Assynt Reunion Return of a Mountain Tradition - Spotlights - The Leys School
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OLNEWS
SPRING 2022 | Issue 47
Assynt Reunion Spotlights Giving Day
Return of a Mountain Tradition Gloria Diamond and Around the World
Emma Crawshaw
UPDATES
In this Edition
7 OL Updates l Dan Cattermole
partnerships, (ii) leadership through innovative models, and (iii) a lean entrepreneurial style allowing fast and flexible engagement on critical issues.”
characteristics of being a big organisation with those of being small. The report also reiterated our own internal perspectives of FFI’s unique role, which focuses on “(i) collaboration through lasting
The consultants were able to clearly articulate FFI’s role within the wider conservation movement, and celebrated the value of our relatively modest size, stating that we appeared to combine some of the best
partnerships, (ii) leadership through innovative models, and (iii) a lean entrepreneurial style allowing fast and flexible engagement on critical issues.”
FFI’S NICHE IS CLEAR
characteristics of being a big organisation with those of being small. The report also reiterated our own internal perspectives of FFI’s unique role, which focuses on “(i) collaboration through lasting
The consultants were able to clearly articulate FFI’s role within the wider conservation movement, and celebrated the value of our relatively modest size, stating that we appeared to combine some of the best
3
OL Updates OL Updates
8
FFI’S NICHE IS CLEAR
Assynt Reunion
10
Community Fund
Lucy Sales, Moulton/Dale
Max Rains, School
2000–07
12 2003–08
In January 2022, I became a Governor
Spotlight “After leaving The Leys in 2008, I
of The Leys and St Faith’s Schools
Gloria Diamond studied French and Politics at Oxford
Foundation. Being an existing member
Brookes. Following graduation, I moved
of the Old Leysian Society Committee
14 to Chamonix in the French Alps, and I
and the Old Leysian Benevolent Fund
Message from the President Giving Day have lived there for eight years. Living
Committee, I felt I wanted to do more
in a snowsports mecca, my winters are
to help shape the experience of future
It is a great honour to have been asked to 16 made up of skiing, tartiflette, fondue,
pupils to ensure they come away from
be OLS President this year. To be the first Spotlight snowy dog walks and apres-ski.
their time at The Leys with memories as
female president in the history of The Leys is Emma Crawshaw Summer free time is filled with hiking,
happy as mine. I have been working in
a real privilege. I have been very touched by climbing, running, road biking and
the pharmaceutical industry for the past
the support I have received. I joined The Leys 8 18 tennis as well as the odd dip down in
Assynt Reunion decade, most recently as an Associate Committee for the Cambridgeshire
as a boarder in the Sixth Form in 1986. This Obituaries Annecy Lake. To fund this lifestyle, I
Director of Global Compliance for Constabulary. It’s great to be able
was the third year of girls entering the school. have worked as a Purchasing Manager
AstraZeneca. I am also a Trustee for the to use my corporate experience to
Having come from an all-girls day school, 21 for TUI for 5 years, working across
Cambridge Cancer Help Centre and an benefit the local community, which I
arriving at a school with 400+ boys and only OL Sport France, Switzerland, Andorra, and
Independent Member of the Joint Audit look forward to doing with The Leys.
30 girls was quite something! My two years Norway, buying accommodation on
were some of the happiest years of my life. 22 behalf of Crystal Ski. Now, as a Knight
The confidence the school gave me and the From the Frank partner I help potential buyers find
opportunities I was given have shaped my life Archive their ideal holiday home or permanent
ever since. After The Leys, I went on to Oxford residence in the Chamonix Valley and
Brookes University to read Education and 24 further afield. I can be reached at
French. Teaching was always what I dreamed OL Events max@mountain-base.com.”
of doing and I feel very lucky that I have been Alex Hofford, School 1980–86 photojournalist whose work covering
in education ever since. I spent an amazing 12 Spotlight l Gloria Diamond
partnerships, (ii) leadership through innovative models, and (iii) a lean entrepreneurial style allowing fast and flexible engagement on critical issues.”
characteristics of being a big organisation with those of being small. The report also reiterated our own internal perspectives of FFI’s unique role, which focuses on “(i) collaboration through lasting
Since 2005, Alex has developed a environmental and human rights issues
three years teaching in Nairobi, Kenya and then career as an environmental campaigner across Asia has been published by
The consultants were able to clearly articulate FFI’s role within the wider conservation movement, and celebrated the value of our relatively modest size, stating that we appeared to combine some of the best
partnerships, (ii) leadership through innovative models, and (iii) a lean entrepreneurial style allowing fast and flexible engagement on critical issues.”
characteristics
FFI’S NICHE IS being a big organisation with those of being small. The report also reiterated our own internal perspectives of FFI’s unique role, which focuses on “(i) collaboration through lasting
of CLEAR
The consultants were able to clearly articulate FFI’s role within the wider conservation movement, and celebrated the value of our relatively modest size, stating that we appeared to combine some of the best
I was drawn back to Cambridge. I have been
FFI’S NICHE IS CLEAR
with an impressive track record in leading international newspapers and
teaching at St John’s College School since organising and leading important magazines. Alex returned to the UK
1997. Over the past six years, I have been a campaigns for change in some of the with his wife and two children in 2019
governor of The Leys, and it has been a real most challenging parts of the world. and has been protecting sharks by
privilege to see the other side of teaching. I am Alex was based in Hong Kong for over combatting European Union overfishing
full of admiration for all the staff at The Leys. 20 years, where he led a high-profile as a consultant for environmental
The education the pupils receive is second to movement to ban the city’s rampant groups WildAid and Shark Guardian
none, the pastoral care exceptional and the On the Cover shark fin trade. He convinced major ever since.
range of wider curriculum activities on offer Edwin Sadd (West hotels and restaurants to stop serving
hugely impressive. 1967–72) with his family shark fin soup, as well as scores of
22 From the Archive at the Assynt Reunion airlines and container shipping lines to
It seems quite apt that, in my year as OLS stop carrying this egregious product.
President, my son Nico is about to embark Alex also spearheaded an extremely
partnerships, (ii) leadership through innovative models, and (iii) a lean entrepreneurial style allowing fast and flexible engagement on critical issues.”
characteristics of being a big organisation with those of being small. The report also reiterated our own internal perspectives of FFI’s unique role, which focuses on “(i) collaboration through lasting
The consultants were able to clearly articulate FFI’s role within the wider conservation movement, and celebrated the value of our relatively modest size, stating that we appeared to combine some of the best
OL News is printed with
on his secondary education at The Leys. My effective campaign to ban the Hong
FFI’S NICHE IS CLEAR
vegetable based inks on
father, Chris Cooper (North B 1953–58) also paper containing material Kong ivory trade. He is an accomplished
went to the School. I look forward to meeting sourced from responsibly and persuasive communicator and
many of you in the year ahead and welcoming managed forests certified in resourceful, strategic and innovative
accordance with the Forest
you back to The Leys. organiser with a global network of
Stewardship Council ®.
top-level contacts in the environmental
Julia Clarke, Granta 1986–88 sphere. Alex is also a professional
positional
President
3
UPDATES UPDATES
T H E O LD S C H O O L T I E
Tom Steed, School 2015–20 have opportunities
I remember Neil White (Common Room 1948– for time, I suggested we meet at his office. situations. The OL Tie certainly worked for
“In August I was fortunate enough to be involved in
82) rushing into the classroom just as the bell He agreed but warned me that he wouldn’t me that day!
to be selected for the National Youth their productions
sounded. Drawing fiercely on a cigarette and budge, not even by four inches.
