St. George’s School WINDSOR CASTLE

ASSOCIATION

CHRONICLE

2016

St. George’s School

Windsor Castle

Association

CHRONICLE

2016

Welcome to another edition of the Chronicle. It comes at a time when the school’s communications

are undergoing a transformation with a new look to the Magazine which will now be produced termly

as a Newsletter. These are available on the school website at www.stgwindsor.org/Newsletter. The

Association also has a presence on the school site and copies of Chronicles can be found under the

Association tab. If you would like to keep abreast of events happening in today’s school however, one

can now follow its output on Twitter https://twitter.com/stgwindsor as well as by visiting the website

http://www.stgwindsor.org/ .

Compiling the Chronicle serves two important functions: first, it acts as a document of record that

publicizes the rules of the Association and minutes of its AGM; secondly, it aims to keep members in

touch one with another. It is in this second area that it is entirely dependent on its members: the more

that is contributed the more valuable it will become to its members. Please do send your news either

by the tradition method of postcards or on e-mail to association@stgwindsor.co.uk . If you know of

any news about another former pupil do please let us know; we positively encourage parents to help

by informing on their children!

Obituaries

I have first to announce the obituaries and notifications that I have received.

Eric Carr (1983–1994) Bursar

Eric was the much loved and respected Bursar of the School in the important period leading to the

first large building scheme of 1987 and provided invaluable support and guidance during the process.

He died in the spring of this year at the age of 91. George and Sue Hill attended his funeral.

Stephen Cazalet (1943–1948) Stephen passed away after a long spell in hospital and three months

after his 80th Birthday. Stephen was in the Merchant Navy for many years and met his wife Ann

when he was a junior Officer with Union Castle Lines. They were married in Surrey in 1963 and went

to S. Africa with their two young sons where he joined Safmarine and continued his career in

Containerization.

Peter Walter Christopher Coombe (1944–1948) Chorister

Peter won a musical exhibition to Denstone College. He was the first award by the new musical

teaching staff after the second world war. During his time at Denstone he had a very serious lung

operation which was successful but meant missing a year’s schooling. This did not stop a musical life

to which was added work in the acting department. He left Denstone in 1952.

After college his first post was at Church House Bookshop in Westminster. He worked there for some

ten years, living in Richmond, where he was prominent in the local Gilbert and Sullivan productions

and other musical items with his violin.

He moved from Westminster to help the Woodard Twins, grandsons of the founder of the schools, in

conservation work. Dryden House in Northants was one home involved. Peter was always interested

in architecture.

After, he went to Michaelhouse in South Africa where he knew the head of the Art Department. This

move has remained a bit of a mystery, but did not lead to any work though he always maintained a

love of the flora and fauna of that country.

He returned to this country by sea and moved to the Lizard in Cornwall where he found work with the

Falmouth Jewsons branch. This suited him well, because he could look after the house which soon

became the parental retirement home and he stayed with Jewsons for twenty years. He then moved to

Clewer, but did not find this to his liking, and then bought a house in Exmouth in 1994. Here he

settled with the local church choir and to the post of Treasurer. He had earlier completed some

accountancy courses. His other interests included Gardening, the Life-Boat Association, and the

Prayer Book Society: he has left us a ten volume stamp collection. He was very knowledgeable on

many subjects, in particular the Railways of this country being a life member of the Talyllyn Railway

Preservation Society. Contributions in his memory are being sent to this organisation..

The funeral was a simple Requiem Mass, with Doc H’s Nunc Dimittis sung by the choir he served for

so many years. His interment was in the local church yard and a reception was held in the Church

Hall. The Hon. Secretary represented St George’s at the service and afterwards.

A plea renewed

The Editor would be grateful for news about members of the Association, their whereabouts,

appointments, achievements, or other changes in circumstances so that this Chronicle can be an ever

more accurate and informative way of fulfilling the objects of the Association. Similarly, we would be

grateful for notification of those members who have died so that we can mark their passing and amend

the records.

New Members 2015

Catherine Alexanders (2008-2015) Bradfield College

Henry Bishop (2009-2015) Westminster School

Amélie Byrne (2007-2015) Lady Eleanor Holles

Dylan Byrne (2005-2015) Hampton School

Matilda Cayton (2007-2015) St George’s, Ascot

Keaton Chohan (2005-2015) Bradfield College

Andrew Coates (2005-2015) Bradfield College

Marina Daniel (2005-2015) Claires Court School

Joseph Debiase (2010-2015)

Nicholas Foster (2005-2015) Eton College

Darcey Goble (2005-2015) Marlborough College

Ana Graham Usabiaga (2011-2015) Sir William Borlase

Daniel Hamilton-Foster (2011-2015) Bradfield College

Lucas Jameson Fenwick (2010-2015) Bedales

Ria Konkumalla (2008-2015) Sir William Perkins

Zain Kothari (2005-2015) Hampton School

Theodor Kyriacou (2001-2015) Stowe School

Lacob Laniado (2005-2015) Wellington College

Zachary Laniado (2005-2015) Bradfield

David Low (2005-2015) King’s School, Canterbury

Kristian Mathea (2006-2015) Bradfield College

Merle Mowbray (2010-2015) Sir William Perkins

Luken Pereira Fernandes (2009-2015) Holyport College

Charles Rycroft (2007-2015) Desborough College

Mannat Sahota (2007-2015) St George’s, Ascot

Rohan Sahota (2005-2015)

George Smith (2005-2015) Hampton School

Vikram Thakrar (2005-2015) Eton College

Elizabeth Wales (2005-2015) Holyport College

Benjamin Wickers (2006-2015) St George’s, Weybridge

News from and about Association Members

Tom Berry (2001–2010) secured very favourable A level results as part of a record-breaking set of

results at Hampton School and is now bound for Loughborough to read History.

Aidan Briggs (1995–1998) Aidan and his wife Zoë were blessed with a daughter, Emily, on 21st

March 2016.

Michael Coombe (1938–1945) reports that he is keeping busy in Exmouth during his retirement.

Will Dawes (1989–1993) enjoyed Christopher Robinson's 80th Birthday service at John's Cambridge.

