic.

LEATHERHEAD DRAMA FESTIVAL 2019 Reigate Grammar School’s production of Find Me won Best Play at the 2019 Leatherhead Drama Festival (LDF).

The show, which premiered at school in February, beat off competition from seventeen other schools to gain the prestigious award. It is the third time RGS Drama has triumphed in the last five years.

“The LDF was an incredible experience, especially as it was with such an amazing cast and director (Miss Hare). It has really helped to inspire me to keep acting as it’s what I would like to do as a career. The fact that we won was great as it felt like we really did each other and the show justice and I’m so thankful we were chosen!” Lauren M K

PERFORMANCE The RGS Concert Hall became a farmyard in June for the junior production of the Olivier Award-winning musical Honk!

The story is a re-working of Hans Christian Andersen’s Ugly Duckling and has a brilliant message about inclusion, diversity and inner beauty.

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Over 120 members of cast, crew and orchestra delighted audiences with the story of Jean Valjean (Archie C) and his quest to evade capture by Javert (Sam K).

Eibhlin G was spellbinding as Eponine, whose love for Guy G’s Marius is unrequited, as he only has eyes for Freya M’s enchanting Cosette. The action moved from revolutionary France to the present day, with brilliant orchestral playing, live fire, explosions, fights, weddings, battles and, of course, singing!

The week-long run included a special reunion performance for the cast and crew of the 2005 RGS production. Old cast members were reunited, some of whom they had not seen for 14 years. Everyone took a nostalgic look at the photos from the production in 2005.

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ART AND DESIGN Students continue to produce a wealth of beautiful and thought-provoking works using a wide variety of creative techniques and media.

There are too many so show them all here, so we’ve selected a few examples to give a flavour of the impressive array of art and design that has been produced.

Sereena P (age 16) – Exploring the use of light and shadow and how it falls on the figure in space

Anna MF (age 16) – A piece created with nails and thread, exploring emotion and expression

Alex M (age 18) – A piece exploring emotion and how this can be shown through dramatic lighting

Lauren C (age 16) – Exploring negative space

Sasha H (age 12) – Capturing warmth, light and reflection

Charlotte B (age 18) – Capturing a sense of isolation

Finn T (age 16) – Based on a photograph of Scotland where his family are from. This painting aims to capture the atmospheric seascape

Isabelle B (age 15) – Inspired by Georgian miniature paintings and close observation

Casper M (age 16) – A mixed-media painting based on his Grandfather’s experience in the Korean War. Influenced by Dada and Nevinson

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SCHOOL NEWS

SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS HOCKEY

SWIMMING

RUGBY

Senior girls swim team (Issy H, Clara A, Ruby J and Daisy G): Surrey Champions freestyle and medley relays

Once again National Champions!

Elis K: Swim Wales National Academy Squad

Ellie Green (RGS 2012-2019): breaking records as one of the youngest ever to play in a grand final. Harlequins and England U20 fly-half

TRIATHLE ROWING

Louis ML (pictured left): Bronze medal – British Rowing Junior Championships U18 coxless pair

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Gabi H: Team Gold medal, Silver in the relay and individual Bronze medal – World Triathle Championships, Florida.

Also first place – U14 British Biathlon Champion

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RGS INTERNATIONAL NANJING, CHINA 2019 In January 2019, RGS Headmaster, Shaun Fenton and International Business Director, Sean Davey, attended the official ground-breaking ceremony, and RGS China brand launch, in Nanjing.

The ground-breaking ceremony was a special occasion as it marked the exciting building phase for the first Sino-British school in the ancient city of Nanjing. It was thrilling to have the support and endorsement of senior government officials as well as Carma Elliot, Head of the British Council in China and Tony Clemson, Deputy-General for the British Consulate.

The ceremony was followed by the brand launch at the Grand Mansion Hotel with speeches and media coverage.

Above: Headmaster, Shaun Fenton and International Business Director, Sean Davey at the official launch of the first Sino-British school in Nanjing.

Below: We were thrilled that the official ground-breaking ceremony was attended by senior government officials, the Head of the British Council in China and the Deputy-General of the British Consulate

The support of the Head of Early Years from RSM, Mrs Samantha Selkirk and also by Mrs Sherry Churchley (whose son attends RSM kindergarten and originates from Nanjing) was very well received by all attendees. The following day, over 500 prospective parents attended an RGS Nanjing information event to learn about this special collaboration and how to register their child. With special speeches and presentations from RGS and our partners Kaiyuan Education, there was huge interest and demand for places.

RGS Nanjing is the first of an anticipated five schools to be established in China in the next 10 years. We look forward to the varied educational opportunities this will provide for our own pupils and staff, particularly through cultural and international exchange and interaction.

RGS AWARDS UK SOCIAL MOBILITY AWARDS Having been shortlisted in the prestigious UK Social Mobility Awards, Reigate Grammar School has made the 2019 Roll of Honour for its achievement in opening up its world-class education to children from all backgrounds.

