The OW 2022

OWTHE 2022

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proud

Editor’s Note

As the time comes to write this, it always prompts much reflection of the year gone by. 2022 has all been about getting back out there and catching up with old and new faces from our ever-growing community of OWs. It’s the part of my job that I can say, hand on heart, brings me the most joy. I have met so many wonderful people during the five years I have been here and I am just delighted that we have been able to resume our events programme, something I have really missed during the pandemic.

One of the highlights for me has to have been attending the Talbot 125 dinner; what a treat to see so many Talbotians from all different eras in one place. Whilst time was short, I had some lovely conversations and it was really special to see so many of you in one place, all with Talbot as your commonality.

In terms of future events, I would love to involve more of you in helping me to spread the word and, as such, am looking for willing reps from different decades to get involved with our OW Ambassador Programme. The idea is that there would be a group of volunteers to help me communicate

details of upcoming events within their own networks. Often people want to know who is coming to an event before they commit (safety in numbers, right?) and I feel this is a great way of attracting groups together. If you would like to be involved, please do drop me a line.

As we move into 2023, I will be focussing my attentions on our three main fundraising projects; the restoration of the old school shop site into a multi-functional wellbeing space to serve our whole community (read more on p.36/17), as well as transformational bursaries and our ongoing Chapel appeal that will see us switch our attention to the interior of the building. Alongside this, we will continue to look at ways of adding to our events programme, with the introduction of some more regular historic tours – watch this space!

A big thank you must go to current member of staff and OW, Tomo Sugiyama, for his wonderful artwork featured on the front page. You can hear more from Tomo on page 21.

As I sign off, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank my fabulous colleague, Hannah, who works tirelessly one day a week to support me in my role and is wholly responsible for our social media channels – I would be lost without her!

For now, I wish you all health and happiness for the year ahead and hope to meet more of you this coming year.

My best wishes as always,

Lucy Development Manager

The 50s Luncheon, Stay Connected reunions, and simple chats on the phone – it’s safe to say I’ve met a whole host of OWs with some brilliant stories (some of which I will keep to myself!) I’ve never been part of such a special community, filled with wonderful characters and a rich history, which was made all the more apparent while putting together this edition of the OW Magazine. It has been a pleasure to get to know so many of you and I look forward to hearing even more stories in the coming year.

Take care and keep in touch,

Hannah Marketing and Development Officer

Dr John Price Headmaster

Another OW Magazine, another year I am lucky enough to call myself Headmaster of Worksop College and Ranby House. Through the incredible highs and lows of the past few years, I sincerely thank you all, as OWs, for continuing to support the school and being such an integral part of this community.

We have made much progress these past couple of years, with significant changes being made to the structure of the school week, house system and curriculum, and it fills me with immense pride to see the increase in pupil numbers both at the College and at Ranby. I am grateful to all the dedicated staff, both teaching and support, who work so tirelessly to ensure that the children have the best possible experience with us. I would like to thank our governors who give so readily of their time to support me and the leadership team, constructively challenging us and imparting their wisdom and specific knowledge for the betterment of our community. Special thanks to Penny Owston, who stands down from the role of Custos, after three challenging but highly productive years at the helm. I would like to welcome and thank OW Jason Barnsdale for stepping up to the job.

to all the dedicated staff, both teaching and support, who work so tirelessly to ensure that the children have the best possible experience with us. I would like to thank our governors who give so readily of their time.”

Following the triumph of England’s Lionesses, we were so looking forward to launching the Worksop College Girls’ Football Academy, a programme designed to allow female footballers to progress their football career alongside their studies. Partnering with Lioness Jill Scott MBE has been a pleasure, and we’re looking forward to seeing what heights our students can reach under her provision. Jill, however, isn’t the only distinguished sportsperson we have partnered with – we were honoured to host the first R66t Academy at the College, a cricket camp in association with OWs Billy and Joe Root. It was wonderful to see our aspiring cricketers learn from the very best, turning their hand to something and being pushed out of their comfort zones.

This year also saw a return of conventional examination procedures, with Worksop College receiving an exceptional number of brilliant exam results at both A-level and GCSE. Achievements like these remind me how fortunate I am to work with such incredible young people – they have taken each challenge in their stride, using adversity to demonstrate their strength, resilience and willingness to achieve. As I watched on while pupils opened their envelopes, I was emotional to think of all they have achieved – each of them with their own story and ambitions. I am so proud that Worksop College was the place that they discovered their talent, whether it be sports, music, writing, designing – we allow them to flourish and grow in confidence and self-esteem.

House song, the Dorm Run, the Carol Service, Sports Day, Evensong – all our Worksop College traditions are back in their fullest form, creating special memories and giving us a sense of belonging to a community. I hope to instil a nostalgia in our pupils, similar to that I hear of when speaking to OWs over the years.

Stay safe and please keep in touch – you are always welcome back,

John

Headmaster, Worksop College and Ranby House

“I am grateful

This year has been one of the happiest for me since becoming Headmaster at Ranby House. Watching the school begin to blossom again, similar to the wild flower seeds I planted by the Slipper Room door with our boarders at the end of the last academic year. Some people were sceptical that these seeds would grow, the seedlings’ efforts would be futile as the ground is covered by old tree roots and numerous items, such as pen lids and toothpaste tubes where some of the boarders had thrown them from the bathroom window many years ago.

But like everything, given some time and care, the weeding, clearing and preparing the plot saw the seeds start to grow. Each day on my way into work I could see the small plants getting bigger, stronger and growing into something we would all like to see. As I walked past the raised bed this morning the wild flowers were flourishing.

A rather poignant analogy, or comparison if you like, of not only Ranby House, but the pupils who arrive each day. Joining us from as early as two years old, no matter how long they stay with us, we get to be part of their life, tending to the flower bed if you like – explaining right from wrong, making them more confident and supporting their progress. As we see the children reach the Year 6 milestone, I am so proud, having watched them grow over the years and leaving here as well-rounded, confident individuals.

It has been a tough time for all Independent Schools, and may always remain so, each school competing for their space in the flower bed. Our success is down to the commitment of everyone here. Our Grounds team will complete what is asked of them, our Catering team never ask ‘why?’ as we all know we are here for the children. They ask ‘how?’ but that’s the challenge of leadership.

My point is, here at Ranby it is not a case of, ‘look what I have achieved’, it’s looking around with great pride in the team at what we have grown from a period of adversity.

I would like to thank the teaching staff for their creativity, engaging lessons, time and pastoral care of children. The support teams dedicated to cleaning, cooking, repairing and preparing facilities every day. I would like to thank Dr. Price and the Board of Governors, who have all backed Ranby House and given us the autonomy to change and develop for the benefit of the children, with financial investment finally going back into this fabulous site.

To everyone in the Worksop College and Ranby House community – Old Ranbians and Worksopians – thank you for your trust, belief and commitment in the team here. As the Ranby House Headmaster, it fills me with great joy and pride to see the site develop, the children happy and engaged, making Ranby House begin to flower once again.

Best wishes,

David Headmaster, Ranby House

Mr David Thorpe Ranby House Headmaster

“My point is, here at Ranby it is not a case of, ‘look what I have achieved’, it’s looking around with great pride in the team at what we have grown from a period of adversity. “

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Staff Leavers

Last year we said goodbye to a number of staff, not least several longstanding members, including; Clare Tilley, Jeremy Foulds, John Turner and Richard Baker.

Jeremy Foulds, SCR 95 - 22

Since joining Ranby House in 1995, and the College in 2011, Mr Foulds has continued to be a driving influence in shaping the students who have come through the school. Not only has Mr Foulds been a massive asset to the English and Latin (Classical Civilisation) Department, but he has also been a consistent coach for sports teams and has even written mass settings which the Ranby Choir and the College Chapel Choir have sung, and will continue to do so after his departure.

Since I joined Ranby House in 2012, Mr Foulds has always had a profound impact on me. His dedication to the school, and the wellbeing of its students, is something I have always looked up to. I remember him teaching me hockey in the Under 9s team at Ranby, and now, at 17 years old, hockey continues to be a sport that I thoroughly enjoy. It is impossible to put into words the amount of gratitude and thankfulness I have for Mr Foulds, and I am sure any other member of staff or student would completely agree. The time, effort and impact that Mr Foulds has given to the school is the reason he will be so greatly missed by all within the community. We hope that he returns regularly for College evensongs and school events, as the school will not be the same without him.

Words

by Connie Futter (current Y13 student)

John Turner, SCR

Although he was best known for being a dedicated maths teacher, having been Head of Maths for 20 odd years, John and I quickly realised that in fact golf was our common ground. Since then, I have been fortunate enough to take over our golf programme, whilst still having the support of John. Right from the start of my tenure he supported any

changes I made, whilst also guiding me on how the College games programmes and matches operated. Three years later, perhaps the longest hand-over period in history, he was still there not only to support the pupils on the course weekly, but as an experienced member of staff I could bounce ideas off. His contribution and commitment to golf over the last 20 plus years should not be underestimated, nor forgotten. All the college golfers past, present and future, owe something to John.

Words by current Director of Golf, Jonathan Cook

Richard Baker, SCR

Richard Baker left Worksop College for an exciting journey, taking on the role as Housemaster at a school in Malaysia. Richard held a number of crucial roles during his time with us, such as Head of Rugby, Housemaster of Shirley, Housemaster of Portland 8 and also Head of Academic PE. He is a dynamic, hardworking, fun loving member of staff with a great deal of skill in a number of areas. He will be missed as a member of staff and as a friend to many – I could easily write two pages of funny highlights about Richard. My overriding memories are of generosity, trips to the darts, his innovation of setting up the NPL online darts league during lockdown (during his isolation in Ponte Carlo) and his double hat trick against the bus drivers during the staff football team’s romp towards the Worksop Soccer sixes title – at 10-0 he was still screaming at us to press when the rest of us were feeling a bit sorry for the lads from the depot. During the match, he stayed competitive to the end, protecting the delicate flowers like myself and Neil Longhurst, who clearly needed protection. A young man who thought he could “leave one” on Baker got a rude awakening when he stood firm, and his low centre of gravity and endless hours in the gym caused this hapless youngster to simply bounce off like something from the Matrix. Baker stood over this prone figure and bellowed....”What do you bench?” At that point, I knew the title was ours. He will be missed.

Words by Assistant Head, Ian Parkin

At the end of the academic year, we also said goodbye to Esther Chung, Andy Appleton and Beth Laidlaw, who have all moved on to pastures new.

We thank them for their time in post and wish them the best of luck on their next adventure.

Goodbye, farewell and thank you

After 18 years of service, at the end of the academic year we had to say goodbye to the wonderful Clare Tilley. Over her time at Worksop College, Clare had been Housemistress of Gibbs, Deputy Head Pastoral, Acting Headmistress and Head of Senior School. Each role she took on with love, dedication and passion. She has been such an integral part of this school - teacher, colleague and friend to us all.