Quite an occasion, and the results may still be available online here

http://www.sjcchoir.co.uk/listen/webcasts/choral-evensong-celebration-80th-birthday-dr-christopher-

robinson-cvo-cbe-7-may-2016 . He managed to update a name or two which the editor has added to

the entry from the Hills below. His name thus gets its own entry!

Martin Denny (1981–1986) and his wife Harriet were joined by Tristan James Leslie Denny, born on

12th November 2015, a brother for Imogen.

James Heavey (2003–2012) recently secured straight level 7s in his Middle Years Programme of the

International Baccalaureate Diploma at Wellington College, one of only nine students in the year to

achieve this feat. Word reaches us that his brother Sam Heavey (2005–2014) has made an impressive

start to his Wellington career.

George and Sue Hill (Staff 1983-1992) travelled to Cambridge for a celebration of Christopher

Robinson’s 80th birthday that was held at St John’s College and during which Christopher conducted a

huge choir for Evensong. An invitation to all choristers who sang during Christopher’s time as

Organist and Master of the Choristers at St George’s resulted in the following former choristers

singing at the occasion:

Tom Roach, Nick Robinson, Neil Porter, Charlie Lort-Phillips, Rupert Beale, Simon Robson-Brown,

Richard Murray-Bruce, David Leeming and Andrew Robinson. Former Lay Clerk Trevor Craddock

was also singing. The Hills noted that as these individuals are now all about 40(!) they hardly

recognised anybody and apologise if they have forgotten anyone. A splendid party was held

afterwards.

Lucas Jameson-Fenwick (2010–2015) has progressed from his role as TV host on the stage, he

starred as Eddie Hair in last summer’s production of The Demon Headmaster, to the being the real

thing. At the beginning of October he was to be seen interviewing Foxes (a popular, young, Grammy-

winning singer), aided by a banana, on the CBBC Official Chart Show. He was well-prepared and at

ease, and even managed to coax Foxes into revealing that she enjoyed chocolate with ketchup on top!

Rose Grundon (2007–2014) has made the most of her first year at Cheltenham Ladies’ College and

has particularly enjoyed History, English, Netball, Lacrosse, Tennis, Rounders and Drama. In addition

she has taken part in Swimming, Athletics, Hockey and Musical Theatre Clubs. Small wonder that she

commented that her year had been, “very intense, although thrilling and exciting—I have made lots of

new friends and learned lots of new things.”

Roger Judd Assistant Organist & staff (1985–1990) was in St George’s Chapel on 24 November

2015 to launch his new book. Also published that day was a new recording of the Harrison &

Harrison Organ and both publications mark the 50th anniversary of the current organ in the Chapel.

‘The Organs in Windsor Castle – their History and Development’ is published by the Positif Press.

Roger Judd was Assistant Organist at St George’s Chapel for many years until 2008.

‘L’Orgue Symphonique’ is Assistant Director of Music Richard Pinel’s debut solo recording for the

Resonus Classics label. In line with the vision of Sydney Campbell (organist in 1965) of an English

organ with a French accent, the CD showcases three significant works of the Symphonic French

tradition – Vierne’s 2nd Symphonie, Roger-Ducasse’s Pastorale and Duruflé’s Magnificent Suite Op. 5.

Both the book and the CD are available in the Chapel gift shop in the Dean’s Cloister

Roderick Lambert (1982–1987) writes:

In 2014, all within 2 months, I changed jobs (moving writhing HR within the Socgen group in the

Czech Republic), turned 40, ran my first (and last) 10km road race (52'00" exactly) and suddenly

became a father of a 3-month old boy whom I adopted together with my wife and named Sebastian

Charles.

Jack Leach (2000–2010) completed his time at Wellington as deputy head of Stanley House and,

with A*, A, A, and B grades under his belt, is now studying Social Sciences at Durham.

Gill Ledsham staff (1986–1995) writes:

My job at St George’s wasn’t like a job—it was an adventure! Since I retired I have made a life-sized

bronze fiddler and a 6-foot high enamel wall plaque of a juggler (one boy was a juggler) for the

Windsor Boys’ School where I was artist in residence for ten years. The large

Resurrection/Crucifixion on All Saints Tower, Dedworth and smaller Visitation there were made at

the school. I have made five installations, some bronzes and lots of drawings. In June I shall be in the

USA installing a group of five figures for Path Adams at his new hospital in West Virginia. I still

hope that the young St George will find his way back to the Courtyard at St George’s.

Harry Mackenzie (2001–2010) has earnt a place at Bath University to study Business Administration

having scored 44 out of a maximum 45 points in the International Baccalaureate Diploma at

Wellington College, thus putting him in the top 1% of candidates worldwide.

Saira Masood (2006–2010) has excelled at Sir William Perkins’s School receiving 4 A*, 5As and a B

grade in her recent GCSE examinations.

Hannah Mathea (2003–2010) secured three A levels at Wellington College last summer and by now

should be completing a Gap Year: more details gratefully received!

Alan Mould Head Master (1993–1995) was presented with the IAPS Outstanding Service Award at

the 2015 IAPS conference.

Allan McDowall (1947–1952) is happy to report that after recent health problems necessitating

numerous operations he is (OK) now. He has sold his aeroplane and is now looking for a 2-seater. His

boat is still on stocks having an engine overhaul.

Grace Newey (2003–2010) has completed a successful stay at Wellington College and plans to study

at Drama school next. She has starred in numerous productions and has also excelled in the award-

wining A Capella group.

Bella Ricketts (2012–2014) has enjoyed a successful first year at St Mary’s Ascot with some great

defensive performances both as goalkeeper in the netball team and backstop in the rounders team. She

has also been busy musically playing the piano in lunchtime concerts.

Alexandra (Pixie) Thompson staff (2006–2015) writes to say that she is having a great time in

Switzerland enjoying the sports and the après ski! She is very sorry that she won’t be able to attend

Association Day as she will still be working in the Alps. She wishes us all a successful day and the

hopes the sun shines!

Kristian Tombs (2007–2012) has been selected for the British Junior rowing squad and was invited

to train in Spain in December 2015 for a week with the GB squad.