The awards celebrate and recognise the forward-thinking organisations that are developing initiatives to promote social mobility. RGS was a nominated finalist in more categories than any other school in the TES Independent School Awards 2019 and won the award for Wellbeing Initiative of the Year.

GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE REVIEW – ‘HAPPY KIDS, GREAT RESULTS’ The Good Schools Guide is updated every five years and the latest was published in June 2019.

Schools cannot pay to be included and have no influence over what is written. Freelance journalist Kate Hilpern researched every aspect of school life, concluding, “Priorities one, two and three for this selective school are pastoral care and this – coupled with fabulous teaching, students’ almost uniquely acute awareness of their own approach to learning, and a heavy dose of extra-curricular – makes for happy kids and great results.”

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LEAVING STAFF We were sorry to say farewell to some long-serving members of staff from RGS in 2019:

MR DAI BADER RGS STAFF 1982-2019 Teacher of Mathematics

MRS FRANCES GRANT RGS STAFF 1981-2019 Teacher of Mathematics

If you had the chance to go back in time, what advice would you have given yourself on your first day at RGS? Not to have said yes to every offer that came my way in the first two years. I did enjoy what I did but was on many extra activities.

Stay clear of A level Statistics.

What have been the most significant changes in your time at RGS? When I arrived, as a female teacher, I was very much in the minority. It was an all-boys school, with the remainder of the pre-independence boys (who could be quite challenging!). There was no Maths block, caning was still an occurrence and I taught O levels not GCSEs. Blackboards, no calculators, log books, Lower First, banda machines, none of which will mean anything to anyone younger than me!

What are you most proud of?

My time as Head of Mathematics when we went through many syllabus changes and came out the other side stronger than ever.

I was fortunate to have a talented group of teachers at the time and I could trust them with anything. My time as Head of Rugby.

Following Alan Reid (RGS staff 1971-2017) was never going to be easy, but I think that I did a good job and coached some wonderful sides in those years. Our first XV run to the semi-finals of the Daily Mail was exhilarating.

Best memory?

Meeting my husband, Jim Grant (RGS staff 1987-2000), a brilliant Drama Teacher. Taking my toddler daughters to see his plays in their pyjamas. Many, many students too, in particular my first ‘bottom set’ with people like Roy Middleton (’89), Chris Poole (’89), David George (’89), who once called me Mum, to his mortification!

What will you miss most?

That one is easy: the students. We are so lucky here to have such a marvellous group. I’ll also miss the Maths Department and the ‛manter’ (maths banter) in the office.

What are your plans?

I want to spend time with my friends and my dogs, have off-peak holidays, pick up old hobbies, walk, and learn something new.

What will you miss least?

Another easy one: pointless paperwork. And coloured pens for feedback to students (I’m colour blind!).

Who would play you in the film of your life?

I would want Dawn French to play me – apparently we look a bit alike too.

What is your fondest memory?

I have been lucky enough to go on many sports tours: Canada, Holland, Ireland and South Africa for rugby and all over Britain and France for golf. I ran the senior ski trip for 30 years and they were some of my best trips abroad. In South Africa in 2010, we were hosted in a township and that will always take some beating.

The people were so proud of what they had and I have never been somewhere where the students and I were literally given everything that those people possessed – very humbling.

Biggest influence?

Definitely Jim.

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MRS DANIELA PRICOPIE RGS STAFF 2003-2019 Teacher of Physics and Assistant Head of Fourth Form

MR MARTIN HALLPIKE RGS STAFF 1983-2019 Teacher of Design Technology

If you had the chance to go back in time, what advice would you have given yourself on your first day at RGS? Relax, it is going to get better!

If you had the chance to go back in time, what advice would you have given yourself on your first day at RGS? Listen to colleagues The best advice I got on joining was “don’t say yes to everything!”.

What are you most proud of?

I think I have grown as a teacher and as a team member.

What will you miss most?

The free lunches!

What will you miss least?

Briefings and the amount of data to be input on several spreadsheets – all showing the same thing!

What is your fondest memory?

It has been 16 years, so it is hard to pick, but I am just going to say that I made good friends at RGS and I hope that the those relationships are there to stay.

How would you like to be remembered?

Definitely NOT because of my high heels!

Who would play you in the film of your life?

Jennifer Aniston What has been the biggest influence on you?

My students!

What are you most proud of?

Being part of RGS's first Design Technology exams, then helping to keep the department's results up. I was happy to retire having put the daughter of one of our first candidates through her GCSE – and she achieved a better grade than her Dad! What will you miss most?

Easy, the students. Such a brilliant, varied group of children.

What will you miss least?

Easy, the paperwork!

What is your fondest memory?

In the old days, bonding trips with First Form years to Ironbridge/ Bristol. Over the years, working with the CCF, starting as a minibus driver and providing general help, then ending up as Officer Commanding Navy! Why did I leave it so long to sign up?