Theatre (NYT). After an online audition and their extensive
blowing the smoke away with his gown, he John B Sully East 1950–53
process, I completed their Senior career pathways.
declared: “Those clever ones in the A stream I recall my suspense while waiting in Mr
Intake Course at the Royal & Derngate
may have professional careers, but you lot in Bradford’s boardroom. What would Neil White
Theatre in Northampton over an intense The intense nature
4C will go into trade and make more money.” think of this? I waited and worried and waited
three-week period, three of the most of the course was
Nevertheless, I left school in 1953 with no some more. Finally, Mr Bradford entered the
challenging yet rewarding weeks I have physically and
career in mind, then fate pushed me into the room. As he approached, my eyes drifted to a
ever experienced. Each group was emotionally demanding.
building trade. Business was successful, and familiar tie around his neck.
given its own director who shared their However, it provided
I soon branched out. I was invited to invest
unique experience and expertise from such a valuable
in a factory, then a foundry. Our proposed “Is that an Old Leysian tie?” I asked hopefully.
the industry. Our focus was primarily on insight into the
building would just fit onto our site if we
impulse and working as an ensemble theatre industry, Tom is crouching, far right
kept tight within our boundaries. We set out “Yes, it is!” Mr Bradford replied pleasantly.
rather than individual script work. This which left
the building very carefully, but unfortunately
involved aspects of acting, singing, and me completely
the steel erectors were not so diligent, and, When I told him I was an OL too, this caused
dancing, clowning, mindfulness, and inspired. I made fantastic friendships, continue working with NYT. For anyone
unbeknown to me, the building encroached an immediate change. Mr Bradford reversed
learning new skills from workshops on developed new skills, and learnt a great considering a career in this wonderful
on my neighbour’s land by four inches. his position, made the adjustments to the
Shakespeare. On our last two days, we deal about myself. We were pushed out industry, whether that be acting,
title deeds, and gave me a vehicular right of
were able to present a piece of devised of our comfort zones and urged to let producing, or the technical side of things,
Phillip Bradford, the owner of an adjacent way over his property to improve access for
work in front of NYT associates and other go of any insecurities. I am incredibly I thoroughly recommend getting involved
property, arrived on site. He measured the our office block. Five decades later, I reflect
course members. Going forward, we grateful for my experience and hope to with NYT.”
land and confirmed that we had encroached on that meeting and what it says about our
on his property by four inches. He wanted my OL community. Then as now, OLs go out of
building demolished. In desperation, playing their way to support each other in difficult
Guy Upton, Barrett 1993–98
Guy completed his BSc in Computer Science
Hannah Tan, Dale 2010–15
at Newcastle in 2021. He is presently working
“Whilst visiting friends in Cambridge, I was ritually O L S H E LP I N G R E F U G E E S E S C AP E WAR I N U K R AI N E
at Featurespace, a software company that uses
applying for jobs every morning and found an
artificial intelligence and machine-learning in fraud
incredible job advertised for an accounting role. Since the outbreak of war in Ukraine, On February 24th of this year, as soon as I
detection and prevention. This includes solutions
Having applied for jobs in numerous cities in the UK, Olessia Alexeeva Bean (Dale 1995–99) and heard that Russia had launched an attack
to card payment and money laundering fraud.
I had not considered moving back to Cambridge Ania Morrison (Dale 1996–2001) have been on Ukraine, I called Olessia in London to find
and decided to go for it! September 6th was my first working tirelessly to help refugees escape her shocked, her eyes glued to the TV screen
day at BCS Accounting and every day presents new to safety, including Olessia’s own mother. and on the other line to her mother who
challenges and opportunities to learn and expand Ania describes how their humanitarian was in Kharkiv – one of the first cities to be
my skillset. I also had no idea I would be working for efforts began. attacked. Knowing Olessia so many years, I
fellow OL David O’Farrell (North B 1981–86). I am have always admired her for her courage and
thoroughly enjoying my new adventure back where I “I had not seen Olessia for almost ten years strength, but for the first time ever, I could
spent my teens.” – not since she stood witness at my wedding hear fear in her voice as she asked me, “Ania,
in Greece in the summer of 2012. Over the how can we get my mum out of Kharkiv?” I
next ten years we were always in touch but did not know. I had no idea. How do you get
never in the same country. I never could have a person out of a war zone?”
imagined that the next time I would see her
would be in such circumstances. Please read more here about the journey
of Olessia’s mother and humanitarian
Ania and Olessia together at Ania’s wedding
We had met in Dale House at the beginning of efforts of Ania, Olessia, and the wider in 2012
the 1996/97 school year. I had joined in Year Leys community to help refugees of
9, and Olessia was in Year 11. We became this conflict.
very close friends from the very beginning – a
Andrew Ranson, East 1986–91 friendship which has lasted for over 25 years.
has been commissioned as a Deputy
Lieutenant for Greater London.
4 5
UPDATES UPDATES
B I R T H S , E N G AG E M E N TS A N D WE D D I N G S Dan Cattermole, West 1995–99
Oscar Cattermole was born on 26 July 2021,
and he is very much adored by his older sister,
Amelie. Dan continues to serve in the Army
and is due to take up his final appointment as
a WO1 Foreman of Signals at the Royal School
Tom Farquhar, Moulton/
of Signals in Blandford Forum.
School 2002–09 and Harriet
Boultbee, Dale 2004–07
were married on Saturday 18
September 2021 in Abington Pigotts,
South Cambridgeshire. “We were
Henry Milward,
incredibly lucky to have a beautiful
School 2001–06
sunny September day. The ceremony
Henry Milward and his wife, Aoife,
took place in the village church and
welcomed their third child, a son
was followed by a reception with
named Cuileán Haris in November
all our family and friends in a lovely
2021. Henry and his family live in
old barn in the village.” Tom is now
the County Cork countryside.
a qualified architect and Hattie is
working in public health research at
the MHRA.
Matthew Bellis, North B/School
2001–06
Matt and Geeta Bellis got married at Ely
Cathedral in August 2021. Chris Colgate
(North B 2001–03) was the best man. The
Will Hooley, Barker 2007–12 wedding guests included Matt’s grandparents,
“My wife, Molly, and I got married on 16 August 2021 Bertie Bellis (Headmaster 1975–86) and his
down in Exeter, Devon in the beautiful surroundings of wife Joan.