Last September he was invited to cox Stephen Redgrave, Mathew Pinsent, Greg Searle and his

brother, and Roberto Blanda (all Olympic and World Champions): they all commented on Kristian’s

obvious talent and he has gone on to cox them a number of times while their usual cox was

unavailable. Roberto Blanda is a former Oxford Blue who has rowed in the Boat Race; we can only

hope that, having impressed so influential a group of rowers, we will see Kristian coxing for Oxford

in the not too distant future!

50 Years Ago

The editorial of the Chronicle for the Lent Term of 1966 is perhaps not unique in the annals of St

George’s, but it clearly reports a trying time for many!

This is unlikely to be remembered as a very satisfactory term: Rugger was interfered with by

casualties of one kind and another and, after a brief spell of delightful weather which brought

out the daffodils in the garden at least a fortnight earlier than usual, we were attacked at the

same time by the 'flu germs which had been raging in nearly all local schools—particularly at

Eton—and by a bitter wind which retarded recuperation. Three members of the teaching staff

were stricken by 'flu and several others felt far from well. We were lucky to be able to call on

Messrs. Price and Hall for help but, even so, the smooth flow of the term was sadly interrupted

and the last weeks dragged, if not for the boys, certainly for the staff.

The term was, however, not without its high spots—the set plays, the concert, Cox and Box, the

Sunningdale match—to mention only a few, and work went really well for about eight weeks at least.

The boys were extremely helpful, they were ever ready to carry trays and help with the washing up,

and the invalids were extremely uncomplaining, almost invariably answering the question "How are

you feeling" by "very much better, thank you".

Around the school, the Science Room came into full use at the beginning of the term and the Anson

did service as a games room although small groups of boys were sometimes taught there. The removal

of the billiard table from the Library gave boys much more room and the collecting small armchairs to

make reading there more attractive was appreciated. Off Chapel Set B made a small sofa for the

Library and, with the experience gained, hoped that other Sets may follow suit.

Boys from the era might remember that they had a period without Matron during that illness ravaged

term. Mrs Halsey, Matron's mother, had to have a serious operation in January. She made a good

recovery but we were without Matron's services for the first five weeks of the term. We are most

grateful to Miss Jackson who came to help us out over this difficult period.

In matters academic, there was success for B. D. Rapson who won a Music Scholarship to the King's

School, Canterbury. Congratulations were also due to D. S. Bell who won a Music Exhibition to

Bradfield.

Were the absence of Matron at the beginning of term not enough, St George’s was very grateful to

Mr. Hall who came to help us towards the end of term when the Headmaster was laid up too!

Whilst the current boarders have enjoyed going to Eton of an evening over the past year to visit the

beagle pack, their predecessors went further:

Three parties of boys have been beagling this term. On each occasion they have been lucky

enough to witness an excellent hunt. The pack is in great form this term and it has been a

great pleasure to watch them hunting on the cold scenting plough round Twyford.

The school was very grateful to Mr M. Price who came to help while Mr Smith was ill at the end of

the term. Equally there was much appreciation of the generosity of the Petersen's who gave the school

a substantial subscription to the Amenities Fund and to the Ramsdens who gave a chair for the

Library.

The Summer Term saw the School return to better health:

In many cases this has been an excellent term. One boy visited the sick room for three days

but otherwise it remained unused. One boy got a Winchester Scholarship and we had no

Common Entrance failures. Against this we were affected by grievous staff shortage on the

domestic side and our cricket team failed to win a match.

Storm clouds on the educational horizon are gathering, in that there is a move to make

Science a compulsory subject in Common Entrance, Latin becoming an optional one. There is

no talk of Latin being optional in Scholarship exams, however, and the problem of how to fit in

Latin, Greek and Science for potential scholars is a very acute one. Another headache that

Choir Schools may have to face before long is a possible reorganisation of holidays for Public

Schools. One scheme envisages a much earlier summer holiday with the Christmas holidays

starting about the 12th December and the Easter holiday starting about the 20th March. The

other scheme will go back to the old idea of there being only two terms in the year with short

breaks in the autumn and spring. If either of the schemes are adopted by Public Schools,

Preparatory Schools will presumably have to follow suit and our difficulties will be very great

indeed.

In matters around the school, R. J. Powell-Jones won a scholarship to Winchester, Mr Palmer left to

go to Southampton University in the autumn. In addition the school community was most saddened at

the news that Peggy Tunmore, who had worked in the Pantry for nearly seven years, had died in

hospital in Norwich after a short period of ill-health. All remembered, with gratitude, her tremendous

industry and unfailing willingness to help.

Mrs Louie Smith came out of retirement to help in the dormitories once again. All those boys who had

known her were delighted to see her again.

Off-Chapel Carpentry sets made a set of lockers for the cricket pavilion and so it was hoped that there

would now be no excuse at all for cricket equipment to stray!

The pattern of our exams was changed. Instead of 1st and 2nd classes being given for individual

subjects, all exam marks were added together and boys were awarded classes on the total marks. Boys

were warned that their chances of promotion were slim if their percentage fell below 33. The effect of

this was undoubtedly to create more excitement than usual and to make revision periods more serious.

Technology was on the march and the school was extremely grateful to the Mills family who donated

a new and most luxurious duplicator. Similarly grateful thanks were extended to the Exhams and the

Bells who had sent most handsome cheques for the Amenities Fund.

25 Years Ago

Those of you who read the Editorial of the School Magazine of 1989–1990 will remember that it

bemoaned the “dearth of contributors to the magazine, particularly from members of staff, despite

several impassioned pleas from the editor who feels, now, more like an author. So now, a general plea

to all subscribers: if you are proud of your work, on whichever side of the teacher's desk it may be,

please write and tell us about it.”

There must be the suspicion that the gap in the school archives between 1990 and the Magazine of

1996-97 is a reflection of there having been a straw and camel’s back moment soon after those words

were written. It would be good to be proved wrong in this. If you possess magazines for any of the

years between 1990 and 1996 please will you allow the Editor to have sight of a copy? We will

happily then publish a bumper issue of 25 years ago in future editions of the Chronicle.

