The OW 2020 by Worksop College & Ranby House

THE

2020

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months of isolation. From the younger members of our community whose lives have been disrupted in so many ways, to those whose businesses have fought hard to stay afloat. To each and every one of you who gets out of bed each day and keeps going and, particularly, to those who have lost loved ones to the virus, a personal pain I have had to face. It was incredibly overwhelming to witness the response to our appeal to raise money to help increase our production of PPE back in April - something that will always stay with me. Watching this community rally together at such speed and generosity reinforced everything I have come to learn about Worksop’s uniqueness; the intangible ‘je ne sais quoi’ that fills the cloisters, something you simply can’t quite put into words. Each and every time I am fortunate enough to connect with a member of this community, that feeling is only reinforced further.

Editor’s Note

new year is always a time of reflection, and 2020 has certainly given us all much to reflect upon. In a year like no other, the effects of the pandemic have been felt from every corner of the globe and not least within our community. Mental health and the importance of looking after our wellbeing has come to the forefront, and the realisation that small changes to our self-care can make a huge difference to how we feel. We have had to slow down, adjust the ways we connect and embrace the spirit of community with kindness, compassion, love and friendship. I have been touched and humbled by the ways in which members of this community have adapted, showing great strength and resilience. From those working within an NHS setting working tirelessly day after day to deliver lifesaving treatment, and ensuring there is as little impact on our health care as possible, to those working with cutting edge technology to manufacture the machinery that will save the lives of those most affected by the virus. From the parents juggling the near-impossible task of home-schooling whilst working simultaneously, to the elderly who have faced

Contents

Pages 20 and 21 are photographic illustrations to mark this monumental period in our history. My special thanks goes to current students Bea Smith, Isaac Parkin, Maddi GarnettGreen and Grace O’Reilly, who all submitted photography pieces designed to reflect their own interpretation of the pandemic amid school life. Bea, whose artwork features on the front page, explains, “My work is inspired by the artist Kelly Maker, who uses newspaper in different ways to cover sections of the photo. The words on my mask are all the words that have been used in the papers about the pandemic.” 2020 was also the year that we celebrated our 125th Birthday – a monumental milestone, that got a little lost amongst the chaos. Whilst we may not have been able to celebrate in the ways in which had planned, in many ways I feel more connected to this community than ever. I wish you all well and can’t wait to celebrate in person with you all very soon – don’t worry, the celebrations will be rolling on! Until then, Semper ad Coelestia

Lucy Smithson Development Manager

Strength in the face of adversity - Dr John Price

COVID-19 Special - Rhea Durgahee

p24

Obituaries

COVID-19 Special - Ollie Kaiper-Leach

p26

Obituary Special - Chris Murphy

p10

COVID-19 Special - James Evers

p28

OW News

p12

OW Connected

p30

Unchartered Territory - Captains of School

p18

Tales from the Noggery

p34

Portrait of a Pandemic

p20

Response to a Pandemic

p36

COVID-19 Special - Rachel Cundy

p22

Regularly Investing in Children’s Futures

p38

Strength in the face of adversity “Since the last edition of the Old Worksopian Magazine, I think it is fair to say that the world is now a very different place. We have seen our fair share of trials and tribulations, challenges, but most importantly, successes as a school and a community. The pandemic continues to challenge us all; one thing that will stand firm is Worksop College and Ranby House’s quality of education, whether virtual or in person. With contemplation, I look back over 18 months in post and continue to challenge the boundaries of what schools should be offering in this new digital educational sphere. Every day, we ask ourselves how independent schools can do more in our local community and how can we ensure that our students get the best education possible during the most significant hardship of their lives to date. Pre-emptive planning has been crucial to the school offer in present-day and its survival and legacy for future generations. Since January, before COVID-19 had really breached our community, keeping informed and proactive has been essential to the schools’ continued service and running. Mid-January saw the first COVID-19 team meeting – comprised of both headteachers, senior leaders and critical staff members such as IT; our working group monitored the situation to take steps in preparation for a looming national lockdown. 4

As pressures mounted on the government to take swift and decisive action, the IT team researched the options available. The school took the approach of using multiple platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom, with staff and pupils receiving training in preparation. After the government announced a national lockdown on Monday 23rd March, our lessons immediately shifted online with minimal disruption. The staff have been incredible, and they deserve so much credit for all they have done in keeping the school running - and I mean that everyone plays a vital role during this pandemic for all staff across all sites. The situation has been bizarre for many and has required a period of adjustment - one member of staff remarked that they felt like they has been through their full teacher training again. The next challenge for us was how do we keep students engaged with their online education. This has been at the core of the programme delivered across the schools. A community approach to education has allowed the school to emphasise mental health initiatives to develop online interaction deeply rooted in the schools’ values. My approach to being the Headmaster of Worksop College and Ranby House has not changed. I still believe in being available for students, parents and staff – I want everyone to feel that they have someone to talk to. I have always

considered being Headmaster means being a presence, and developing a personality for the school. Our Worksop Ranby Family community is something we want to nurture more so than ever right now. In the early days of lockdown, staff at Worksop College put 3D printers to good use, using the NHS approved template to build PPE. Once word got out to the Old Worksopian community, with their support, we were able to source 13 more printers, leading to an increase in production of visors that were donated to Old Worksopians, hospitals and carers across the local community. September 2020 saw the college turn 125, a momentous milestone that we had been avidly preparing for, however, new restrictions hindered our plans - as soon as is safely possible, we certainly intend to celebrate and we hope many of you will be able to join us. Worksop College has a rich history, and its people are at the heart of what drives us to be the best we can be. Within 125 years, our school community has seen challenges and has known losses from the great war and second world war, but our school community has also seen tremendous success and continues to thrive. Turning 125 is something the school is immensely proud of and is a milestone to be celebrated. In conjunction with the 125 Birthday celebrations, we are set to launch the 125 Bursary Appeal as a legacy fund so more pupils can benefit from the experience of studying at the school. The fund will be a donation collection from the Old Worksopian community who wish to leave a legacy to the future students at Worksop College – more to follow on that soon.

“The pandemic continues to challenge us all; one thing that will stand firm is Worksop College and Ranby House’s quality of education, whether virtual or in person.”

A new school year also saw the start of the co-curricular programme delivered after academic lessons in the week, and Saturday mornings. The programme provides a range of extra-curricular topics that can help shape young people. Before the most recent lockdown, students could learn how to change a tyre or properly iron! In most recent weeks, our staff have offered over 18 virtual classes for students to choose from including Makaton Sign Language, Spanish courses, Art club, learning to code with music and many more. Reviewing how the school delivers the curriculum has also led to topical debates around education reform, and this is something that I as Headmaster feel incredibly passionately about. We must create an environment where our young people feel safe to express themselves both academically and vocationally. We have a team of staff here who are keeneyed to recognise the talents and individual quirks that make students unique and instil pride in individuality, giving our students the confidence to excel. As we head into 2021 and beyond, this remains our focus, our passion and our purpose. I wish you all the best for the coming year and thank you, as ever, for your continued support throughout 2020. I hope to meet as many of you as possible over the coming year, whether that be in person, virtually or on the phone. In the meantime, please do take good care of each other.” John 5

Obituaries It is with sadness that we learn of the death of the following Old Worksopian members. We pass on our sincere condolences to their families and friends. Jolyon Brown Mountgarret 89 - 90

Andrew Hartley Mountgarret 61 - 63

In loving memory of Joylon Brown, who passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday 11th August, 2020. Jols leaves behind his wife Kate, daughter Molly, mum and dad Lynne and Chester, sister Kirsty, brother-in-law Alan and niece and nephew Ellie and Alfie, as well as many other family members and those who were proud to call him their friend.

Andrew (Gramps to his 20 grandchildren) was born in Menston, attending Ghyll Royd School and then was awarded a scholarship to Worksop College. His prowess at mathematics was soon noticed taking his O-Level at 15, followed by maths and greater maths A-levels when he was only 17. As a consequence he was then too young to go to University so spent a year treading water at Worksop, visiting pubs, smoking in the gorse, and doing carpentry.

Jolyon was born in Doncaster on 6th October 1972 to Lynne and Chester Brown. He was educated at Hill House Prep School, Sedbergh School, followed by Worksop College, where he was a proud member of Mountgarret House (89 - 90). After finishing school he went on to further education at the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester and Caythorpe College in Lincolnshire. He joined his familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farming business, before travelling overseas for a chance to spend time working at a cotton farm in Australia. On his return to the UK he changed career and spent many years teaching and supporting others; firstly as a driving instructor for Arksey School of Motoring and in more recent years, in a role he loved, as a Learning Support Assistant at Rossington All Saints Academy. Throughout his career he was highly regarded by all those he met. On 31st October 2015 he married his wife, Kate and together, on the 8th October 2017 they brought their beautiful daughter Molly into the world. Jolyon was a natural father and adored Molly above everything else. Jolyon always had a passion for family and friends, many of whom were still close from his earliest days at school. He was a keen sportsman; both a talented swimmer and squash player throughout his school days, and an enthusiastic fisherman and supporter of Manchester United in later years. All those who knew Jols will remember him for his loyalty, his caring personality, dry wit, mischievous streak and unwavering commitment to family and friends. He will be missed beyond comprehension by all.