I first arrived at Worksop on a very damp and drab February day in 2004. It was so miserable that I do not think at that stage I was fully able to appreciate the beautiful tree-lined driveway that I have come to love. Sitting in my car that morning I could only stare at the rather imposing red brick building and feel slightly intimidated. As I had some time to kill before my interview I called a then colleague and recall telling them that I was not sure why I was here, as the school did not ‘feel like me’! Little did I know!

Once inside the building, however, that feeling changed and, although I was somewhat overawed at the amazing dining hall and the huge chapel, the overall feeling was one of warmth and friendliness. Above all, I was impressed with the friendliness of the pupils and the manner in which everyone spoke to each other as they passed in the corridors. My day ended in Gibbs house where I witnessed the activities of Housetime and noted the interaction between the senior and junior members of the house: I was sold!

On accepting the role of Gibbs Housemistress, I recall telling Roy Collard that I would do my best to see a cohort of pupils through the house but that ‘if it was not working for me, it would not be working for the school’ and that would be a deciding factor. I could not have imagined then that the promise of 5 years would turn into 18; that as a family we would spend so many happy years watching sport, attending events and living on a beautiful campus as part of a supportive community. We have made friends for life and I am eternally grateful to all those people who have supported me and the Tilleys throughout that time, particularly to those who guided Evan with such care, tolerance, humour and encouragement.

We have been looked after in fine fashion, whether it be the wonderful food, the caring support staff, the nurses in the Health Care Centre, the beautiful grounds that were especially appreciated during lockdown; the music and the chapel services and, above all, the friendship and fantastic humour of so many talented and generous people who help to create the community feeling that can be so difficult to achieve, but has been such an integral part of why I have stayed.

It is true that I have been given so many wonderful opportunities throughout my time: I have amazing memories of school productions from Grease through South Pacific, Evita and Les Mis. I have loved helping to organise events such as International Week and the Leavers’ dinner; Dorm Run days, Gibbs House concerts, House Song and the inevitable after-parties will live long in my memory. So too will roles such as Honorary President of the OW society and I have been so grateful for the support of our OW ‘family’, both former pupils and their parents, and I hope that the organisation continues to thrive and to grow as it is such an integral and vibrant part of our success.

Of course, my year as Acting Head was a particularly special one for me and for my family. We adored living in Elizabeth House in the heart of the school: each morning pupils would wave as they passed the kitchen window on their way to the Great Hall for breakfast; we got to welcome people into our home for a number of events including the staff start of term welcome, prefects’ supper and pre-prize giving drinks. An abiding memory of living there was coming home on my first day ‘at the office’ to find that Neil and Evan had set up a cricket wicket on the very long top corridor: I promise they never played on it (is that right boys?). As I have never publicly done so, I would like to take the chance here to thank Neil and Evan: they were my biggest supporters through that year; they kept me grounded, they kept me laughing and they gave me the courage of self-belief. It would not have been half as much fun without the ability to share it with them.

In addition, to those colleagues, pupils and parents who have supported me, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. I have appreciated your friendship, your faith and your tolerance. I am so thankful to count many colleagues, past and present, as friends, and their kindness to me has always been appreciated much more than they know.

I wish the College well as it enters this exciting new phase of growth. A huge number of people have worked with such dedication to keep the school moving and developing. It is a place where everyone can make a difference if they choose to do so. Above all, it is a place where people, staff as well as pupils, can learn and discover talents they did not know they had. It has been a thoroughly rewarding 18 years and I know that I (we) will miss the place and the people enormously.

My words of wisdom for life? They are not my words but those of Maya Angelou: I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

Goodbye, farewell and thank you

“Authentic, determined, and compassionate, three words I recently used to describe Clare in a leadership activity when asked to reflect on the qualities I most admired in those I have been influenced by. I have so many fond memories of my time at Worksop, not least the trust that Clare placed in me as House Captain, an experience that still guides me today. Clare’s impact on my life certainly isn’t limited to my school years, watching from afar as she was installed as the first ever female Head at Worksop College, was an incredibly inspiring thing for any ambitious young woman to witness. Thank you will never be enough for all the laughter, stemming of tears and stern words of advice. Of all the girls’ houses, in all the boarding schools, in all the world, she was the Housemistress that walked into mine, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful!”

Natalie Royston (G 02 - 07)

“All those of us who are committed to the perpetuation of Worksop College’s values and standards should feel a debt to Clare Tilley and the eighteen years of unwavering service she has given to the pupils and the school. Arriving in 2004 from Westonbirt to run Gibbs House, Clare not only faced one of the most challenging jobs in the College as Housemistress to over 50 teenage boarding girls, but was immediately thrown into the completion of the planning and opening of a new building. To these tasks Clare brought calmness, diplomacy, great emotional intelligence, a readiness to work extremely hard, a sense of service to the girls in her care and to the community, commitment to the College’s Christian values and a wonderful sense of humour. These strengths were the cornerstones of her College career, enabling her to gain the respect of colleagues, pupils, the wider staff, governors and the three headmasters with whom she worked. Hardly surprising that she rose to be the first female Head of the College. For me, her wise counsel, her utter reliability, her common sense and her frankness were invaluable. Thank you Clare, and thank you Neil and Evan for sharing with us your wife and Mum.”

Roy Collard (Headmaster 94 - 12)

“We have made friends for life and I am eternally grateful to all those people who have supported me and the Tilleys throughout that time”

Obituaries

Our thoughts and condolences are with friends and family of the following OWs who sadly passed away in 2022.

He became a godfather to my eldest son, Timothy (1980 - 1982 at Worksop) and the last meeting I had with him was when he and Sally made a visit to Devon in the 1980s, and Anne and I had a pub meal with them.

So many memories - David was too a keen sailor, and we can be confident that he has now reached the harbour of God’s love.

P 64 – 67

Richard passed away on 9th April 2022, having been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1976. Following Worksop, he studied computing and went on to have a career in Computer Engineering for a British company, undertaking a Government contract in Zagreb. Richard went on to marry Julia, with her accompanying him to the former Yugoslavia.

Due to ill health, a change of career was made into the Civil Service, and it was during this time that his fraternal twins were born. Richard was heavily involved during the Falklands War in his role with the Civil Service, but some years later, due to the progressive nature of his MS, he took medical retirement. Richard continued to do voluntary work with Age Concern Insurance from his home office until 2005 when he was no longer able to work.

Richard made lifelong friends while at school and often recalled his time at Worksop College. He is survived by his son and daughter.

Words by Robin Ellis (P 49 – 54 / SCR 63 – 66)

Veterinary surgeon Andrew Neil McCormick died peacefully on Monday 2 May 2022 at Craighead Nursing Home, Newport on Tay, aged 97 years.

After war broke, Neil joined the Royal Air Force in 1943. He gained his wings in a Gypsy Moth before finally flying Lancaster heavy bombers. Like many of that era he preferred to keep those memories to himself. Neill was never one for pomp and ceremony.

Following the war, Neil resumed his education, qualifying at the Royal Dick Veterinary School, Edinburgh, in the 1950s.

Neil married Marjorie in 1955 and they moved to Dundee in 1959. They had four children, Andrew, Iain, Donald and Jill.

It is with sadness that we learn of the death of Ben Parkinson aged 92 years who was a member of the MCR for 20+ years and a regular visitor to the College after his retirement for concerts and to watch the first fifteen rugby team as long as his health allowed (and also to watch his two grandsons play various sports when they attended the College). Our gratitude to Ben for an admiral length of service to our community.

Former

Chaplain 62

– 68

When David Tonkin was elevated to Chaplain in 1963, I became his assistant for three years (1963-66). We enjoyed working together, and I think it fair to say that he always thought ‘outside the box’. Never stuffy, never given to false piety, and genial in approach, he nevertheless had a firm commitment to presenting the faith with determination and forthrightness.

He introduced A and O level Divinity as academic worth, sought preachers of calibre, and entered fully into college life, making friends with staff and pupils. It was an odd coincidence that we both had legal degrees, and both ended up as archdeacons, he in New Zealand, me in Plymouth.

Captain Joe Farmer was a man who dedicated his life to his family and country; full service in the armed forces and then he continued his career working within the CCF at Worksop College. Joe was known for his quick wit, pragmatic mind-set and the ability to command the attention of a room.

Worksop College held a special place in his heart and he would always share fond memories of his time there. He spoke highly of the staff he worked with and the students he taught and his family shall always remember Worksop College as being a momentous part of who Joe was.

Richard Powell

David Tonkin

Neil McCormick

Joe Farmer SCR 73 - 99

Ben Parkinson SCR 69 - 93

James Lowe

T 95 – 00

We are very sad to announce the death of James Lowe who was a student of both Ranby House and Worksop College from 1989 to 2000. James was well known for his good humour and charismatic approach to life, remaining close to many of his former school friends. Following Worksop, James went on to Newcastle University and graduated with a Degree in Architecture and Engineering. He later joined the family construction company in Rotherham where he pioneered the operations side of the business.

James lived locally in Bawtry until 2013 when he married and moved to North Yorkshire. Our thoughts and prayers go out to James’s father, Trevor, and to his two children Harry and Francesca. James will be greatly missed by many.

John Dickinson

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of former Garnett Dickinson and Rotherham Advertiser owner and chairman John Dickinson.

After leaving Worksop, John worked his way through the firm, tackling every job he could from sweeping up to compositing. He was appointed to the board of directors of Henry Garnett & Co in 1965 and took over as managing director in April 1980, remaining active as chairman until the company’s changeover to Regional Media Ltd and move back into Rotherham town centre.

Stephen Frank Booth S 57-60

Steve was born at Woodthorpe, Nottingham, in May 1944 and joined Shirley House, Worksop College in 1957. His introduction there to hockey resulted in a lifetime love of playing the game for, and ardent supporter of, one of this country’s leading clubs, Beeston Hockey Club. He was also a lifelong member of the Nottingham Services Club and latterly a playing member of Wollaton Park Golf Club.

After leaving Worksop Steve attended the Sorbonne University in Paris and joined the family’s Nottingham textile business in 1964, which he ran his entire working life. Marrying Monica in 1977, they and their four children regularly holidayed with his lifelong friend Mac Mace (Mg 57-60) who lived on Bryher, in the Isles of Scilly. Mac was proud to deliver a eulogy at Steve’s funeral, attended by more than 200 mourners.

Recent returns to Worksop would see Steve and Mac revisiting some of their memorable places of their College years; Clumber, Welbeck and Creswell Crags all left lifelong impressions.

