News from the OA Society Girls at Aldenham Updates from the School News and Features Business Review Obituaries and tributes - ISSUE 46
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ALDENHAMIANA
ISSUE 46
October 2018
News from the
OA Society
Girls at Aldenham
Updates from the School
News and Features
Business Review
Obituaries and tributes
FROM THE EDITOR
When I took on the role of Editor of the
OA Review, I had no idea how much I
would come to love this position. Writing
Aldenhamiana this magazine is a labour of love, but one
No.46 October 2018 that I wouldn’t change for the world.
Published by The Old Aldenhamian Society Aldenham and its students have so much
Aldenham School, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AJ UK to offer in so many different ways, and I
Email: oas@aldenham.com have had the privilege of being in touch
Web: www.oldaldenhamian.org with OAs from all over the world this year, and met many new,
Tel: +44 (0)1923 858 122 fantastic people at OA events too. Aldenham’s community is one
of its main strengths, and I am so lucky to be able to immerse
Contents
myself in this through this magazine and the OA Society.
My job as Editor of this magazine would be infinitely harder
if it weren’t for my fantastic team, made up of Hugh Schermuly
(M1974-79), who once again has done an amazing job of
designing this issue, and who gives off such an aura of grace
and calm in everything he does; Sara Price (CR1987-2006) and
2 From the OA Society
Lindsey Kelly (neé Hall) (P1985-87), who put up with some
hideous errors from me when proofreading articles, and bring
fresh, fantastic ideas to the table every issue; and the
2 From the President’s Desk wonderful ladies of the Marketing and Development and OA
Office: Ann Saffery, Jackie Wilkie, and Heather Sherman. I
4 OA Day have all the encouragement and support anyone could need
from you three ladies, and your hard work does not go
7 Mentoring unnoticed. Thank you all!
I would also like to thank James James-Crook (M1968-72),
15 Dates for Your Diary Headmaster James Fowler and the rest of the OA Committee
for their support, and particularly thank Richard Peart
16 Girls at Aldenham Feature (SHO1955-60) and Ian Luetchford (P1948-51) for their sharp
eyes when proof reading this magazine before it goes to print.
17 From the School
Finally, thanks to all of the OAs who agreed to be featured
this year, and those who have been in touch with us since the
last OA Review was published. Not only have we had some
21 Letter from the Headmaster lovely messages about the articles in the magazine, we have
also received some fantastic personal stories. Thank you for
22 Exam results sharing these with us. My thanks also go to Chris Tyson
(K1970-73) and his wife, June, son and daughter-in-law of Cyril
26 The Letchmore Trust Art Prizes Tyson (CR1952-87), for donating a large amount of Aldenham
memorabilia to me and the OA and Development Office this
year. The collection had in it over 30 copies of The Aldenhamian,
24 News and features
and information about OAFC and Camp Aldenham too, which
we will be using in articles in next year’s OA Review.
I hope you enjoy this copy of the OA Review. It has been a
32 OAs & Business Feature delight to write, and we would love to hear from you with your
thoughts on Issue 46. You can contact us at oas@aldenham.
43 WWI 100 years On com, or reach me directly at lydchapman@icloud.com. Please
get in touch, I love hearing from you!
49 Obituaries and tributes
Have a fantastic year, and I look forward to meeting many of
you at upcoming OA Society events in the not so distant future.
49 List of Deaths
Lydia Chapman
50 Obituaries and tributes Editor, OA Review
OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
The President’s Message
From the OA Society
This year marks the end of the First World War on 11 November, 100 years exactly
to the day, with a Service of Remembrance for the Aldenham community being OA Society
held at the War Memorial in Letchmore Heath. pin badge
O
ne hundred and sixty three Old the OA archives producing so far a list
Aldenhamians and members of of over 200 names of those who have
Staff gave their lives for our excelled in their chosen field of
tomorrow. Many were very young having expertise.
either just left Aldenham or graduated This October will mark sixty years
from university. Eleven families suffered since the School Chapel was completed
the double tragedy of losing two sons. and there are bronze plaques on the
Whilst attending Visitation Day in walls commemorating some of those
June and meeting students on the cusp OAs and teaching staff who lost their
of leaving Aldenham and embarking on lives during WW1. How those
their life journey as OAs, I was reminded unfortunate souls must marvel at the
of the numerous opportunities that lie progress of both the School and the OA
ahead for them. The OA Mentoring Society today. countries around the world. Earlier this
scheme comprising over 50 OA mentors, Change is inevitable and, since being year, GDPR proved an ideal opportunity
working closely with the School, is there elected as OA President some eighteen to do just that.
to help and guide existing students and months ago, I have instigated some I hope you will have noticed the
new OAs in their chosen career path. changes including the improvement of subtle changes to this year’s OA Review
A dedicated article features in this issue the OA website; moving the OA Annual and I applaud and acknowledge the
of the OA Review. Dinner to a Saturday accompanied at the commitment of its Editor, Lydia
I offer my thanks to Vice President pre-Dinner reception by a selection of Chapman (P2010-12) and the talents
John Edwards (B1946-51) and Hon. live music performed by current of graphic designer, Hugh Schermuly
Secretary Frank Rogers (SHE1953-58), students, OAs and members of the (M1974-79) plus their team of proof
for their unstinting work in compiling a School; recruiting younger OAs to the readers in producing such an excellent
list of notable OAs which has involved Committee and connecting with many and newsworthy edition.
painstaking research trawling through of the current 4,700 OAs in over 150 The OA Society’s close and supportive
relationship with the School continues
and, in line with the ethos of past
OA COMMITTEE MEMBERS Presidents, every event involving both
the OA Society and the School is
James James-Crook President
Neil Sutherland OBE DL Vice President approached with the same objectives –
Derick Burlingham Johnson Vice President to foster close alumni relations and to
John Edwards TD JP Vice President provide mutual support for various
John Ashley Cockett Vice President activities. Voluntary subscriptions
Ian Luetchford Vice President
continue on a regular basis and the
David Ronald Male CBE Vice President
Peter John Purton OBE Vice President OA Society kitty is largely made up of
Richard Wood Vice President subscriptions from both new and
Frank Rogers Hon. Secretary existing OAs plus voluntary donations
Richard Peart Hon. Treasurer out of which salaries are paid for the
Chris Stern OA Dinner
running of the OA office; the production
Lydia Chapman Editor, OA Review
David Hayes Mentoring Scheme of the annual OA Review and its postage
Clare Yeabsley née McCarty Committee Member costs, though more OAs are now opting
James Fowler Headmaster to receive an electronic version; the
Peter William Boorman Headmaster 1974-83 updating of the website and donations
Michael Higginbottom JP Headmaster 1983-94
to OA sports clubs. After that, there’s not
Stephen Robert Borthwick Headmaster 1994-2000
Richard Harman Headmaster 2000-2006 much left with the balance being invested.
Emma Murray Assistant Head, Co-curricular Despite uncertainty in the world, the OA
Sixth Form & External Affairs Society’s finances are sound.
Ann Saffery Development & OA Manager Over the last 12 months, having
Jackie Wilkie Development & OA Assistant
attended funerals for a number of OAs, it
has made me realise that, as part of the
2
OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
OA Society, this can equate to a lifelong
connection with Aldenham and we are Searching for Aldenham
Treasure
a close knit community. I’m sure you all
From the OA Society
have different memories of the School.