Broadclyst Church and Rockbeare Manor. Plenty of Old
Leysians attended, and we felt very lucky to be able to
have the wedding we wished for with no Covid restrictions
in place. We are enjoying married life, although pushing
back our honeymoon to 2022. We have moved to
San Diego, California as I have taken up the incredible C O M M O N R O O M U PDAT E S
opportunity to play for San Diego Legion in the Major
League Rugby tournament in America. I continue to Congratulations to Karen Northrop, School House Matron
represent the USA in the bid to go to another Rugby 2013–present, who remarried on 2 July 2021 on the Brighton
World Cup in 2023.” Bandstand. Her husband Mark is a long-distance lorry driver.
Between them, Karen and Mark have three daughters, two sons
called Daniel, and five grandchildren. Their youngest grandchild,
Lizzie Katalin, was born a week before their wedding. Karen’s
name has now changed to Allsebrook.
Will Waldock, Bisseker 2010–15
Will is pleased to announce his engagement
to Sophie Barnes whom he met at a friend’s
wedding. The couple plan to marry in April.
This is happy news amidst sadness at the
passing of Will’s mother, Elizabeth, on 14
October 2021, a daughter of Rev. Major
Stanley W. Doggett (North B 1922–26)
and a devoted supporter of The Leys. Will
enjoys this connection with his maternal
grandfather, both North B and Hawks Club Alexandra Annett, CR 2017–present,
alumni. Above all the fantastic opportunities is happy to announce the arrival of
Will enjoyed at The Leys, he is most grateful Conor, born on 21 July 2021.
for the Ichthus Society led by Mr Barton.
6 7
ASSYNT – AT LAST! ASSYNT – AT LAST!
ASSYNT – at last! “Our teachers at The Leys allowed us to
experience many wild places and imbued us with
a love of the outdoors. They taught us how to
rise above inclement weather and adversity and
work together for the common good. We left
The Leys with a bond that unites us in our love
Chris Bliss and Jamie Watson enjoy the view
of Assynt. At these special reunions, we relive
Simon James (W69-74) and his son, Matthew, past experiences, forge new friendships,
James Long (W09-14), (already on his fourth
Assynt camp!), Ian McNab (S78-83), Richard walk familiar routes and explore new ones.
Pattison (A75-80), Eddy Sadd (W67-72), his
wife Gail and their three children, Emma, Long may it continue.” Edwin Sadd, West 1967–72
Clare and Ben, George Sadd (W68-73), Jamie
Watson (W73-77), and Ian Winfrey (B73-77).
As Richard Armstrong was unable to attend
this year’s Reunion, many people gathered
at his home on November 27 to give him
an Assynt lunch. He showed slides of past
camps and Simon James showed photos and
videos of the recent Reunion. Of the 23 people
Ardvreck Castle on Loch Assynt
who came, many had been on the September
Reunion. OLs attending who hadn’t been
The unique rugged beauty of Assynt, on the During the autumn half-term, students had species had gone and winter visitors had there were: Robert Brigham (S67-71), Mark
borders of Sutherland and Wester Ross, has their qualifying expedition in the Lake District. yet to arrive, but we had close encounters Buckingham (S81-86), Andy Churchill (W72-
captured the imagination of generations of During the Easter holidays, another camp with ptarmigans on the heights, a small flock 77), Stephen Lowden (W62-66), Duncan
Leysians. For many of us associated with was offered on a voluntary basis, alternating of snow buntings at Sandwood Bay, a lazy Mackay (E67-72), Howard Papworth (A69-74)
Scouts or the Duke of Edinburgh Award, the between Scotland and Snowdonia. Old seal from Inverewe pier and red deer at the and Nigel Yarwood (W64-69).
north-west Highlands hold a special place. In Leysians were welcomed back to join these Lodge at dusk. Those walking below were
the 1960s a pattern of Scout camps was set. camps and help to lead daily expeditions. This aware of those climbing above as the Assynt John Harding
tradition ceased in 1990 upon the retirement WhatsApp group exchanged their photos in Common Room 1968–2005 John Harding at the Point of Stoer
of Richard Armstrong (CR, 59–90), but every real time.
four years our group returns to Assynt for a
reunion camp. After two postponements, the Everyone chipped in with cooking. We
most recent Assynt Reunion took place in enjoyed lasagne, tuna bake, chilli con carne,
September 2021, bringing together 19 Old the inevitable Harding curry and the Sadds’
Leysians and their family members. Middle Eastern delights. Evenings provided an
opportunity for endless reminiscence and the
As was to be expected, the weather James family presented photographic shows,
was mixed. In one twenty-four hours the with Richard Pattison adding his wildlife
temperature dropped from 19 to 9C. Of pictures from the Antarctic. One person
course, there was rain, but it blew through who figured in all the tales and photos was
quickly when it came. Between us we sadly absent: Richard Armstrong wasn’t well
conquered all the main peaks and several enough to come. With no Lowdens either, this
less-climbed peaks such as Breabag and was a sorry Assynt first. Ian McNab fashions an alpine horn from plastic tubing
Ben Stack. Some of us stayed lower down
and enjoyed walking to the Point of Stoer, These are the people who made it: Chris
the Falls of Kirkaig, Sandwood Bay, and the Bliss (E73-77), Nigel Gibbons (W72-77), Nick
Gelncanisp-Elphin trail. The lochs, woods Goldsmith (F74-79), Simon Ekins (F74-79),
John and Jean Harding with George Sadd and seacliffs were bereft of wildlife as migrant Jean (CR77-03) and John (CR68-05) Harding, Simon James with his son Matthew and Gail Sadd
8 9
COMMUNITY FUND COMMUNITY FUND
Community Fund “The Leys Connection is proud to support the Community Fund with their initiative supporting
charitable projects in the local community. It is fabulous to see how much has already been achieved.
We look forward to continuing to support the Community Fund with fundraising opportunities and
assisting with practical volunteer support.” Emma Preston, Leys parent
© My Linh, Turtle Dove Cambridge
Turtle Dove
Wine Tasting
TH E G R E AT O UTD O O R S
WITH R OWAN
Rowan is a Cambridge charity providing
an arts centre and forest school for
more than 80 adults with learning
C AR I N G F O R disabilities. One of the highlights of their
O U R C AM B R I DG E calendar is the annual art exhibition,
B R I N G I N G TO G ETH E R
C O M M U N IT Y the third of which was held one sunny
TH E LEYS C O M M U N IT Y
February weekend, sponsored by the
Thanks to the generosity of Old Leysians AN D TH E C AM B R I DG E
Community Fund. Rowan exhibition artwork
and parents alike, in 2021 we were able C O M M U N IT Y
to increase our support for the local
The theme was The Great Outdoors, from local musicians. All the canvases One local group who received a
community through the launch of the
with canvases from Rowan students, were displayed anonymously, and it was Community Fund grant are Cogwheel
Community Fund.