To fill the gap it seemed a suitable moment, unplanned as it is, to turn this Chronicle back into a form

of its Magazine predecessors and bring the readership up to date with events in the school this

academic year.

The current year

I very much hope that you will enjoy reading about the many activities in which the children have

been involved and also of their achievements over this Lent term. It has certainly been a very

successful term in so many areas of school life and the pictures speak volumes for the children’s

enthusiasm for and commitment to their school.

One of the key events of the term was, of course, the Integrated Inspection undertaken by the

Independent Schools Inspectorate (the regulatory body which oversees standards in Independent

Schools) and I was delighted that the Inspectors reported that so many areas of the school were

EXCELLENT. The report is a fitting accolade to the hard work and endeavours of the whole school

community and it provides a firm foundation on which we continue to build and develop for future

generations of ‘Georgians’. Other particular highlights of the term saw our musicians take part in

workshops at Rugby School and Wellington College; our sports teams competed in matches and

tournaments at home and at local prep schools, as well as at Bradfield and Wellington Colleges. Our

swimmers have enjoyed success in various competitions and galas, our fencers competed in a regional

competition at Wellington and the cross country teams did well at the St Piran’s and St Neot’s

meetings. Our drama students enjoyed considerable success in LAMDA exams, achieving 22

Distinctions and 10 Merits; quite a remarkable achievement!

So, at the end of such a busy and successful term, my sincere thanks are due to all those staff who

have organised such a tremendous array of activities, trips, special events and concerts and especially

to all the pupils for their outstanding achievements and for all that they have contributed to the

success of the term.

Happy reading!

Chris McDade

Head Master

Prep Schools’ Orchestral Day at Rugby School

Eleven of our young instrumentalists clambered on to two minibuses early on the morning of 25

January and travelled to Rugby School, to join with children from five other schools. The day started

with a full orchestral rehearsal, sight-reading three hard pieces; despite not having seen them before,

they didn’t sound too bad at all!

The children then dispersed for ‘sectionals’ with

different instrument teachers, and worked in detail on

their pieces for the remainder of the morning. The

children from St George’s Windsor and Christchurch

Oxford were lucky enough to have a guided tour of the

chapels, and play the grand chapel organ! The afternoon

then commenced with a little more detailed work on

their pieces, before coming back together for a full

orchestral rehearsal, and what a change from the

morning’s first rehearsal! After a surprise hot dog and

drink, the children then performed a concert of The Can

Can, the Radetzky March and Finlandia.

It was superb to see and hear the enthusiasm and skill of our young instrumentalists as they relished

every note and phrase of their music. They certainly came back as evangelists for orchestral playing.

Well done to them all!

Windsor Festival Chamber Choir Concert

Earlier in the year, the Chamber Choir was asked whether they would like to perform in the Windsor

Festival, supporting the Windsor First Schools’ Project concerts on 17th and 18th March in St

George’s Chapel – and (of course) replied with a resounding yes! Marking the 90th birthday of

Queen Elizabeth II, 300 children from seven schools sang a selection of music from the key moments

in the life of our monarch. The Chamber Choir

helped swell the voices of the other children

for most of the concert, but then came to the

stage to perform the two-part ‘Brother James’

Air’ and Gary Barlow’s ‘Sing’. As their voices

soared to the fan vaults of the roof and beyond,

one could see the look of wonder in the eyes of

the young children listening; if Chamber

Choir’s role was to inspire, they certainly

fulfilled their brief. Two really super concerts

of which our children were proud to be a part!

Prep Schools’ Choral Day at Wellington College

Having been told to be at Wellington College ready with songs by Michael Jackson, our Chamber

Choir set out on Thursday 27 February somewhat intrigued as to what a ‘Prep Schools’ Choral Day’

envisaged!

Renowned conductor and livewire, Dom Peckham, started with a 10 minute silent warm up which

took all 400 participants a little by surprise, but kept them totally engaged. The morning flew by with

songs and singing exercises which explored technique, 4 part singing and body percussion! Several

children from St George’s were chosen

to sing little sections of things, with

Johnny Wales, Freya Willcox and Max

Evans being chosen as soloists for the

afternoon concert.

Much like the Rugby visit, we were

treated to hot dogs (and chips) at the

break and had a chance to meet children

from the other schools, as well as Mr

Farrell who had judged our house music

competition before half-term.

The afternoon concert attracted an

audience of around 500 parents, and

included an astonishing piece of music which involved Max singing a Swedish anthem whilst children

around him sang notes, made bird noises, and impressions of wind and rain.

The Choir has come back with lots of techniques and helpful tips for singing which they have already

spread to many other children in the school. A really superb day.

LAMDA Evening In advance of their drama exams, children had the opportunity to perform in an

evening’s showcase of their thespian pursuits! Each of the performers acquitted

themselves wonderfully as they performed their individual monologues, from

authors such as Lewis Carroll, Alan Ayckbourn and Kenneth Grahame; these

were followed by duologues in which the children sparked off each other in some

hilarious scenes. What was striking throughout the whole evening was the

presence the children had on stage; they commanded their audience with an ease

that suggested they felt quite at home treading the boards!

YEAR 4 Drama - The Head in the Sand

On 17 March, both year 4 classes treated their families, friends

and teachers to a highly enjoyable and informative production

of Julia Donaldson’s ‘The Head in the Sand’. Set in Roman

Britain, the play begins as a young boy digs up a bronze head

from a Suffolk river. As he puzzles over it, the dramatic story

of the Roman invasion of Britain unfolds in front of his eyes.

Emperor Claudius, Queen Boudicca, Roman soldiers and

British slave girls all play their part. With pathos, humour and

sheer brilliance of performance, the children kept their audience

engaged throughout the play. Well done year 4!