We also bid a fond farewell to: Miss Ellen Childs (RGS 2016-2019) Head of Theology and Philosophy Mrs Brigitte Collett (RGS 2012-2019) Teacher of French and Spanish Mr Michael Murray (RGS 2017-2019) Head of Classics Mr Chris Wileman (RGS 2015-2019) Teacher of English Miss Thea Williams (RGS 2014-2019) Teacher of Spanish and Head of Fifth Form

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PUBLICATIONS DAVID WALLIAMS (RGS 1981-1989) The Creature Choir Sing your heart out with this perfect picture book concerto, featuring Warble the Walrus who loves to sing. A delightfully wonderful story full of feel good factor about doing what makes you happy and being loud and proud about it!

The World’s Worst Teachers

The Beast of Buckingham Palace

Think your teachers are bad? Wait until you meet this line-up. These ten tales of the world’s most splendidly sinister teachers will have you running for the school gates.

London is in ruins, the people are hungry, and darkness has fallen across the land. Prince Alfred, a poorly and bookish child, has never left the safety of Buckingham Palace. Now there are strange goings on inside the palace walls – and Alfred’s life is about to change forever.

Illustrated throughout in glorious colour by artistic genius Tony Ross, this delightfully dreadful collection shares stories of the most gruesome grown-ups ever.

Fing Librarians Mr and Mrs Meek will do anything to keep their darling daughter, Myrtle Meek, happy.

However, it is not enough for Myrtle, who always wants more, more, more! When Myrtle declares that she wants a Fing, there is only one problem... what is a Fing? Mr and Mrs Meek’s hilarious quest to find a Fing takes them from the forbidden vaults of the library, through the pages of a mysterious book called The Monsterpedia, and to the furthest corners of the jungle! But, will they ever find a Fing...?

In the dead of night, something terrible stalks the corridors. When Alfred’s beloved mother, the Queen, is dragged off to the Tower of London, the boy must summon all his courage to embark on an epic quest to save her… and the entire world.

ALAN BRUNSTROM (RGS 1967-1974)

KEVIN UPHILL (RGS 1981-1986)

EOIN MCLAUGHLIN (RGS 1998-2003)

Searching for Satu

Creating Competitive Advantage

The Hug

This mystery romance set in Finland, follows a young Scotsman’s quest to uncover his origins and the dark family secret that caused his mother, Satu, to conceal both their pasts.

The story mostly takes place during a few days in May, just before the end of the Cold War, with Finland’s unique society poised between East and West. Ricky finds the whole country in the throes of a joyful, collective madness as the last of the winter ice melts beneath a sun that never sets. However, the midsummer dream conceals a nightmare, forcing Ricky to confront a dilemma that nobody should ever have to face.

The economic environment is global, highly sophisticated and in continuous fast flux.

The challenge for business leaders, executives and strategists is to read and respond agilely to trends and underlying movements to stay ahead of dynamic market flow and change.

Creating Competitive Advantage sets out a compelling case for the business benefits of better market anticipation, and provides tools and approaches to develop a forwardlooking strategy that will help you respond to change more effectively.

In this clever flipbook, both a hedgehog and a tortoise are looking for a hug. They ask all the other animals they come across but for some reason no one will hug them. Until a wise owl explains: Hedgehog is too spiky; Tortoise is too bony.

And that’s when they find each other! A hug – at last!

Beautifully-illustrated by Polly Dunbar, this, heartwarming picture book has all the universal appeal of Guess How Much I Love You.

JAMES MELLOR (RGS 1994-2001) Brexit: A Drawn-Out Process My latest book is a journey back through the past three years of Brexit turbulence and an attempt to see the funny side. Featuring cartoons from the referendum, the negotiations, and the countdown to the Brexit-Day-thatwasn’t, and beyond. This cartoon compilation tells the story of Brexit, with its deals and derailments, its splits and the spats, and features a familiar cast of hopeless politicians, bemused onlookers and anthropomorphic animals!

Had something published?

Many of our Reigatian community are published authors and our school library sports many a signed book! If you’ve written something, please let us know so that we can share the details. Email: foundation@reigategrammar.org.

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DEATHS & OBITUARIES

JOHN RICHLEY 1948-2019 (RGS STAFF 1980-1989) To say that John Richley was simply a teacher of Mathematics, would be to do him a great injustice. In the busy life of a modern teacher, all would be utterly amazed at what John could achieve in a working week. John did teach Mathematics though and was equally at home teaching 10-year-olds how to add fractions, as he was teaching 18-year-old Further Mathematicians the mysteries of simple harmonic motion. Students, both young and old, appreciated his clear explanations and the humour that he was able to bring into even the dullest of topics.

The contribution that John made to RGS sport cannot be underestimated. He single-handedly ran the Lower First (Year Six) major sports programme at the school. In the two winter terms, he coached, ran and refereed the rugby for this age group, then in the summer term (when you might have expected him to take a break), he did the same for the school cricket team at U11 too. Alongside this, he also organised RGS badminton across the whole school, organising training, matches and a social badminton night for those who fancied a go.