Whilst Aldenham is now quite different
from my day fifty years ago as a full time
boarder, the essence of the School The Aldenham Archive is a treasure trove of photographs, School
remains the same. magazines, historical papers and other memorabilia.
O
I look forward to welcoming many of
you at this year’s Annual OA Dinner on ver the last few years the website using a unique member log-in
Saturday 10 November at the School. Aldenham Annual Fund and then clicking on the Digital Archive
This is always a popular and enjoyable campaign has raised money to tab. Members of the public who enquire
event and a great opportunity to catch digitise much of the material that is about family members are given
up with other OAs of all ages. currently in cupboards and boxes at the temporary access for personal research.
I would like to thank Ann Saffery and School. As a result a digital archive, The digital archive will continue to
Jackie Wilkie for their ongoing hard work linked to a fully searchable website, has grow and in time perhaps an Aldenham
and to thank the men and women of the been created. This resource is used for School Museum will develop as part of
OA Committee for their focused educational purposes as well as research this project, to house original artefacts
dedication given on a voluntary basis. and interest from the wider community. and be available for students and
I very much look forward to It may be accessed via the OA Society visitors to enjoy.
connecting with you either electronically
or in person at a forthcoming OA event.
As we go to print, I wish to pay tribute
to an eminent OA. Field Marshal The
Lord Vincent of Coleshill, GBE KCB DSO,
Richard Frederick Vincent (SHE1945-50)
who sadly passed away on 8 September
was one of the most distinguished OAs.
After serving with British Army of the
Rhine, he served with the
Commonwealth Brigade in Malaysia
during the Indonesia-Malaysia
confrontation. He commanded 12th
Light Air Defence Regiment in Northern
Ireland during the Troubles, for which
he was awarded the DSO, and later
commanded 19th Airportable Brigade.
He went on to be Vice-Chief of the
1917 Praeposters. (Seated front centre) Dr A H Cooke (Headmaster 1900-20)
Defence Staff in the late 1980s and then
Chief of the Defence Staff in the
aftermath of the Gulf War. He
Is it time to renew your
subsequently became Chair of the
Military Committee of NATO in the
OA subscription?
mid-1990s.
Created a life peer in the 1996
N
Birthday Honours, Lord Vincent retired
from the House of Lords in 2016. ew membership subscription annum although the Society would
Chancellor of Cranfield University; an arrangements were unanimously welcome larger amounts.
inspirational Past President of the OA approved at the Society’s AGM
Society; Emeritus Governor of Aldenham in 2002 to enable the Society to provide If you left School in Summer 1997
School. Details of a Memorial Service will members with an improved service, in or before, you are invited to start
be available on the OA website in due particular expansion and improvement paying a voluntary annual
course. On behalf of the OA Society, I offer of the OA website. subscription to the Society.
my sincere condolences to all his family. All existing Life Members who left
With my best wishes the School twenty years ago or more Should you wish to start a voluntary
James James-Crook (M1968-72) are invited to pay a voluntary annual annual subscription, please arrange
President, OA Society subscription to the Society. either online or by contacting the
jamesjamescrook@hotmail.co.uk An appropriate sum would be £10 per Development and OA Office.
3
OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
OA Day
From the OA Society
KENNEDY’S AND MARTINEAU’S GAUDY
On Sunday 10th June 2018, over 100 people gathered in the a sermon by OA Reverend Matthew
glorious sunshine for the annual OA Day, which this year was a Lawson (K1981-86). Guests sang lustily
throughout the service, and were even
Kennedy’s and Martineau’s Gaudy, celebrating 25 years since the
invited to sing the Aldenham School
opening of Martineau’s House, which is now attached to Kennedy’s. Song, which for some brought back
G
happy memories, and for others was
uests were welcomed with ones. Afterwards, OAs were invited a first time.
refreshments in The Wells Centre, to take a look around Kennedy’s and OAs were then invited back to
hosted by the Headmaster, Martineau’s, before enjoying a Martineau’s, where a drinks reception
James Fowler, where they were able to Thanksgiving Service, given by Reverend was held by Housemaster of Kennedy’s
reunite with old friends, and make new Jos Perris (CR2017-Present), and Richard Pineo (CR2016-Present), and
Jason Vallint (K1984-89) and Austin
Amanda Ingram, Tim Standbrook (K1976-81), Sofia Navelgas & David Ingram (K1976-81) Galvin (CR1970-2006)
Front: Rishi Nimal-Raj (K2004-11), Marcus Selvadurai (K2004-11),
Sally & John Gillman (K1969-73) Adam Bloom (K2004-09) & Jo Pineo
4
OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
Housemistress of Martineau’s Louise Gall chicken or vegetable curry, served with A wonderful day was enjoyed by all who
(CR2004-Present). Here, guests had the homemade accompaniments, including gathered there, and it was so lovely to
chance to mingle and chat with OAs of bhajis, pakoras, poppadoms and raita, see such a range of ages in attendance
From the OA Society
all ages and eras at Aldenham, before followed by strawberries, cream and this year, from Geoffrey Prall (SHE1936-
James Fowler and President of the OA shortbread. Guests then moved to the 40), aged 95, to Robert Curati-Alasonatti
Society, James James-Crook (M1968-72) Cricket Pavilion, where they were able to (K2003-12), aged 21. We look forward to
spoke on the School’s upcoming plans, enjoy coffee, chocolates and scones seeing many of you again next year.
and gave updates on the OA Society. whilst watching the annual John Dewes
OAs then headed to a delicious lunch of Cricket Match in the summer sunshine.
Liz & Doug Bonn (SHE1964-69), John Edwards TD JP (B1946-51
Matthew Lawson (K1981-86), James Goodwin (K1980-85) & VP OA Society) & Trevor Barton (K1971-75 & Chairman
& Graeme Holt (K1981-86) of Governors)
Paul Kendall (K1976-81), Phil Lyndon (K1976-81), Sam Stenton Miranda Kelly (née Stewart) (P1988-90), Clare Yeabsley (née
& Chris Cernuschi (K1998-2005) McCarty) (K1988-90) & Tanya Sweeting (née Webb) (K1988-90)
Steve Edwards (K1985-90)
& Adrian Timmins (K1986-90) John Dewes Cricket Match
5
OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
Regional Lunch,
Minchinhampton
From the OA Society
43 guests gathered at The Old Lodge, Minchinhampton, near
Stroud, for a very enjoyable lunch on Wednesday 25th April 2018.