Steve is survived by wife Monica, sons Joe and Michael and daughters Helen and Anna.

Martin Chapman

We are sad to announce the death of Martin Chapman on 31st July. Martin was a Governor of the school for over 20 years as well as being a parent to Andrew and Paul who attended between 90 –97.

Martin had a career that started on fishing trawlers, passed through the Merchant Navy and finally settled on him running a firm of financial advisors in Worksop. In whatever he did, he took great pleasure in helping people achieve.

Among his many talents, and ably supported by his wife Pat, Martin was a man who got things done, even when the doing of them didn’t seem particularly likely, or indeed possible! He was someone who always found a way and he brought this attitude of optimism into everything he did, including his years as a Governor.

Despite the ravages of Alzheimer’s over the last couple of years, Martin kept his well-known spark and fantastic sense of humour until the end, and passed with his family around him.

Among the many messages of condolences, from a wide spectrum of people, the words that came up again and again were that Martin was a lovely guy and that is how he will be remembered.

Michael Douglas Neville

T 58-60

On 3rd September 2022 we learned of the sudden passing of Michael Neville, from a heart attack, at his home, aged 78.

The huge number who attended his funeral, including many OWs, testified to his popularity and amply demonstrated the esteem and respect in which Michael was held in Rotary, Masonic, Church, bowling and other local circles throughout the greater Mansfield area.

After leaving Worksop, Michael trained as an engineer with Vauxhall Motors, joined the family company making truck bodies, eventually establishing his own highly successful business making roofs for train carriages, supplying such varying clients as London Underground and the Metro system in Hong Kong.

A practical man, he enjoyed sailing, canal boating, deep-sea diving and water-skiing. He built a magnificent model railway set and always enjoyed the challenges of solving the complicated wiring systems that ensured smooth running.

Michael was a born organiser, being responsible for the arrangements of numerous Rotary events and conferences, including overseas visits to exotic locations such as Nepal. Also a remarkable fundraiser, many charities benefitted from his efforts.

Michael always retained a huge interest in the College, both as a member of the OW Committee and as a long-time member of the OW Masonic Lodge. He was one of a very few to have served as Chairman of the Society (1989) and as Master of the Lodge (1982).

Michael leaves a widow, Yvonne, two sons, who both attended the College, and three grandchildren.

The perhaps overused expression ‘he will be sadly missed’ in respect of Michael is devastatingly true and sadly a serious understatement.

Simon Leighton

Mg

63 – 67

Simon achieved an RAF scholarship whilst at Worksop but in the end never took it up, preferring to join BOAC/BA with whom he flew long distance until his retirement in 2004. His great interest was always anything to do with cars, to which end he raced several types, rebuilt classic race cars and collected veteran ones. He was married three times but had no children; he and his third wife, Dot, had moved from Staines to Kidderminster a few years ago where he had just completed a large renovation on their new home.

Harvey Holehouse M 19 - 20

As a community we were absolutely heartbroken to hear the tragic news of the passing of OW Harvey Holehouse. A much loved and respected member of the College, Harvey re-joined Worksop in the Sixth Form in 2019 in Mason House, having started at Ranby in 2011 and left in 2020 after completing his A-Levels.

Harvey tragically lost his life on 22nd September after being involved in a car collision in Southwell. The beloved son of Charles and Jenny, brother of Ben and twin to Sophie, his family describe him as “an incredible person who saw the best in everyone, bringing joy and a smile to everybody that he met.”

Tragically taken far too soon, our love and deepest condolences are with Harvey’s family and friends at this incredibly painful time.

Christopher John Frederick Taylor

S

62 - 65

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts we announce the passing of my father on Tuesday 22nd November.

Mum, Katie and I were by his side at the end, which was really quite beautiful.

Dad, in his own words, had a truly wonderful and blessed life. He loved his family, was so thankful to have made many friends across the world, and was also extremely proud of his working family.

He became unwell towards the end of 2019 and was eventually diagnosed a year ago with Sensory Motor Axonal Neuropathy, a muscle and nerve wasting condition, and his body had progressively deteriorated.

Time and again he told us that life was all about adventure, and we are so grateful for the happy memories and experiences we can treasure.

He lived to work, creating successful businesses, leaving a legacy we, as a family, will strive to nurture. He was a proud and brave man, with a huge heart and a strong faith.

Words by Christopher’s son, James Taylor, P 86 – 91

David Robinson

M 92 – 97

It is with a massively heavy heart that my family must announce we had to say an unexpected and gut-wrenching goodbye to our son, brother and fiancé David Robinson (M 92-97) who passed away on 5th May 2022.

David attended Ranby House (90 - 92) and then continued onto Worksop where he joined in the family tradition of being in Mason house under House Master John Driver where he became Head of House in his final year. After David left Worksop, he went on to attend Writtle Agricultural College where he achieved his degree in agriculture before embarking on a trip of a lifetime to Australia. He travelled the continent for a year before getting sponsored by a large family farm (90,000 acres) in Western Australia where he spent the next four years gaining massive experience in large scale farming. On returning home David took on the huge responsibility of running the family arable farm, alongside his Father, Peter Robinson (M6165).

David was due to marry his fiancée Rachael before this tragic accident took him too soon. He will always be in our hearts and memories.

Words by Catherine Robinson (G 89 – 92)

We also pay our respects to:

John (Jack) Laine SH 42 – 49

Vincent Edwards SCR 47 - 54

John Hugh William Beardwell MG 49 – 55

Richard John Mason S 54 – 57

Andrew Hall SCR

Guy Blackburn P 39 – 44

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OW NEWS

January

FRED COPESTAKE (P 80-83) launched his second book in January, ‘Hybrid Selling - How salespeople can use a complete approach to drive opportunities in the new world of sales’. The book covers:The essentials of selling as a foundation for winning business - The virtual selling techniques and innovative tools that can give you an edge - How to manage sales opportunities based on delivering outcomes - Why salespeople must embrace the skill of leading customers - What value really is and how to create it with – and for – customers - The key elements needed to expand meaningful business relationships. His ambition is to hit best seller status as part of the drive to build his platform to share information to help salespeople grow. He has assured us that everyone can take something from this book, even if it is just enjoying the story of Harry and Larry – two sales guys who have to navigate the rapidly changing world of sales!

In January, LUKE SHAW-BROWNE (M 03-07) was shooting out in Lincolnshire with a team near Grantham. After the day had finished, four of the team were standing at the bar in the shoot lodge, chatting. After a while of talking the group got onto the topic of schools and it turned out that they had all been at Worksop College and all in Mason at different times! They took a picture to mark this brilliant coincidence. From left to right: John Ireland (M 88-93), Frank Reynolds (M 54-58), David Theaker (M 61-65) and Luke Shaw-Browne (M 03-07).

So great to see OWs reuniting in January – 35 years after they were at the college together, KERSTIN WILSON (D 83-86) and ED BIRCHMORE (M 83-89) met up in London. This wasn’t the first time they’d ‘met’ in recent years - they, along with a group of their school chums, chat regularly on Zoom! We love to hear these stories.

How exciting is this? OLLIE KAIPERLEACH (T 08-14) released his first ever single on January 15th! You can now listen to ‘Telescopic Girl’ on your favourite streaming platform.

February

In February, OW KARSON HO (P 95-97) provided and installed the first LED stage for Hong Kong movie’s virtual production, replacing the green screen! The XR LED stage can change to any scene for a movie. It’s 11 meters wide and 4 meters high. What an achievement!

Sisters AMELIA AMY WELLS (SH 13-17) and JESSICA WELLS (SH 11-13) opened their own beautiful bakery! The Little Brunette Bakery in Southwell opened on 26th February. Such an incredible achievement for these ambitious sisters!

March

March saw OW MCKENZIE BRAILSFORD (S 14-20) fly his first solo flight as he works towards his Private Pilot’s Licence with Yorkshire Aero Club, flying out of Doncaster Sheffield Airport and Sandtoft Airfield in a Cessna 150.

It was great to see OW SANDY FULTON (S 65 - 70) in March! Sandy came into the college for a visit with his lovely family. We couldn’t resist getting this photograph of Sandy under his name on the Captains of School board! Sandy was the last School Captain under Northcote Green.

Molly Halmshaw (G 10-15), Annie Clarke (G 10-13) and Carla Hinrichs (G 12-13) were all in Gibbs House together and shared a room in 2013. The friends arranged to meet up in London almost ten years after their school days together. Annie travelled from Leicestershire, which is a big journey in itself, but not compared to Carla’s journey from Frankfurt, Germany! We love to see this dedication!

April

Friends reunited! Great to see former members of staff ADAM GUTTERIDGE AND SAM KOONE, along with former Headmaster, GAVIN HORGAN, join current members of staff WILL ROBINSON and OLI DANE, along with Will’s son HUW, for a trip to Skiddaw House in the Lake District. As always, the Lakes never fail to disappoint and the group was treated to a weekend of breath-taking views and good company.

After a two-year break, it was fantastic to see our students and staff (including OW OLI DANE) take on the challenge that is St Cuthbert’s Way. For those of you who don’t know, St Cuthbert’s Way is a 100-kilometre long-distance trail between the Scottish Borders town of Melrose and Lindisfarne off the coast of Northumberland, and is a real test of endurance. The route takes in some beautiful countryside, including the banks of the River Tweed and the foothills of the Cheviot Hills, and visits important historic sites such as Dryburgh Abbey and St Cuthbert’s Cave.

The event took place in April, as opposed to September, which made for much wetter, colder conditions underfoot and over the hills. It was a tremendous achievement by all and they are already looking forward to next year’s event.

May

It was great to see OWs KARANJIT BANSAL (P 0609) and JOE ROOT (Pt 06-09) catching up! Karanjit’s overseas player was net bowling against the Yorkshire batsman, offering an opportunity for the pair to have a chat

A huge congratulations to MCKENZIE BRAILSFORD (S 14-20), PHOEBE LEACH (D 12-17), DOMINIC LEACH (T 1320) and James Payne (T 13-19) who collected their Gold DofE Awards earlier this year. “It’s a huge personal achievement,” Dom told us. “It’s one of those opportunities that you just have to make the most of!” What better place to receive this award than Buckingham Palace!

April marked 25 years since NICK GAYWOOD introduced SIMON LANGLEY (T 96-01) to squash at the college, and they’re still playing all these years later.

If you watched the FA Cup Final in May, you will know that Liverpool won after beating Chelsea on a penalty shootout. But, did you know that our very own DAVID COOTE (Pt 95-00) was the fourth official?

PHIL BOULTON (M 03-05) retired from professional rugby, after 6 years and 120 caps for Coventry Rugby Club! He has played rugby since his school days, playing Championship level while at Worksop College. Congratulations on your impressive career, Philwe wish you the very best in the future!