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John was an exceptional badminton player himself and many an opponent, who saw John as an easy run-around, soon found themselves in serious trouble and gasping for air as John glided easily around the court putting the shuttlecock where he wanted it to go.

and he was delighted when his two boys gained places at Llandaff Cathedral School just outside Cardiff. John was proud of the fact that he could drive from Reigate to Cardiff in under two hours, something that must have been outside of the law!

If you think that this would fill your time up then you are clearly not like John, because he ran the school stationary for all departments from a small cupboard opposite the now porters desk.

He arranged for all the school supplies for both students and staff. On top of this, John was the school printer. These were the days before computers and everything was set up by hand on either a typewriter or a letterset machine (rather like a giant Dymo – for those old enough to remember one!). John did all of the school printing for examinations, open events, plays and everything else that you can think of.

When John left RGS in 1990 to take up a post at King’s School Rochester, we lost more than a mathematician, we lost a pillar of the school.

He was impossible to replace with only one person and I doubt that we will ever see his like again. The staff who are still at RGS all remember John with fondness and as a young teacher myself in the eighties, John was always available to give me advice and I will always be grateful for that help. Our thoughts are with Wendy and the boys at this time.

Still not enough to tire him out, John was also a very good musician, who was often to be found playing the organ in church assemblies at St Mary’s. John was in fact a chorister when he was younger, singing as a Savoy Chorister

Obituary with thanks to Dai Bader (RGS 1982-2019)

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NIGEL SEALE 1940-2019 (RGS STAFF 1963-1965) Hindle). After the war, Kenneth was hired by Spotlight. Bettie, a secretary at the company, had told her boss a white lie. Kenneth, she informed him, adored theatre. The charismatic Kenneth proved a quick learner, later becoming a director of Spotlight. His only child, Nigel, had no plans to join him.

For more than 50 years, Nigel Seale was the director of Spotlight, the company that, in 1927, first produced a printed directory of actors and actresses. Known as ‛the actor’s bible’, each edition of the Spotlight directory featured striking black-and-white photographs of performers, printed above their name and the details of their agents. A must-have for every British casting director or film producer, Spotlight expanded from an initial slender volume to a hefty tome of more than 15,000 pages.

Being a man unfazed by risk and who was always happy to embrace change, Nigel decided in 1995 to launch the CD-Rom version of Spotlight. This proved a dream for any casting director, on the hunt, say, for a 6ft-tall French-speaking bassoon player!

Using a search function that foreshadowed Spotlight’s casting website of today, one could, within seconds, find the requisite actors. Only two copies sold in the year it was launched. By the end of 1996 it had sold 2,500 copies and won a Professional Publishers Association award.

A humane man, Nigel ensured that, while remaining at the heart of the acting industry, Spotlight offered useful advice to the thousands of actors it served.

Nigel Hamilton Seale was born in December 1940 in Ripon, Yorkshire, to Kenneth Vernon Seale, who was a tank commander in the Western Desert, and his wife, Bettie (née

After school, at Kelly College in Devon, Nigel took a degree at Loughborough University.

While a student he met Jennifer Moore, who was at the University of Nottingham. Shortly afterwards they married, and Nigel became an enthusiastic teacher of PE and History at Reigate Grammar School in Surrey.

Although initially reluctant to leave teaching, at Spotlight Nigel became a champion for young actors. In 1980 the first edition of Spotlight Graduates – a directory dedicated to those emerging into professional acting after drama school – was published. Nigel resurrected the Spotlight prize, which enabled graduates selected from the best drama schools to perform in front of leading agents and casting directors. Judi Dench, Robert Lindsay and Jim Broadbent were among the early winners of the now annual prize.

A genial, charming man, Nigel also had tremendous empathy for actors. At Spotlight’s Leicester Square office in London he would advise them on financial hardship, choosing a professional acting name, the need to switch agent, and industry pressures. “Dad couldn’t stand people becoming unwell,” said his son, Ben. “He was ahead of his time in his awareness of mental health.”

Immersed in the West End, Nigel spent hours in the theatre. Often, to help the actors he watched, he would jot observations about them on the programme notes. Quick to see that many young actors knew nothing of the commercial side of the profession, Nigel began to lecture at British theatre schools, including the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and the Webber Douglas Academy.

His tips were sensible. Only a handful of actors appearing in Spotlight would earn a substantial living, he would warn. And young actors should steel themselves for rejection.

Nigel was a snappy dresser, invariably teaming a Garrick Club tie with colourful shirts and immaculate shoes. Breezing into the office in a big tweed coat, he would ask after the teams’ children or partners. One of his favourite expressions was: “Hello, darlings!

Any funnies today?”

He saw his Spotlight team as an extension of his much-loved family, once inviting 40 of his staff to Paris to mark a company anniversary.