professional artists, and pupils from local wonderful to see so many interpretations Counselling, who were founded in 1988
schools. Fifteen Leys students also took of the theme side-by-side, creating to provide those in need with counselling
The Community Fund made grants to
part, with thanks to Ms Battison who intriguing connections between the support regardless of their income. In
thirteen projects during its pilot period in
helped guide and support the pupils. works of art. We are hoping The Leys 2021, Cogwheel helped over 300 clients
2021, and a further 14 projects between
As well as the main exhibition there and the Community Fund can take part in 3,800 sessions. With the availability of
September and Christmas. The projects
was a silent auction featuring renowned in and support this great event again counselling through the NHS very limited,
covered all aspects of life, from food
artists from around the UK and music next year. those families and individuals who are
hampers for families facing holiday WO R K I N G TO G ETH E R smart new uniforms. We were delighted
financially disadvantaged have little hope
hunger, to computing equipment for a WITH TU RTLE D OVE to also provide practical assistance
of getting the timely support they need.
debt advice charity, to travel bursaries C AM B R I D G E alongside this by hiring Turtle Dove
Cogwheel seeks to help those who
for LGBTQ+ young people to access to staff the wine tasting – in their new
could not otherwise access counselling. In October 2021, the Leys Connection
support groups. uniforms! – and their team did a fantastic
The Community Fund has helped them and the Development Office hosted a
job. The evening was thoroughly enjoyed
establish the Counselling Support Fund, wine tasting as a way for parents new
by all who attended. Kate Nation, the
which allows those on very low incomes to the School to meet others. It was
social enterprise’s Co-Founder and
or on benefit to receive sessions at a a pleasure to welcome Mark Anstead
Managing Director, described the
reduced cost of £10. Currently about from the Cambridgeshire Wine School
uniforms as a “game changer” in terms
25 people are benefiting from this, and to lead the evening, while the event
of the professional service they can offer,
can build the bond of trust with their was ably staffed by a team from Turtle
and we hope to be able to work with
counsellor knowing that they will be able Dove Cambridge. Turtle Dove is a social
them again in the future.
to keep accessing help. enterprise, founded to improve the future
of young women in Cambridge at risk
of unemployment or without a job. The
We are delighted that the Leys young women they assist gain valuable
Connection are showing their experience in running and working
support for the Community Fund at events, while also building their
Stoneyholme pupil with donated iPad
by donating the proceeds of confidence and skills.
their social evenings, as well as
actively seeking ways to give In early 2021, the Community Fund made
Elisabeth, a
student at
practical assistance. a grant to Turtle Dove to help them buy
Rowan
10 11
SPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT
Spotlight on
© FAWE Zimbabwe/2020
Gloria Diamond
Barker, 2010–12
As a student at The Leys, Gloria Diamond decided to strengthen my communication skills and believe in myself. I also
to join the Model United Nations club. Twelve years studied A-Level French, one of the UN’s official languages, and let my
UN aspirations play out in the Model United Nations club. One of my
later, she works for the United Nations, leading policy,
teachers, Mr Leader, inspired a genuine joy and curiosity for learning
advocacy and research projects for the advancement of that I carried with me to university and beyond.
girls’ education globally. Sharing her journey from The
Leys, Gloria reflects on the value of education and her Tell us about your journey from The Leys to advocating
for girls’ education at the UN.
commitment to gender equality. The journey was not always smooth, but my family supported and
encouraged me to persevere. After my A-Levels, I went to St. Andrews
Girls’ education unlocks extraordinary potential. What University to study French and Arabic. I then started an internship at
inspired your dedication to this important issue? CAMFED – Campaign for Female Education, which supports girls’
My parents always instilled in me the value of education, and its education and empowerment in Africa. This internship was followed
potential to transform people’s lives and opportunities. As a teenager, by four months in Togo, West Africa with the International Citizen
I learned more about the injustice and powerlessness that so many Service leading a team of volunteers to complete projects on youth
women and girls around the world experience. The Leys helped me employment, health, and education. I returned to study for an MSc in
Teachers in Zimbabwe declare their
support as part of an UNGEI-affiliated
pilot project to end gender-based
violence in schools
© FAWE Zimbabwe/2020
Development Management at the London School of Economics and The Covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented
worked for the World Health Organization to help build a global policy disruption to education for children. What are UNGEI’s
database on Reproductive, Maternal, Adolescent, Newborn and Child concerns for learners in low-income countries?
Health. From there, I started my current role at the UN Girls’ Education During the pandemic, many children did not have access to quality
Initiative (UNGEI). remote education, and the resulting economic downturn and cuts
to international aid have squeezed already limited national education
What is your current project at the UN Girls’ Education budgets. Lessons from the Ebola epidemic in West Africa suggest
Initiative? that girls are facing an increased risk of child marriage, gender-based
The UN Girls’ Education Initiative, hosted by UNICEF, is the only violence and school drop-out in the aftermath of this pandemic. My
multilateral entity committed to girls’ education and gender equality. greatest concern is a long-term rollback on global progress for girls’
A partnership of 40+ organizations around the world, UNGEI education and gender equality.
implements gender-responsive education on the ground and is also
the global platform for advocacy on gender-responsive education. What advice would you give young Leysians wishing to
pursue a similar career path?
I am presently leading a joint research project on gender, disability There is a lot of pressure, and unrealistic expectations, around landing
and education. Girls with disabilities are one of the most marginalised your dream job straightaway. You might – but you also might work
groups when it comes to education; however, their experiences are and intern in different organisations before the right role at the right
often excluded in education policies and data collection. We hope to organisation comes up. Your passion is your power. Let it drive your
change that! determination to find your place in the organisations and networks that
Learners take part in an UNGEI-
affiliated pilot project in Zimbabwe to
are making a difference.
end gender-based violence in schools
12 13
LEYS GIVING DAY LEYS GIVING DAY
The first Leys Giving Day a hot chocolate sale from Barrett, the Fen
Bingo Night, and the Dale Quiz. On 23 March
itself, pupils, guests, and Gift of Education
Looking ahead
Thank you to everyone who took part
in making the first Leys Giving Day such
ambassadors learnt about all eleven House
a success.
charities, as well as the different volunteering
We celebrated the inaugural Leys Giving Day on 23–24 March, activities pupils enjoy. Students do a whole
The money raised for the Gift of Education will
range of volunteering, including maths
connecting The Leys worldwide tutoring at a local primary school, helping at
go directly towards transformative bursaries
at The Leys. These 110% bursaries ensure
Oxfam and Scope, and visiting residents at
not only that fees are met, but also cover
Ditchburn Place, a sheltered housing scheme
additions such as the school uniform, a
in Cambridge.
school trip every year, music lessons, and
travel to and from school each term.
The beautiful cake donated by Leys After a reception for guests, supporters,
parent Ana Cerdeño-Tárraga and pupils who had made a special effort to
The Leys partners with the Royal National
help with the day, the doors opened for our
Children’s SpringBoard Foundation to
evening extravaganza: a singalong showing
identify children who will benefit from the
In the afternoon we had a display about of The Greatest Showman. Mr Howe was
unique opportunities offered by a boarding
Lenten Giving from each House, explaining our compere for the evening, warming up the
school education. These children come
the impact of their chosen charity and the audience with panache before the lights were
from backgrounds of social or financial
Around the World 1966–68) kindly donated £500, and it was Tárraga, founder of the HoneyShed Bakery, House fundraising efforts throughout the dimmed and the curtains drawn back. The
disadvantage, and we are committed to
amazing to see gifts coming in from Hong also kindly baked a beautiful sponge to year. Over £2,000 was raised in advance of audience sang along with real gusto and a
The Leys Community joined in by baking helping them achieve their full potential.