T
Sue Hall, Nick Hall (K1962-67), Steve Goodwin
(SHE1963-69), Tony Scott (SHE1963-68), Bob
he venue was recommended victory by the U15 football team winning
Kershaw (K1964-67) & Mary Kershaw
by Nick Hall (K1962-67), and the Independent Schools Football
was perfect for the occasion. Association Cup in March of this year; the
Set in the heart of Minchinhampton golf team playing in the Independent
Clockwise from front left: Diane Hayes,
Common, the restaurant had unrivalled Schools Golf Association Match play final Philip Chippindale (SHE1963-66), Emma
views of the Cotswolds, overlooking in April; and a recent weekend hosted by Murray (CR2017-Present), David Hayes
the five valleys. Aldenham when Sixth Form students (SHO1963-68), Simon Freeman
The party started at 12 noon with cared for and entertained a group of (SHO1961-66) & Angela Maynard
drinks on arrival, and an hour to meet severely disabled children. He
together; for some it was the first time highlighted the excellent outcome of
in many years. A tasty three course lunch the latest ISI Inspection, which took
was accompanied by much laughter and place in December 2017, and also a
interaction between friends, sharing report in the Good Schools Guide which
memories and personal stories. describes our current pupils as among
The Headmaster addressed the crowd the happiest they have met.
and updated them on life at Aldenham After lunch there was still more
today. He gave a clear picture of how the convivial chatter before most guests
School continues to thrive and provide departed, and some prepared for an
Richard Blake (M1949-53) John Edwards
an environment that the current overnight stay at the venue. Great
(B1946-51 & Vice President, OA Society)
students obviously enjoy. The success enjoyment was had by all, and another & Alan Oliver (SHO1944-49)
stories he shared included an historic regional luncheon will be held next year.
6
OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
Richard Platt Society
From the OA Society
Members of the Richard Platt Society have all kindly left a gift in their
Will to the School.
Peter was only at Aldenham for three enable it to offer academic, cultural and
terms and had many wonderful sporting facilities that will attract the
memories including an Easter holiday quality of student that is synonymous
trip to France in a 1929 London Taxi. with Aldenham.
The teacher in charge was Geoffrey Bolt
(CR1947-65). Peter said about his time If you would like more information
at Aldenham: “That was the wildest year please contact the Development
of my young life. Thanks Aldenham!” Manager, Ann Saffery
Richard Platt himself left orders in his Will Aldenham School, Elstree
for the establishment of the School to Hertfordshire
A gift was received in July 2018 from acknowledge his own fortune. Whatever WD6 3AJ
Peter Shoup (SHE1950-51), via a grant the reason and whatever the gift, a
from the British Schools and Universities commitment of this sort will provide the Tel: 01923 851612
Foundation in the USA. As an American, School with a secure Bursaries Fund and Email: aesaffery@aldenham.com
The OA Mentoring Review 2018
It has been another busy year in the world of OA Mentoring with
several exciting new initiatives in the pipeline.
W
e have had a very will gladly become involved with talks to use your own work/life experiences to
encouraging response from and interactive sessions at the School. help others in their chosen careers or in
a number of young OAs We are still looking for many more making career decisions.
who have volunteered to become young OAs who would be willing to Update your personal profile,
mentors and have helped several Sixth become mentors so please do contact including further education and
Form students and recent school leavers Ann Saffery in the School Office employment details via the OA website:
by giving one to one support as well (oas@aldenham.com) if you would like www.oldaldenhamian.org.
as careers talks and work experience
guidance.
We are now working more closely
with the School Careers Development
Office – Emma Murray (CR2017-Present)
and Aysen Tekin (CR2017-Present) –
to help create new mentoring
opportunities in conjunction with
careers development programmes
and we have designed an OA
Mentoring leaflet which is enclosed
with this magazine.
The mentor/mentee relationship can
be long lasting or brief according to the
needs and wishes of the mentee. Mentors
will help with basics such as interview
techniques and CV drafting and will
provide ongoing support and guidance.
Simon Frais (P2001-06) & Isaac Okeowo (L20013-17)
We cover a wide range of careers and
7
OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
OA Annual Dinner 2017
From the OA Society
On the 25th November 2017, Aldenham School had the pleasure
of welcoming back 85 guests for the annual Old Aldenhamian
Society Dinner.
Grace was said by John Edwards The Principal Guest Speaker was
(B1949-51). Guests enjoyed the three Headmaster James Fowler, who talked
course meal, as judged by the clean of the changes at Aldenham since
plates and happy faces afterwards. Geoffrey Prall was born in 1922, and he
Guests were then invited to wish invited Geoffrey to speak about his
Geoffrey Prall a very happy birthday, experience of School, which captivated
when he was presented with a gift from all who heard it. Boys, he said, had just
the School by then Head Girl Phoebe one bath a week, wore grey woollen
Altman (P & R2011-17). socks that needed to be darned
Geoffrey Prall (SHE1936-40) with his
birthday cake
T
his was a very special occasion,
particularly for one guest,
Geoffrey Prall (SHE1936-40),
who celebrated his 95th birthday on
the day of the dinner. He celebrated by
bringing a large cake, adorned with
the Aldenham School crest, to share
Sara and Iain Wilson-Soppitt (P1958-61)
with everyone.
There was a change to the pre-dinner
entertainment this year, with a short
concert being held in The Wells Centre,
featuring music to please all tastes.
Guests were entertained with drinks and
music including performances of songs
by Queen and Beethoven on the electric
guitar, as performed by three current
students of the School, as well as singing
performances from OAs Alice Erman
(P2005-12) and Vicki Garson (P2010-12).
The concert ended with a few
Christmas songs, which required
audience participation, and got
everyone into the mood for an evening
of fun and enjoyment.
The Dining Hall was bedecked in
McGill’s colours, at the request of our
John Edwards (B1946-51, Vice President of the OA Society) and Frank Rogers
new President of the OA Society, James
(SHE1953-58, Honorary Secretary of the OA Committee)
James-Crook (M1968-72). The School
8OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
regularly, and he didn’t see his father for
two years after being dropped at School
at the age of just 13. The guests were in
From the OA Society
awe of Geoffrey’s experiences, and
entertained by his story of being
selected to play the part of Portia in a
School production of The Merchant of
Venice, and then bumping into the
Master who had given him that part in
Australia, when he was in the Navy
during the war. Geoffrey finished his
speech by commending the Headmaster
and the Governors in all that they have
done to help make Aldenham School
David Hayes (SHO1963-68), Charles Tubbs (SHE1969-73), Neil Sutherland (1966-70)
the place it is today.
and Lin Sutherland
James James-Crook then offered his
congratulations to Andrew Rennie
(M2006-13), who became Regional Fives
Champion, the first OA to have gained
this title, as well as thanking members of
the OA Golf Society and the newly
formed OA Choir for attending in such
good numbers.
2017’s OA Dinner was another great
success, and the date is set for Saturday
10 November for the 2018 gathering.
If you would like to attend then please
get in touch with us. We look forward to
seeing you there!
Andrew Rennie (M2006-13) with his trophies
New OA OA
Website Choir
Coming Do you like to sing? Did you
know that Aldenham has an
Soon!
OA Choir?
I
f you are looking for a sociable,
fun choir experience, with other
A
members of our wider Aldenham
fter a discussion in January this community, then why not get in touch
year, the OA Society website with the OA Choir at oachoir@outlook.
(www.oldaldenhamian.org) is com. The choir, conducted by ex-Head
currently undergoing a revamp, and a of Music at Aldenham School John
new website, in keeping with the current Wyatt (CR1994-2016), intends to
Aldenham School website, will be perform several times throughout the
launched in the coming months. Keep year, singing a range of different music.
your eyes peeled! Get in touch today!
9OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
Old Aldenhamian Lodge
From the OA Society
After leaving Aldenham, Simon Mitchell (K1970-73) embarked
upon an electronic engineering apprenticeship and is currently
responsible for business development of crowdsourcing business
intelligence solutions for mobile operators.
S
imon joined the Old Aldenhamian Q3: Why did you join? business of the Lodge is undertaken,
Lodge in 1999 having seen a small The Lodge meets four times a year and is which includes ceremonies, updates on
article in the Aldenhamiana, and, an opportunity to be part of a charitable the members, charitable news and a
having been a member of the Lodge for organisation that makes a significant review of initiatives for the good of the
17 years, was appointed Secretary in impact to the community at a local and Lodge and masonic charitable
2018. A keen supporter of the OA national level. The Lodge, being a objectives. Afterwards, we dine at the
Society, Simon frequently attends OA member of the Public School Lodges’ RAF Club, Piccadilly with PSLC guests.
Society events, including this year’s Council (PSLC) community, affords an
OA Day, Kennedy’s Gaudy, reuniting with opportunity to meet sister schools and Q6: How can one find out more about
many of his peers from the early 1970s. establish new friendships. the Lodge?
There are a number of white table dining
Q1: How old is the Old Aldenhamian Q4: Tell me about the PSLC community? events where non-masons who are
Lodge (OAL4884)? In 1909, the Standing Committee of the friends, wives, partners and so on are
The OAL4884 is the oldest OA society Public School Lodges was founded by especially welcome. This is an
group, having been consecrated on the the Lodges of Westminster, opportunity to enjoy a social evening
15th December 1926. It was sponsored Charterhouse, Cheltenham, Sherborne with fine dining and to meet the
into Freemasonry by the Old Brightonian and Clifton to promote and disseminate members of the Lodge. More details can
Lodge and later on into the Public Public School Freemasonry. be found at www.oldaldenhamian.org/
Schools Lodge Council (PSLC) by the The title of Public School Lodges’ OAFreeMason.
Old Tauntonians. Council was adopted in 1936. There are
35 Lodges represented on the Council Q7: What activities are associated
Old Aldenhamian Lodge that include sister school names such as with the PSLC?
Harrow, Rugby, Stowe, and Uppingham. The highlight of the PSLC year is the
The Council has funds at its disposal for PSLC Festival, hosted by a sister school.
Benevolent and Scholarship purposes. These events are very well supported
and enjoyed by non-members who are
Q5: What happens in a typical regular attendees. The PSLC 2018 Festival
meeting? was hosted at Clifton College, with a
The Lodge meetings are held four times trench warfare theme noting this as the
a year in London during which the centenary of the end of the Great War
No. 4884
(Consecrated 15th December 1926)
Grand Patron of the Royal Masonic
Benevolent Institution
Q2: Who is eligible?
The Lodge was established primarily for
the benefit of Old Aldenhamians – past
scholars of Aldenham School – Masters
and Governors past and present, and any
other persons who have rendered
special service to, or are intimately
associated with Aldenham School and/
Lodge members supported by visitors from Old Rugbian, Old Salopian (Shrewsbury
or the Old Aldenhamian Lodge and are
School) and Old Westminster Lodge at our June 2018 meeting
recommended by the Lodge committee.
10OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
Women Freemasons (OWF), that are for
women only. Much like the WI and the Honorary
OAs
Round Table, the United Grand Lodge
From the OA Society
of England (UGLE) has chosen to keep
membership in line with tradition and
personal choice by our membership This year the OA Society made five staff
noting the by-laws of the Old members of Aldenham Honorary OAs.
Aldenhamian Lodge fall under the Charlotte Martin (CR2012-18), Head of
constitution of the UGLE. Drama; Flora Richards, teacher of
Religious Studies; Alexis Shead, Head of
Q10: What positive impact has Science; Alex Smith (CR2012-18); and
Freemasonry had on society? Kate Watts (CR1992-2017), who was
We are one of the biggest charitable guest speaker during the Chapel Service
givers in the country, contributing over at last year’s OA Day. Kate, who retired
£33 million every year to charitable last year, and her husband David Watts
causes. Kindness has always been a core (CR1991-2017), have both spent a
principle of Freemasonry. Individuals significant portion of their careers at
give time and money to help others, Aldenham.
whether locally, nationally or globally.
It may be realising a dream for a child,
caring for older people, volunteering on
a local community project, making
OAL4884 Worshipful Master Ash Gorecia donations to other UK charities or
(P1998-2004) and Mrs Gorecia upon responding to an international disaster
arrival at Clifton School for the PSLC2018 appeal. As well as our central charity, the
Festival paying their respects to Field
Masonic Charitable Foundation,
Marshal Haig.
additional support is constantly given to
thousands of local and national charities
and Field Marshal Douglas Haig, who through individual members, Lodges
was an old boy of Clifton. During chapel, and Provinces. Beneficiaries are
there was a rousing speech by an effectively split between Masonic and
eminent WW1 historian who spoke non-Masonic charities.
Platt
about the public schools CCF
contribution to the front line officer Q11: What are your plans for the
corps, leading their men over the top OAL4884?
Revisited:
having a strong sense of duty and We are fortunate to have a healthy age
service imbued in them from their time and demographic spread in the Lodge
40s and
at the school. and are looking to promote more visitor
activity between our meetings in
Q8: What takes place between
50s
supporting sister PSLC schools just as
meetings? we benefit from their support at our
In short a lot of preparation for the next meetings. I am delighted with our
meeting but also supporting meetings at membership who represent the School
local provincial Lodges and sister schools. with honours within the PSLC Calling OAs at Aldenham
I have always been a keen student of history community and the strong committee during the 1940s and 1950s!
so was delighted to attend a meeting at teamwork without which we could not
F
Cholmeley Lodge (Highgate School), function. There has been a reported
who dine in the Great Hall at St Barts surge in new joiners within the PSLC ollowing on from the success of
Hospital, and Westminster Lodge, who sister school community and the Old the first edition of Platt Revisited
dine in a room annexed to Westminster Aldenhamian Lodge would be delighted 20s and 30s, the OA Society has
Abbey, where Edward III and his eldest to receive enquiries related to agreed to run a second edition: Platt
son, the Black Prince, held court. membership, masons looking to visit and Revisited 40s and 50s.
white table events to include guests that If you would like to have your School
Q9: Are women allowed to join are not masons. anecdotes and memories recorded in
Freemasonry? this edition, please get in touch with the
Yes – there are two Grand Lodges, Simon Mitchell (K1970-73) OA Society: oas@aldenham.com. We
The Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Old Aldenhamian Lodge 4884, Secretary look forward to hearing your favourite
Freemasons (HFAF) and The Order of Email: smitchell1263@gmail.com stories from School!
11OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
Old Aldenhamian Golfing Society
From the OA Society
HALFORD HEWITT 2018 (M1989-94) who re-joined the squad had swung and they lost at the 17th. So
Thursday 5th April 2018 after a few years’ absence. once again, Berkhamsted just managed
(1st Round) v Berkhamsted at Royal Cinque James Sturridge and Stephen Kendall to beat us but we certainly gave them a
Ports, Deal had a comfortable win but our 3rd and real fright. Next time, I feel sure we will
Result: Lost 1½ – 3½ 4th pairs came up against some stern get our revenge!