By then his daughters, Emma and Philippa, were working for Spotlight, where his son, Ben, is now Chief Executive. Nigel was a fun boss, eagle-eyed and with high standards; he was swift to praise and encourage.

From the 1960s he supported women in business, ensuring that an equal number of men and women comprised the management team of Spotlight.

A passionate theatre, film and television lover he had an encyclopaedic knowledge and a phenomenal memory for even the smallest detail. His breadth of knowledge made Nigel an ideal judge for the Society of West End Theatre awards (now known as the Oliviers).

Happily, many had a chance to recognise his immense contribution, when at Subtitle Film Festival in 2016, he won the lifetime achievement award with all his family there to see it.

In his spare time Nigel was President of the Old Albanian Rugby Club and the Stage Golfing Society. He delighted in making personal connections; a friendship with Richard Attenborough led to his joining the council of the Actors’ Children’s Trust.

Obituary from The Times 81

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DEATHS & OBITUARIES

In this photograph of school Prefects for the academic year 1948-49, James is pictured on the front row, second from the right.

DR JAMES HUGH LISTER 1930-2019 (RGS 1940-1949, SCHOOL CAPTAIN) My father was born in Canada, but returned to Britain, to Reigate in Surrey when he was one year old. He was the youngest of four boys, attending Reigate Grammar School where he took Higher School Certificates in English, History, Geography and Divinity.

Dad loved his time at school and enjoyed studying very much, although he was always better at arts and humanities than sciences.

He loved sport, chess and debating and had to work hard not to be over-shadowed by his three older brothers.

He always felt hugely privileged and that therefore he should give back as much as possible.

He then decided to become a Dr and undertook his first Bachelor of Medicine (MB) studies in London, gaining admission to the London Hospital Medical School in Whitechapel. He excelled at all sports and played rugby for the University, also playing chess for the University and bridge.

He loved his clinical work.

He met and married Nancy, a nurse at the London, and after the birth of his first child, joined the army on a short-service commission with the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry, in the Royal Army Medical Corps, serving in Germany at Osnabruck.

After leaving the army he completed further hospital posts and became a GP

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in Gloucester in the early 1960s. He remained in the same practice for 30 years, serving the people of Gloucester. His passion for rugby led to work as the Rugby Club Doctor for Gloucester Rugby Club for some time.

He once told me that the most important decision he ever made was to marry Mum, and he was a very family orientated man, always encouraging and supportive. He died at home, as he would have wished, with his wife by his side and after only a day in bed.

His two sons became choristers at Gloucester Cathedral, this began a long association with the Cathedral, and he became the Festival Doctor for the Three Choirs Festival.

He leaves behind his wife, Nancy, his children, Rebecca, Christian and Mark, and five grandchildren.

He became interested in Aviation Medicine becoming the local examiner for private pilots’ licences.

He enjoyed obstetrics and undertook both home deliveries and work in the obstetric unit at Gloucester Royal Hospital.

He also worked as one of the physicians caring for those in the long-stay psychiatric units in the city.

Shortly after arriving in Gloucester, he took up golf, which he loved and played enthusiastically. He became a founder member of the New Course at Minchinhampton.

His faith was very important to him, worshipping at the Cathedral and latterly, after retirement, he became involved in the work of the Anglican Church in Minchinhampton in Gloucestershire.

Obituary with thanks to James’s daughter, Rebecca

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

PAUL SCOTT 1942-2019 (RGS 1954-1961) Paul Scott, known at school by his sobriquet ‘Spot’, was born in Horley on 22 November 1942. He began his education locally at a Roman Catholic primary school, from which, after successfully passing the 11+ examination, he joined RGS in the autumn of 1954. He eventually left in 1961 after completing two years in the Sixth Form Biology set and gaining A level passes in a couple of relevant subjects.

During his time at school, Paul variously distinguished himself by his enthusiastic grasp of all matters concerning photography, in which he subsequently had a lifelong interest. Having initially enlisted in the RAF section of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) Paul became disillusioned with the militaristic aspect of CCF activities and, much to the chagrin of Major Gutteridge, the CCF’s then Commanding Officer, resigned from the unit. He opted instead to join the School Service Corps, a small band of military misfits whose preferred tasks included the basic maintenance of the school gardens and other fixed premises.

It was during these years that, together with several other members of our particular Sixth Form group, I formed a firm friendship with him which lasted throughout Paul’s lifetime.

After leaving school, Paul began his working life by joining the management staff of Foxboro-Yoxall, a large engineering firm based in Redhill during the ’50s and ’60s

and a variety of other roles. Following a couple of years there, Paul changed direction and had a varied career for several years until, following his marriage and the birth of his two children, Paul settled in Crowborough. Here, he set himself up in business as the owner of a small printing shop specialising in producing ornate items of personal stationary. Allied to this successful operation, Paul also developed his own photographic business and became well known locally for the quality of his pictorial coverage of weddings, milestone birthdays, and other special family occasions.