Kong to Canada, Australia to the USA, via celebrate the day, which was raffled and won the Giving Day from school-wide events like great evening was had by all.
cakes, getting involved on social media, and
Belgium, Poland and elsewhere. by a lucky Fen pupil!
supporting the Gift of Education and House The Giving Day helped spread the word about
charities. Over 200 donations were made this life-changing campaign, and we are
Nigel Washbourn (West 1951–55), a Gift of At The Leys
on the day, raising over £22,000 for the Gift delighted that so many members of the Leys
Education ambassador, also very kindly made
of Education bursary campaign and around A celebratory atmosphere was in the air at Community decided to support the initiative.
a donation to encourage those who had
£4,000 for the House charities. never given before to make a gift. 51 people The Leys on 23 March, with a non-uniform
generously donated for the first time. day and delicious Leys-themed cakes at Please see a video of the day
A series of challenges held throughout the lunch. Leonardo and the catering team did here. Thank you to everyone
day encouraged people to donate. The OLs and parents also took part by baking a brilliant job producing hundreds of tasty who took part.
day opened with Alex Wong (Fen 1986–91) Leys-themed treats, including muffins in cupcakes, which quickly disappeared at
and the Lipskiy family generously matching California, a classic Victoria sponge from lunchtime. The Houses also got involved
Millie Papworth
the first £3,000 donated pound-for-pound. Wesley’s Chapel & Leysian Mission, and baking, with Granta and North A raising over
Senior Development Officer
When 10 members of the Leys Community a delicious chocolate and coconut cake £100 for their Lenten Giving charities with a
worldwide made a gift, Eni Njoku (North A from Singapore. Leys parent Ana Cerdeño- bake sale on the day.
The Catering
Department made
Leys cupcakes
Pupils having fun at the evening event
The Headmaster’s dog Olive says thanks
Pupils enjoy the Lenten Giving display in the Old Gym
14 15
SPOTLIGHT AT THE LEYS
Spotlight on
Emma Crawshaw
Granta, 1989–91
Emma Crawshaw (Granta, 1989–91) found her passion as the best source of harm reduction advice about drugs used in
recreational settings, so when a post came up, I applied straight away.
for social justice as a student at The Leys. She now works
as an activist and educator for Crew 2000 Scotland, a Crew 2000 Scotland exists to reduce drug harms and stigma,
charity that reduces the harms associated with drug use. improving people’s mental and physical health without judgement.
Unlike most mainstream drug services which focus on opiate
drugs like heroin, we focus on drugs taken in recreational settings.
What inspired you to begin working with those affected We neither condemn nor condone drug-taking: we know there
by drug use and addiction? are evidence-based interventions which can reduce harm. We’ve
It began with a prayer led by the Reverend Burgess (CR 1987–2001) grown from a purely volunteer or ‘peer’-led organisation to a mixed
Emma Crawshaw and her Crew 2000 team complete the Total Warrior challenge
in the Chapel, an appeal to “God, to whom all human hearts are professional and volunteer team, which provides blood borne virus
open, and all desires are known”. At the time, I was deeply affected testing, pregnancy testing, welfare and crisis support at nightclubs,
by a family member’s addiction and the shame and stigma that made music festivals and dance music events, and counselling for people
seeking help seem insurmountable. But Reverend Burgess’ words who want to reduce, stabilise, or stop drug use.
What was your best day at Crew 2000? What advice would you give young Leysians wishing
that day made me realise that I was not alone.
The day after we completed training in opioid overdose response to enter your field?
Scotland is on the frontline of battling drug addictions
administering Naloxone, a life-saving medication, a young person I’d encourage people who are interested to research volunteering
How did a Leysian education prepare you? in Europe. What are the challenges of your specific
came into our Drop-in and collapsed, showing signs of overdose. or work experience opportunities with charities whose mission and
I came to The Leys thanks to an exhibition award. As a student, I environment?
A team member was able to reverse the overdose immediately and impact inspires them. Every charity should provide good quality
became acutely aware of how privileged I was to be there, and how Scotland’s drug-related deaths are the highest in Europe and among
may well have saved the young person’s life. Another thing that training and support and the opportunity to learn ‘hands on’.
economic and social inequality create barriers to opportunity. The the highest in the world per head of population. People experiencing
shows me our work has created positive change is when people Everyone has something completely unique to offer.
Leys taught me to think critically about justice and the ways I could the most inequality are 18 times more likely to lose their lives to
come to say thanks for helping them at a festival or an event
help others. drugs compared to people experiencing the least inequality. Most
and then show us how they and their friends are practising harm www.crew.scot
people coming to harm from drugs have also had multiple, significant
reduction and looking after each other
Tell us about your journey after The Leys and what led adverse childhood experiences, such as neglect, violence, or the
you to Crew 2000? loss of one or more parent, and lived in adverse environments which
My best day is whenever I witness someone who has struggled
I started volunteering at an anti-racist women’s community centre might be affected by poverty, discrimination, or poor-quality housing.
with addiction or harmful drug use achieving the lasting changes
and gained a post-graduate qualification in Community Education. I
they want to make: someone keeping their job, keeping their family
then went on to work with young homeless people at Streetwork. I In addition to this, stigma and shame remain some of the biggest
together, reaching the stage where they themselves are supporting
was aware of Crew 2000 from seeing the team, their harm reduction barriers to people accessing help, for families affected by a loved
other people who are still struggling.
literature, and their sound system at events, and recognised them one’s drug taking, as well as for people who take drugs. This is
changing, thanks to people in recovery and families coming together
to support each other and calling for change and the specific focus
on challenging stigma.
What additional challenges were created by the
Covid pandemic?
The lack of human contact and connection caused by the pandemic
was extremely challenging for everyone. At Crew, we created online
services including counselling, and contributing harm reduction
information to livestreamed quarantine dance events, which worked
well if people had access to Wi-Fi, data and phones or computers.
We recognised that digital poverty was a barrier to maintaining
access and are about to launch Young People Leading Digital
Change, a project which will support young people to develop our
Crew 2000’s committed and enthusiastic team is at the digital offer as well as providing free data and basic communication Crew 2000 offers DJ workshops for young people who want to
heart of their success equipment to the most deprived young people. learn a new skill
16 17
OBITUARIES
s
ey
eL
John Geoffrey Collins, North B Michael Frankland Good, North B
After the war, he joined the family menswear
Th
1946–50 on 22 December 2021 1957–60 on 13 January 2022
business, Watson Prickard Ltd in Liverpool.
Obituaries Having built it up as Managing Director,
he was Chairman between 1966 and 2001.