House Competitions

House Music The theme of this tremendously popular House event was ‘Kings and Queens’ and this year Mr Sean

Farrell from Wellington College kindly

consented to judge the competition. Revenge

chose to sing Abba’s ‘Dancing Queen;

Rodney opted for Queen’s ‘We Are the

Champions’ accompanied by Oliver Prew

(piano) and Corban Smith (drums); Victory

opted for ‘Hakuna Matata’ from The Lion

King; and Vindictive chose Queen’s rousing

‘Don’t Stop Me Now”. Pupils enjoyed

individual performances given by James

Fearon (trumpet) and Giacomo Balaes

(piano) for Revenge; Madeleine Warnes

(flute) and Matthew Cunningham (‘cello) for Rodney; Zach Broad (piano) and Zach Roberts (piano)

for Victory; and Nicholas Pearce (piano) and Jayden Gill (drums) for Rodney. Jayden was judged to

have given the best individual performance, Victory was awarded the best song and Revenge achieved

the best overall score.

Rowing

The Inter-House Rowing saw every pupil in Year 7 and 8 take part in a relay

race, all gaining invaluable points for their respective teams. It became a two

horse race between Revenge and Rodney - nothing could split them in the end

and they shared the win.

Hockey This term has seen the first Annual Inter-House Mixed Hockey matches take place. Everyone has

been working hard this term to develop their skills in preparation for the event and this was clear to

see in each tournament. The final results were quite close with Vindictive coming first with 14 points,

and Revenge and Rodney in joint second place with 13 points. Congratulations to all those who took

part and especially to Vindictive as the overall winners.

Cross Country

All pupils who were fit and able on the last day of term

competed in the Inter-House cross country event. This

year the pupils were not only running to gain points for

their Houses, but to raise money for Sports Relief. Gold,

Silver and Bronze medals were awarded to girls and boys

in each year group in our final assembly. There were

several new school records with Thomas Day and Freya

Wilcox breaking the U10 records and Lottie Dewar the

U11 girls’ record. The final places were Revenge (1st),

Vindictive (2nd

), Rodney (3rd

) and Victory (4th). Well done to every pupil who completed the course;

now don’t forget to collect in the sponsorship money in aid of Sport Relief!

Dodge-Mania!

Seemingly the most eagerly awaited House event of

the year, Inter-House Dodgeball did not disappoint

this term! All the children in Years 3 – 8 took part

in the contest as they ducked, dodged and dived for

their Houses. Revenge won the Year 3 & 4

competition, Vindictive the Year 5 & 6 and Rodney

the Year 7 & 8. With one win and as runner-up

twice, Rodney came out on top.

A big well done to all our pupils for competing with

so much effort and sportsmanship.

The Year 8 Eton Science Trip On 18th January Year 8 went to the Eton Science Museum to learn about endangered animals. We

were given a sheet and the Curator told us to explore the museum and find different animals in each of

four main categories: vulnerable, endangered,

critically endangered and extinct. Then the

Curator gave us 60 seconds to write down on

sticky notes as many different reasons why

animals become endangered as we could. We

came up with lots but the main ones were,

hunting by humans, natural disasters

(famines, earthquakes etc) and increased

numbers of predators. We got to hold a

massive snakeskin that had been confiscated

from a suitcase at Heathrow. We also got to

hold a dead turtle that had also been

confiscated at Heathrow. There were lots of

other things had been confiscated at the museum, which is open on Sundays. Then he rounded up the

talk and we all said thank you to him. It was a great lesson so thank you very much to Mr Foran for

taking us. Finn Thomas, Year 8

Star Gazing Evening

This year’s Star Gazing evening was a great success, we

could not have asked for better weather. Clear skies and

mild temperatures were perfect for viewing the planet

Jupiter and its moons Ganymede and Europa. Members of

the Maidenhead Astronomical Society treated us to

incredible views of the craters on the Moon.

A big ‘thank you’ for everyone’s support. Mr Foran

World Book Day The whole school rose to the occasion and dressed up as characters from books – nearly all of the staff

joined in too and we had everything from Harry Potter, Mrs Twit to the Hungry Caterpillar. A huge

effort was made by all.

Andrew Weale, the well-known children’s author, told the Pre-Prep children how he became an

author and held interactive workshops on ‘Nora’ and ‘Spooky Spooky House’. Then the ‘Once Upon

a Bus’ company brought a double

decker bus and children from Nursery

to Year 4 were greeted by giant

bubbles and then taken on to the bus

to experience several different stories.

The younger children heard ‘Room

on The Broom’ (Mr McDade had a

cameo role!) and the older children

started off in space on the top deck

and then plunged down into the sea

on the lower deck for ‘Dear

Greenpeace.’

Years 5-8 were treated to an afternoon of Shakespearian tales from the theatre company ‘Shakespeare

Live!’. They learned about his life and works through a series of scenes from his well-known plays

with swashbuckling sword fights and gory death scenes. Lots of the children got to be involved in the

action on the stage too. It was a fabulous day of events! Mrs Woodrow

French Theatre Company Visit On 21st March, Y5 and Y6 had the pleasure of seeing a French

play “Parlez-vous Français?” performed by French and English

actors. Ben, an English boy, is on a ski trip with his school in

France, but unfortunately he has an accident on the first day and

his teacher takes him to the hospital. Ben’s French is limited,

which makes his visit to the hospital quite difficult when his

teacher has to leave for another emergency! By the end, Ben

knows a lot more French, and so did the Y5 and Y6!

Ancient Greek Day Both Year 3 classes thoroughly enjoyed their Ancient Greek

Day. They took part in a variety of practical activities, such as

wax tablet making, oil lamp making, medicine bags and soap

carvings. These were intertwined with stories from Ancient

Greece and role play, and at the end of the day, a Greek feast!

Wild Science

On 1st March a lady came to see Years 3, 4 and 5 and she brought

some animals. First we saw the biggest millipede in the world. It has

400 legs and it grows 4 to 6 legs each time it grows a new bump. The

second we saw was a scorpion. It didn’t move much because it is

nocturnal. You can do this cool trick if you put a purple light on it it

turns GREEN. Next we saw the corn snake. Its mouth is so big it

would be up to an 8-year old’s elbow to hand! Then came my

favourite part – the rabbit. The lady brought it just for us to learn

about mammals. I stroked it. I am good with furry animals but not

creepy crawlies! Willow Bartlam Year 4

‘Kings and Queens’ Workshop In Week 5 Year 1 were fully engaged in a

‘Kings and Queens’ workshop as part of

their History topic. Neil from Ufton Court

Educational Trust captured the children's

interest with wonderful artefacts and visual

resources. Both classes enjoyed dancing,

dressing up and working in groups to extend

their historical understanding.