Team: opposition and eventually had to accept
JT Surridge & SMR Kendall Won a negative win. Our 5th pair, Shon Friday 6th April 2018
WJ Kirby & DM Andrews Halved Williams (M1975-80) and Adam (Plate 1st Round) – OAGS v Felsted at
BP Thrussell & JNB Wells Lost Thrussell (B1992-97), were 3 up after 9 Princes, Sandwich
JMB Clemow & OE Baker Lost holes and were odds on favourites for a Result: Lost ½ – 2½
SGO Williams & AJ Thrussell Lost win so it seemed that overall victory Team:
would depend on the outcome of a JT Surridge & NJM Corbett Lost
This year, we were again drawn against superb match involving our 2nd pair, DM Andrews & O Baker Halved
Berkhamsted, our arch Hertfordshire Dan Andrews (B2000-07) and Will Kirby SGO Williams & AJ Thrussell Lost
rivals. Despite being without Robert (L2006-11). It was extremely close with
Alter (B1988-91), David Rawlinson Berkhamsted going 1 up and Aldenham It is always difficult having to pick oneself
(B1988-93) , Joel Bloomfield (SH&L1987- then getting it back to all square with up from the disappointment of the
92) and Jon Stott (L1994-99), we still had some fantastic golf, particularly at the previous day’s defeat. We came up
an impressive team with two new 14th and 17th holes. All the OA against a good Felsted side in the 1st
members. Oli Baker (K2011-16) , who spectators – including OAGS President round of the Plate – they reached the
only recently left Aldenham, is a talented Ian Wilson-Soppitt (P1958-61) and OAS quarter finals and were knocked out by
golfer and we also welcomed Stephen President, James James-Crook (M1968- Edinburgh Accies. Well done everyone,
Kendall (K1978-81) who left school a 72) – watched Dan and Will halve the Aldenham was well represented.
little earlier than Oli but is also a great 18th and 19th holes. However, after
golfer and won his first ever match in the driving from the 20th tee, news began to
Halford Hewitt. A big welcome to them come in that Shon and Adam had not
and to Jason Clemow (K1985-90), Jamie been able to hold on to their lead and, as Ian Eggleden
Wells (M1990-95) and Nick Corbett so often happens in golf, the pendulum Hon Secretary OAGS April 2018
OA Golf Tour to France
I
n October 2017, the OAGS
competed in France, playing the two
courses in Omaha Beach and Caen.
The team, consisting of 11 OA golfers
including 85 year-old Robert Buckley
(P1946-50), played at Hayling Island
before setting off for France from
Portsmouth for their 22nd Tour since the
first OAGS Tour was arranged by Bob
Coombes (SHE1944-47) in 1995.
The team performed exceedingly
well, with Neil Melvill (K1965-70) and
Mark Weatherhead (M1954-57) winning
the Prevost Salver on the final day of the
competition, with a score of 37 points.
Congratulations to all who took part.
The OAGS enjoying dinner in France during the tour
12OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
THE GL MELLIN couldn’t get the second point we needed. The Peter Burles Plate (Over 65s)
TOURNAMENT 2018 It was a wonderful week and we did 12 July 1st Round v Loretto at West Hill
It could have been us! really well. My thanks to the players for all Result: Won 1½ – ½
From the OA Society
This was a year when we might have their sterling efforts in maintaining and Team:
reached the Final of all 3 age categories enhancing the reputation of our great RJ Morris & ND Melvill Halved
but somehow the final putts just would School. PJ Easby & IR Eggleden Won 3&2
not fall in the hole. Hanc Aldenham!
Roger Cooke (B1952-56) and Jeremy Ian Eggleden 13 July Semi Final v Felsted at West Hill
Irwin (SHO1954-58), as defending Hon Secretary OAGS Result: Lost ½ – 1½
champions of the Bunny Millard Salver Team:
(for players over age 75), reached the Here are the individual results. RJ Morris & ND Melvill Lost 1 down
final again. They took the match against The Bunny Millard Salver (Over 75s) PJ Easby & IR Eggleden Halved
Downside to the 18th hole but just 12 July at West Hill
missed out on what would have been Result: Qualified 2nd for Semi-Final with The GL Mellin Salver (Over 55s)
another famous victory. 24 points 13 July 1st Round v Lancing at West Hill
In the Peter Burles Salver (for players Team: RRWB Cooke & JJ Irwin Result: Won 2 – 1
over age 65) we reached the Semi Final Team:
of the Plate competition and narrowly 13 July Semi-Final v Felsted at West Hill RD Hall & I Dowdeswell Lost
lost to Felsted with both matches going Result: Won 2 – 1 JDL Yule & PH Yule Won
to the 18th hole. In fact, all 6 matches SC Lewis & I Wilson-Soppitt Won
went to the 18th apart from one which 14 July Final v Downside at West Hill (at 21st hole)
we won at the 16th hole. Result: Lost 1 down
In the Mellin Salver (for players over 13 July 2nd Round v Haileybury at West Hill
age 55) we won a memorable 1st Round The Peter Burles Salver (Over 65s) Result: Lost 1 – 2
match against Lancing with Steve Lewis 12 July 1st Round v Lancing at West Hill Team:
(B1970-75) and Ian Wilson-Soppitt Result: Lost ½ – 1½ RD Hall & I Dowdeswell Lost
(P1958-61), our President, winning at the Team: JDL Yule & PH Yule Won
21st hole. We had to face Haileybury in the RJ Morris & ND Melvill Halved SC Lewis & FC Simeons Lost
2nd Round and although the Yule brothers, PJ Easby & IR Eggleden Lost 1 down
Paul Yule (SHE1969-74) and John Yule
(SHE1966-71), won their match (after
winning in the 1st Round as well), we just
The Aldeburgh Mini-Tour 2018
T
hanks to Nick Holt’s (B1955-59) foursome matches set off. To nobody’s Here are the individual results.
efficient organisation, not to astonishment, there were winners
mention his local influence as a and losers (see below) but Paul Yule and Tuesday
member of Aldeburgh Golf Club, nine Neil Melvill were the only players to win PH Yule + CJ Thwaites
OA golfers met on a glorious sunny on both days so many congratulations beat
Tuesday at noon. After a light(ish) to them. I Wilson-Soppitt + PV Bailey
lunch, two foursome matches set off We finished our mini-tour with a
to face the challenge of the linksy two-course lunch in the beautifully ND Melvill + RJ Buckley
Aldeburgh course with its rather refurbished clubhouse. This gave us the beat
unfriendly gorse but with lovely views strength to face the journey home to DWS Hayes + IR Eggleden
of the Alde river estuary. various parts of the country such as
We all met up in the evening at the Worcestershire, Norfolk and London or Wednesday
Wentworth Hotel where we dined well around the M25 to Hertfordshire, PH Yule + IR Eggleden
and set about severely depleting their Middlesex, Surrey and Sussex. Everyone beat
stock of Chablis before retiring to a agreed that it had been a first class Tour. I Wilson-Soppitt + RJ Buckley
comfortable B&B owned by another Thanks to Nick and Hanc Aldenham!