He then spread his wings and went to Pembroke College Cambridge where he read Politics and then Land Economy. He was described as always larger than life, often on the verge of self-parody. He returned to Wharfedale where he joined the family business, Hartleys Auctioneers, in the mid 1960s. He was the third generation of the family to work in the business. He was President of the Rotary Club, as well as chairman of Cantores Olicanae in its early years (thankfully not a singer himself, although he was always loud and enthusiastic in church!). Perhaps his lasting achievement though is his family. A wonderful marriage, eight children, 20 grandchildren. He will never be forgotten and will always be loved and missed.

John Henry Charles Kent Pelham 43 - 49 John attended Worksop (Pelham House) from 1943-1949 and often regaled his family with fond memories of his time at school, especially his exploits on the rugby pitch - he was a member of the Worksop College 7â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side which reached the semi-finals of the Public Schools Sevens in 1949, as recently reported in the OW via the article Worksop College Rugby - the coaches. After school, John entered National Service prior to attending Middlesex Hospital Medical School, qualifying as a Medical Practitioner in 1959, practising in Southampton until retirement in 1990. He had a long and happy retirement, which included much travelling with his wife, Kathleen. A kind, gentle and popular man, he will be greatly missed by many.

Obituaries Peter Llindley Moungarret 62 -66 It is with great sadness that we report the death of PETER LINDLEY (Mountgarret 62 – 66) in October 2020. Peter and his wife Carol have had a long association with the College and their children (Richard, Pelham 89 – 94; Rachel, Gibbs 93 – 98) were pupils at both Ranby & Worksop. During his time at Worksop, Peter was a House Prefect and keen sportsman, representing the school in a variety of teams. Latterly a keen OW and supporter of the College, Peter also served a term as OW Chairman. Peter read Modern Languages at the University of Leicester but moved away from his field of study to work in IT, eventually becoming Sales Director of a Sheffield based computer company. On retirement he worked actively in the voluntary sector, supporting and raising significant funds for Asthma UK, Isle of Axholme Lions Club, Phase Nepal, Maji Masuri Kenya, “Five Talents” (a charity where daughter Rachel is now CEO) and, since being diagnosed with the disease himself in 2018, the Motor Neurone Disease Association. A true gentleman and a gentle man, Peter will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Leaving Worksop in July 1950 with an excellent Higher School Certificate, Michael was offered a place at New College Oxford. National Service intervened for 2 years. Commissioned into the Royal Artillery, he ended as a Captain (rare for a NS-man) in charge of the large tank and artillery ranges in North Norfolk. Taking up his place at Oxford as a law student in 1952, Michael became immersed in university athletics, gaining a double-Blue in the cross-country teams of 1953 and 1954. He also represented Oxford at squash, receiving a half-Blue. Returning to civilian life, marrying Guernsey girl Joan in 1955 and living in Mansfield, he became the senior partner in the leading solicitors practice in North Nottinghamshire. Michael was active in the OW Society, running the Nottinghamshire Dinner for several years and serving as Chairman of the Society in 1963. Recruiting a couple of 3rd rate OW squash players and others more skilful, his McKean ‘V’s annual matches with the College Staff ‘V’ captained by Graham Sharpe were highlights each year. A unique OW character, Michael will be greatly missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Stuart Nell Mountgarret 68 - 73

J.M. McKean Pelham 45 – 50 Michael McKean sadly died in Guernsey on May 11th 2020, aged 88, leaving a widow Joan and two daughters, Fiona and Susan, his son Ian, also an OW, predeceasing him. Michael entered Pelham House in September 1945 after 3 years in the Prep School – and left in July 1950 a legend amongst his contemporaries. Slight in stature, but with a huge ‘engine’ he had the unique record of winning the Dorm Run three times - in 1947, 1949 and 1950, setting consecutive records for the ‘Old Course’ which were never beaten. (Suffering a severe cold in 1948 he finished 8th). From 1948-50 he won the Steeplechase, 1 mile and 800 yards events each Sports Day, was Captain of School Athletics in 1950, the year he also captained the Notts Youth Athletics team. Michael’s other enduring passion was squash, school Captain in 1950. An all-round sportsman, he made occasional appearances as hooker in the School Rugby XV and gained House hockey & cricket colours.

Stuart sadly passed away in June 2020 after a short illness. At Worksop Stuart had a keen interest in music where he played piano and was a member of the choir and choral society. He retained an active interest in church music; sang and supported local choirs and organ music. He played rugby for Keyworth and Melton Mowbray clubs, and enjoyed the social aspects of the sport. Always a traditionalist, he had a lifelong interest in local history, and was a member of the Thoroton Society. From Worksop Stuart went on to study at the University of Loughborough, obtaining a degree in Accountancy and Financial Management. After a short spell in industry, he continued in practice as a Certified Accountant. He had a lifelong interest in cars, and British marques in particular. Over the years he acquired a collection of classic examples, which were carefully restored to a very high standard. The cars were, however, not tucked away simply to be admired, but were brought out and driven with enthusiasm on rallies and speed trials throughout Britain and Europe. He kept an active membership in many car clubs, helping with accounts and organising rallies. Though he remained single, Stuart had a wide circle of friends with whom he enjoyed a busy social life.

Obituaries Mark Nicholson Talbot 68 - 75 Lifelong Huddersfield Town Football fan, Roger Mark Brook Nicholson (known as Mark Nicholson) died aged 65 on Thursday, 11 June, at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary. Mark was born and raised in Edgerton, and for the last 10 years of his life lived in Fenay Bridge on the grounds of Woodsome Hall Golf Club where he was a longstanding member and until more recently, competed in, and played copious amounts of golf with friends. He was a longstanding HTAFC season ticket holder and would rarely miss a game whether it be at home or away. Mark attended Mount School and St David’s Preparatory School, before moving on to Worksop College. Mark’s career spanned 41 years in banking where he gave nearly 30 years of service to Lloyds until he was headhunted by Royal Bank of Scotland in 2001. Before his retirement in 2014, Mark held the role of Senior Business Manager at the Huddersfield branch of RBS, managing a portfolio of 320 small business customers to overachieve core and non-core income targets. In July 1994, Mark married Lizzie Robinson and raised three stepdaughters, Xanah, Daisy and Molly whom he loved and adored dearly.

In his years at the College Neil served the geography department, including over thirty years as Head of Department. He ran Talbot House, when it occupied the then palatial space, later occupied by the first girls of Gibbs and managed its move back into the main building in 1985, and ultimately served as a member of the Senior Management Team as Director of Studies, overseeing the timetable and the academic curriculum. Amongst all of this there was time to coach hockey and cricket, to organise General Studies and to serve as Chairman of the SCR. Neil set himself high standards and expected no less of his pupils or his colleagues. He was meticulous in all he did, always immaculately smart and never less than extremely courteous. He held strong beliefs about what a good education meant, which was greatly to the benefit of Talbot boys and geographers in his care. Underlying such high professional standards was a splendid sense of humour, enabling a twinkle of his eye, a smile, a gentle chuckle or a shrug of the shoulder to disarm any one of us. In the eighteen months or so in which I worked with Neil before his retirement, I was indebted to him for providing the back story to so many aspects of College life and for gentle advice on the way ahead. One cannot think of Neil without mentioning Mary, too. They were a partnership, a truly successful marriage that lasted until Mary’s death in October 2018. At Worksop they worked alongside each other, Mary the first housemistress of Gibbs and first Senior Mistress. Thinking about Neil and Mary since I heard of his death, one image keeps returning to my mind of the couple dancing a quickstep in the Great Hall, so fleet of foot and so much in harmony as a couple that the rest of us could only stand and stare in wonder. Thank you, Neil, for the 31 years you gave so selflessly to the pupils and community of Worksop College.”

Neil Simmonds SCR 64 - 95 It is with extreme sadness that I have to report the passing of former longstanding member of staff, Neil Simmonds. Neil was a member of the common room from the early 60s until the 90s. He was House Master of Talbot for many years and Director of studies during his later years. Former Headmaster, Roy Collard, wrote this moving tribute to Neil. “Neil Simmonds was one of a small, but vital, group of men and women who gave decades of their working life to Worksop College and provided a stability that grounded the school and its community through a succession of headships and through such changing times as the late decades of the last century. Neil told me more than once that it had never been his and Mary’s intention to remain at one school for so long, but there was something so endearing about the place and its community that meant it was only retirement in the early 1990s that caused them to leave. Appointed in 1964 by the great Nog himself, Roger NorthcoteGreen, Neil saw Christopher Everett, Robert Roberts, Hugh Monro and Roger Knight make their mark and move on and he did an excellent job, along with Mary, in enabling Jane and I to settle into our time at Worksop.

Maxine Smith SCR 13 -17 It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Maxine Smith, the former Head of English and Drama at Worksop College from 2013-2017. After leaving the College, Maxine relocated with her family to Birmingham our deepest condolences go to husband Steve, son Ben and the rest of Maxine’s family. We leave you with this lovely photo of Maxine, taken just recently on the 75th Anniversary of VE Day.

Obituaries John Stockdale Shirley 70 – 72 John sadly passed away on 29th April at the age of 64; previously of Bramcote School, John attended Worksop College from 1969 – 1974.