Mrs Saunders

BOARDING

Chorister Surplicing

Congratulations to Laurie, Nicholas and James, on being surpliced on March

6th. This is when a probationer graduates to full chorister status, and is

awarded his white surplice to wear over his cassock and is given a school

chorister tie. Family and friends all enjoyed the celebration that followed.

Pancake Night Flipping good fun on Shrove Tuesday!

The boarders enjoyed making and eating their pancakes!

Bugs Life Boarders got to taste toasted scorpion, handle hissing cockroaches, meet giant

millipedes and stroke a thorny stick insect on Bug Night. A professional

entomologist entertained and educated us for over an hour on a night of

wonder, delight and developing courage!

Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th

Birthday Celebrations

On 21st April pupils in 4, 5 and 6 went up to Windsor Castle to take part

in the celebrations for Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th birthday. They were

able to watch The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh from a very

privileged position as they left the Castle and The Queen waved at them

as she drove past. It was a very memorable day for everyone.

IAPS Swimming Finals

On Saturday May 7th two of our pupils travelled to the K2 Arena in

Crawley for the National Finals of the IAPS swimming. Both Dan and Camilla had qualified through

regional rounds and were placed in the top

16 swimmers for their age group. They

were up against some formidable

opposition from schools throughout the

country and both pupils swam faster in the

finals than they had in the qualifying

rounds. Congratulations to them both for

excellent swims - Camilla came 9th in the

U12 50m breaststroke and Dan was 11th

in the U13 25m butterfly.

IAPS Fencing at Millfield Eight St George’s fencers made the long journey to Millfield School in

Somerset for this year’s IAPS Fencing championships on Sunday. This

competition attracts many of the best young fencers in the country and is

always a tough event. All of our entrants fenced incredibly well and everyone

won matches in the pool rounds. Nina and Jayden were amazing and gained a

bronze medal each for making it to the quarter finals. Tom was the standout

fencer of the weekend, finishing 3rd and receiving a beautiful trophy to take

home and keep.

An Assembly to Remember

We were delighted to welcome Padre Caldwell

(Battalion Chaplain) and guardsmen from the

Coldstream Guards to assembly on Thursday 19th

May. The 1st Battalion, the Coldstream Guards, are

based in Windsor and they visited the children in

years 3 to 8 as we are focusing on our weekly theme

of law and order. Many of the children enjoyed the

opportunity to wear a real bearskin! The guardsmen

who visited us this morning are on duty for

Trooping the Colour in June and we wish them a very successful parade to mark the Queen’s official

birthday.

Annual General Meeting

Annual General Meeting

St George’s School, Windsor Castle

Saturday 27th

June 2015 at 4.15pm

MINUTES

The President, J Davies , was in the Chair; the Vice-President, Chris McDade, Hon. Treasurer, H.R.

Mant, and Hon. Secretary, P.A. Roberts were in attendance and the following Members were recorded

as present:

Lewis Abbey

Gerald Barry

George Bosomworth

Julia Bourne (née

Cleave)

Michael Bovingdon

Paul Churchouse

Ann Clark

Derek Cooke

Timothy D'Arch-Smith

Julian Davies

Peter Denny

Madeleine Fitzgerald

Emma Goble

Brian Hooker

John Harvey

Sheila Hodgson

Thomas Horsfield

Kazbeck Kandour

Maurice Kenwrick-

Piercy

Hugh Mant

Katy Mason

Chris McDade

Allan McDowall

Beatrice McNally

Razzak Mirlan

Iain Nisbet

Bob Parvin

Sophie Potter-Mordant

Jason Presley

Victoria Raynes

Peter Roberts

Jake Roche

Guy Shore

Henrietta Smethurst

Corinne Smith

Max Ticehurst

Margaret Ward

James Ward

Robert Watson

Lewis Williams

Bertie Wilson

1. Apologies for absence had been received from:

Virginia Adams

Jonathan Armitage

George Bailey

Lindsay Barlow

Cosima Barlow

Hebe Barlow

Logie Barrow

Thomas Berry

James Birchall

Peter Bowsher

Rory Boyle

Anthony Brailsford

Ben Brownless

Tristram Burley

M Cardew

Charlotte Coates

Freddie Coates

William Colquhoun

N R Colquhoun

W A Colquhoun

N P Colquhoun

R J Colquhoun

H P Colquhoun

Peter Coombe

Michael Coombe

Joan Denny

Martin Denny

Anne Eggar

Oliver Evans

Nicholas Evans

Chris Evans

Henry Exham

Sheffield Exham

James Fanshawe

D. A. Fleming Williams

Robert Fovargue

Roland Gardner

Robin Gilkes

Richard Halsey

David Handcock

P A C Harland

Jessie Hicks

Andrew Hughes

Dominic Hughes

Edward Jackson

Yvonne Judge

David Kay

Robert Kidner

R. M. Latham

Allan Ledger

G. D. Leeds

Rupert Lunnon

Andrew Mackenzie

Clement Manger

Joshua Mannings

Roger Marsh

A P Mayne

Rupert McGuigan

Eleanor Moss

Anthony Newell

Colin Nicholson

Bruce Nightingale

Philip Nourse

Meg Ormond

Justin Pains

Michael Pickwoad

Barrie Piper

Mark Piper

Lewis Quinn-Bower

RSO Rees

Brother Teilo Rees

Skye Reid-Smith

Arjun Samra

Anthony Shillingford

Martin Sims

Simon Smith

William Spalding

Michael Statham

Peter Sumsion

Dicky Thomas

Alexandra Thompson

Russell Walker

Christopher Walkinshaw

N H M Waring

Gavin Whitmee

Laurence Woodford

John Young

2. Minutes

The minutes of the 2014 meeting were deemed to be an accurate record and were then

approved.

3. Matters arising There were no matters arising.

4. Accounts The Treasurer reported that the Association was in good financial health. There was a

significant grant made to the School in the past financial year but this year there had been no

requests for grants, it being thought prudent to wait for the correct project to come in future

years. The accounts were presented to the membership.