June

OW cricket was back after a three-year break and what a game it was! The OW side scored 167, with the 1st XI needing 24 off the final over. Thanks to current student ALFIE BELL, who ended up with 94 not out, the 1st team won by two wickets! So great to welcome back OWs; TIM SMITH, DANNY MCLEAN, WILL ULLYOTT, TOM ULLYOTT, NIC KEAST, TOM KEAST, JOSH PORTER, OLLY BLACKBURN, OLIVER WILSON and CHRISTIAN BEAUMONT.

Great to welcome back OW BEN MORRIS. Ben is in his second year at Northumbria University in Newcastle studying Digital Networks and Cyber Security. He is currently doing an internship in retail project management for his second year break.

Such a delight to welcome back OW GRETA TORKA CABALLERO who came over from Germany in the autumn term of 2020 to study. Despite being tarnished by Covid, Greta thoroughly enjoyed her time here and spoke so highly of the friends she made, and the staff who cared for her, during what was a really tricky time. Good luck with your studies Greta, and we look forward to seeing you again.

June was a big month for OW SIMON LANGLEY (T 96 – 01) as he finally met his OW idol, JACK BUCKNER (T 75 –80). Simon has an extensive knowledge of all things Worksop, but is particularly passionate about athletics, and more importantly, the stats around all the sports. Simon has worked tirelessly keeping our records up to date and is the creator of an impressive digital record of the history of the Dorm Run and all its winners. Jack Buckner dominated the track in the 1980s, taking gold at the European Championships in the 5000m in 1986. However, it is his longstanding record with the Dorm Run that has remained untouchable since he shook up the course in 1980 with a time of 18:35 (4:53 splits). The pair met at the British Athletics Championships in Manchester.

In June, OLY WANSEY (Pt 1996-2001), son of Tessa and David Wansey (ex Ranby Headmaster), completed 100 sea dips in 100 days! His aim was to raise money for Dorset Mind - a charity doing amazing work for something so close to all of our hearts. Amazing achievement.

OW

(P

completed a charity bike ride from London to Paris, raising money for Family Action. It took him four days to complete the entire journey!

JOE SHAKESPEARE

08-13)

The annual OW Golf Day took place on 7th June at Worksop Golf Club with 27 Old Worksopians taking to the course. A great day was had by all, with the winners and scores for each category listed below:

Blake Scratch Trophy

Best Gross Peter Wheatcroft 72 points

Second Lee Rose 77 points

Butlin Cup

Best Net score Max Brigham 73 points

Second Richard Christian 74 points

The Wilks Cup

Best Stableford David Griffiths 38 points

Second Paul McGill 37 points

The Drake Cup (over 65s)

Chris Sampson 30 points

The Portland Cup (over 70s)

Robert Oldfield 31 points

Date for your diary: next year’s event will be held at Lindrick Golf Club on Monday 8th May 2023

July

LAURA RITUCCI (D 98-03) and SARAH DICKINSON (D 98-03) both found their love for netball on the Worksop College netball courts. In June they had the chance to play in a tournament held at the College, reliving their youth on the courts where it all began! We hope it was a brilliant day of reminiscing ladies!

Wonderful photo from MURIEL TAYLOR’S 100th Birthday in June! Left to right shows IAIN DODSON (M 62-67), MIKE FRANCE (S 62-67), LANCE TAYLOR (Mgt 63-68) and SIMON CORLETT (P 63-68)! Muriel’s attachment to Worksop does not end there as she was wife to J.L. TAYLOR (Mgt 32-39) and sister-in-law to K.TAYLOR (Mgt 31-38) and A.TAYLOR (38-44).

August

At age 81, BERTIE MATHER (S 55-59) walked up Ingleborough in West Yorkshire to the pothole, Gaping Hill. This is the deepest chamber in England – 380 feet and is said to be large enough to take St Paul’s Cathedral.

Great to see this group of gentlemen reuniting at OW STUART KINCH’S 50th birthday for him and his wife. Left to right; ANDREW MCHALE (S 85-90), STUART KINCH (Mg 85-89), BEN PATMORE (S 86-90), ROBERT BARLOW (S 8589) and JASON BARNSDALE (Mg 85-89).

Can you guess who these rucksacks belong to? July marked JACK BUCKNER’S (T 7580) first day at British Athletics as CEO! Best of luck from the Old Worksopian community, Jack!

An OW SCR reunion at Mount Kelly Speech Day in Tavistock, Devon. ROGER GEE, ANDREW BEAL and BOB BATEMANall looking great!

So wonderful to see RHIANNON LAY (née Hartill) (S 98 -03), HANNAH GALLI (née Collard) (D 98 – 03) and CLAIRE DAVIS (née Richardson) (S 98 – 03) come together this summer with their children in tow. With Hannah over from Switzerland, it was the first time all the children had met. The ladies have been friends right through Ranby and Worksop (going on for over 25 years) as you can see from the photographs. A friendship to last a lifetime and full of lovely memories – how wonderful for those friendships to be continued with their children.

September

It was so lovely to hear from SUE POWELL, Housemistress of Derry from 2008-2017. In late summer Sue was joined in Spain by LIZ WARNER and CLARE TILLEY, where they enjoyed good food, better company, and some ‘proper belly laughs’, according to Sue. We wanted to hear more about their Worksop College memories, so she let us in on a little secret... “We were making a calendar for Roy Collard’s retirement and, with the help of his wife Jayne, we got the keys to his office whilst he was at Ranby and took over! We sat at his desk with his slippers on and feet up, pretend files scattered all over. We also pretended to be looking at his computer screen with pretend glasses of wine. We took loads of pictures for the calendar and when we gave it to Roy he was completely overwhelmed. We never laughed so much.” Who else wants to be the fourth member of this dream team?

In September we welcomed the following staff to our community:

• Emily Belshaw, Teacher of History

• Shane Bradwell, Teacher of Maths

• Sarah Dewar Watson, Teacher of English

• William Hearne, Head of Hockey and Teacher of PE

• Tom Massen, Teacher of Science

• Charlotte Robertson, Teacher of Maths

• Rev’d Dr David Standen, Teacher of Classics

• Linda Vickarage, Psychology Teacher

• Harriet Talbot, Resident Graduate - Sports

• Robert Boardman - Sport Graduate

• Christian Beaumont - Sport Graduate

• McKenzie Brailsford - Sport Graduate

• Ngoni Masiyakurima - Music Graduate

• Kenda Bradbury, Teaching Assistant

• Emily Harlington, Teaching Assistant

• Gail Hopson, Teaching Assistant

• Sarah Shelley, Teaching Assistant

Wonderful to hear from JAMES HOGG (Pt 86 - 91) who met with classmate ANDY GOOD (Pt 98 - 73) to watch their sons play hockey together!

“We both have a massive love of hockey that started at Worksop College - I started in the learners and played for the 1st team, and Andy actually captained the 1st team in 1973,” James told us.

Their boys have played together for the North East U13s, and City of York U14s, getting to two national hockey finals in the last two years. It is a great opportunity for the old friends to get together to watch them play, and to reminisce on the good old Worksop days!

Such a joy to catch up with OW HARRIET GRACE – one talented lady, running her own successful events company, Accept Management Ltd.

We talked all things events, and I heard Harriet’s experience of being involved in the events team which ran the State Funeral of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Looking forward to some collaborations in the future for sure!

Congratulations to SIMON LANGLEY (T 96 - 01) who won the plate at the 2021 Cheshire Squash Rackets Closed Championships. He currently captains the first team at Knutsford Squash Club who play in division two of the North West Counties Squash League, and has been invited to play for the Cheshire over 35s team.

Simon came to squash relatively late and started playing at Worksop in the Lower VI under Bob Bateman and Nick Gaywood. He cites both coaches as the reason he’s still involved with the sport and still plays Nick at Abbeydale when cricket doesn’t get in the way.

Here’s Simon as part of the winning Talbot house senior squash team from 2000, which wasn’t far off the school first team: (back row) JP McNulty, James Oldershaw with Fernando Rey, Simon and Charlie Brackley on the bottom row.

October

Quite the year for JACK ROBINSON (P 06-11) who not only completed the London Marathon in early October, but was also married earlier in the year to school sweetheart Jess Docherty (G 06 – 11). Congratulations both!

It was wonderful to be visited by OW MICHAEL MORRIS, who hasn’t been back to the college since his time here in the 50s!

It was great to reminisce with Michael on his days in Shirley House. He told us stories of his mischief - waiting for movies in the Theatre until he and his friends went down into Worksop and hit the pubs. At the end of the tour, I couldn’t let Michael leave without a good old Worksop College lunch! We sat with our current prefects and had a good old natter.

Lovely moment as generations of Ranbians attended the Ranby House Michaelmas service at Eucharist!

Here you see ROBERT ASHTON (P 88-93) photographed with his parents, wife, and son, who is a Ranbian himself. It was ever so kind of Robert’s parents to donate a new gospel book to the school - lovely to see the impact Ranby House has had on just one family, still within the community after all those years!

A huge congratulations to MATTHEW MCCLUNE (M 09-14) who received funding for his start up business, The Build Chain. This is an online platform that connects contractors nationally, with suppliers locally in the UK construction sector through one centralised digital dashboard.

Matt’s initial idea came about in 2020, when Covid hit and the construction sector was forced to adapt to digital technology to continue doing business. This provided a great opportunity for Matt and his team to accelerate the development of the idea, adapting to the ever-changing market!

Impressively, The Build Chain has now attracted interest from the biggest builders’ merchants in the UK – what an achievement!

October saw MATT PARKER (P 08-11) complete the London Marathon, raising a whopping £1119 for Cystic Fibrosis Trust. “It was the hardest thing I have done but I am so glad I have done it. Extremely emotional when I crossed the finishing line and I felt proud of myself even if the time wasn’t the best. I want to say a huge thank you to everyone for all their support through kind words and encouragement, or donating to the CF Trust who I ran on behalf of,” said Matt.

It was great to see so many familiar and new faces at the London Stay Connected drinks! There were so many wonderful connections made, from time at school to current careers. Best of all, it was great to have a good old catch up!

The fabulous 50s! What a fantastic afternoon we had at the 50s reunion luncheon hosted here at the college. Over 50 OWs joined us for a poignant and moving service in the Chapel, followed by a three course luncheon in the Great Hall. Really special times with many OWs who had not been back for many many years. So much history in one room with many tales to be told and many friends reuniting. A special event that I will always remember.

I spent a fantastic morning with MICHAEL ANDREWS (P 70-73) and his lovely wife Ingrid. Michael told me of the memories he had of his days at the college, before leaving ahead of Sixth Form to join the Royal Navy! He is Captain for the Merchant Navy and has sailed the world. I loved hearing of his knowledge of nautical navigation, although I must admit it had my head in a bit of a spin! This was Michael’s first time back to the college since 1985 - I hope it lived up to the memories.