Aldeburgh member. ND Melvill + NO Holt
Wednesday morning was cooler beat
with a fresh sea breeze – welcomed by DWS Hayes + CJ Thwaites
some but not by those with a slice, Ian Eggleden
controlled or otherwise – and two more Hon Secretary OAGS
13OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
Old Aldenhamian Football Club
From the OA Society
Both the OAFC teams have been very inconsistent this year. The
first team epitomised this towards the end of the season with
some great results against very strong opposition like Old
Harrovians, but equally have shown some incredibly lacklustre
displays, like the match against Old Bradfieldians.
T
he 1st team did finish strongly A hard earned 1-1 draw against Old Thanks to the OAFC Committee, who
though with a double header Salopians in south west London, with work hard to make sure the club
victory over Old Wellingtonians a 49-year-old Nick Baker (K1982-87) functions and runs well to enable the
and six points to end the season in a temporarily coming out of retirement OA footballers to play their matches
respectable middle of the table position. to play centre forward, was a particular every week. A special thanks to Patrick
The next challenge for Sam Kaye highlight. Two victories over Old Harding (L1997-2002), who, on top of
(P2001-08) will be how he can take the Sennockians towards the end of the being the Vice Chairman on the OAFC
team from being a mid-table team to season meant the 2nd team ended Committee, also serves as the Arthurian
challenging for promotion at the top. the season on a high. League Committee Secretary.
In his first (and last) season as 2nd Recruitment has been good again I’d like to take this opportunity to say
team captain, Will Collier (P & B2003-10) and a large thank you has to go to thanks once again to the Headmaster,
led the 2nd team well. Last season, Sam Pennycook (CR2009-Present) for the OA Society and the school
Division 3 was arguably the toughest in his fantastic support liaising between groundsmen for all the vital support they
the Arthurian League and, after a very the OAFC and the schoolboys, even give the club through the season. It is
rocky start where the team didn’t win a acting as a taxi service for them in greatly appreciated by all the members
game up until November, the 2nd team one match in West London! I am of the OAFC.
then went eight games unbeaten. delighted that Sam has agreed to
They went from being probable become School Liaison Officer for the Martyn Berg
relegation candidates to surviving OAFC and I am sure he will be a valuable Chairman
and simultaneously relegating Old asset to the schoolboys and the club Old Aldenhamian Football Club
Haberdashers, which was a nice bonus. in this role. Est. 1905
OLD ALDENHAMIAN FOOTBALL RESULTS
The Arthurian League
28-Apr-18 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 2 Old Wellingtonians 1
21-Apr-18 Division 1 Old Wellingtonians 0 Old Aldenhamians I 1
07-Apr-18 Division 1 Old Bradfieldians 7 Old Aldenhamians I 1
10-Mar-18 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 2 Old Harrovians 1
03-Feb-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 3 Old Brentwoods 7
27-Jan-18 Division 1 Old Reptonians 6 Old Aldenhamians I 1
20-Jan-18 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 2 Old Bradfieldians 8
13-Jan-18 Division 1 Old Malvernians 2 Old Aldenhamians I 2
06-Jan-18 Division 1 Old Cholmeleians 5 Old Aldenhamians I 0
02-Dec-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 4 Old Berkhamstedians 3
25-Nov-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 2 Old Cholmeleians 2
18-Nov-17 Division 1 Old Berkhamstedians 3 Old Aldenhamians I 0
04-Nov-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 3 Old Malvernians 1
07-Oct-17 Division 1 Old Harrovians 7 Old Aldenhamians I 0
23-Sep-17 Division 1 Old Brentwoods 7 Old Aldenhamians I 1
09-Sep-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 4 Old Reptonians 1
14OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIET Y
Fives: Heath Tournament
O
From the OA Society
n Sunday 10th June, OA Day, But the Heath Tournament is not easy semi-final win, and they continued their
the Fives Heath Tournament to win. The draw is random, and the hard hitting attacking game. The match
took place at Aldenham School, players are unlikely to be paired with could have run away from Emily and
with many familiar faces taking part. The players that they have regularly Graham, giving a disappointingly
starting lineup included 10 Aldenhamians partnered. The need to adapt to and fit one-sided final, but they dug in and
and 14 invited guest players. with the strengths and weaknesses of managed to slowly claw their way back
At 2pm the courts were full, the sun your partner is vital and all in 25 into contention with a combination of
shining, and the BBQ already in place. competitive minutes. consistently good cutting and return of
The general bonhomie was palpable and By the second round, the favourites cut to reach 8-8. The next point proved
everyone was ready for an afternoon of had fallen away at a surprising rate, and vital and after Jack hit a back court shot
exercise and friendly competition. The moving into contention were Emily just out, Emily and Graham moved into
traditional format was retained: each pair Scones and Graham Pulsford (M1971- the lead for the first time. From this
played three matches of 25 minutes 75), Andrew Rennie (M2006-13) and moment, their concentration never
using normal game scoring, and the pair Jack Travers (CR2015-Present), and wavered, and they kept the rallies going
with the most points in total over the Karren Hird and Carl Rennie. and the pressure on their opponents.
25 minutes was the winner. The two The best of the semi-finals saw the Emily’s all court game proved to be
unbeaten pairs then contested a annual ‘Battle of the Brothers’, with Karren impressively consistent with few – if any
25-minute final as the BBQ warmed up. Hird and Carl Rennie against the hard- – unforced errors and the Highgate/
In an open draw, the ‘top four’ players hitting Andrew Rennie and Jack Travers. Aldenham pair had opened a 5-point
were kept apart, and this produced The latter pair took an early lead and the winning margin at the final whistle.
some intriguing parings. Initial bookies sheer power of their play was enough to The James Fredenham Trophy was
favourites were Rubel Mallik (B1996- secure a four-point win over their tiring aptly presented by James Fredenham
2003) and Michael MacGeogh, and in opponents and a well-earned victory. to the winners, who were delighted,
close second would be the winner of the The final between Andrew Rennie but exhausted. This year’s winners’ shirt
first-round tussle between Nirval Patel and Jack Travers, and Emily Scones and was mid blue.
(P1991-92) and Paul Kendall (K1976-81), Graham Pulsford was watched by all Our thanks to the School for
and Chris Austin and Neil Margerison. competitors and swelled by OAs preparing the courts and arranging the
Charlotta Cooley and Darshan Patel attending OA Day, who warmly BBQ equipment, and to Andrew Fraser
(R&K2006-12), Gareth Hoskins and Tim applauded some high-quality play by (Bursar 1994-2016) for his work as
Pemberton, and Karren Hird and Carl both pairs. It was clear from the start that Tournament Scribe!
Rennie (M2003-10) were all in with a Andrew and Jack were not going to
realistic chance of winning. change tactics after their excellent Written by Graham Pulsford (M1971-75)
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
80th Anniversary of Chapel Consecration – Monday 15th October 2018
House Music – Thursday 18th October 2018
OA Annual Dinner 2018 (by ticket only) – Saturday 10th November 2018
Carol Service – Tuesday 11th December 2018, 3pm, at St Albans Abbey
A Level Certificate Presentation Evening – Monday 17th December 2018
OA Society AGM – Wednesday 13th March 2019
Regional Lunch Stratford-Upon-Avon – April/May 2019, date TBC
OA Day 2019 – Sunday 9th June 2019
Visitation Day 2019 – Saturday 22nd June 2019
Eros to Eros Run and ASPA Ball – Friday 28th June 2019
Regional Lunch West Sussex – Autumn 2019, date TBC
15O A R E V I E W | G I R L S AT A L D E N H A M
The Girls
Girls at Aldenham
To celebrate 2018 as ‘Year of the Woman’, and mark Riding’s
becoming a girls’ day House, we asked some our female OAs
about their favourite memories from their time at Aldenham,
and what life lessons they’ve taken forward with them from
their schooldays.