During this period of his life, Paul also involved himself enthusiastically in the politics of local government and was soon elected as a Liberal Party Councillor for the Borough of Crowborough where he also subsequently served in the office of Mayor.

Indeed, it is a matter of local record that Paul served as Mayor of Crowborough for a longer period of time than any of the other holders of that office either before or since! He also stood, unsuccessfully, as a Liberal Party Parliamentary candidate for Crowborough in one of the series of general elections held in the early 1980s.

He lost little time in getting himself elected to the parish council, and spent his increasing leisure time pursuing his continuing interests in genealogy, photography, vintage aircraft, and classic motor cars, of which Paul had a minor collection and on all of which he carried out his own maintenance.

Paul died suddenly at his home on 18 April 2019. His funeral in nearby Eastbourne was attended by well over a hundred of his friends, former business associates and local politicians. There featured a number of Reigatians with whom Paul had continued to meet on a monthly basis for lunch and a few ‘jars’, generally discussing world and local political events, all of which Paul could be relied upon to provide a detailed vocal opinion. It was a fittingly languid stroll down memory lane at an ancient public house in Redhill.

Obituary with thanks to John Streeter (RGS 1954-1961)

Following the death of his wife some years ago, and also mindful of his own failing health, which had caused him to undergo major coronary surgery following a series of heart attacks, Paul closed his business and moved to the coastal town of Pevensey.

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DEATHS & OBITUARIES

BRIAN BOOTHROYD 1942-2019 (RGS STAFF 1984-2000) It is with sadness that we report the death of Brian Boothroyd in June 2019. Brian was appointed to teach Classics at Reigate Grammar in September 1984 and his total commitment, not only to his subject, but also to the school, was very quickly recognised. He was a man of firm principles who was universally respected for his warm and friendly approach and his willingness to listen to others.

Brian grew up in the West Midlands where he made his mark as a pupil at Queen Mary’s Grammar School, Walsall. He went on to read Classics at Nottingham University where he also gained a postgraduate teaching diploma. Before coming to Reigate, he taught at King’s Norton, Birmingham, Buckhurst Hill High School in Essex, Batley Grammar School and Alleyn’s School, Dulwich.

At Reigate, Brian was happy to help with junior cricket and rugby and other responsibilities soon followed. He took charge of the School Library, working closely with Mrs Merville Hasler (RGS staff 1987-1997) to enrich the book stock and to ensure that the resources were valued and well used. He was also responsible for training and testing new members of staff in the skills required for driving the school minibuses. In due course, he became a respected Chairman of the Common 84

DR STEPHEN BLOW 1940-2019 (RGS 1951-1959, SCHOOL CAPTAIN) Room where his friendly advice and support were greatly valued.

Halfway through his career at Reigate Grammar, Brian became Head of the Classics Department. Under his leadership, the subject flourished and many Reigatians will have happy memories of the trips to Italy and Greece that he organised each year. Latin and Classical Civilisation grew in popularity as examination options and it was a particular pleasure to Brian when Sixth Form students went on to read classical subjects at university.

As one might expect, Brian had wide interests beyond his teaching, perhaps the foremost being his enthusiasm for motor sport of all kinds. For him, a tour of the Highlands was one of the high points of each year. For many years, he found time for a stop in Penrith on the way and we were delighted to keep in touch with him through these visits. He had a lifelong love of music, especially the music of Elgar, which featured prominently at his funeral.

We mourn the loss of this greatly loved friend and former colleague and we extend our deepest sympathy to Maria, his wife of almost forty years.

Obituary with thanks to John Hamlin, former Headmaster (RGS staff 1982-1996)

It is particularly poignant that Stephen appeared in a photograph in the Reigatian Magazine’s 2018 edition, on page 29, sitting in the front row, the Head Prefect shield clearly visible on his lapel.

Stephen died in March 2019 as a result of a stroke, he is survived by two daughters and five grandchildren.

After leaving Reigate Grammar School, Stephen went to Merton College, Oxford where he attained an MA and DPhil and worked as a Research Physicist for most of his career.

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

MRS BOZENA NIKIEL AND MRS JUSTYNA KAMINSKA (SCHOOL SUPPORT STAFF) Last year, RGS was rocked by the deaths of two long-standing members of support staff.

BOZENA NIKIEL passed away very suddenly on 30 June 2019, aged 58 years.

She is survived by her husband, Adam, a son, a daughter, and three grandchildren.

Bozena, a Polish national, started work as a Cleaner at RGS in February 2012.

She was a delightful person to have on the team, quirky and full of fun. Extremely hardworking, reliable, always ready to pitch up at short notice, she took great pride in her work. She worked mainly on the RSM site.

Life wasn’t always easy for Bozena. She lost her house in Poland when a tornado ripped through the area a few years ago, flattening everything in its wake. However, she carried on undaunted and worked hard to get it rebuilt. She is sorely missed.