Having retired from legal practice at the age of 76, BERTRAM MATHER (S 55-59) was invited by his former colleagues to attend the Law Society Dinner. During presentations, to his utter surprise and delight, he was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to Criminal and Prison law and for being a forceful advocate in encouraging women to join a profession historically seen as a man’s world, and, inter alia, attending local schools in mock C.V. interviews, encouraging many young students to pursue a career in Law.

A wonderful reunion visit by old friends; PETER SHUTTLEWORTH, JONATHAN LEACH, CHRIS BALL, GRAHAM BRIGGS, PAUL ROSE and JEREMY LEVINE. The group meet every year for a get together and this year decided to venture right down memory lane with a trip up the drive and round the cloisters. Most of them have been friends since they were just eight years old at Ranby and remain firm friends now. Many stories to be told and many laughs had – what a great group of gentlemen.

A fabulous evening spent on the last evening of November at the beautiful Bawtry Hall for our annual Bawtry get-together! The venue is stunning and guests were treated to a selection of canapes and fizz for the evening.

Many familiar faces and many new ones too. Particularly special to see former members of staff JOHN DRIVER and BOB BATEMAN together.

December

Rave reviews for OW FINLAY MCGUIGAN (S 05-10) as he took to the stage in a ‘charismatic performance’ playing the character of Simon in Jack and the Beanstalk at the Hammersmith Theatre in London. Former Captain of School, Finn, always shone bright on the stage and we were delighted to see him take one of the lead panto parts this year!

Tomo Sugiyama From Student to Mentor

Owing to the strong community feel within the school, it is not uncommon to have students returning to the college with a PGCE in hand and a teaching job in mind. This year alone we have welcomed back Charlotte Robertson (D 12-17), Christian Beaumont (S 15-20), McKenzie Brailsford (S 14-20), and Tomo Sugiyama (M 13-18) – all joining the teaching team. Once he’d settled back in, we caught up with Tomo to find out what had led him back to the college.

Why did you want to join the team at Worksop College?

I came to study in the UK from Japan when I was 14 –Worksop College was my home in the UK and the teachers were like my parents and constant role models. Since leaving, I always hoped I would be able to help and give back - doing what I can for the school. I am truly delighted to be working at Worksop College. I am also delighted to see that those who were Year 7 while I was a prefect, are now prefects themselves. I can’t hide my amazement at how tall they have grown - to the point where they can now look down on me!

When I came to the UK, I had lots of great times as well as difficulties, such as overcoming the language barrier, culture shock and homesickness. These things were difficult, but I know that they made me stronger. I hope to use this experience to give advice to international students and support them physically and mentally.

What has your professional career been so far?

During my time at Worksop College, I was given the opportunity to express myself through art. I fell in love with art and wanted to take further study at university, as it allowed me to express my thoughts to audiences through visual language. After a year on the Foundation Course at Manchester Metropolitan University, where I experienced many art media, I opted for a threeyear course in Illustration and Animation. During my time at university, I designed the logo for a total dog care company and completed several design commissions. In June this year, I graduated from university with a First-Class Honours Degree. I would like to use this experience to support the Art department at Worksop College, specialising in digital art.

Name something you are excited to get stuck into.

As well as painting, which I love, I am now using my experience to encourage more Japanese students to become interested in studying in the UK. I dream about deepening exchanges between Japan and the UK, and eventually organising school trips to Japan, thus I would like to open rugby tournaments between Japanese and British schools.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given so far?

The number one piece of advice is to “believe in yourself”, which is something my mother told me. Believing in myself is what got me to be able to work as a graduate assistant at a great school with a long history. Thank you for giving me this precious opportunity. I am still inexperienced, but I would like to ask for your continued support and guidance. Thank you very much.

An OW, current member of staff, and graduate of Illustration and Animation – we thought there was no better person to design this year’s front cover. Here’s what Tomo had to say about the piece:

“The impact of Covid-19 continued to hamper our lives in 2021-2022. This was the motif for the background, which was shaped to look like a flying virus, while the camouflage background colours are to depict the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The portrait represents the sadness and loneliness of the passing of many world figures and leaders of the year, however, I hope that it also shows people moving forward and coming together again.

Finally, I used the Japanese word ‘kizuna’ in the top left hand corner, meaning enduring bonds between people - close relationships forged through mutual trust and support. The Kizuna created at Worksop College are an irreplaceable asset and something I treasure in my life.”

2022 HIGHLIGHTS

ooking back at some of the higlights of 2022 from both Worksop College and Ranby House.

January

Swimmers from Worksop College and Ranby House attain a clean sweep of results at the Nottinghamshire County Swimming Championships, achieving their personal best times and Regional Qualification times.

April

February

Worksop College played host to the ISA Cross Country Finals, with hundreds of schools travelling to compete, and students from Worksop College and

House taking to the podium on many occasions.

May

Year 10 students dusted off their hiking boots and gathered their camping supplies in a bid to complete their Silver DofE qualifier, taking on the Edale Valley area of Derbyshire. By the end of the trip, students had completed the necessary three days and two nights qualifying expedition, meaning their Silver qualifier was accomplished.

Ranby

Ranby House welcomed poet Paul Cookson as guest speaker at Speech Day. The ceremony was a brilliant way to come together at the end of the academic year, recognise student achievements, and hear some live poetry.

Ranby House student Anya became the youngest horse rider to ever win the Springboard Final at the Pony Winter Finals.

Worksop College took on Kings Macclesfield at the England Hockey Boys’ Schools Championship, turning on some excellent bright attacking hockey to take a 8-0 win.

July

Students completed development of the community garden in Manton, after an entire academic year of volunteering. The garden is now open to the public, offering a beautiful space to residents and community groups across the area.

October

A group of Worksop College’s most dedicated runners took on St Cuthbert’s Way - from Melrose Abbey all the way to Lindisfarne. St. Cuthbert’s Way bridges the national border between Scotland and England, the inspiring 100km crossborder route links Melrose in the Scottish Borders, where St. Cuthbert, the Patron Saint of the College Chapel, started his religious life in 650AD!

August

Following the return to normality, this year’s GCSE and A-Level students have been the first group to physically sit their exams since the beginning of the pandemic. Despite this, students achieved a remarkable crop of results, with 92.8% of GCSE students achieving 9-4 grades, and 83.2% of A-Level students achieving grades A*-C.

November

Worksop College swimmers competed in the ISA Midlands Swimming Competition. The boys managed to win overall, and the girls achieved bronze – amazing considering they had a fair few absences in the team.

September

Worksop College launched Girls’ Football Academy in partnership with England Lioness Jill Scott MBE. As well as opportunities to accelerate their football training and knowledge, the two-year programme gives young women access to the Sixth Form curriculum – offering vocational qualifications alongside traditional A level options, facilitating something akin to the programme afforded to boys at pro clubs.

A very special memory was made during December at Ranby House, as the main man visited our pupils on the final day of term before Christmas.

Commonwealth Games OUR UNSUNG HEROES

In the summer of this year, the Commonwealth Games swooped and turned Birmingham into a hive of activity – athletes from across the world descended on the city, while visitors came in their thousands to take in a piece of the action. However, what we didn’t necessarily hear of is the effort of 14,000 volunteers, working tirelessly in the background to ensure the event ran as smoothly as possible. We caught up with OWs Phoebe Leach (D 12-17), Chris Ball (Pt 73-78) and Elizabeth Birdsall (G 97-00), who each volunteered at the games in a different capacity.

What prompted you to volunteer during the Commonwealth Games?

P: I live in Birmingham and, having spent the previous 5 years studying and making my career in sport, I felt it would be too good an opportunity to miss.

C: I love sport and wanted to be involved in the Commonwealth Games as it was happening in Birmingham, which is where I have lived for the past 25 years. I visited the London 2012 Olympics and saw what a difference the volunteers made to the whole games experience, as well as knowing a few people who had been volunteers in 2012. As I am now semi-retired I was able to commit the time to be able to do a volunteering role to support the Birmingham Games.

What did your job role involve?

P: My role was Sports Massage Therapist to the Athletes and I was as based at the Athletes village in Warwick.

C: I did two different roles. The first was as part of the 450 strong team that interviewed the 25,000 applicants who put themselves forward to be volunteers for the Birmingham CWG. This ran from September to December 2021. The second role was during the Games, when I was part of

the Media Team as a Mixed Zone Team Member: we were responsible for collecting competitors after their games and taking them to members of the media who had asked to interview them. I did this on all 11 days of the Games and spent most of my time at the hockey. Hockey is my sport, as I still play for the Sutton Coldfield Hockey Club, so was very happy to spend all my time watching world class hockey and then interact with the players.

What was a stand-out moment for you during your volunteering?

P: The whole experience was something you simply cannot buy. Some stand-out moments were working pitch side as the New Zealand Women’s Rugby 7s team trained; massaging athletes from all over the world. My first massage was a swimmer from Namibia and my last was a triathlete from Mauritius. The memory that stands out the most was getting to know some mountain bikers from Gibraltar and ending up on an impromptu night out in Coventry with them! I’m still in touch with them now, and we have plans to meet up next summer.

C: Whilst doing the interviews of the prospective volunteers, I was “bowled over” by the range and depth of volunteering that people had done, and how they had gone out of their way to help others. Some of the people I interviewed made me feel very humble.

During the games it had to be the England Women winning the Gold Medal and the Men the Bronze Medal. I had asked the England Hockey Media Attaché if it would be possible to get a photo with Sam Ward and Tom Sorsby who were playing for England, and were both OWs. She arranged this after they had won the Bronze Medal match when the whole place was buzzing with excitement.

Did you manage to catch up with any OWs while you were there?

P: I didn’t meet any OWs while volunteering but I was able to watch a few of the events as a spectator, including both the Hockey Finals where England Women won Gold and the Men won Bronze. It was very cool to watch live as Tom Sorsby and Sam Ward represented the college.

C: The photo I got with Sam Ward and Tom Sorsby was special, but they weren’t my peers at Worksop. During the Games I also caught up with Peter Shuttleworth (Pt 197378) who came to see some of the matches. We have stayed in touch as we were great friends at both Ranby and Worksop, and were in Pt together.

Why would you encourage others to volunteer?

P: Volunteering is such an essential part of events such as the Commonwealth Games. I think those who volunteer are there because they want to be. There’s no obligation to work and no incentive other than to carry out your role to the best of your ability. You get to meet people from all backgrounds, with so many stories to tell. I learned so much, made some invaluable contacts and shared experiences with people, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

C: I was part of a great volunteering team during the Games, and was proud to be able to play a very small part in helping Birmingham to put on a phenomenally successful Commonwealth Games. It was nice to be able to “give a little something back” to the area I have lived in for 25 years. The comments from the public as we moved around the city in our volunteer uniforms showed how much they appreciated what we were doing to support the Games. I had a great time, met some wonderful people, and enjoyed being part of a great Games. I can highly recommend it to everyone and will be looking for other volunteering opportunities.