It is with great sadness that we learnt of the passing of the following Old Worksopians – our deepest sympathies go to their families and to all those who knew them.

John was a keen hockey enthusiast, playing hockey for Grimsby Hockey Club for many years. Off the pitch John was a small-time entrepreneur, involved in many business ventures throughout his life. John leaves behind his wife Elizabeth and son Charles.

Michael Wallis School House 70 - 75 Michael attended Worksop College between 1970-75 along with his two brothers, Peter and Anthony.

Ian Bowyer Talbot 84 - 89

Michael loved his time at the school and before that at Ranby House prep school. After leaving Worksop, Michael pursued a career with Norprint in Boston Lincs. He remained with the firm for many years, until his recent retirement on health grounds. A charming, gentle and loyal husband father and brother, and a friend to many. He will be greatly missed.

Robert Edward Craven

JM Hope Mason 41 - 46 The Wallis brothers; Anthony (SH 69 - 74), Peter (SH 68 - 72) and Michael (SH 71 - 76)

Robin Soper Mason 42 - 47 John Colin Wright Sad to report of the passing of John Colin Wight, after a serious fall at home. John died peacefully in hospital with his wife of 63 years, Alice, daughter Helen and son Philip by his bedside.

Graham Terry Mitchinson 51 - 56

Philip says; “Thankfully dad was able to be fit and active up to the day of his accident, spending his last day at home out in his beloved garden. Although it has left a huge hole in our lives we can at least look back on his life with great pride, and as one of his three children, I can say that we are all eternally grateful to have had such a wonderful father.”

Robin Boneham Talbot 56 - 59 9

Obituary Special Chris Murphy

t is with sadness that I write of the passing of former member of staff, Chris Murphy. A much-loved member of the SCR, Chris was highly regarded amongst both staff, students and parents alike.

Thank you to former SCR John Driver and Mike Fagan, along with OWs, Barry Cuttle and Shaun Holt, for their very fitting tribute to a true Worksopian. “Chris was a master at the college for twenty-eight years, seventeen of which were spent as Housemaster of Shirley, carefully guiding countless pupils on their journey through the college, arriving as boys and leaving as young men. I was fortunate enough to find myself as his House Tutor for my first seven years at Worksop. This was an invaluable apprenticeship, and it was a genuine privilege to work with and learn from him. As a result of his forethought and dedication, Chris made Shirley an incredibly special place to live and work. He once said to me that the key to good house mastering was simply ‘being there’ and for all of those seventeen years he was certainly that, but very much more besides. He created a friendly, supportive and caring environment within the house, with ample opportunity for challenge, growth and fulfilment for every member. Beyond the walls of Shirley House, Chris was also heavily involved in many other areas of the college. Head of Classics, a cricket and hockey coach, a key member of several senior school societies and the editor of the Worksopian magazine for many years were but a few of his roles. After handing over the reigns of Shirley in 1991, he additionally took on the responsibility of College Archivist, as well as becoming Secretary of the OW Society. As if not satisfied with all of this, he also compiled and published the extraordinary and fascinating book ‘Scenes from a Century’, in celebration of the College’s centenary in 1995. An immense achievement and a genuine piece of history in its own right.”

“When I arrived at Worksop College it was in the year Chris stepped down as Housemaster of Shirley. Although I did not know him as a Housemaster, after meeting him, the name Mr Chips came to mind and if anyone has the right to call himself Mr Worksop College, it would be Chris. One day, not long after I had arrived at the college, I was fortunate to sit close to Chris and Ronnie Wood one lunchtime on high table. The conversation was electric, with Chris and Ronnie pinging friendly barbs back and forth to one another with very subtle touches of humour. Very soon I appreciated the ability, knowledge, capacity and generosity Chris had. Chris was truly exceptional, unassuming, and humble. What Chris did not know about the College was not worth knowing. A true polymath, Chris’ encyclopaedic knowledge was amazing. Chris told many stories which have gone down in the folk lore of the school, including the story of how Arthur Beanland, then the Mountgarret Housemaster, aptly placed an egg in the radiator of his car, called the “Runner Bean” in order to take some of his boys somewhere. Not many people will also know a 3 wheeler Reliant car was once taken through the main doors, up the library stairs and into the library where it stayed until the Bursar could “work out” how it was done in order to remove it.”

- Mike Fagan “My first memory is of a mild mannered, sagely gentleman. ‘Murph’ would always express himself in a calm, measured voice. There were very few 0 to 60 moments with Mr Murphy. He was a man of hidden depths (musical and multi-lingual). He looked the part of a Public School House Master but also, in the 1980s, hurtled around in a champagne coloured Renault Fuego (a design rip-off of a Porsche 944) whilst most of his contemporaries drove classic British marques such as Triumphs, Rovers and Jags. There were often jokes about how full the ash-tray would be or how many bottles (acquired from Thresher’s) would be clinking about in the boot.

- John Driver

From other old Shirleyites we can agree on one thing. We were lucky to have this man as our Housemaster. He was, having no direct family of his own, like Mr Chips. Like a real father he also, no matter how long since the last meeting, the greyer the hair or thicker the waistline, remembered us. Not only that, when you enquired as to other ex-Shirley people his powers of recall and depth of detail were unquestionable. Combining this with his mild, calming manner we also got an Alec Guinness version of George Smiley. ‘Murph’ had his own vocabulary. Our beds were ‘pits’ and lights out was referred to as ‘pit time’. His calm manner smoothed over the diverse range of crises that his ‘men’ had to face.

“He was the House Master of Shirley when my son, Fraser, first joined Shirley after coming up from Ranby. There is no man that could have done a better job and the way I phrase him is that Chris was a great father figure. His greatness extended to the love that he had for all those within his care. No one could have been kinder and more generous in every possible sense of the word. Everyone who came across him loved him.”

It is on this note that I recall one of the most emotional and best memories a former pupil can have. In 2010 I introduced my own family to him. By this time, he looked like Professor Dumbledore (much to my children’s delight). Mr Murphy was a wonderful man, I never did progress, even after thirty years, from calling him ‘Sir’. Loyal je suis.”

- Barry Cuttle

- Shaun Holt

Chris was a truly valued member of the College community who was always ready with wise council and kind-hearted support for any who needed it. His keen intellect, quick wit and dry humour made him a convivial and good-natured companion in any situation. He was a true gentleman in every sense of the word and will be sadly missed.”

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February It was an absolute honour to welcome back OWs ADAM DIXON and TOM SORSBY at the start of the year. Both were fresh back from New Zealand after competing in the FHI Pro League and came to support the official opening of our new Strength & Conditioning Centre. Not only are they both incredibly talented, each with a highly impressive sporting resumé, but they are incredibly grounded, kind and humble people. Their visit was aptly timed as our current U15 boys hockey returned from London the same night, having won the ISA National Championships!

February saw our lovely BEV (left), and one of our longest serving members of staff, turn 60 years young! Bev started in 1976 and I’m sure she has served many of you over the course of the years. Egg and chips anyone?!

OW News January

January saw the annual OWs’ netball match. Captained by last year’s leaver FREYA WEBSTER (G 10 - 19), the team included many experienced players, taking Worksop’s first team a little by surprise. Great to see Freya joined by EMMA BRAY (SH 10 - 15), EMILIE PYMM (G), SOPHIA BRIGGS-PRICE (SH 12 - 14), LUCY O’HORAN (D 10 - 12), SIOBHAN MCLEOD (SH 05 10), SOPHIE BLOW (D 07 - 12) and AMBER HUDDLESTONE (SH 09 - 14). Captained by MOLLY SIPSON, this was the first match for Worksop’s new team and, as the game progressed, definite improvements were made, with the team showing much grit and determination. (Photo c/o Mandy Meikle)

A real delight to welcome back KENNETH NG (T 93 – 96) and his family to the college - his first time back since he left in 1996. Former SCR Mike Fagan gave Kenneth a tour, along with a visit to his old house – a real trip down memory lane!

OWs TEO HINRICHS (M 15 - 15 ) and SONSOLES GALEANO (G 19 ) pictured, together in Valencia on 25th January at the Estadio Betero, on the occasion of the Spain v Germany Hockey Pro League encounter.

OW News

March

Congratulations to OW DAVID COOTE (Pt 95 – 00) who was the 4th Official at the Carabao Cup Final between Aston Villa and Manchester City, on Sunday 1st March.

March saw a big milestone for former Deputy Head and Housemaster of Portland, RICHARD WINN, as he celebrated his 90th birthday! Richard joined the college in 1954, leaving in 1990, and is still very much an active member of our community.

April Prior to lockdown former SCR ANTONIO ANGELOSANTO (93 – 03) invited DR JOANNA BUCKLEY (S 96 – 01) to give a talk at his school to inspire girls to study chemistry. Jo knows all too well about the importance of role models, as she was inspired to study chemistry by Antonio whilst at Worksop College! Jo gained a Masters and PhD in chemistry at The University of York and now works for the Royal Society of Chemistry and teaches at The University of Sheffield. She’s still in touch with lots of lovely Worksop pals, including BECKY HALL (Derry 96 – 01) and SHEENA HAYWARD (née Temple) (Shirley 99 – 01) who were bridesmaids at her wedding. After leaving Worksop College, Antonio spent 11 years at Millfield School and is now Head of Science and Chemistry at Sherborne Girls School in Dorset. Keeping with the Worksop theme, he is married to MARION OSBORNE (SCR 95 – 97) and still meets up regularly with CHRIS HOOPER (SCR 92 - 96), as he is just up the road at Dean Close School!