He became the youngest Chairman of the
John Geoffrey Collins died, aged 90, on
22 December 2021 in Ilkley, surrounded
by his loving family after several months of
Michael was much loved by all who knew him.
He served as a Major in the territorial army
and Mayor of Aldeburgh, Suffolk.
To read the full version of these obituaries, please visit the school website. If you do not have access to the internet or a computer Menswear Association of Britain.
deteriorating health.
and would like a printed document, please contact the Development Office at 01223 508545.
In June 1970, he was elected MP for
Peter Lucas Grice, East 1983–88
Bebington and Ellesmere Port as part of
fitting that a basket of pigeons was released on 22 November 2021
Lenton Allpress, School 1948–54 the Ted Heath government. Indeed, I recall
at his funeral to the music of ‘Fly me to the
on 18 November 2021 meeting the future Prime Minister on the
Moon!’ Simon’s other main interests were ‘Pete’ joined The Leys from St Faith’s and
Headmaster’s lawn when he happened
shooting and fishing, especially trout fishing in was awarded a Music Exhibition. He made
Simon Marsden Baker, West 1951–56 to visit The Leys on the day the General
Argyll on Loch Awe where he fished for over an outstanding contribution to the musical
on 29 June 2021 Election had been called. Eric quickly rose
seventy years. Simon loved traditional British life of the school in the Orchestra, Senior
through the ranks and soon became the
customs, following all manner of sport. He Band, Chapel Brass, Senior Brass, Chapel
Simon was the youngest of three brothers Personal Private Secretary to the Chancellor
was a much-loved father, grandfather, and Choir, Senior Wind Ensemble and in rock
who attended The Leys, as did his father and of the Exchequer. He was later MP for
husband to his wife Fiona for 58 years. concerts. He also played the menacing
two sons. He enjoyed his time at school, Ludlow in Margaret Thatcher’s first
character Wilson in the studio production
captaining an undefeated 1st XI Hockey team two governments.
Words by Matthew Baker, West 1981–86 of Ruffian on the Stair by Joe Orton, and he
in 1956 and keeping wicket for the 1st XI
John Geoffrey Collins made an impact as a clay pigeon marksman
where he excelled at standing up to medium Eric was very influential across Liverpool’s
Anthony Burbidge as part of the A team that won the British
pace bowlers to stump unwary batsmen, often commercial and civic life. He was a JP, the
Brian Keith Buckler, West 1952–57 Born in Yorkshire, where he lived his whole Championship in 1986. Pete became an
down the more difficult leg side. He was a youngest Chairman of Liverpool’s Round
on 16 April 2020 commenced in 1951, and he was sent to the life, John attended The Leys from 1946–50 accomplished guitar player.
School prefect. Subsequently he maintained a Table, a Director of Liverpool & Midshires
Korean War to serve in the Royal Artillery where he shared a study with J.G. Ballard
lifelong interest in all matters Leysian where Building Society, the Mersey Docks &
Brian Keith Buckler passed away from as a Bombardier. He received the Korean and remained a life-long Old Leysian. He After leaving school, many tales of epic nights
many enduring friendships were forged. Harbour Board and the TSB. He also
Covid while recovering from a successful hip Medal for his military service, and he was a was a very proud member of both North in local watering holes such as The Exchange,
Following school he did National Service, became a Governor of the United Liverpool
operation. Brian was in the Queen’s Troop devout supporter of the Sussex British Korean House B and School cricket teams, and the where Pete did a stint as a cocktail barman,
playing Hockey for the Royal Navy in 1957. Hospitals and Chairman of the area’s NHS
Royal Horse Artillery based in London at Veterans Association on his return. Tony team photos took pride of place on his study are recalled with fondness and hilarity by his
His training in engineering lead him into Executive Council.
St. John’s Wood Barracks for his National became a Lieutenant in the Territorial Army, wall for the rest of his life. He also really friends; one recalls how Pete’s penchant for
a career as managing director of Cowans
Service. Always a keen horseman, Brian was serving 257 Queen’s Battery, progressing to appreciated return visits to the school by flamboyant shirts set him apart and made him
Sheldon, the crane makers based in Carlisle.
one of the lead riders for the ceremonial the rank of Major and receiving the Territorial himself and his family, playing Old Leysian always easy to find at the end of the night!
displays at The Royal Tournament. Brian then Decoration in 1968. In his civilian life, he Golf competitions and attending dinners.
In his spare time all manner of engineering
went to Seal-Hayne Agricultural College and joined Lloyds of London Insurance as a He was very pleased to receive a birthday Pete was twice drawn to the uniformed
projects abounded, not least the restoration
became a farm manager near Marlborough. marine underwriter and continued until his card from the school on the event of services: the Army and the Police. In time,
of a water-powered corn mill which became
Brian’s wife Rosemary was the sister of Peter, retirement in 1991. Tony was a thoughtful, becoming a nonagenarian. After finishing his Pete enrolled at the University of Kent in
the family home in Cumbria. He had a gift
North A 1955–60 and Michael, North A generous, and caring man. schooling, he went on to obtain a Bachelor the mid-1990s. It was here he met his wife,
for developing natural water supplies and
1958–63 Nott and continued her work in of Commerce (with Accountancy) Degree Kerry. They settled in Dunmow where they
developed numerous spring and borehole
catering. Sadly, Rosemary died a few weeks Words by Jim Stone, edited from his funeral eulogy at Leeds University and then completed had four children together, Colette in 2002,
water supplies for farmers. He was keen
before Brian. his professional qualifications to become a Faith in 2006, Amelie in 2008 and Nate in
on classic cars, particularly the MGAs of
Chartered Accountant. This led him into a 2012. Pete had always been keen on living
which he had a collection. He also pursued
Eric Cockeram, East 1938–41 career in the local textile industry, working by the sea and in 2016 the family moved to
pigeon racing, with notable success in the
Anthony Burbidge, West 1947–51 on 25 December 2021 for Illingworth Morris for many years, Gosport. Pete relished life on the coast and
longer races from Nantes and Rennes. As the Eric Cockeram
on 13 January 2022 latterly as Estates Manager. One of the activities such as crabbing with the kids were
holder of a private pilot’s licence, he once
My father was the first of five of the highlights of his career in 1987 was selling pursued with great gusto.
flew two elderly veterans of the club through
Anthony Edward Leader Burbidge, Tony to Cockeram family who attended The Leys. His Sir Titus Salt’s New Mill to the late Jonathan
the Tebay gap so they could have a pigeon’s As Dad reminded us, “To be born a
his friends, was born in London in 1933. time in Cambridge was interrupted by the Silver, who developed the building into the Pete’s career in project management included
eye view of the route! It was particularly gentleman is an accident, to die as one is an
Tony was sent to Great Walstead School for evacuation to Pitlochry during the war whilst renowned 1853 Gallery where many of time at The John Lewis Partnership, where he
achievement”. With thanks from our family
boys, considered a safe place for youngsters nearby Addenbrookes Hospital expanded into David Hockney’s works are displayed. was highly regarded, and in several technology
to The Leys School for helping my father to
during the Blitz. He was accused of pouring the school premises. After many happy days in companies where he managed complex,
prove as such.