Back L-R: Caroline Frith (neé Spragg)
(B1982-84) and Jo Scott (neé Thallon)
(B1982-84)
Front L-R: Sarah Jane Costello (neé
Woodrow) (B1982-84), Kate Murphy (neé
Sales) (B1982-84) and Nancy Jouneau (neé
Rowe) (B1982-84)
Masume Hidayatullah (P1980-82)
‘Aldenham was a very peaceful place
when I joined, not too competitive,
gently encouraging pupils to develop
lasting interests and excel in their efforts.
My favourite member of staff was John
McAllister (CR1967-2005) for his relentless Mural painted by Kate Murphy (neé Sales) (B1982-84) in 1984 on the girls’ study block in
confidence in my ability to excel in Beevor’s. Picture taken in 1998.
L-R: Kate Murphy (neé Sales) (B1982-84), Jo Scott (neé Thallon) (B1982-84) and Sarah Jane
history, my favourite subject. My brief
Costello (neé Woodrow) (B1982-84)
time at Aldenham is fondly remembered;
community service, inspirational teachers,
being immersed in great literature, I was useless at Biology, but made me hugely encouraging and gave me a real
London theatre evenings and wintry laugh lots. I have lots of funny memories love for the game – I was very sad to
walks over the fields all stand out and set of Aldenham, and the long term gain of hear when he died in 2012.
the foundation for most of what I love now.’ being there has been fabulous. I’ve gone
on to be happy, and you can’t get better Miranda Kelly (neé Stewart) (P1988-90)
Jo Scott (neé Thallon) (B1982-84) than that!’ ‘When I attended Aldenham there hadn’t
‘Aldenham was great, lovely fun when I yet been very many girls through the
was there, but there were very few girls. Lindsey Kelly (neé Hall) (P1985-87) door, so, at first, we were viewed as a
I made amazing friendships, and the ‘Aldenham was a small school when I slightly strange species by some of the
experience made up a percentage of the was there, which felt very personal, with boys, who avoided us as much as they
person I am today. I wasn’t very only around 30 girls across the Sixth could! Others, though, were quick to
academic, but my favourite member of Form. Girls were very definitely a welcome us and make friends, visiting
staff, Austin Galvin (CR1970-76) knew minority and still very much of a novelty our studies and helping us to settle into
for the boys but there were some great and understand Aldenham life. I have so
friendships formed and I think a lot of many lovely memories of Aldenham
Kate Murphy (neé Sales) (B1982-84)
the boys felt quite protective of the girls. from the people I met in those two
My favourite memories were the long fun-filled years (and still keep in touch
evenings in the summer, and the time I with): going on Duke of Edinburgh
spent in the House and roaming around expeditions to Aviemore (the Happy
the grounds. David MacGregor Haggis); a Biology field trip to Slapton
(CR1982-1999), who taught English, Sands (where we had a massive water
was my favourite teacher. He was fight); the times spent “revising” beside
inspirational – his lessons rarely stuck to the cricket pitch; and not forgetting
the text in hand but he talked a lot about the conveyor-belt toast machine, and
life, and managed to make even Chaucer being the first ever girl to compete
relevant. I also took up squash whilst at in the inter-house cross country …
school with John McAllister, who was I could go on!
16O A R E V I E W | G I R L S AT A L D E N H A M
Miranda Kelly (neé Stewart) (P1988-90)
Girls at Aldenham
‘Once, during a Chemistry lesson our
teacher Ken Barnard (CR1956-1991), who
had one numb hand, inadvertently put it L-R back: Jo Marsh (K1988-90), Anna Keach (K1988-90), ???, Melita Armitage (neé
near a Bunsen burner. I’ll never forget the Douthwaite-Hodges), Kirsten ‘Gussie’ O’Halloran (B1988-90), Jennifer Christie (B1988-90),
???, Hannah Vivian (neé Boughton) (P1989-90)
smell of burning hair and skin which
L-R front: Gretchen Le Boutellier (B1989-90), Justine Kwaan (P1988-90), Nicola Cox
soon filled the room forcing one student (P1988-90), Lucy Bennett (K1988-90), Lizzy Gascoyne (neé Handford) (K1988-90), Corrina
to utter the immortal lines, “Mr Barnard, Giles (neé Griffin) (P1988-90), Clare Yeabsley (neé McCarty) (K1988-90)
watch out! Your hand’s on fire!” Another
time, during Biology our teacher, Austin Aldenham that I heard about and window was open. Unfortunately on her
Galvin, who always brought his dog into applied for a GAP year post in way up she miscounted the number of
class, watched us all do dissections on Switzerland, working as a Lab Technician bedrooms and she climbed in the
rats. Halfway through he sent us out for and House Tutor. After university, I chose window of Maccy our Housemaster who
break and left his dog alone in the room. to go into TEFL teaching and travel was in bed with his wife. They thought
When we got back there were no longer extensively.’ she was a burglar. The resulting
any rats’ innards out on the side where commotion woke the whole school up
we’d left them, but just a sick dog staring Kat Tucker (B1992-94) and got me in a whole heap of trouble.
guiltily at us! ‘There were eight girls in total when I Maccy even recalled this story as one of
‘Looking back at that school girl from joined Aldenham, split between Beevor’s, his favourites on his retirement speech.
where I am now, I can see that Aldenham Kennedy’s and Paull’s. We were all quite
not only gave me more confidence and close but individual, and I have so many Kimberley Swift (neé Stewart-Mole)
independence but was a nurturing memories of friendship and fun. One of (K1995-97)
environment that got the best out of me. my favourite trips ever was going on the ’Aldenham was for pupils from 11 years
In fact, it was from a chemistry lesson at gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition in of age upwards when I joined, and had a
Scotland. Since then I fell in love with smattering of girls in the Sixth Form. The
Scotland and escaping to the Highlands girls were split between Beevor’s and
is still one of my favourite things. I Kennedy’s – Stephanie Ottey (B1995-97)
remember our feeble efforts at putting a and I were the only two girls in
lacrosse team together – we could only
play 7 a side and everyone had to play!
L-R: Stephanie Ottey (B1995-97), Sarah
One of the best things about Collins (B1995-97), Tina Lui (B1995-97),
Aldenham was the amazing staff Annabelle Browne (B1995-97), and Kimberley
members. I had so many teachers I loved Swift (neé Stewart-Mole) (K1995-97)
and who I felt genuinely appreciated me
and encouraged us to develop our
character. John McAllister or Maccy was
my Housemaster at Beevor’s and he
really was like a second father to me. You
L-R back: Tanya Sweeting (neé Webb) never forget a good teacher.