Congratulations to OR (05 - 07) and OW (G 07 - 12) EMILY WILLIAMS, who took on the position of Kindergarten teacher at Ranby. It’s a lovely feeling when our alumni come back in a teaching capacity - welcome back Emily - it’s great to have you on board!

May Congratulations to Derry girl (04 - 09) GEORGINA SLINGSBY (née Durdy), who gave birth to not one, but two, beautiful baby girls. The twins, Clara Eleanor weighing 5lbs 9 and Edith Olivia weighing 6lbs 2, were May day babies and as you can see from this picture, all three girls look absolutely gorgeous. All our love goes to Georgina and her husband.

OW News And further congratulations to OW ELLIE TATTERSALL (G11 - 16) who also gave birth in May to a beautiful baby girl, Halle Harper Boyle, weighing 8lb 5oz. Extending all our love and best wishes to the family, especially as Ellie is the daughter of current maths teacher at Worksop, Graham Tattersall.

In the words of DARREN ELLIS, “from adversity comes opportunity!” During this period of lockdown Darren took the opportunity to catch up with OWs from across the globe via Zoom. Pictured here are MARTIN VOVK (S 96 – 01), DARREN ELLIS (S 96 – 01), SARAH MORTON (nee Ellis S 98 – 03), BEN MORTON (S 96 – 01), ALASTAIR BAILEY (Pt 96 – 01), ALASTAIR ASKEW (S96 – 01), CHRIS HOLDEN (S 96 – 01), JONATHON STOPPARD (S 96 – 01), SARAH STOPPARD (nee Cuthbert G 99 – 01) and PETE HARRISON (S 96 – 01).

July July saw the release of OW MARK BONNER’s (P 95 – 00) first children’s book, ‘My Teachers are Animals’. Mark’s beautiful, inclusive book celebrates the diversity of our society, with an emphasis on kindness. If you’re looking to expand your children’s book collection, please can I suggest you take a little peek. Well done Mark, such an achievement!

August

June The end of term saw the doors close on an extraordinary year in the school’s history and whilst we were unable to capture our leavers on the South entrance as per normal, we didn’t miss the opportunity to welcome our leavers in to the OW community. Welcome to the club! What did we do before Zoom?! Suddenly feels like there are many more opportunities to connect. Thanks to OW KERSTIN WILSON (D 83 - 86) who sent this great screen shot of her catch up with ELEANOR LEWIS (née Booth D 83 - 88), NIKKI COCHRANE (G 83 - 86), ED BIRCHMORE (M 83 - 88) and RICHARD MILLER (Pt 83 - 86).

Huge congratulations to OW and GB Hockey Captain, ADAM DIXON, who married his partner Lettice, in a beautiful ceremony in Henley-on-Thames in August. Adam, the current Captain for GB Hockey, made a visit to the school back in January when he opened the new Strength and Conditioning Centre, along with fellow teammate and OW, Tom Sorsby. Adam is only one of two members (the other being Ashley Jackson) of the team that famously won European gold with England in 2009 still playing internationally, and has played in nearly every major tournament since, including three World Cups and the 2016 Olympics. So, from the whole of the OW community Adam, we wish you and your new wife all the happiness in the world as you begin this next exciting chapter.

OW News

September OW News

OW DAVID COOTE (Pt 95 - 00) makes his International debut officiating Armenia Vs Estonia. The UEFA Nations League C Group 2 match took place on Tuesday 8th September and was David’s first international at the helm. It was a proud moment all round - well done David!

Alongside his band, talented OW JAMES STEPHENS (T 10 - 15) released a fantastic rendition of Jamie Cullum’s ‘When I get Famous’. Featuring special guest performance from Michael Bublé’s trombonist, Nick Vayenas, this really is a treat for the ears enjoy! To have a watch scan the QR code.

August saw the news of many OWs graduating from university with fantastic results. Congratulations must go to the following people that we had word from; MICHAEL EDWARDS (T14 – 16) who received a 1st in Philosophy, Religion and Ethics from the University of Essex, Nathan Barrow (S 11 – 16) who received a 1st from Oxford in Philosophy and Theology and finally, WILL HAYMAN (M 12 – 17) who received a 2:1 in English Literature from Oxford.

A new book by OW and International Sales Performance Coach and Trainer, OW FRED COPESTAKE, has just been released, designed to make you rethink how you sell. Fred’s book, ‘Selling Through Partnering Skills: A Modern Approach to Winning Business ‘ looks at the evolving world of sales and sets out what people need to do to refine their approach and be successful. Congratulations Fred - such an achievement. To purchase your copy scan the QR code below.

October Congratulations to OW SAMIT PATEL and his teammates as the Notts Outlaws beat Surrey by six wickets at Edgbaston to become T20 Blast champions for the second time (above). In truncated fixtures on the reserve day, due to the torrential rain on Saturday, the first professional cricket to take place in October in England since the 1860’s, looked like it might be consigned to a bowl out. However, the sun came out on Sunday, and Samit took 1-17 from two overs in the comfortable semi-final win against Lancashire, followed by 1-25 from four overs in the final – taking the key wicket of South African legend Hashim Amla - as the precompetition favourites romped home by four wickets, and further established themselves as the strongest white ball side in the country.

November Congratulations to OWs TOM KEAST (P 14 – 16) and NIK KEAST (T 16 – 18) who ran 13 miles in November in honour of one of their good friends, Tommy, who passed away eight years ago due to an unidentified heart condition. Each year Tommy’s family organises a nine-mile run to raise funds towards a charity called Cardiac Risk in the Young, a charity that works to help prevent heart conditions. This year, however, the event was unable to go ahead in its usual format, so went virtual instead, with all participants covering nine miles or more on Saturday 29th November. Monies raised were also used to support the Movember Foundation – a charity working to raise awareness of men’s health issues. 16

Huge congratulations to ANNA LINDSAY as she celebrates the birth of her adorable son, Theodore. Anna welcomed her son safely in to the world on 9th November, weighing 8lb 11oz. Gibbs girl Anna was at the college from 2008 – 2013, along with her brother Matthew. Some happy news to share in the midst of what has been a very challenging year.

November saw a big birthday for ardent OW MALCOLM SMITH (SH 54 – 58) as he celebrated his eightieth year on the planet. Malcolm sums up what it is to be an OW; loyal, passionate, committed and kind. He has been a fountain of knowledge during my time at the college and is often scouring ebay for any Worksop memorabilia to donate to the college.

Congratulations to former Gibbs girl BEX MILNES who took up post as one of the six coaches named on the UK Sport female coach leadership programme. The leadership programme is part of a plan to more than double the representation of female coaches in the Olympic and Paralympic high-performance community by Paris 2024.

Unchartered Territory

aptains of School Abbie Willgoose (Gibbs) and Tom Cooley (Talbot) reflect on what has been a challenging year in the school’s history.

OW: How did you feel when the school was forced to close back in March? A: At first, I was relieved as it meant no dorm run! After understanding the seriousness of the situation, however, I felt a sadness at leaving, as it meant not being able to finish the year off on a high with all the activities planned for the summer term without the stress and pressure of exams. T: I’m not sure. People around me were excited, I was just indifferent.

Did you feel any nervousness over what was to come? A: When we first went in to lockdown, the gravity of the situation hadn’t kicked in, but after two or so weeks it started to dawn on me that I wouldn’t be able to see my family and friends for months. T: Not really. I knew that COVID-19 was going to have an impact on my life for a while but I wasn’t nervous about it.

How did you find remote learning? A: Online learning was a different experience to anything that I had done before. Some subjects were much easier to do online, such as geography, however maths was a real struggle due to not being able to the work on a Word document. I also found it mentally challenging to work on a computer all day for hours - with homework on top, it made for a long day in front of the screen. T: Mostly good. Not as engaging as normal lessons but still worthwhile.

What did you miss most about not being at school? A: I missed the boarding community and my friends, but also the structure of my day and the sport. Sport has always been an important aspect of my school life, so without that I struggled, not only with my fitness, but also the feeling of enjoyment you get from it. T: Over most of lockdown I didn’t miss much, but at the end of the summer term not having the usual events made me realise that I missed school a bit.

Unchartered Territory

When I found out that I would be Captain of School, I was obviously very happy, but it added to the nerves of attending school again. I would be a role model for the younger years and the thought of being on show while trying to get used to the new situation myself was a hard thing to accept. What positives did you take from lockdown? A: I now value teaching time in the classroom, and contact with people. Also, when I see family and friends, I am much more present, so not thinking about what I have got to do when I am at home, or on my phone. T: It was nice to spend time with my family and go walking a lot.

Were you apprehensive about returning to school? A: Yes, over lockdown it was the longest time that I had been at home since starting school, and the thought of going back was quite scary, but also exciting. When I found out that I would be Captain of School, I was obviously very happy, but it added to the nerves of attending school again. I would be a role model for the younger years and the thought of being on show while trying to get used to the new situation myself was a hard thing to accept.