sugar into the school’s electricity generator Scotland, he was immediately commissioned Upon retirement John continued to have multimillion pound government and defence
to avoid prep, though he maintained his into the Army and, at the age of 19, was part a full and active life, engaging in his varied contracts. Pete’s children were the centre
Words by James Cockeram, Fen 1968–73
innocence until recently. Around this time, of the Gloucestershire Regiment’s landing on hobbies of walking travel, family history and of his world and his devotion to family and
Tony looked overhead and saw one of the first Gold Beach on D-Day. He was then part of sport. A true gentleman, John maintained a friends was unwavering. Pete was a very special
doodlebugs, the German V-1 cruise missile, the first Allied formation to take Bayeux varied and active social life and on his 90th son, husband, father and friend. He will be
P.J. Cockeram, West 1948–52
flying over Sussex to London. In 1947, and to hold the line ahead of the advance birthday described the secret of a long life as sorely missed by all those who knew him.
on 30 October 2021
Tony attended The Leys. He was very happy to take Paris. He was later wounded and “good, clean living and fresh air”.
there and no suspicious incidents with the flown back to England on what was his first Words by Tim Criddle, School 1981–84, edited
Simon Marsden Baker generator occurred. Tony’s National Service international flight. from his funeral eulogy
18 19OBITUARIES AT THE LEYS
Secretary and Finance Director, he served as spinal conditions, treating aircraft ejectee
Chairman from 1984 until 1999 when the pilots with spinal injuries and developing
firm was sold to Blackwells of Oxford.
Nicholas was active in supporting a number
novel spinal implants and technologies.
Peter Magill, Bursar 1990–22
OL Sport
of Cambridge institutions. He was Director
died peacefully on 13 February 2022
and subsequently Chairman of the Cambridge
Building Society and Director and later Vice-
Chairman of the Cambridge Water Company Noel Page, North B 1956–61
Colin Frank Halfpenny
until he retired in 1999. He was also an active sadly passed away on 17 February 2022 TO M MY DAN N M E M O R IAL MATC H
member of the Cambridge Rotary Club.
Colin Frank Halfpenny, School
An obituary will appear in the next edition of
1940–45 on 7 March 2021
OL News. To read the eulogy given by Ashley On Saturday 19th March, over 1,500 friends, family, colleagues,
Silverton (Fen 1973-78) at the funeral, please and students of Tommy gathered at Shelford Rugby Club for
Colin was born in 1927 and brought up in
visit the obituaries in the Old Leysian section the Tommy Dann Memorial Rugby Match. The match was
Lichfield, Staffordshire. He and his brother
of the website. played between Old Leysians and Old Perseans, schools where
Godfrey (Goff) spent the war years at The
Tommy was hugely respected and widely loved having coached
Leys when the school was evacuated to
at both. Tommy also played rugby for both Shelford RFC and
Atholl Palace, Pitlochry. These were times David Rishbeth, School 1962–66,
Cambridge RFC and the fantastic turnout at his memorial match
which he always remembered with fondness, Fen 1966–67 on 26 November 2021
is testament to the number of lives he touched.
having especially enjoyed camping and being
a Patrol Leader. He liked to reminiscence Nicolas Heffer David’s lifelong love of theatre was awakened
The rugby was played with true heart and spirit, re-igniting the
about winter sports, the frozen fountain, by working on The Leys’ theatre with his
Nicholas supported various trade initiatives, historic sporting rivalry between The Leys and The Perse in a
and how the King and Queen waved to the housemaster Geoff Houghton, Common
including being a member of the Book truly positive light. The well-matched sides went head-to-head
boys as the Royal train passed their camp in Room 1957–93, who became a dear friend.
Tokens board (an offshoot of the Booksellers’ for 80 minutes, with the Old Leysians claiming victory 19-12.
1944. On leaving The Leys, Colin joined the David’s family miss his humour, advice,
Association) and its Chairman from 1995–99.
Royal Navy where he was LRM Radio/Radar knowledge and, above all, his love.
Over £10,000 was raised for the Jonny Wilkinson Charitable Tom Bailey carrying the ball, supported by L-R, Will Lawson, Ed Fairey and
Mechanic until 1948.
He loved his years living in France, enjoying Foundation on the day, with further donations still to come. It Chris Tapping
Words by Moira Rishbeth
views of the Pyrenees after the flatness of was an event that Tommy would have relished and a fitting way
After marrying in 1949, Colin and his wife
the Cambridge countryside. Equally, he to remember such a wonderful man.
Janet bought a caravan, and so he continued
loved to spend several weeks each year on Graham Townsend, CR 1967–72
his love of camping, travelling throughout
the Norfolk coast where he had sailed since on 20 February 2022 Ed Fairey, Bisseker 2011–16
Europe until 2013.
a boy. He spoke good French and was proud
to have become the first foreign President Graham Townsend joined The Leys in 1967
In 1976 Colin and Janet both took advantage
of the Rotary Club of Limoux, a nearby to teach Maths, taking over briefly as Head of
of the opportunity to further their studies
town famous for its sparkling white wines. Department after David Edsall left. Whilst at O LD LEYS IAN G O LF I N G Senior Bernard Darwin (Over 65) Bernard Darwin Trophy (Over 55)
which had been curtailed by the war. Colin
He delighted in the fact that both his and The Leys he was in charge of cross-country S O C I ET Y 14–15 June 2022 30 June–1 July 2022
studied at Leicester Polytechnic, where John
his wife Zillah’s children chose to have their in what was a vintage period. Howard REPORT BY NIGEL WASHBOURN, WEST 1951–55 In the first round we have drawn Winchester In the first round we have drawn Marlborough
Buttery (also an Old Leysian) was his tutor.
weddings in France. Papworth, one of his star runners, writes: at Woking Golf Club on 14 June, play off at Woking Golf Club on June 30th, play off
He received his HDip qualification in 1980
‘Most runners will remember him fondly for at 9:40 a.m. at 9:40 a.m.
when he joined the Society of Surveying
introducing us to the pleasure of running off
Technicians and became local Chairman. From Grafton Morrish Finals – Hunstanton
road, away from the city on interesting and Veterans’ Bernard Darwin (Over 75) The OLGS webpage is updated with news
1980 until his retirement in 1992, Colin was Dr Khai Lam, North B 1980–85 1–3 October 2021
sometimes quite complicated routes through 15 June 2022 and the 2022 fixtures here. New members
Plymouth University Estate Manager. on 13 December 2021 In the first round we played Nottingham, and
the Cambridgeshire countryside!’ Other We hope to field a team in the afternoon are very welcome. Please contact Nigel
in close matches we lost the vital one at the
leading runners during his time were John Stableford Foursomes Competition. Washbourn at nwashbourn@btinternet.com.
18th. We then played in the Solihull Salver
Lowden, Robert Brigham and Piers Ranger.
Nicolas Heffer, West 1950–55 stableford and were 12th out of 24 schools.