Notice of deaths 2019 John Blow (RGS 1949-1951) died October 2019 Stephen Blow (RGS 1951-1959) died March 2019 Mr Brian Boothroyd (RGS Staff 1984-2000) died 5 June 2019 John Buchanan (RGS 1962-1970) died 13 April 2019 Lois Bufton (RGS 1996-2004) died 29 May 2019 Commander David Dixon (RGS Bursar 1983-1991) died 10 January 2019

JUSTYNA KAMINSKA passed away on 6 July 2019, aged 49 years, after being ill for about 12 months. Her husband, twin son and daughter, and three grandchildren survive her.

Justyna, also a Polish national, started work at RGS in August 2011. She was larger than life, always rushing in on her bicycle, trying not to be late. She loved life and always wore a beaming smile. She too worked mainly on the RSM site in the main building – still referred to as Justyna’s building.

Justyna, too, is sorely missed.

Obituaries with thanks to Meriel Thom (RGS staff)

Notice of deaths supplement Clifford Myhill (RGS 1957-1961) died on 30 December 201

Stephen Shipman (RGS 1969-1976) died in June 2018

Alan David George Oates (RGS 1939-1941) died 16 January 2019 William Pledge (RGS 1943-1950) died 1 September 2019 Mr John Richley (RGS Staff 1980-1989) died November 2019 Paul Scott (RGS 1954-1961) died 18 April 2019 Mr Nigel Seale (RGS staff 1963-1965) died 10 April 2019

Frank Hart (RGS 1948-1956) died 5 February 2019

Raymond Walker (RGS 1954-1961) died 2019

Ed Jones (RGS 1994-2002) died October 2019

Graham White (RGS 1965-1968) died January 2019

James Hugh Lister (RGS 1940-1949) died 23 May 2019

Thomas Worthen (RGS 1994-2002) died 2019

Timothy Marriott (RGS 1952-1958) died March 2019

Roger Yates (RGS 1959-1965) died 3 February 2019

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LEGACY GIVING: LEAVE A GIFT IN YOUR WILL AND CHANGE A LIFE FOREVER By leaving a gift in your Will to the Reigate Grammar School Foundation, you will be changing lives in the future. We know that friends and family come first, but just a small share of what is left of your estate would make a huge impact. By helping talented young children from disadvantaged backgrounds realise their potential, your legacy will be transformational.

What you need to know We always recommend that you take professional advice and the Foundation’s legal partner, Morrisons Solicitors, can provide advice on your Will and the most suitable course of action for you: 01737 854546 morrlaw.com/giftsinwills To make sure your gift reaches the charity, please include the full name and charity number: “I give free of tax the sum of £ ................... (or specify a percentage of the estate e.g. 10%) to Reigate Grammar School Foundation of Reigate Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0QS (registered charity number 1081898) for the 1675 Bursary Fund and I declare that the receipt of the proper officer of the said Reigate Grammar School Foundation for the time being will be a full and sufficient discharge of said legacy.”

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Minimise your Inheritance Tax liability Leaving a gift in your Will is tax-free and may also help significantly with Inheritance Tax. Reigate Grammar School Foundation is a registered charity and any gifts made in your Will are 100% tax-free. What’s more, a lower rate of 36% may apply if 10% or more of your estate has been left to a charity.

We have more information on our website: rgs.foundation/support-us/leave-a-legacy/ Further advice can also be found on the following websites: gov.uk/donating-to-charity/leaving-gifts-tocharity-in-your-will rememberacharity.org.uk/making-a-will

TALK TO US

If you’d like to see first-hand the impact a gift can make or just want to talk through your options and thoughts, we’d love to hear from you. You may not wish to state your intentions and that’s absolutely fine. However, many of our supporters have shared their special memories which have helped to inspire others.

If you would like to talk to us, then please contact the Reigate Grammar School Foundation at foundation@reigategrammar.org or call Catherine Hutchison on 01737 222231.

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

BIRTHS & MARRIAGES

CAMILLE SAGE (RGS 2000-2008) marrying Cam Tassi, surrounded by a group of RGS girls

CHARLOTTE ROBEY (RGS 2009) and TOM BALY (RGS 2008) with the RGS crew

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MERCHANDISE Looking for a unique and inspirational gift for a loved one? Fancy treating yourself to a well-deserved commemorative gift? Then take a look at the selection of products available from the RGS Foundation. Remember that all profits go towards our Changing Lives campaign.

RGS Silk Scarf *NEW* This elegant ladies 100% silk scarf features the RGS castle logo in a repeating pattern in cyan on navy, with a silver border. The wording ‘Reigate Grammar School 1675’ is printed in one corner. 174cm x 40cm.

Minimum donation: £45

RGS ‘Old School’ Rugby Shirts Authentic cotton ‘old school’ rugby shirts, featuring the old embroidered school crest on the chest with the Roman numerals ‘XV’ on the back with ‘1675’ (the year RGS was founded) on the collar.

Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL (sizes come up slightly on the large side) Minimum donation £50

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RGS Cufflinks and Ties The tie width is eight centimetres (three inches) at the widest point. Colour options: green and blue or blue and silver Minimum donation of £20 each, or £30 for the tie and cufflink set

RGS Baseball Cap In a navy and royal blue colourway, this unisex RGS one-size-fits-all baseball cap, features the embroidered RGS castle logo on the front, along with ‘1675’ emblem on the back.

Minimum donation £10

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R T H E R E I G AT I A N CO M M U N I T Y

RGS School Picture: A3 Print and A5 Greetings Card Commissioned by RGS and designed by local artist Helena Vaughan (helenvaughan.co.uk), this unique picture of Life at RGS is available as an A3 print, ready for framing, and comes with authentication certificate. An A5 greetings card with white envelope is also available.

Minimum donation: A3 print £50 and A5 greetings card £2.50

RGS Foundation Umbrella Make a statement with this classic, large black golf umbrella with the RGS logo on one side and a lime green Changing Lives logo on the other.

Minimum donation £20 (please note that an additional £5 p&p surcharge applies for this oversized item – collection from RGS is also available)

RGS Crest Necklace This sterling silver necklace is engraved with the school crest on one side and ‛RGS’ on the back. The pendant hangs on a 46cm chain and comes in a ribbon-tied presentation box.

Minimum donation £25

We offer free UK p&p with each order (exception: there is an additional £5 surcharge for umbrella orders – collection from RGS is also available) On receipt of payment, allow five working days for delivery.

PLEASE NOTE: Some items have limited stock availability for immediate dispatch. We will, of course, notify you at the point of enquiry as to whether the item is available.

PLACING AN ORDER To place an order please email: foundation@reigategrammar.org.

Please include the following details with your order – Item details: quantity, colour and size (if applicable) – Your full name – Delivery address and contact number

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MEET THE FOUNDATION TEAM HOW WE USE YOUR DATA THE GENERAL DATA PROTECTION REGULATION (GDPR) In May 2018 The General Data Protection Regulation came into force, extending the data rights of individuals. It requires us as an organisation and a charity to update our data-processing policies and take appropriate and extensive measures to protect your data.

SEAN DAVEY Head of Foundation spd@reigategrammar.org

JONNY HYLTON Associate Director jdh@reigategrammar.org

Currently, we hold information on you as a member of the Reigatian community on our database. This includes your name, address, email and phone number.

Depending on the extent to which you have been involved with the school, we may also hold information on donations you have given, Gift Aid declarations and possible correspondence we may have exchanged.

It is important for you to know that we do not share your data with other organisations or individuals, with the exception of those carefully selected to provide us with an essential service such as a mailing house (to send the Reigatian Magazine) or data cleansing (to ensure records we hold are accurate). We are committed to respecting your privacy and the GDPR enhances our data policies.

We contact individuals on our database with school and Foundation news, reunion and event invitations and fundraising campaign information, always giving you an opportunity to opt out.

CATHERINE HUTCHISON Development Executive cxh@reigategrammar.org

NIKKI BURCH Reigatian Community Officer njb@reigategrammar.org

Copies of our Privacy Notice and Data Retention Policy can be found on our website: rgs.foundation.

We hope you enjoy hearing from us and being part of the Reigatian community.

If you have any questions about how we handle your data, please do not hesitate to get in touch at foundation@reigategrammar.org.

CLASS OF EXPLAINED…

CLARE ADAMS Reigatian Community Administrator cla@reigategrammar.org

General enquiries Phone: 01737 222231 Email: foundation@reigategrammar.org Website: rgs.foundation 90

We record the dates that alumni attended RGS based on the year that they would have left had they stayed until the end of the Upper Sixth.

So if somebody left after the 5th form, their ‘Class of’ would be two years later than the date they actually left.

We record it this way to ensure that alumni are always categorised in the correct year group. If we organised a 50-year Gold Reunion, for example, we will invite the Class of 1970 (in 2020).

Correction In the 2018 edition we noted the death of Robert Isaac in 2015 – it was Robert’s father who passed away and Robert is still alive and well and living in Redhill. Our apologies for this error.

The Foundation Office exists to support the development of Reigate Grammar School and to foster the friendship and support of all Reigatians. The Reigatian community includes current and former pupils, parents, staff, governors and friends of the school – all, in fact, for whom the school is, or has been, an important part of their lives. Our future success depends upon the benevolence of the whole Reigatian community and we invite you to contribute with them and help to shape the future of our great School and its pupils.

Foundation Office Reigate Grammar School Reigate Road Reigate RH2 0QS 01737 222231 rgs.foundation

 @foundationRGS  Reigate Grammar School Foundation  Reigate Grammar School Professionals rgsfoundation Registered Charity number 1081898.

WE REACH OUT WE CONNECT WE INFORM WE ASK