Ian Nesbit proposed the adoption of the accounts and Peter Denny seconded.

5. President’s Business

The President thanked the many members who had attended the Reunion and expressed the

wish that they might encourage more of their contemporaries to attend in the future. He noted

that it was pleasing again to see some younger faces present.

The President also thanked the Head Master and Mrs McDade for hosting us and the kitchen

staff and sports staff who had given of their time and skill to make the day so enjoyable. The

cricket match had been played in a new format this year with the School and Association

teams being mixed to form two equally matched sides. The President was extremely pleased

to congratulate the Hon Secretary for hitting the winning runs from the final ball to steer his

side to victory. He was also very grateful to the boys and parents of boys who had given up

their time to make the game possible: a great atmosphere had been created and it was hoped

that this format would be used again. The President, on behalf of all Association members,

asked the Head Master to thank the Choristers for giving up one of their Saturdays to sing full

evensong: it was something that meant an awful lot to many former pupils who remain

extremely grateful.

The meeting was informed of the deaths of Patrick Reginald Redland Clarke (1931–1934);

John Terence Patrick Crowe (known as Terry) (1947–1952); John Victor Evered (1935–

1939); Allan Kendall (Lay Clerk and Staff until 1975); I McIntyre (1949–1953); John Ross-

Ross (staff 1964–1987); C. P. A. Stericker (1962–1966); and A. M. Williams (1941–1945).

Those members of the Association present and their guests stood in silent tribute to these men

and those others of whose deaths we are as yet unaware.

The meeting was informed that the Robert Ward Memorial Fund now stood at £9073.69 and

it continued to assist pupils with the costs of events and demands that would otherwise be

beyond their means. The President was pleased to inform the membership that the Head

Master had intervened with Chapter and that the entirety of the collection at Evensong would

be applied to the Fund.

The President announced that the Association’s guests for dinner would be Elizabeth Shore,

our Special Needs teacher in Pre-Prep Dept who will be leaving at the end of term, Corinne

Smith, for many years a much-loved Teaching Assistant in the Middle School and Katy

Mason, Matron at St George’s for past 15 years.

6. Election of Officers

Prior to the election of Officers the Honorary Secretary updated those present on a proposal

for a change to the Rules of the Association designed to ensure that the committee be able to

rely on the hard work and experience of the ever shrinking band of people prepared to serve.

At present, after serving for three years on the committee Rule V allows a committee member

to be elected for a period of three years but requires that thereafter they be prevented from

standing for election for a period of one year. In the past this had led to job swapping and

ruses to ensure that those willing to serve could. The proposal was that the words “and shall

not be eligible for re-election as Ordinary Members for the ensuing year” be excised from the

Rule V.

The motion was proposed by the Honorary Secretary, seconded by the Honorary Membership

Secretary and passed by the Members Present unanimously.

The following elections were made and positions noted:

President Julian Davies

(serving his second year)

Hon. Secretary Peter Roberts was re-elected to serve a third year.

Proposed: James Ward , Seconded: Bob Parvin.

Hon. Treasurer Hugh Mant was re-elected.

Proposed: Allan McDowall, Seconded: Peter Roberts.

Hon. Membership Secretary Brian Hooker was elected

Proposed: Maggie Ward, Seconded: Allan McDowall.

Ordinary members:

The following members were nominated for election to the Committee

Dominic Bland Jason Presley

By virtue of the rule change and their willingness to continue to serve on the committee, in

addition the following members were nominated:

Maggie Ward James Ward

All four were elected by the membership present.

It was observed that Martin Denny had one year left to serve in his capacity as immediate Past

President. An invitation was issued to anyone who would like to serve on the committee to

make themselves known to a member of the committee.

7. Head Master’s Business

The Head Master gave the following report:

I am pleased to report that the school remains in good heart and we have enjoyed another very

busy and successful year. In summary, the key highlights have been:

Curriculum:

The introduction of Spanish into year 6 has been a great success and the subject moves into

the year 7 curriculum from September.

A new reporting system was introduced last September enabling us to monitor and track each

pupil’s progress and attainment much more closely throughout the school.

Pastoral:

House identity continues to be a key part of the school and our pastoral structure. This year

the Houses collectively raised over £1,700 for Shelter box enabling us to fund three large

boxes of urgent supplies for this excellent charity; a fantastic sum!

Facilities:

All the windows in the Art, DT and Food Tech areas of the school have been replaced and we

are rapidly moving forward with plans for a new pavilion on the sports fields (offers of

support would be most welcome and the Head Master is available to discuss this over

supper!).

Pupils’ Achievements

Year 8 CE exams:

Once again, our year 8 pupils achieved some excellent results in Common Entrance. All

pupils have gained places at some first class schools including Bradfield, Eton, Hampton,

Harrow, Marlborough, Wellington and Westminster to name just a few. We celebrated both

academic and musical success in awards gained by some of our leavers; Henry Bishop moves

on to Westminster with a top Music Scholarship and similarly, Darcey Goble moves on to

Marlborough also with a top Music Scholarship. Dylan Byrne achieved an Academic

Scholarship to Hampton with some of the finest results ever achieved at St George’s and

David Low moves on to The King’s School Canterbury with an Academic Exhibition.

Trips and Visits:

Our pupils have enjoyed a wide range of educational and recreational trips and visits. The

pupils in year 6 spent a week away developing their French speaking skills at the Maison

Claire Fontaine in mid-West France, the year 5 pupils went away for an overnight visit to the

Longridge outdoor Education Centre to develop their teamwork and leadership skills and our

year 7 pupils began the academic year with two days of team building training which

culminated in a return to school from Dorney lake by canoe (it’s further than you think!). Our

year 8 pupils, following their CE exams, enjoyed 4 days of water sports in the Mediterranean

followed by 3 days of kayaking in the Ardèche including a ‘death slide’ descent and ‘body

surfing’!

Choristers:

The choristers have enjoyed a very successful year with many highlights including Easter Day

Matins in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen and other members of the family and the

pomp and ceremony of Garter Day (there were no new Knights this year!)