Commonwealth Games : Our Unsung Heroes

Another OW to have volunteered at the Commonwealth Games is Liz Birdsall (G 97-00) who volunteered in the Swimming and Para-Swimming Field of Play Team, helping the Technical Officials in their role.

“Hard work, persistence and a fascination with aquatics, has got me here,” said Liz. “The feeling that I get, standing in the presence of world class athletes, is something I struggle to put into words.”

Bawtry Hall

Bawtry Hall is the perfect corporate location for your conference, away day, team building or dinner.

The space is exclusively yours to hire, with an experienced team ready to put together a bespoke event based on your requirements. In 2023, teams are often disjointed, with multiple office locations, and colleagues working from home or hybrid working. Reconnect at Bawtry Hall, with a residential meeting, dinner and overnight accommodation. Impress customers and clients by meeting and dining with the grandeur of the private grounds.

Why Bawtry Hall?

• Bawtry Hall is simply stunning and will create lasting memories of your event. Though hundreds of years old, the modern and elegant décor of Bawtry Hall is the perfect juxtaposition. With reclaimed oak flooring throughout, elegant, ornate mirrors and chandeliers, to the indoor seven metre blossom tree near the grand staircase, Bawtry Hall is the perfect canvas to create your corporate event.

• You have exclusive use – your event is just for you and your guests so you have complete privacy. The team’s focus is to ensure your event is perfect for you.

• A bespoke plan and costing will be created for your event. No event is ever the same, so please talk through your objectives and goals and the Bawtry Hall events team will put this together for you with a plan and quote.

• Bawtry Hall is easily accessible from the A1 / M18 & M1 and mainline train stations, with Doncaster and Retford being just 8 miles away. Free car parking is available, as well as accommodation at The Crown Hotel Bawtry, which has 77 bedrooms.

events@bawtryhall.co.uk

01302 710341

bawtryhall.co.uk

@bawtry_hall

@bawtryhall

OWs in the spotlight

The Publics

From classroom to capacity gigs; we spoke to Elliot Stephenson (M 12 – 19) about his up-and-coming band ‘The Publics’, which consists of not one, not two, but three members of the Worksop College community.

During our sixth-form years, Josh Porter (S 09 – 19) and I would spend our Monday evenings in Portland with former French teacher Mr Guillaud. Using the small music room he had created, we would play music with the younger members of the college – including a baby-faced Ebony Broughton (D, L6). After several months of playing together we began to write our own music, taking influence from many of our favourite artists including Arctic Monkeys, The Killers and Catfish and the Bottlemen. Following two singles, an EP, several gigs and countless broken guitar strings we decided to take the band to the next level, redefining our sound and promoting Ebony to a full-time member of the group.

Our current line-up consists of Josh on lead vocals and guitar, Ebony Broughton on keys and vocals, and myself, Elliot Stephenson, on lead guitar. When performing live we are joined by session musicians, however we are solely responsible for our song writing and the management of the band.

Since the pandemic, the band has reached new heights. Following the release of our latest single ‘Marathon in Heels’, we have performed to crowds of up to 2500 including sold out gigs at the 02 Institute in Birmingham, Rough Trade Nottingham, and a high-profile show with Sheffield band, The Reytons.

Performing in, and managing, a band has an unimaginable number of challenges. However, the countless hours sitting in traffic, sore backs from carrying heavy equipment up endless staircases, and nights spent performing to just the sound technician, are heavily outweighed by the ecstasy of having large crowds sing your lyrics back to you and the fact you get to travel the country with your best mates!

On December 9th of 2022 we released our latest single ‘Young Hearts’, which is available on iTunes and all major streaming services alongside our current music. All our gigs are announced over on our Instagram and Facebook pages (@thepublicsofficial). We are currently planning our biggest headline show to date, so be sure to drop us a follow as we’d love to see some new faces in the crowd!

#UpTheLics

SPEAK UP STAND OUT Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Feeling like you belong and are valued is essential, especially in an environment such as school. The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion group want all pupils, staff and the wider community of Worksop College to feel comfortable, appreciated and reassured that they can confidently express themselves and be who they are. A main aim of the EDI group is to ensure that the school is shaped by more voices, and for everyone to be content within the environment at school.

The questions around EDI are very topical and are at the heart of life as a young person, then carried with them through life. Several topics relevant to current events and issues have been discussed between the group, from organising events that include the community, to reviewing and adjusting our current policies. This group grants a positive and essential opportunity to discuss topics important to oneself and others, consequently evolving one’s understanding of others’ viewpoints.

One of the first steps taken towards more equity was the amendments made to the uniform and appearance policies. At the end of the academic year 2019/2020, a group of forward-thinking pupils put forward suggestions to our Senior Leadership Team in order to modernise our rules and make them less gendered. This resulted in girls being allowed to wear trousers and ties, and both boys and girls being permitted to dye their hair natural colours.

Less than a year after its official creation, the EDI group has already made significant progress regarding several short-term goals, and large steps towards our current long-term goals. Some of this progress includes releasing a full Statement of Intent to the whole school community (parents, pupils, teachers and Governors), along with assisting and planning events and speeches for heritage days and months, such as International Women’s Day and Pride Month celebrations. For the latter, several external speakers came to address the pupils throughout the month of June. Our chaplain Father Matthew even invited Jeremy Pemberton, a former Church of England priest whose permission to officiate was revoked due to his entering into a same-sex marriage. The members of the EDI group felt privileged to be able to meet Jeremy after his sermon and ask him questions.

The school also supported LGBT+ Service Nottinghamshire, a Worksop charity that provides immensely important one to one and group support for LGBTQ+ young people and their parents, covering a wide range of topics from accepting one’s sexuality to tackling discrimination. More than a thousand pounds were raised with only two cake sales!

More recently, the Black History Month showcase was revived after being put on hold for a couple of years due to the Covid-19 restrictions. Pupils from all year groups were given the opportunity to complete a variety of creative and informative projects to celebrate our Black history.

The response and engagement were incredibly positive! The contributions ranged from poetry, to art, videos, posters, speeches and live singing performances. All the creations were put on display for a week in the school Library and the whole community was invited to go for an inquisitive wander.

In order to shed light on the importance of Black history in a different way, a selection of films and documentaries were shown in all houses on a Wednesday night, and the Theatre was used every lunchtime for a week to show various shorts and videos, for pupils to drop in and watch. Another key decision that was made was to go into partnership with Inclusion Labs, an external consultancy firm that offers support and resources to schools on their EDI journey. One of the main services they offer is the conducting of a very thorough whole-school audit which enables us to have a clear picture of where to focus our actions at the College.

It is most exciting and inspiring to see that EDI is quickly becoming an inseparable part of Worksop College’s history. This is physically true also, with the posters created for the Pride Month cake sales and the Black History Month celebrations already being a part of the school’s archives. No such thing like the EDI has ever been so passionately attempted in the last 127 years. As the Worksop College community, together we will continue to work relentlessly to ensure that everyone has a voice on the matters that affect us. Even though we are only at the beginning of our EDI journey, we know that our passionate desire to shape tomorrow’s school and global citizens are all we need to make a difference in the long term.

Words by Matthias Mora, Teacher of French, and Clarissa Wheeler, Year 10 (D)

As the Worksop College community, together we will continue to work relentlessly to ensure that everyone has a voice on the matters that affect us.

The BHM showcase highlighting inspirational women in black history

EDI led bake sale, raising funds for LGBT+ Service Nottingham

A collection of student art exhibited at the BHM Showcase

Painting of Angela Davis displayed at the BHM Showcase

UNDER THE LENS with Isaac Parkin

New to the OW community, we caught up with one of our most recent, and talented, leavers, Isaac Parkin to hear more about his career as a Sports Photographer.

Where does your love of sport photography come from?

I’d say my love of photography first came from my love of sport. Football was always a part of my weekend since being very young – I would either be playing for the local team or going down to Sheffield Wednesday games with my family and friends as a season ticket holder. I always enjoyed taking photos wherever I went and I started an Instagram page simply to document my work. It wasn’t until I started seeing sports pictures on Instagram that I started getting inspired by sport photographers’ work – the first being a young sport photographer named George Wood who photographed a Sheffield Wednesday game. During the first lockdown my passion for sport photography grew – football games were being held behind closed doors, so the only way to gain access was by getting official accreditation through an agency. At this point a small agency wanted to work and develop a young aspiring photographer and, luckily, he dedicated his time and experience to making me a better photographer. From then on, I was hooked.

What does the average ‘day in the office’ look like?

I have been lucky enough to work for some great companies and football clubs. The company I work with now is The Press Association, also known as PA Media, who send me to various football grounds and sporting events each week. I have also worked directly with Sheffield United and Wolverhampton Wanderers, supplying them with images for their social media channels and marketing material.

The day before a game I will make sure my camera batteries are charged, my waterproofs are packed and my train ticket is booked. The day of a game I will aim to arrive around 2 hours prior to kick off to get set up in my desired position, taking some ‘general views’ of the interior and exterior of the stadium.

The countdown to kick-off is usually pretty relaxed –photographers will typically go to the manager dug-outs to get head shots. We then head back to our seats ready and prepared for kick off. Match action that I will need to capture will consist of goals, celebrations, dejection, red and yellow cards and players/managers applauding the fans at full time.

If you had to choose just one, which of your photographs is your favourite and why?

It’s hard to choose just one but one of my favourites is my picture of Kyle Walker of Manchester City, who I captured spraying water out of his mouth (top left).

What photography opportunities did you have whilst at school?

My favourite opportunity was being able to photograph ex Man City and England star Jill Scott MBE when she came to visit the College. Also, having Photography as a GCSE and A-level option allowed me to dedicate a lot more time to photography in school time, helping me to find inspiration from photographers’ work during lesson time.

OWs in the spotlight

What has been the best event to cover so far?

I’ve already been lucky enough to visit and to have been sent to some amazing jobs. One event that I’ve covered was the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham (top right). Being amongst the action in Birmingham for two weeks was really special. Another job I remember was covering the FA Women’s Cup Final at Wembley in May – photographing at Wembley has always been on my bucket list, so to tick that off in an FA Cup final in front of 50,000 fans was pretty cool. My third favourite job I’ve been sent to was assisting with Wolves FC official kit launch in April. Getting the opportunity to spend a whole day, photographing, assisting and directing some of my favourite footballers was also very special.