Abbie Willgoose (Gibbs) Captain of School

T: Not really. Just excited to see my mates again.

How has your experience been since returning to school? A: School has been very different since starting back. It has been nice to be with our year, to speak with people I haven’t in months; starting up sport has also been a positive. T: At the start it was very different since we were in the Sixth Form Centre all day but now boarding is back in houses it’s feeling more normal.

What feels the most different? A: Not being able to go into my boarding house and see the girls; we have not even been able to welcome the new girls in the house, as we are not allowed to mix years. Still being on a laptop most of the day due to COVID-19 and not being able to touch things still feels very different. T: Not being in house most of the time. Also handing in all my work online now is weird.

What feels the same? A: The teachers have been so welcoming which has really helped everyone settle in to the new era of Worksop College. T: Study periods are pretty much the same. Not much is the same but that’s to be expected.

Tom Cooley (Talbot) Captain of School 19

PORTRAIT OF A

PANDEMIC In a year that has seen unprecedented scenes across the world, Portrait of a Pandemic captures the impact COVID-19 has had on life at Worksop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a significant moment in our history. 20

Isaac Parkin - Talbot

Maddi Garnett-Green - School House

21 - Derry Grace Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly

“COVID-19 has provided us with a very visible platform for ECMO to be recognised positively throughout the world by medics and intensivists, as a very successful specialist treatment pathway.”

OW: What is the best part about your job? RC: The best part of my job is to be able to drive positive clinical advancements in the medical treatment of patients, by providing products and services that improve, support and extend life. To see a person leave hospital that, without our clinical equipment (and of the course the incredible skill of the medical team) would have not been alive, is humbling beyond words. Families have children, parents, brothers and sisters still with them due to our advancements and that is worth everything to me, personally and professionally.

Rachel Cundy

ormer Gibbs girl Rachel Cundy (86 – 89) talks to the OW about her role as Commercial Director for the company she owns alongside her husband Philip, Chalice Medical Ltd. Chalice are a medical device manufacturer based in Worksop, that has been producing single use devices for extracorporeal bypass surgery since April 2000. Rachel and Philip supply the UK and over 30 other countries worldwide, with a team of 86 people working for them. As a pivotal part of the COVID response effort, we asked Rachel for a deeper insight in to the company, the impact COVID-19 has had on the business and how they have responded to the pandemic.

OW: What were your initial feelings when you first heard about COVID-19? RC: That Chalice would quite literally be at the heart of it (excuse the pun!), along with a feeling of nervous trepidation. In hindsight, we really had no concept of the magnitude and the impact of this pandemic. I can remember watching the numbers go up and feeling quite overwhelmed with what was coming our way, sadly a feeling I have got uncomfortably used to now, as we head into the second wave. We had to make sure that we could continue to manufacture life sustaining products in a world that seemed to come to a halt under lockdown; it was a very strange time. To ensure supply increased and was maintained without exception, was a huge responsibility that caused many a sleepless night. Lockdown 1 passed in a blur, the summer months then provided us with time to plan how we would meet demand in the inevitable second wave, which we have successfully been able to do. As I type, we are in the beginning of the second wave, seasonal flu has not hit yet, so we know numbers are going to increase and Chalice will ensure, without doubt, that we continue to do everything we can to play our role in this pandemic.

In the spotlight COVID-19 Special

OW: What has the impact of COVID-19 been like on your business? RC: We design and manufacture equipment for a procedure called ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) that in essence replaces the function of the patient’s lungs. The patient’s blood is pumped out of the body and passes through an oxygenator, which oxygenates the blood, and is then pumped back into the body, allowing the heart and lungs to rest. Thus, within the symptomology of COVID-19, ECMO plays a critical role for the sickest of patients that are too poorly to even go on a ventilator due to the condition of their lungs. COVID-19 has provided us with a very visible platform for ECMO to be recognised positively throughout the world by medics and intensivists, as a very successful specialist treatment pathway.

OW: Did the business have to adapt in any way to cope with the pandemic? RC: To increase a business when the rest of the world was in lockdown was a strange time. Medicine was at its busiest and most pressured and at a time when no one had any definitive answers, as we were dealing with an unknown virus with no true concept as to how it would evolve. It was like playing a game of chess from 5 moves back all the time. Our team worked on a seven day a week production schedule to ensure supply never faltered, as the consequence for patients would be unthinkable. It was an exhausting period and one we are now going into again, but I fear this one will be harder than the last owing to the season and other factors that then come into play in the way this virus evolves and reacts.

OW: How has the pandemic affected you personally? RC: I feel incredibly lucky that I have only known people personally that have had mild symptomology; I can only describe some of the Intensive Care Units as ‘War Zones’ and I do not say that lightly. People who think of COVID-19 as a bit of flu should heed their good fortune and count their blessings that they can think of it in those terms, the reality is beyond your worst thoughts.

OW: What lessons do you feel, if any, have you taken from COVID-19? RC: That as a country we can get through anything. We have some of the best medical care, but it does have to be said there are lots of lessons that we can learn from countries like Germany, whose death rates per 100,000 were far below ours and lessons do clearly need to be learnt. We are, however, a strong, resourceful country and when times get hard, we pull together and do what the UK does best, roll our sleeves up and crack on with it!

To find out more about Chalice Medical Ltd visit chalicemedical.com

OW: Can you describe the journey you took to reach the role you are in now? RD: I graduated from university in 2007 and worked on a respiratory ward for a couple of years, before moving to Intensive Care. Once there, I completed various exams and courses over several years, leading to me becoming a Sister. Whilst doing these courses, the role of ECMO retrieval nurse came up. This was largely due to the H1N1 (swine flu) surge in 2009. ECMO stands for Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation - it is effectively a portable circuit that takes deoxygenated blood, oxygenates the blood, and then returns it to the patient. This is used as a support for people who are suffering from severe acute respiratory failure. There are only five respiratory ECMO centres currently in the UK that provide this service to patients in severe respiratory failure. An on call team was needed to be available 24/7 to be able to travel across the country and provide this service - I became part of this team.  The role of ECMO Specialist came shortly after. Once patients requiring ECMO support are within our ICU, specialist care is needed to be able to care for them. All ECMO specialists, like myself, undertake various exams in order to be able to do this role.

Rhea Durgahee

020 has seen a mass outpouring of love for our NHS; the frontline workers who are the backbone of our Healthcare system, caring for thousands of people across the country who have been affected by the pandemic. We are incredibly proud of all of our Old Worksopians on the frontline, who have, and continue, to risk their own health, to help others.

Here we talk to former Shirley girl Rhea Durgahee (99 - 04), who has worked at the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge - one of the world’s leading cardiothoracic hospitals and the UK’s main heart and lung transplant centre – for the past 13 years. Rhea’s current role is as an Intensive Care Sister, ECMO Specialist and ECMO retrieval nurse

OW: What is the best part about your job? RD: First and foremost, seeing patients get better. There really is nothing more rewarding than seeing patients able to go home to their families again.  Secondly, the team I work with. They are, without a doubt, incredible. I have learnt so much from my colleagues. Although the job can be tough, emotionally and physically, there is still nothing else I would rather do.

OW: What were your initial feelings when you first heard about COVID-19? RD: I was worried about the unknown. Nobody really knew what was coming. But we knew we had to prepare ourselves as best we could for whatever may happen.

OW: What has the impact of COVID-19 been like for the hospital?

In the spotlight COVID-19 Special

RD: Due to being one of five centres able to provide specialist ECMO support, the hospital became very busy, very quickly. During the first wave, colleagues from other areas of the hospital were redeployed to Intensive Care to help us cope with the amount of patients coming to us - we were very thankful! At its peak, we had approximately 60 covid patients within Intensive Care. The ICU had to expand very quickly to make way for incoming patients, yet there was still a sense of camaraderie amongst the whole team, we knew we were all there to help, in whatever way we could.

OW: How has it affected you personally? RD: I have only been able to see my family twice this year. Not knowing when I’ll be able to visit them again is tough, but I’m always thankful that they are keeping safe and healthy - and thank goodness for being able to video call them!

“It is so lovely to work within a system that is so supported. It is truly an honour to be a small part of such an incredible NHS.”

OW: How do you feel about the overwhelming support that has been shown for the NHS and key workers such as yourself ? RD: Pretty overwhelmed! It is so lovely to work within a system that is so supported. It is truly an honour to be a small part of such an incredible NHS.

OW: Has this experience changed you? RD: Yes. It has made me aware of how quickly life can change for everyone and shown me I should appreciate each day more. The job can be all consuming at times, but it is so important to take time for ourselves.  25

Ollie Kaiper-Leach

he arts industry is among the most devastated by the pandemic. Artists and arts workers often rely on casual, project-based or fixedterm contracts, and COVID-19 restrictions have left many with little or no income.

That all being said, the trickiest part of all this for me was that, because of my ship contract, I had been away from my partner since the start of January, when she had visited me for New Year. At the first sign of restrictions being lifted, I travelled up to Nottingham to stay with her, and began a very different chapter of lockdown.