He left the School to become a lecturer
on 19 August 2021 Millfield were the eventual winners, beating
at Brighton Polytechnic (subsequently the Golfing at
Malvern in the final. We appreciated support Grafton
University of Brighton). He then changed his
Nicholas Heffer sadly passed away in France from Nick and Barbara Lloyd. Morrish 2021
lifestyle completely, moving down to a farm
where he had lived for the past 22 years.
outside Tiverton where he produced goat’s
Following a degree in Economics at Corpus Our Team:
cheese. Cruwys Morchard cheese established
Christi College, Cambridge, he qualified as T.L. Williams and R.P. Skilton, S.D. Cooper
a national reputation.
a Chartered Accountant, working in London and A.R.J. Smethers, C.C.B Turner and
Khai Lam
and Toronto. C.A. Holden
Words by John Harding
Khai Lam was a Consultant Orthopaedic
In 1966, he joined the firm of W. Heffer Surgeon at Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital. In The Spring Meeting will be held at Royal
and Sons Ltd, his family firm of Booksellers, 2009 he received La Medaille d’ Honneur’ from Worlington Golf Club on Thursday 12 May,
Michael Francis Woods, North A
Stationers and Printers, founded in 1876 L’Etoile Europeane du Deveouement Civil et Militaire booking in from 8:00 a.m. Mark Elliott will be
1946–52 on 10 November 2021
by his great-grandfather. Initially Company for his work in helping children with serious the Club Captain.
20 21FROM THE ARCHIVES FROM THE ARCHIVES
Edinburgh House, Edinburgh house as
From the Archive
3 Hooper Street it is today, renamed
(off Mill Road) Jubilee House
used by The Leys
as an isolation
The Medical Centre hospital prior to
the purchase of 5
Brookside in 1919
What follows is a short reflection based on a cursory review of Handbooks and
The Fortnightly, to summarise the past, describe the current situation,
and prompt recollections of your school days.
The current Covid-19 pandemic prompted form in 1937. Fortunately, it seems that the
me to wonder how the school has coped Leysians who caught it, recovered.
with similar events in the past, and about
the medical provision for pupils in general. In 1947, following a case of anterior
I imagine most Old Leysians will at some poliomyelitis (infantile paralysis), the boy
point during their school days, have had concerned was moved to the Borough
good reason to be grateful for the care they Isolation Hospital for observation. The
received in the Sanatorium/San/Medical swimming bath was subsequently closed, and
Centre. Perhaps you only ever attended to try the town was put out of bounds for the whole
and get ‘off games’, or you refused, in case school for a period of eighteen days. Town
you were put ‘off games’, either way, you are was also put out of bounds for a week during
unlikely to have escaped some contact with a ‘flu epidemic in 1965.
The Medical Centre (L) and the rear of Great Hall Some of the current Medical Centre team: Sally Paterson (Medical
the Medical Centre. It may have been across Centre Assistant), Skyler Moulder (Lead Nurse), Anna Webb (School
the road in No.5 Brookside, in Old West Until just recently, it had not been necessary Nurse) and Lauren Roberts (School Nurse)
House (now School House) or in its present for the school to take such drastic action wrote to thank the staff, the worst part was
location, in what was once the School Shop. on medical grounds. However, there have having to leave the San.
been numerous ‘flu epidemics sometimes they are unwell. However, this is not possible
Soon after its foundation, the School was resulting in parts of a boarding house being Another example of the involvement of senior for everyone and during the Covid-19 The entrance to
twice closed for a month or more when used as a Medical Centre overflow; for staff was in 1945. Around one third of the lockdowns, some pupils were required to Old West House in
1960 (now School
Scarlatina (Scarlet Fever) was diagnosed; example, North A at Pitlochry in 1943, East in boys were in the Sanatorium. Gargling for remain in school. They were organised into a
House) just prior
once in 1877 based on a single case and 1957 and 1969, and School, Fen and West the whole school was instituted to combat small number of mixed age, co-ed boarding to its conversion to
in 1890 based on five mild cases. While the variously in the 1980s and 1990s. These the resulting plethora of sore throats and the units, designed to improve the lockdown use as the Medical
boys were away, the site was thoroughly measures stretched the resources of the Headmaster offered to give lessons to those experience and make efficient use of staff. Centre. Painting
disinfected. This occurred near the end of Medical Centre staff to the breaking point, unskilled in the art. In the 1980s, the Signals These measures continued during school by Robert Howard,
West 1956–60
a global pandemic of Scarlatina, a feared sometimes requiring support from Masters’ section of the CCF helped by setting up a holidays, resulting in some overseas pupils
childhood disease which killed up to 20% of wives, including the Headmaster’s wife, as field telephone linking the Fen House overflow being unable to leave the school or to see
those who caught it, so decisive measures was the case in 1957. The boys loved the to the Medical Centre. their families for a year!
were needed. It appeared again in a mild attention, and, according to one parent who
The presence of pupils from overseas also The Medical Centre stayed open during The lead nurse is no longer resident full-time, the Trumpington Street Medical Practice have
requires medical staff to look out for diseases lockdown and helped organise the however, full cover is maintained by the seven seen pupils as patients. These days, three
Medical Centre Staff not normally seen in the UK. In 1975, a boy vaccination of pupils and staff against nurses on a rota. Recent alterations to the GPs from the Trumpington Street Medical
© Michael Manni
at the opening of the travelling from Nigeria was diagnosed with Covid-19 and the ‘flu. The School acted building provide three single isolation rooms Practice each do a weekly morning surgery
Gillard Day Room in
Lassa Fever and was admitted to the London quickly to acquire a specialised SAMBA upstairs, a Covid testing area, overnight nurse and so The Leys’ long association with the
2003: Pam Sherman
2002–10; John Barrett,
Hospital for Tropical Diseases. He made a machine to test for Covid-19 at a time when accommodation and bathrooms. Downstairs practice endures.
Headmaster 1990–2004; full recovery but with no means of protection it was difficult to book a PCR test; being able remains much the same as when converted in
Maureen Williams 1984– against Lassa Fever and no known treatment, to test on-site meant results were available 1989 but now includes a quiet room used for Andy Erby
2017; Gay Woolley (née it would have been an anxious time for him quickly and disruption could be minimised. counselling and relaxation. Old Leysian Society Vice President
Waller) 1979–84 and
and the School. Along with other mitigations, which include
2001–12; Mr Nicholas
Hart, guest; Jean
regular fumigation of the buildings, the In almost a century, only three doctors If you have items which you think may be
Hart, Medical Centre Now that a higher proportion of pupils live in number of Covid-19 cases have been kept have served as designated School Doctor of interest to the Archivist, please email
Assistant 1989–2009 or near Cambridge, epidemics are easier to to a minimum. Therefore, in a nutshell; ‘twas (Dr Budd 1919–1964, Dr Craigen 1964–1987, development@theleys.net and we will be
manage as parents keep pupils at home if ever thus – isolate and fumigate! Dr Stewart 1987–2017), although others in happy to help.
22 23You can also read