Where do you see Isaac Parkin Photography going in the future?

My future plan is to be photographing the Olympics, Test matches, Wimbledon, FA Cup finals and any other huge events. My biggest goal is ultimately trying to make photography a full time, stable career.

If other OWs would like to view your work, where can they find you?

I’m on social media – Instagram and Facebook @isaacparkinphotography and twitter @isaacparkinpics

BACK TO HIS R66TS

Despite holding the record for having the most matches and wins as an England men’s Test Captain, Joe Root (Pt 06-08) made the decision to step down as England Test Captain in the summer of this year.

Joe is currently England’s second-highest Test run-scorer of all time, trailing only his predecessor Alastair Cook, while his 14 centuries as skipper helped him to a record tally of 5,295 runs for an England captain. In 2021 alone, Joe scored 1,708 Test runs, comfortably the most by an England batter in a calendar year.

“I am immensely proud to have captained my country and will look back on the past five years with enormous pride. It has been an honour to have done the job and to have been a custodian of what is the pinnacle of English cricket,” said Joe.

Regardless of his step down from captaincy, Joe’s passion for the sport didn’t alter. His retirement allowed a partnership with his brother Billy Root (Pt 06-11) to create The R66t Academy, established to give cricketers of any age, gender, race, ability and location an opportunity to play and enjoy cricket. Hoping to motivate this work ethic in the cricketers of tomorrow, Joe and Billy took the R66t Academy to schools across the country – their first point of call, Worksop College.

Speaking on the academy, Joe told us:

“Billy and I are delighted that our old school has become one of the first R66T Academy Partnership schools. The excellent coaching infrastructure at the College will help to ensure that a continuous stream of talented cricketers comes through the College and that the young players chosen to form the Academy can combine an outstanding education with focused cricket training.”

The purpose of the academy is to place emphasis on grass root cricket, ensuring pupils enjoy all aspects of the game and develop a healthy competitive spirit. Fitting perfectly with the college’s values, the academy aims to allow young cricketers to express their own natural talents, appreciating excellence while enjoying the success of other players.

The Root brothers aren’t the only OWs involved in the academy, as CEO of KSB Cricket, Karanjit Bansal (P 06-09), was asked to be a coach at the R66T Academy:

“It was an absolute privilege to have been asked to coach at the R66T Academy. We had a fantastic two days with the players – it was great to see them have so much fun and work on their games in a really positive environment. Having this affiliation, alongside the coaching set up that we already have, bodes well for the future of cricket at the college. It will allow more players to get involved and continue their development as players as well as people.

I know first-hand how the College can have a positive influence on your life/sport, so it is really nice to be back coaching and helping the next generation through.”

Joe Root retires as England Cricket Captain

“Billy and I are delighted that our old school has become one of the first R66T Academy Partnership schools. The excellent coaching infrastructure at the College will help to ensure that a continuous stream of talented cricketers come through the College”

This year we welcomed Adam Tillcock as our Director of Cricket, who joined the college in 2021 as a Sport Graduate Assistant. Adam has a history in professional cricket, having played for Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club and Loughborough MCCU – a brilliant addition to the cricket offering here at Worksop College.

Adam Tillcock, Director of Cricket at Worksop College, told us:

Later this year, Worksop College will pair with The R66T Academy School Partnership Programme, sending our skilled cricket coaches out to local state schools. With the aim to engage as many young cricketers as possible, the team at Worksop College and the R66T Academy want to share ideas and coaching techniques with teachers, enhancing the delivery of cricket coaching to school-age players.

“We are excited to see the impact that the Academy players will make in the local state primary schools, where they will undertake a coaching programme and then organise and run a cricket festival,” Joe told us. “This is a real win for cricket – good luck to everyone involved!”

therootacademy.co.uk

@therootacademy

@therootacademy

@therootacademy

“Joe is a fabulous player and has been a brilliant leader for England during his tenure. He has a lot of cricket still to play and lots more records to break. I am looking forward to watching him in his new role within England cricket.

The R66t Academy programme is an exciting new venture for Worksop College. It will afford the pupils of the local primary schools the opportunity to experience cricket in school time – an opportunity which, without the project, they may never have. Worksop College’s cricket scholars will play a huge part in bringing the project to life by delivering sessions. I feel that giving our students this role will be great life experience for them.

Worksop College is always looking to push the high standards of its cricket programme and develop and expand the opportunities we offer to our students - we are also keen to develop opportunities for girls’ cricket. We aim to provide more training and fixtures alongside supporting our cricket scholars to achieve their full cricketing potential.”

OW Joe Root (bottom right) and the Worksop College cricket team

The team from the first R66t Academy Cricket Camp.

Left to right: Karanjit Bansal, Nick Gaywood, Dr John Price

125 YEARS OF TALBOT

In the same year that saw Queen Victoria celebrate her 50th year on the throne, 1897 was also significant in that it saw the founding of Crown Dormitory, St Cuthbert College’s third dorm.

Crown Dormitory would later become Talbot House in 1925 under Canon Shirley’s widespread renaming programme – the house was named in honour of College Custos Rev Arthur Talbot.

125 years later, in excess of 100 Old Talbotians gathered in the Chapel and Great Hall to celebrate our quasquicentennial anniversary with a celebratory chapel service and meal.

Crown Dormitory and Talbot House have an extremely proud history and an even more loyal following of old boys. Old Talbotians from as far back as the 1950s were in attendance at the event and the Leefe family were represented by an impressive three generations.

Rev Finlinson kicked things off with a wonderful, rousing sermon in Chapel, whilst the Headmaster and Nathan Hill (current Talbot Housemaster) gave speeches after a delicious meal. A significant number of revellers made their way back to present day Talbot to rest their weary heads. Boys will be boys; some Talbotians were undoubtedly a little worse for wear in the morning!

A few brave souls took on the Dorm Run early on Sunday and there was even a private chapel recital of Jerusalem by former tutor Andrew Knowles, including some boisterous singing, of which Talbot has become so well known.

A fine time was had by all - house spirit was stronger than ever and we’re looking forward to an even bigger event in 2027 for our 130th anniversary.

Prest D’Accomplir

Words by Simon Langley, 96 - 01

Riecko Parker-Cole, 13 - 18

The last time I had visited was in 2019 to play the OWs, cricket game, and before then I hadn’t been back since I left in 2018.

I genuinely had such a good evening, it was almost nerve racking walking up to the main entrance again and seeing so many people there! I loved how everybody was just happy to reconnect and find out where we have all ended up. It felt as though we were just bigger kids and the memories were all so recent. The highlight was, however, just seeing how proud everybody was to be a part of this group and to all be there celebrating together!

Now I’m looking to open up my office doing sales and marketing in Newcastle.

Thomas Williams, 16 – 21

On 28th May, the Great Hall was transformed to celebrate the 125th anniversary of ‘The Crown’. The event started with a service in the chapel, led by former chaplain Paul Finlinson, and was followed by a formal meal in the dining hall.

One of my favourite parts of the evening was being able to catch up with Talbotians, past and present, most of whom I hadn’t seen since being at the school myself. It was heart-warming to see the dedication for the house as some people travelled internationally to attend. The most poignant part of the night for me came as people spoke about their experiences of being part of Talbot. Even though there has been so much change in Talbot and the school over 125 years, the core values that Talbot instil into all the ‘boys’ have spanned many generations. Overall, it was a spectacular evening and I’m looking forward to seeing these people at future OW and Talbot events!

The future of Wellbeing at Worksop

The summer of 2022 saw renovation work begin on the new multi-functional wellbeing space that is being created at Worksop College. Many of you will be familiar with the building, the former school uniform and tuck shop. After the shop was officially closed in 2019 and moved online, we were left with the bones of a very special building. With the wellbeing of students and staff being at the forefront of our development plan, we began bringing to life our ambitions to create a visionary space to support staff and students in maintaining good mental, emotional, social and physical health.

Across the UK, record levels of young people are struggling with their mental health, with 10% of all young people having a diagnosable mental health condition. Statistics like this reinforce the need to focus even more attention on this growing problem, equipping our young people with the tools and techniques to understand, manage and regulate their emotions.

The renovation of the building has been divided into phases, with the focus first on the transformation of the old cottage (Annie’s tearoom, as many of you will remember it). This space will be used as a multi-purpose studio where we will deliver holistic practices such as yoga, pilates and meditation. It will also be used to teach our PSHE curriculum, enabling students to become familiar with the space. The completion of the work, which has very much been a labour of love, has relied on the support of volunteers, with materials paid for through our initial fundraising efforts. We are incredibly grateful to the team of 14 students who gave up their time during the summer to attend a working retreat.

Here, year 13 student, Devon Kaye, tells of her experience;

“Over the summer, I attended Mr Cawley’s four day Wellness Retreat - an experience that allowed those involved to gain skills of physical endurance, manual dexterity through using power tools in the construction of the new Wellbeing Hub, along with personal, relational and leadership growth.

Removing ourselves from technology and other stressors, which add complexity to our lives, introduced us to new perspectives that allowed us to let go of negative thinking patterns and harmful habits. The digital detox allowed us to connect and communicate with compassion and empathy, strengthening previous relationships and blossoming new friendships throughout the group.

I particularly enjoyed one of our sessions where we practised active listening within small groups, which emphasised the importance of not only listening to someone else but understanding what they are saying, as well as engaging in the conversation and retaining this information for later. Simply repeating back sentences allowed our group to quickly build trust and become vulnerable as we felt safe sharing our feelings when we felt “fully heard”.

Practising methods of self-inquiry and relaxation in our meditation encouraged us to focus on the present and understand whether our thinking is beneficial. Initially, we were all quite apprehensive about the meditation. However, after our first day, we all looked forward to our morning and evening meditations and have often used these practices and methods to relax and focus since leaving the retreat.

Our ’Silence Day’ was somewhat difficult; however, during our dinner the evening after our 24 hours of silence, there was a shared sense of achievement after such focus on our meditation methods and working on the renovation all day. Our period of silence allowed us to improve our concentration, encouraged mindfulness, and gave us room for self-reflection.

At some point throughout the retreat, each person worked with a partner to cook a meal for everyone. After hours of construction, we were all very grateful to sit and eat as a group. Working with someone else to prepare a vegetarian meal for 16 people enabled us to establish teamwork skills whilst creating a sense of appreciation for the others who put so much effort into making a meal for us all to enjoy. We practised mindfully eating, using all our physical and emotional senses to experience and enjoy our food.

Working on the renovation of the Wellbeing Hub, and gaining insight into the activities and support people will experience there, has made us all so eager for it to open. After only a few days, we were able to acquire new perspectives and learn healthy methods of self-reflection and improvement, so we can’t wait to see the positive impact of the Wellbeing Hub on the rest of the school.”