We hear from OW Ollie Kaiper-Leach about his own experience as a performer and his need to adapt to the changing climate he found himself in.

Shortly after relocating, I unfortunately read the news that, as a result of the struggles facing the theatre industry, my beloved agent has been forced to close down completely, leaving her without a business, and her 40+ clients without representation. At first, this felt like the worst news in the world, like my career had jumped into a COVID-filled strapped to a toaster. But after a bit of soul searching I realised that there is no better time to be unrepresented: there was no work to miss out on, I had the potential for future work with my previous contract without the agency fees, and there was plenty of time to search for a new partnership.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;As you might remember, when lockdown hit I was stranded on a cruise ship docked in Miami, Fl., with no flights home. Having been touring on and off for the best part of 18 months, I had no tenancy to return to, and it was certainly not the time to try and find a new one in London. With that in mind, I moved home with my family in Stratford-uponAvon, which was a lovely piece of quiet to return to after the busy cruise ship I had grown used to. When I first got home, I had what, retrospectively, I suspect was probably a set of COVID-related symptoms, with a cough so debilitating I could barely get out of bed. However, when that passed, I became characteristically productive with my new-found time. Mostly, I started working on music I had been meaning to write, teaching myself how to use recording and video software in order to make demos of my songs.

In the spotlight COVID-19 Special

With that in mind, I began to shift my motivation away from lamenting over theatre’s struggles and focus on the other strings to my bow. I contributed heavily to the Sound and Music Summer School as they went virtual for the first time, teaching a group of teenagers how to compose for voice and helping them write and record brand new pieces of music in the space of a week - entirely over Zoom; I picked up some jobs arranging and recording piano accompaniments, and I continued to write music. The end of the summer brought incredible news for my partner, when she got accepted onto a Masters programme at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, enabling us finally to move back to London. We finally moved in October, and with that I set up my new home studio and began to search for work to subsidise my music. My extensive experience as a barman quickly became obsolete as ‘Lockdown 2.0’ hit, but I was thankfully able to find work as a delivery driver. I began running in my local park to raise money for Movember, and finally felt like I was beginning to find a rhythm for the first time since March. Perhaps my momentum was a little too strong, however, when I took a fall down the stairs of my new London home, breaking and badly cutting two toes on my left foot, resulting in a full-blown boot and crutch situation, and unable to drive for a minimum of four weeks, not to mention unable to continue my charity running.

I have long been a member of an incredible website called Encore Musicians, which is a sort of LinkedIn for musicians, and one morning I opened an email from them and read about their Personalised Musical Messages initiative. The idea is that, in order to support musicians while gigging is impossible, you can request a short video of any song for just £15, perhaps even with the lyrics re-written, and the video is delivered within 48 hours, with £2.50 going towards the NHS. Whilst this by no means replaces a regular day job as a source of income, it has been tremendous fun doing these videos, knowing I’m putting smiles on people’s faces, as well as contributing to the NHS in some way. With little sign of theatre returning (at the time of writing), I am open to the possibility that my skills could be applied to a much more full-time position: for example, I have become interested in the world of Film/TV trailers and their use of music. If something like that comes along, I won’t hesitate to take on the challenge of such a different world of work, but it has become ardently clear to me that making music, in whatever capacity, is something I cannot live without. I owe a lot of that to Worksop, and for that I am incredibly grateful.”

To find our more about Ollie’s work visit, olliekaiperleach.com

With my primary source of income once again unviable, I have again had to think outside the box as to how to keep my brain busy and my rent paid.

In the spotlight

In October I was seconded to another role at the State Health Emergency Operations centre (SHEOC), which manages everybody coming into the state of NSW, including people from Victoria and internationally. After half a day’s training I was put onto the internationals desk as a case manager, managing hotel exemptions (people applying not to go into hotel quarantine on arrival into Australia). I mainly deal with compassionate cases which can be extremely challenging in itself, for example, someone who is in palliative care in a hospital and their daughter / son is coming in from the USA to say goodbye to them. In order to get a time limited exemption (normally a two hour visit to the hospital from hotel quarantine) there is a lot of paperwork required, however it is very rewarding when you manage to complete it and a loved one gets to see their parents for the final time. Obviously, sometimes it does not work and that is also very hard.

COVID-19 Special

James Evers How COVID-19 affected his life in Australia “I came to Australia in 1996 as a backpacker and was lucky enough to be sponsored, working in the travel industry right up until COVID-19 hit, when I was made redundant in June. I have worked as a regional travel manager for a medical assistance company, a travel operations manager for a university and, most recently, an account manager / sales manager for a software company that provided pre-trip and travel risk products. After redundancy and applying for over 100 jobs, I was fortunate to secure a 6-month contract at NSW Health (over 8000 applicants for 300 jobs) as a COVID contact tracer. This involved being provided with a list of people from the Public Health Unit e.g. a school where there was a confirmed case of COVID, and calling people to ask them questions to determine if they were a close or casual contact. If they were deemed casual, they were advised to keep an eye on symptoms, if they were a close contact they had to self-isolate at home for 14 days. In July, due to having many clusters, it was extremely busy and challenging, especially when people did not want to isolate (we would simply escalate the case and the police would pay them a visit). It was an amazing time as 300 of us all started within six weeks, including a lot of cabin crew from Virgin Australia and Qantas employees.

Although stressful and it never stops (at the moment), it is hugely rewarding and I actually love what I do, working with a great bunch of people! My contract has just been extended to July next year while I search for my next role. On the home front, Belinda my wife set up the first primary healthcare nurse practitioner clinic in NSW in August 2019 which is going from strength to strength and we are looking at expanding in 2021. Lochlan, my 12 year old, is just about to enter senior school and Maddie is year 8. Out of work and school, my main hobby is cooking (BBQ) and I am well known for my ribs!”

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OWS CONNECTED

onnection has been at the forefront of 2020 – keeping a sense of community amidst sustained periods of isolation can be challenging, however we were delighted to see so many of you connect with us from across the globe.

Stewart Mann Pt 62 - 67 I am retired after more than 30 years in senior medical and academic posts in Wellington, New Zealand - Cardiologist and Associate Professor. I have been married for 45 years with three children and five grandchildren, all of whom live in New Zealand. A memory from my time at Worksop would have to be a schoolmate sleepwalking out of the dormitory window leading to significant injury.

Verity Oates G 01 - 06 Living in Eldwick/Bingley area, West Yorkshire, working as a doctor in A&E. I have SO many fab memories of Worksop and too many that are funny but so inappropriate! I will always remember the yearly Gibbs House Concert and “The Staff-room”. I also have fond memories of CCF and will never forget the time I accidentally shot at Mr Fagan with a blank and that was my army career in tatters.

Jaime Armstrong RH 03 - 08, D 09 - 14 I’m an IT Recruitment Consultant specialising in DevOps, Automation and Cloud working for Spring Technology (The Adecco Group) in Leeds. I’m living in Doncaster and have recently been seconded to work for one of our Global Clients, Amazon, recruiting in the UK and France. The friends I made at Worksop are still my best friends to this day; Philline Goeseke, Lucy Cundy and Annabel Strawson. Lots of memories and fun times in Derry and going on the South Africa hockey tour in 2012 - still to this day it was by far one of the best trips I’ve ever been on, so thank you Worksop for that opportunity!

Anthony (Spud) Young T 57 - 60 I have been living in Switzerland for the past 40 years. After leaving Worksop I qualified as a Chartered Accountant and shortly afterwards joined the family business who were raw wool merchants in West Yorkshire; I am now retired. Apart from making and keeping some good friends to this day, I enjoyed very much the Rugby training under Jeff Butterfield and Mr Coghlan happy school days that will never be forgotten.

James Pacey Pt 97 - 02 I’m the Vicar of St. John’s and a hospital chaplain at NHS Nottingham, living in Carrington. Currently spending my time alternating between those roles, studying for my MA and learning what the heck it means to be a priest in a pandemic! I have so many memories; chapel, plays, amazingly supportive staff, friends. Probably the one that stands out most is when I played WHB in a house play and ended up asking to borrow some clothes. Her response: ‘would you like to talk to the chaplain about this.’ Happy days.

OWs Connected

Francesca Aleanbh Hird S 00 - 05 I’m the MD of luxury safari company, Ker & Downey Botswana; 5 properties in the Okavango Delta and Central Kalahari, living in Maun, Botswana. My best memories always involve sport...my final year the 1st hockey team was unbeaten, pre-season training was always brutal and Miss Bellamy also took delight in trouncing us with her Worksop club team.

Hugh Chester-Jones RH 58 - 60, M 60 - 65

Colin Whitfield SH 47 - 54 I currently live in Croydon, Surrey, happily enjoying a well-earned retirement with my wife and dog. Worksop, I remember it well. I was eleven and it was a “difficult” beginning, probably as I was an only child - things improved. I could perhaps have studied more but made up for it later. I was into sport; athletics and cross country running, plus rugby and hockey.

John Collings S 59 - 63

I’m living in Waseca in the USA, working at the University of Minnesota Southern Research and Outreach Centre as an applied research and outreach dairy and beef specialist, where I have been for over 35 years.

I live in Tarrant Keyneston, near Blandford Forum, Dorset. I am now retired after spending most of my working life with Lloyds Bank, retiring as an auditor covering South West England and South Wales.