The school and St George’s Chapel held another very successful CFAD in February when 26

boys and their families came to Windsor to experience life as a chorister for a day. We

formally auditioned 9 boys and look forward to welcoming the new intake of choristers in

September.

In May, the full Chapel Choir enjoyed a very successful a mini tour to Munich where they

performed a recital in the Theatinerkirche on the Saturday evening and jointly sang Mass

there with the resident choir on the Sunday morning.

Staffing:

At the end of this term we bid farewell to several long serving colleagues:

Guy Shore moves on to be Headmaster of Waverley Prep School, Wokingham;

Libby Shore leaves to join Guy at his new school as Head of Special Needs;

(Between them they have given almost 26 years of service to St George’s).

Andrea Baker (Reception class teacher) moves on to a new post at Eton End School.

Oliver Lomberg (Head of Latin) leaves us to move into senior school teaching.

Ben Lewis-Smith (Head of Music) leaves us to pursue his freelance career.

We welcome several new colleagues to St George’s next term in various sections of the

school and we very much look forward to them joining us in September.

8. Election of Members and Honorary Members

The following Members and Honorary Members were elected:

Corinne Smith, Sally Saunders, Katy Mason, Yvonne Judge, Elizabeth Shore

The following Honorary Members were elected:

Rt Revd David Conner KCVO, Charlotte Manley LVO

9. AOB

(i) Maurice Kenwrick-Piercy informed the members present about the Friends off

Cathedral Music Diamond Fund which had been set up to ensure the financial

security of cathedral choirs. He outlined its agenda and events planned and indicated

that he would be happy to talk in greater length over supper.

(ii) Next year’s provisional date for the Reunion was set as 25th June 2016.

There being no further business, the meeting was closed by the President and those present

climbed the steps to Evensong or availed themselves of the school minibus!

Rules of the Association

I. Title

The club shall be known as ‘The St. George’s School, Windsor Castle, Association’.

II. Objects

The objects shall be to encourage Members to keep in touch with each other and with

the School. Members shall also be encouraged to give their support to the School, its

Choral Traditions, and the Headmaster wherever they can do so.

III. Membership

All who have been pupils at St. George’s School, who have paid membership fees

whilst at the School, shall be deemed to be Life Members of the Association.

Members of the teaching and auxiliary staff may be elected Members of the

Association; and others, not educated at the School, who have supported the objects of

the Association to a marked degree, may be elected Honorary Members by resolution

to be passed at an Annual General Meeting.

IV. Officers

The officers of the Association shall consist of a President, Vice-President, Honorary

Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, Honorary Membership Secretary and Honorary

Archivist. Terms of office shall be as follows:

(a). President

The President shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting to serve a term of

two years in office and a further two years as a Committee member. He may not

be considered for re-election as President until at least three further years after this

appointment.

(b). Vice-President

The Vice-President shall be the Headmaster of St. George’s School for the time

being, who shall be ex officio the only Vice-President of the Association.

(c). Hon. Secretary

The Hon. Secretary shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and must be

re-elected annually, until the said Hon. Secretary relinquishes the post.

(d). Hon. Treasurer

The Hon. Treasurer shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and must be

re-elected annually, until the said Hon. Treasurer relinquishes the post.

(e). Hon. Membership Secretary

The Hon. Membership Secretary shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting,

and must be re-elected annually, until the said Hon. Membership Secretary

relinquishes the post.

(f). Hon. Archivist

The Hon. Archivist shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and must be

re-elected annually, until the said Hon. Archivist relinquishes the post.

V. Management

The Association shall be managed by a committee comprising the Officers of the

Association and up to five Ordinary Members, at the discretion of the Committee.

Ordinary Members shall be elected at the Annual General.

VI. Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting shall be held at St. George’s School on such day during

the Summer Term as may be fixed by the Committee, or at such other time and place

as the Committee may decide, at which the Hon. Secretary shall present an annual

report, and the Hon. Treasurer a duly audited statement of accounts. The Officers and

Committee of the Association for the ensuing year shall be elected at this meeting in

accordance with Rules IV and V. Other general meetings may be called at any time by

the Committee.

VII. Quorum

Five members of the Committee shall constitute a quorum.

VIII. Subscription

Such life subscription shall be paid by every Member as shall be determined in

Committee and passed at a General Meeting of the Association.

These rules were last amended and ratified at the Annual General Meeting of the Association held at

St. George’s School, Windsor Castle, on Saturday June 27th

2015.

Association Items for Sale

The following items are available for purchase.

Association tie – silk £ 15.00

Association Centenary tie – silk £ 15.00

Association tie – polyester (a few left) £ 12.00

Association favours for ladies (bows) – silk £ 10.00

Association favours for ladies (scarf) – silk £ 10.00

CD Holy is the True Light specially recorded for

the Association Centenary £ 11.00

Choirs and Cloisters by Freddie Hodgson £ 10.00

CD A Celebration for Freddie Hodgson £ 7.00

Headmaster – Reflections on life at St George’s School

between 1971 and 1983, by Richard Russell £ 1.25

The four-part history of St George’s School as related

in School Magazines and archives,

edited by Richard Russell C.V.O.

Each part can be bought separately:

1. Carven Arches (up to 1930) £ 6.20

2. Soaring Vault (1930 to 1950) £ 6.20

3. Storied Banner (1950-1980) £ 6.20

4. In High Remembrance (a little different £ 6.20

from the first three volumes)

All 4 above books as a set £ 24.00

To all orders please ADD postage & packing per package of £2.00

Please provide your full postal address and contact details when placing your order.

Orders for the above items should be accompanied by a cheque made out to

St George’s School Association and sent either to:

The Assistant Bursar, Brian Hooker, St George’s School, Windsor Castle, Windsor,

Berkshire SL4 1QF

or by email using the subject line “StGA Order” to either:

brian.hooker@stgwindsor.co.uk or to association@stgwindsor.co.uk

Association website

The Association now has its web presence as part of the School website:

Either go through the main school site www.stgwindsor.co.uk and follow the link to the

Association, or go directly to: www.stgwindsor.co.uk/home/association

Notes