To find out more about Willow Hub and how you can support us visit wsnl.co.uk/wellbeing

A Labour of Love

A work in progress as staff and students volunteer their time to transform ‘Annie’s Tea Room’.

2022 Review

Integrity, friendship, respect and charity; the four guiding principles of Freemasonry. Not many people know that it is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations, with roots lying in the traditions and ceremonies of the medieval stonemasons who built our cathedrals and castles. Here at Worksop College we have been fortunate to benefit from the Freemasons’ charitable arm on many occasions, most recently with the addition of a second student on our Transformational Bursary programme.

The OW caught up with the OW Lodge to review the last year.

43 Old Worksopians make up the OW Lodge – did you see many new members in 2021?

Each year the Old Worksopian Lodge continues to move forward, with the membership increasing both by new members to Freemasonry and by existing Masons, who have a connection to the School – we saw one new member join and we are always looking for more!

There are many different lodges (smaller units of members) - do you have connections with other lodges?

The Lodge continues to build our relationship with the Old Denstonian Lodge and also Fons Vitae, the Lodge for Trent College, by regular visits to their meetings.

What are your plans for fundraising for the year ahead?

The Nottinghamshire Province is going into our major fundraising Festival starting next year, which runs for six years. This Festival ensures that the Masonic Charitable Foundation has sufficient assets to make it one of the largest charitable contributors in the country. All Masonic Provinces run similar Festivals over the years.

What is on the horizon for the OW Lodge this coming year?

We have the Installation of our next Worshipful Master at the end of April 2023; this will be a first for the Lodge as the incoming Master is the Father of former members of the School.

The wider Freemason community - The Freemasons of Bassetlaw

The Freemasons of Bassetlaw is a group of volunteers made up from each of the twelve Craft Lodges that meet at the Retford or Worksop Masonic Halls. The group was formed in 2012 and since then has raised over £55,000, all of which has been used to support local charities and good causes. The Old Worksopian Lodge is one of the nine Craft Lodges that meet at Worksop.

Throughout the years, their main fund-raising events have focused on two annual events:

• An annual “Last night of the proms” concert usually held in the Great Hall at Worksop College with the music provided by Thoresby Colliery Band. This year, due to the ongoing situation, an open-air concert was held in Hardwick Village in the beautiful location of Clumber Park

• An annual sponsored swim held at Retford Leisure Centre, which saw more than 50 swimmers take to the pool, raising an estimated total of £8,000 to support a whole range of charities

If you wish to learn more about the Freemasons, please contact;

OW Lodge Secretary, Malcolm Beecroft at beecroftgm@gmail.com

In memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

On 8th September 2022, Elizabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms, passed away at Balmoral Castle at the age of 96. A tidal wave of love came pouring in from across the world for the longest-reigning British Monarch. Here at Worksop College and Ranby House, books of condolence were left for staff, students and parents to sign to pay our respects.

OW Bill Bradshaw (SH 52 – 54) recalls his memories as a young boy of the Queen’s Coronation.

“I remember the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II on 2nd June 1953; what a splendid occasion it was - just what was needed on the still dark days of post-war Britain to give us all a lift. We were given Exeat on that day which was a great thrill - anything to get home for several good meals as school fare was average to say the least (think porridge, Clumber mud…yuk!).

I remember we hadn’t got a television by then (few homes had), so we went to my uncle’s farm near Retford and watched it on his 12” grainy black and white set. It was a wonderful spectacle and one the whole country, and indeed the whole world, enjoyed and marvelled on. Sadly, it rained but it didn’t stop people’s jubilations.

One of my most enduring memories was seeing Queen Solute of Tonga traveling in the procession in an open top carriage waving for all she was worth, enjoying every minute. She was not bothered about the rain; she just kept waving more and more as the people cheered her. I think she endeared herself to everyone watching and made the whole world aware of a tiny island called Tonga in the South Pacific - quite an ambassador.

In conclusion, I must say that on that day, a wonderful lady, Elizabeth II, was crowned Queen of England and the Commonwealth and ruled impeccably for 70 years. She will be greatly missed by all.”

Long live the King!

Extract taken from the The Worksopian 1953

OW Jeremy Levine (Pt 73 – 79)

“I was honoured to stand vigil over HM The Queen’s coffin during the Final Watch in Westminster Hall, in the four hours before she was placed on the gun carriage for the funeral procession; I was on duty when the public’s access ended.

I was also the Marshal for the Heralds at Arms for all three processions: Westminster Hall to Westminster Abbey, Westminster Abbey to Wellington Arch and finally, up the Long Walk to St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. The people I was marshalling are dressed in tabards representing the Royal Standard and so they look a bit like a deck of cards. An amazing day, which I will never forget!”

Jeremy pictured below.

During National Careers Week, Worksop College held a week-long event filled with talks and workshops led by industry professionals – some of whom were OWs. We caught up with just a few of the OWs who came back to the college to share their professional stories.

Oliver Cordingley

Oliver Cordingley (S 14 - 20) left the college with every intention of becoming a lawyer, heading to the University of Manchester. Realising that law wasn’t his calling, Oliver transferred to the business school in a bid to follow his ambitions of becoming an entrepreneur. While completing his studies, he developed the Coachfooty app and secured funding, allowing him to take his product to the next stages. While working on his business, he realised that he was learning more from real-life experiences than his course at University. In March of 2021 he dropped out of university to found his second project, ourGen. Currently, Oliver has £100k pledged for Coachfooty, as well as £360k for ourGen seed round. His main purpose is to provide SaaS (Software as a Service) to identify young talent, provide content and tools to enhance it and then connect them to their dream position, whether that’s in the office or sports world.

What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

Academics are important for the short-term but they do not define you. There are other skills which are much more important to having a successful, fulfilling life. Having the ability to build relationships, communicate effectively and being able to sell, are skills that will set you up for life, regardless of what path you take.

Why is it so important to hold events like these?

These events are important if you have ambitions to become a leader or to be successful. It’s crucial to take every opportunity to learn from those who have “been there and done it” or have achieved goals that you are thinking about now, especially if they share a similar childhood (like same school).

Rachel Cundy

Rachel Cundy (G 86 - 89) is the Commercial Director for her company Chalice Medical Ltd. Chalice is a medical device manufacturer based in Worksop, that has been producing single use devices for extra-corporeal bypass surgery since April 2000. Rachel’s company was a pivotal part of the response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Prior to Chalice, Rachel was a Senior Consultant in Mental Health & UK Clinical Lead for Continuing Healthcare at Capita UK. Whilst UK Clinical Lead at Capita, she set up new services nationwide and developed an extensive knowledge of implementing commercial strategies. She is also an Expert Witness completing Medico Legal reports in Forensics and Older Adult Mental Health.

What is one thing you love about your job?

The depth of change we can influence within complex cardiac care is incredible. Advancements that we, alongside clinicians, have made now mean people who would not have survived now survive, I just have to stop sometimes and let that statement sink in…

Developing and growing the business is a very exciting role to be in. Chalice Medical currently exports its product range to over 30 countries around the world. We also have two brand new offices, one based in Europe and one in America, to support the ever-growing demand from our export markets. It is so motivational to see your company growing, it’s exciting to be part of our team.

Did you know that this was the career for you during school?

Absolutely not. I started off Clinical and spent 20 years as a Consultant in the NHS and then swapped into the Commercial side – a move I would have never envisaged.

I am a big advocate for ‘don’t pigeonhole yourself too early’. To expect someone who is 18 to know what they want to do for the rest of their life, having not experienced the reality of the big wide world, is unattainable and the pressure that ensues is not helpful or healthy. I would always say, do something you enjoy either at University or as an apprenticeship and let life evolve, you will find your lane in life.

Then, after having the foundations that somewhere like Worksop College instils into you, trust how amazing you can be and just go and take life on, if you love what you do, you will be incredible at what you do.

Mike Walton

Mike Walton (S 59-63) left Worksop College with a specific career in mind, and unfortunately it didn’t become reality. Mike then started his career in sales, progressing through blue chip companies into senior management positions. Ultimately, he had his own successful business and now is a qualified therapist, helping people with particular problems. It’s been an interesting journey. He will discuss some of his own experiences as well as where life has taken him - through good times and perhaps not such good times – and how each experience has been an important learning point.

What is your current job?

I am a Mind Coach. I use clinical hypnotherapy to help clients achieve success in a range of issues such as anxiety, smoking, weight control and building confidence.

What is one thing you love about your job?

Experiencing people change something they want to change as a result of what I do.

What is one piece of career advice you would give to your younger self?

You can have anything, be anything, do anything as long as you believe.

Thibau Grumett

Thibau Grumett (S 14-15) is an entrepreneur and investor, who has recently graduated from Pearson College London. He is fascinated by finance - money, what it is and how people interact with it. He even organised the inaugural TEDxPCL, getting his university the license.

What industry are you in/what is your job?

Entrepreneur – anything and everything (virtual events, education, and breaking into the NFT space).

What is one top tip you would give to someone who wants to get into your line of work?

You need to be willing to take the leap of faith and go for it! Jump in with both feet and give it your all, because at the end of the day, if you don’t succeed you’ll probably still have a roof over your head and food to eat.

Do you think you would have benefited from FYF while in school?

100%, in school I thought I was going to go into medicine… if only I’d known the wonders of business and entrepreneurship!

Tom Dodsworth

Tom Dodsworth (S 07-10) left Worksop College and went to Southampton University, where he became a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (BMBS) and a Bachelor of Medical Science (BMedSci). Throughout his time at university, he was sponsored by the Royal Air Force. Tom has had multiple RAF deployments and experience, including work as an aeromedical examiner. He now works at an NHS hospital in Surrey as part of General Practice training, with the aim of completing a Master’s Degree in Medical Law and Ethics within the next few years

When did you know that this was the job for you?

I knew from a very early age that I wanted to be a doctor and always enjoyed learning science (especially biology!) at Worksop. It was perhaps in Year 7 at Ranby House when I decided to pursue this career and certainly was clear by the time I began my studies at the College. Practicing medicine is a real privilege - I feel very lucky to have been given the opportunities I had along the way. I saw the unique possibility of combining my dream profession of being a doctor with working in the military, and the CCF was certainly inspirational for a career path in both vocations. Worksop College undoubtedly has been a huge part of my story!

What is one top tip for someone going onto this career path?

I have many top tips I’m happy to share! If I had to pick one, I would say be a team player. Working as a team in medicine is vital to provide excellent care to our patients and you can demonstrate this attribute in a variety of different ways. Worksop College has plenty of those opportunities, such as sports, music and academic studies. Medical schools always want to assess your ability to work in a team and having some good examples in your CV, and at interviews, will stand you in good stead during the highly competitive process. Good luck!

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