(K1988-90), Melita Armitage (neé There was the famous time that me
Douthwaite-Hodges), Kirsten ‘Gussy’ and another girl left our boarding house
O’Halloran (B 1988-90), Jennifer Christie
one night and then couldn’t get back in.
(B1988-90)
L-R front: Miranda Kelly (neé Stewart) My partner in crime decided she could
(P1988-90), Hannah Vivian (neé Boughton scale the drainpipe to the top floor of
(P1989-90), Justine Kwaan (P1988-90) Beevor’s House where our bedroom
17O A R E V I E W | G I R L S AT A L D E N H A M
Paull’s House Girls 2005
Girls at Aldenham
Natasha Klimt (P2007-11) and Charlotte
Spillman (P2007-11)
I have so many wonderful memories at
Aldenham, I really do still miss it. It was
an amazing place. House Music was
always memorable, House Dinners,
School Plays, Drama lessons; I wouldn’t
have missed a moment of it for the
world in all honesty.
Lara Alsadoun (P2004-11)
I was one of the first girls to enter into
Paull’s House Photo 2009
Aldenham’s Year 7 group in Martineau’s
House back then, so I guess it might
have been slightly intimidating at first.
Nevertheless everything grows on you
quite quickly. The new friends you make
and the memories that follow; the
endless events: fireworks night, House
Music competitions and so on. These just
continue and grow greater every year
you progress. Additionally, you were
never really bored. There was always
somewhere to be, as well as so many
extra activities to be apart of. Whether it
was music, sciences, sports or just some
down time to sit on the field during
summer and just enjoy the company.
Kennedy’s, which probably caused skills for the big bad world is that of Having said this I ended up staying till
Housemaster Austin Galvin no end banter. Being around so many boys all Sixth Form!
of stress. the time means I have a fine-tuned sense
My favourite memories are of the of humour and the ability to laugh at
House Play when I proudly took the title myself. As a teacher myself now, I can tell
role in Put Your Clothes On, Clarisse, you that is very important!
directed by the fabulous Will Phelps
(CR1994-98). Stephanie and I were day Natasha Klimt (P2007-11)
girls in the Lower Sixth, but if we wanted ‘I accept that I’m very biased about
to stay the house caretaker would let us Aldenham because I became incredibly
use his spare room – not that we didn’t attached to it, but it really was a
occasionally kip in our study (sorry, sir!) In wonderful place to be. I remember being
those days we also had a bar in the Sixth excited to go into school, primarily
Form Common Room and if you wanted because of the sense of community that
help with prep you would often be I felt almost immediately upon joining
offered a beer by one of the more the School. I never thought I would L-R: Ioanna Charalambous (P2004-11), Lara
relaxed tutors as you discussed the finer stand a chance of getting the position Alsadoun (P2004-11), Torie Cox (P2009-11),
Anna Caro, Jeannine Bringmann (P2009-10),
points of your philosophical discourse. of Head Girl – this was the first time that
Tabea Pottiez (P2009-11), Holly Compton
Being an Aldenham girl taught me to the Head Pupil role was being shared (P2009-11), Sophie Radon (P2009-11), Luise
stand up for myself and really have a go between a Head Boy and a Head Girl – Röessel (P2009-10), Lydia Mills (P2009-11)
at anything I wanted to. One of the key but I applied. (photo courtesy of Lydia Mills)
18O A R E V I E W | G I R L S AT A L D E N H A M
Being at Aldenham taught me to be many ways, and to be able to go back
independent and explore as many and help impact a current student’s
aspects of being a student without any studies through the Mentoring Scheme
Girls at Aldenham
regrets. Whether it was through activities is such a privilege, and to write this
or just spending time with friends. I felt magazine is such a joy. I have met so
that once Aldenham was over I was many incredible people – fellow
ready to leave and move on. Sounds students, teachers previous and current,
quite ironic, but what can I say, I was able OAs – through Aldenham, and words
Abigail Turner (P2009-11) and Lara can’t and won’t do justice to what it
to enjoy every moment I had, all the ups
Alsadoun (P2004-11)
and downs of school life. means to me to be a part of this
community.
something I have carried with me in my
attitude every day since. I also felt like Celina Messner (P2010-11)
if I didn't get the highest grades that My favourite memories are the ones
I wasn't a complete failure, because I would have declared as mundane
Aldenham is about much more than that back in the day. However, I value them
if you want it to be. It gave me that space today as unique and extraordinary to the
and nurturing to be able to develop in boarding experience I had at Aldenham.
areas that weren't just academic. I dearly The bus rides to hockey games on the
Abigail Turner (P2009-11) and Sophie
loved my time at Aldenham, and weekend with the excitement of the
Radon (P2009-11)
wouldn't have changed it for the world. approaching game in the air are a valued
memory of mine. The nervous chatter
Abigail Turner (P2009-11) Lydia Chapman (P2010-12) and giggles always grew louder as we
‘Aldenham is a world unto itself, with ‘Aldenham was a big part of my life approached the opposing team’s school
lovely school grounds and a rich when I was doing my A Levels, and I’m and the team spirit became especially
schedule to keep everyone busy. I got to lucky enough to include it as a huge part apparent. Having to return home with
actually engage in activities I liked aside of my life now. I was a weekly boarder, defeats almost all the time did not spoil
from attending lessons which certainly going home only at weekends to my the good mood we were in. The fun and
made it more interesting. I made some Saturday job, and then back on a Sunday friendships counted more and helped to
dear, lifelong friends at Aldenham. My night for another week. Boarding gave get over the defeat. I also appreciated
favourite memories range from singing me the best space for getting all the the efforts of trying to make the
with the choir at Ypres, having heaps of work I had done, as well as the fantastic boarding experience as homelike as
fun on the bumper cars at the Leaver’s social aspect of getting to spend your possible. From pampering evenings, to
Ball, and all the events like House Music, free time socialising with your friends. chats during prep time and movie nights.
Les Philosophes Society and seasonal Not many people get the chance to Being so well looked-after leaves little
concerts. work closely in such an amazing place time for missing home. All of these
One of the most amazing experiences on a really personal level, and I am moments made Aldenham my home
that resulted from attending Aldenham hugely grateful to be able to pop in away from home.
was being able to complete the Duke of and out of School every other week. My experience as a boarder at
Edinburgh Gold Award. When I think Aldenham has changed my life in so Aldenham helped me grow into the
back to the trip I am thankful to Anne
Morgan (CR1986-Present) and David
Chorley (CR2007-14) for dedicating the L-R Jessica Dudack (P2007-12), Jodie Chun (P2008-12), Annabel Mizel (P2008-12), Alice
Erman (P2005-12), Jessica Oommen (P2005-12), Evie Noorali (P2008-12), Lydia Chapman
time to help us complete it. As a result of
(P2010-12), Amelia Stanbury (P2010-12). (Photo courtesy of Jessica Dudack)
the expedition and award I got to meet
Prince Philip – and have a quick chat –
at my award ceremony. I sincerely doubt
something like that would have
happened without Aldenham.
Aldenham taught me a lot. As much
as I loved my time there I'm not going
to pretend it was easy. I went through
some difficulties which impacted on
my studying and performance. However,
the School did everything they could to
adjust and give me some extra help
which I would have failed without.
That patience and understanding is
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