The CCF pass-out parade and prize giving day was a highlight each year. The tradition was to invite famous people to judge the Corp then give out prizes. During my years, we were fortunate to have Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery, Sir Douglass Bader, OW Air Chief Marshall Sir John Cheshire, and Poet Laureate Sir John Benjamin.

I have many happy memories of friends in Shirley House, all of whom I have sadly lost contact with. I particularly remember with great fondness singing in the school choir and playing trumpet in the school orchestra and latterly in a jazz band that I helped to form.

Tasneem Verjee Gibbs 97 - 01 I’m living in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. After almost 19 years working for the police in four different forces as a Special Constable, Police Officer and Police recruiter, I have moved into the family property business. I have a four year old daughter called Anaya. A memory from my time at Worksop would have to mainly be the people, friendships and the numerous team sports I took part in. I loved Worksop!

Archie Wilumsen Pt 10 - 15 I joined the army in 2016, as a vehicle mechanic in the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers and currently living at Jellalabad Barracks, Tidworth, Hampshire. I have been in the army just over 4 years now and loving every minute of it! My memory would have to be going unbeaten for a full season with the U16A team in rugby!

OWs Connected

Georgie Beadman G 05 - 10 I now live in Upper Broughton near Nottingham, with my partner Mike. I am a fully qualified teacher, currently working in a specialist school near Belvoir Castle helping children with attachment disorders. House song was always a highlight for me, especially the year we did Backstreet Boys! I also have fond memories of the world challenge trip to Chile.

Miwa Sosna G 97 - 00

James Thornton P 99 - 04 I’m living in Sutton-in-Ashfield and working as the Commercial Director of an engineering company in the utilities sector. We supply specialised equipment to gas and water companies worldwide. I’m also a husband and a father to two brilliant children. Lots of memories of Worksop camaraderie; great teachers that managed to put up with me and great times playing rugby.

Elizabeth Metcalfe D 78 - 81

I’m living in Japan as an interpreter, I’m living near Ripon in North Yorkshire analyst, entrepreneur, former diplomat and am the company secretary for our of Japan. family business in fencing and land services which is run by our son, James. “Small but mighty” the line was shared with Mrs. Bain! 5ft1, skinny at the time. I remember being terrified on my I was always surrounded by countless first day, following 3 years at Queen lovely friends, many of them took me Margaret’s in Escrick, and having Mr over to their home for the weekends – Caufield coming up to me and asking much appreciated with their parents if I were Trusses daughter. “Yes” was for warm welcome. Matt Stephenson my answer, a brief look from him to (Shirley) came to visit me in Japan, be told “I have my eye on you.” Thanks Summer 1999 and we climbed Mt. Fuji Dad, got all your misdemeanours when together! you were at Worksop! However, I loved the school and made some fantastic friends and so many happy memories.

Malcolm Smith SH 54 - 58 I am 20 years into my retirement and living in Fordingbridge in Hampshire. Most of my memories relate to things happening at school that should not have. Pranks and mischief that were not malicious. For instance, midnight swims in the new indoor pool, fireworks in the quad at 2am or ringing of the chapel bell during the night.

Simon Langley T 96 - 01 I’m living in Sale, South Manchester with my wife and 3 kids, currently working for Barclays in Knutsford where I am Head of Online Banking. A short memory from Worksop... Sport galore! Playing in the mixed staff/ student North Notts Squash League, cross country all over the place and captaining the athletics team in the summer - very happy memories. Also, Talbot House - what an amazing place - still in touch with many Talbotians via our Facebook group.

OWs Connected

Malcolm Le Bas S 55 - 59 I’m a retired Solicitor. Chairman of Mayflower Theatre, Southampton. My abiding memory from Worksop is making so many friends who have remained so.

Ben Sampler T 91 - 96 I’m living in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India with my wife and daughter, teaching music and dorm parent at Hebron School, Ooty. My memory from Worksop would be my first world challenge trip to Ecuador in Summer 1994, and when David Evans got the First XV to sing Teddy Bears Picnic at the House Song.

Adam Dixon RH 02 - 05

Pippa Gibson D 96 - 00 I have been attempting to home school my two children in Bath. I remember the absolutely hilarious netball tour to Malta...... sorry Mrs Warner and Mr Batterbury!

Abigail Mounde G 15 - 19 After graduating from St Andrews in September, I am now on the Civil Service Fast Stream and I currently work in the Department for International Trade. My favourite memories of Worksop would definitely be my final year spent preparing for the trip to Greenland!

Esther Chung G 10 - 15

I am a senior Executive business development manager working in the world of sensitive data destruction and WEEE (Waste Electrical & Environmental Equipment) waste, living on the outskirts of Rotherham.

After finishing my MMus course in Canterbury, I am now back to Worksop College and working as a Music Graduate Assistant - I am also planning to have my teacher training in Worksop next year.

One of my most fond memories of my time at the college was the opportunity to create lifelong friendships.

Making the final round for the Woodard Musician of the Year in 2015 stands out as a key memory for me.

Neil Grayson Pt 75 - 79 I live in Bawtry near Doncaster. I’ve now retired, however, I help my son run his cocktail bar in Bawtry. There are so many memories from my time at Worksop!

Alex Ward RH 99 - 05, S/SH 05 - 10 I’m living in Ollerton, Newark. I have been redeployed as a Respiratory Physiotherapist working on intensive care and the acute wards to treat patients that are affected by Covid-19 but also those that are not. My memory is of Geography with Mr Burkwood at Ranby and I’m sure many would all agree!

Richard Miller Pt 83 - 86 I live just outside Budapest and I’m a Structural Engineer. A short memory from my time at Worksop would be setting fire to our study with a dodgy lamp. 33

In routine walks every afternoon, he would test his ability of putting a name to every boy he encountered, admonishing himself if he couldn’t recall the name of the boy or where his home was. One of his greatest challenges was to keep the school numbers at a sustainable level. If this meant taking on the less academically able, so be it. Equally, he was always eager to tap into the Woodard School Foundation Funds to help families who ran into financial difficulties.

Tales from the Noggery

oger Northcote-Green will be a familiar name to many of you, particularly if you attended the college between 1952 – 1970. The eighth Headmaster of Worksop College, Northcote-Green, or the NOG, as he was often referred to, served in post for 18 years, making him the longest-serving Headmaster, alongside Roy Collard. During his time, Roger saw much change, most notably when the school became co-educational in the late 60’s. Here, Roger’s children, Christopher, Simon and Ros, share memories of their Father and their experience of growing up on-site.

“When our father was appointed to the Headship of the College in 1952, the family consisted of our mother Joan (nee Greswell), David aged 4 and Christopher aged 2. David was severely autistic and remains so although his autism had not been fully diagnosed. Simon arrived in 1954 and Ros in 1958. Dad had previously been a housemaster at St Edwards, Oxford, his alma mater, having served as an officer in the Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry in Burma from 1941 to 1945 where he had been awarded the MC on the field of battle against the Japanese. In many ways, his style of headmastering was a modern one. He always wanted to see the good in people and especially the boys. He was blessed with a good sense of humour and a winning sense of esprit de corps. He preferred to rule through love and not fear. If he had to punish corporally (still acceptable practice) he would count it as a failure of reason. Being kind, and kindness, were guiding principles. 34

In 1952, at the start of his reign, Dad’s authority was put to the test. At an Evensong service early in his tenure, the senior boys orchestrated a congregational cough after Dad had just started his sermon from the pulpit. He carried on and managed to complete his delivery. However, the following morning, when he drew back his bedroom curtains, he discovered over forty boys staring up at the window and smoking in the garden. Unperturbed, he fetched his twelve bore gun, and as the boys scattered themselves into the gorse bushes, he fired off two cartridges into the air. Later that morning, a notice appeared on the Headmaster’s notice board which read: ‘If any boy reports to the San with buckshot in their behind, he will be directed immediately to my study.’ The boys respected the humour and things became more civil. The war years had also taken their toll on the College refurbishment programme and the facilities had been neglected. A new swimming pool was opened by Mary, the Princess Royal and the only daughter of George V, whose two sons had been an undergraduate at Oxford. The Ist XV rugby pitch was levelled, Talbot House and a new PE centre built with a DT and Art centre to follow. On site improved staff housing attracted better qualified staff who might be persuaded to stay rather than move on. As children we had the time of our lives, especially out of term time. We were free to roam. The cloisters were used as a rugby practice area with passes having to be given before and after the brick pillars. There was snooker to be played in the day rooms and there were tractor rides given by Gordon and Carol (one of many Polish refugees who had escaped from their homeland). Jack Wigmore, a wonderful Head Groundsman, used to keep a watchful eye on us as we sat inches away from the gang mowers, perched on a wheel. One favourite winter pastime was rabbit shooting at night time with Dad at the wheel of our Morris 1000 convertible, weaving our way around rugby posts with the headlights full on. In fact The Duke of Portland was quite a regular visitor to the College. He had the habit of calling Dad ‘David’ and confusing him with the then Headmaster of Welbeck, David Rickards, whom he referred to regularly as ‘Roger’. On one such visit (it was a meeting of the hunt) he politely asked my grandmother whether she could provide him with a cigarette. She produced one out of her silver case which he gratefully received. It was the cheapest of them all, a Player’s No.6. ‘Mrs Greswell’ exclaimed the Duke from his mount, ‘this is one of the finest cigarettes I have ever smoked!’ This came from a man who was accustomed to having his hand rolled cigarettes being sent over from Turkey!

Tales from the Noggery

Our mother started a nursery school at the top of the house which became very popular amongst staff and local families and this meant that the ‘Nog or Noggery’ became a vibrant hub of activity. Jean Wilks, wife of Brian, was one of several teachers who were employed as teachers there at one time or another. There were nativity plays in the Chapel and countless nature walks in the grounds.

As my brothers mentioned, I married a Kiwi and we were honoured to have Bill Sykes (OW) marry us in Somerset in 1987 and he also visited us in New Zealand. We moved out there in 1993 and my mother used to visit us for Christmas each year and to escape the English winters. She continued to do this until 2002 when she fell ill during her stay and was unable to return to her beloved England.”

One of Dad’s more pioneering adventures would be to invite the senior prefects for the forthcoming academic year to our Somerset home. These September gatherings enabled him to lay down his expectations of them and to define their leadership roles and responsibilities. Team building would include walks on Exmoor and visiting a hostelry run by John England (OW) in the back and beyond, beer and skittles in the local pub too and excursions along the coastline. As children, we were in awe of these older boys who would sing with gusto at the Sunday service at our parish church on the last day of their visit after a full breakfast cooked by my mother. What went on late at night at the B&B where they were put up, was another matter. OWs who attended these weeks always speak highly of them and of the hospitality afforded them.

Ros Shaw November 2020

Dad died in 1990 and our mother in 2004. It is now over fifty years since the family left the College. David is in a home in Weston Super Mare. Chris has retired from being a partner in a Land Agency firm in Warwick. Simon has retired from teaching having been Deputy Master at Dulwich College for several years when Graham Able (OW) was Master. Ros married a Kiwi and emigrated to New Zealand where she forged good links with Sally Furnace, one time Dad’s secretary. Several other OWs remained good family friends including David Reason, Richard Lyon and Bill Sykes who officiated at Dad’s funeral. Whilst writing this, so many fond memories have come flooding back about people and places too many to mention here and at the risk of forgetting some too. OWs will recall the Chaplain, Hugh Pickles who was a cricket fanatic, Bean Beanland, John Ricketts, John Bishop, Ricky Winn, Frank Francis, Arthur Caufield, Tom Thatcher, Desmond Hackett, David Coglan and Geoff Butterfield to name but a few of the teaching staff. Equally we recall so many of the domestic staff, Bursars and their families, Ken Toop at the school shop, the silver birch and sycamore trees, Clumber Park, Green Lane and the drive. It was an idyllic place to grow up.”

Christopher and Simon Northcote Green Our sister Ros writing from Auckland sends this message across the waves. “I have very fond memories of growing up at Worksop. I loved our home and although it was the Headmaster’s house and in the public eye, it still managed to be private and homely. Although I was not as adventurous as my brothers, I still appreciated the space and freedom we had. I remember making a den in the garden where I had tea parties with my dolls! I believe I was rather a precocious child and would ask total strangers questions such as ‘’Are you pregnant?’’. Fortunately for me people did not take offence but not surprisingly I was nick named ‘’nosey Rosie!’’.

Roger Northcote-Green with his children Simon (left), Chris (right), and Ros (centre). The picture was taken in 1963 on Blue Anchor beach, West Somerset with all children wearing their grandmother’s hand knitted sweaters!

“Roger Northcott-Green took up the position of Headmaster at Worksop College in 1952. By the time I arrived two years later, he had already been given the nickname of ‘The Nog’, a contraction of his surname. He was an avuncular and gentle man, but commanded due respect as Headmaster. From my own experience at being summoned to his study, and from accounts by others, he was fair to the point of leniency, but it was clear that any repeat offence would not be treated so generously. He was a keen sportsman, and his character was defined by the image of him standing on the touchline of a rugger pitch in his duffle coat and holding his thumb stick. His priority was the wellbeing of the school and he was the instigator of its modernisation, both in routine and the provision of facilities. A man good enough to still be remembered today.” Memories from Old Worksopian Malcolm Smith (SH 54 – 58) 35 35

Response to a Pandemic

s the pandemic hit, the number of NHS and frontline care workers contracting COVID-19 began to rise, with reports of shortages of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) hitting the headlines nationally. Under the direction of Head of DT, Gary Duckering, the college began a daily production of PPE to ensure as many frontline workers as possible would not go without vital protective wear. The school had been funding the initiative from existing materials to produce 10 – 12 protective face visors a day to help local hospitals and surgeries in the UK, using an existing 3D printer. College staff invested in an additional two printers to increase production levels, but a request was put out for support, in order to increase production levels even further. In just over 36 hours we raised over £5,000 worth of equipment, thanks to the support of our Old Worksopian community.

The generosity shown by this community, as well as the OW Masonic Lodge, the Provincial Grand Lodge of Nottinghamshire and Worksop’s Masonic Hall, enabled us to buy an additional £5,000 worth of equipment, including 13 3-D printers. Your support meant we were able to send over 2,000 visors across the region, including; Basetlaw Hospital, GP surgeries, local healthcare practitioners, care homes, and crematorium staff. The visors have also been sent further afield to the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge and St George’s Hospital in London, where members of our alumni community work. Headmaster, Dr John Price, said; “We are incredibly grateful for the support we have been shown; it is testament to the strong community that exists both inside and outside the school. The additional printers and materials required to produce the protective visors have enabled us to increase our production significantly, making a huge difference to those who need them most.”

Response to a Pandemic

Regularly Investing in Children’s Futures

he impact 2020 has had on schools is no secret. At a time when a child’s education is now considered an investment, parents of diverse economic backgrounds are seeking out an educational environment in which their children can thrive. Ours is an education built on trust, confidence building and resilience. And under such strains and uncertainty, it is our goal to future-proof the education of children at Worksop College and Ranby House. The 125 Bursary Appeal was created to support our students now and whenever they need us during their time at school. Regular donations to the appeal allow us to plan for both the short and long-term success of our children. It means we can support their journey through the entirety of their education. With your help we can grow the bursary fund into a sustainable source of funding that will support a greater number of deserving, passionate and talented pupils on bursary places for years to come.

“Bursaries can change lives and provide opportunities for talented, hard-working children to realise their potential, regardless of their financial situation.” 38

There are many ways that you can support the 125 Bursary Appeal and we have highlighted two of the most cost-effective methods that mean your donation has the greatest benefit: Monthly Donations It’s easy to set up a regular monthly giving payment; you can do this online by registering at oldworksopians.com or setting up a simple standing order (please do let us know if you intend to set up a regular giving payment). Your donation each month can make a real difference to the 125 Bursary Appeal and for individual donations that come to us, we can claim Gift Aid as long as you are a UK taxpayer, meaning for every pound you donate, we can claim an extra 25p, with no cost to yourself. Give As You Earn Scheme Also known as Payroll giving, this is a method of setting up a regular donation that comes straight from your pay cheque. What it means for you is that a regular amount can be deducted from your wages and for us, it will mean we receive the maximum amount of money from that donation. The benefit of payroll giving is that we receive your donation straight away from your salary before tax is deducted. Your payroll department will be able to provide more details.

“Without a bursary, I would not have gone to Worksop, and without Worksop, I would not have known Latin in anything other than passing. I have taken the ‘give it a go’ attitude that I learnt from Worksop onwards to university and now into teacher training. All that comes from the amazing teachers I had who pushed me to try new things and make the most of what was on offer. Without bursaries, many children could never access the kind of education that places like Worksop offer. Worksop is not an exam factory; I loved my time there because it gave importance to activities both in and out of the classroom.” Katy Lamkin Bursary Recipient School House 2011 - 2016

Just 90 people, each giving £25 per month over 7 years would provide a full boarding education for a pupil from Year 7 through to the end of Sixth Form.

Your Legacy could be their Future Legacies are personal and the legacy of Worksop College and its 125 year history is woven together by every Old Worksopian that has walked through our doors. Leaving a legacy passes the baton to the future students of Worksop College and contributions to our 125 Bursary Appeal will help ensure that they can reach their full potential and we can support them when they need it most. Your legacy to the Worksop College 125 Bursary Appeal can be done in a number of ways, with the purpose of making the process as simple as possible for your family when that time comes. It can even be arranged as a gift in your will or an agreement in the sale of a business, property or specific item. By planning ahead now, funds raised through our 125 Bursary will help to ensure that exceptional education is available to students who may need support during their years with us. For more information on Legacy Giving or to let us know of a regular giving donation you intend to set up, please contact Lucy Smithson, Development Manager on l.smithson@wsnl.co.uk or 01909 537100.

S I X T H

F O R M

THE FUTURE STARTS HERE

GIFT REGISTER

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A stunning date-night destination with the very best views over Nottingham and beyond To book your table, kindly call us on 0115 671 7666 or visit restaurantsix.co.uk

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oldworksopians.com 01909 535 765

Front cover artwork designed by current student, Bea Smith (Derry).