The Johnian 2015-2016

2015 - 2016 THEJOHNIAN Quae sursum sunt quaerite

THE JOHNIANWelcome to 15 16 At the cross-section of the Quad stands our memorial to the dead of the First and Second World Wars. Subliminally aware as we are of its presence, it perhaps does not catch our attention as often as it should. There is a substantial difference between looking and seeing. Recently refurbished, we might look upon it as an elegy in stone to those generations of Old Johnians whose hopes and ambitions were subdued by many dark days of conflict. But if we are truly to see it, what might it teach us now? It has not always been here. The pupils of 1916 whose footsteps trod across similar lines to class, lunch and sports fields were not acquainted with it, though they were perhaps all too aware of the sacrifices being made in distant lands. Theirs’ cannot have been an easy peace.November, with its mellow light and sombre mist, seems a pertinent time for remembrance. So it isthat each year, in union with many across the country and the world – in city, town and village, andwherever the ravages of war have been keenly felt – the School community encircles the memorialin silence: remembering the dead, certainly, but praying also for the gift of peace. The past year wasa little different. Early in the morning on the first day of July, just preceding Speech Day and with itthe end of the school year, a large crowd gathered in the Quad on the centenary of the Battle of theSomme. Names were read aloud of the six men from St John’s who died on the first day of one of thebloodiest and most protracted battles of the Great War. To gather at such a time was an importantact: if the memorial is to say to us anything at all, it must surely be that the brutality of war cannotbe commemorated singularly; that its reality deserves more than a yearly act of remembrance; that itmust, in effect, be something we live with – uncomfortable as that may be.This annual magazine, never entirely self-referential, has attempted to reflect and report some of theintense national and global dissatisfaction that will inevitably form part of history’s recollection of thepast year. James Hughes’s article on Brexit is one such piece. Ours is not a world at ease with itself; itis no longer at home in the old dispensations. That this should astonish us is itself a little surprising:humanity’s propensity towards its own self-destruction has always been present and possible. We mayattempt in places of education to offer a better way, but it must be admitted that we are not always onthe winning side. Perhaps, more than ever before, we are aware of the way in which world events canbe reported – and then be altered – within a matter of seconds. This can cause both bewilderment andhasty judgement, often abetted by the more negative aspects of social media which negate seriousnessor reflection.It is thus even more important that we make remembrance a vital part of our life at St John’s, forremembrance demands that we know our individual and collective histories – with all their glory andshame. It also demands that we do something about the future, too. This cannot simply be the clichédutterances of resolutions towards a fairer, more just society. These have importance, but they oftenplace on the shoulders of imperfect men and women a burden too great which can lead too easily todespair. We might begin by recognising the extraordinary potential of this place to incubate toleranceand respect for diversity whilst, at the same time, acknowledging that we do not always get it right.In the great nave of Peterborough Cathedral hangs a stark, modern crucifix with the Latin inscription,stat crux dum volvitur orbis (‘the cross stands as the world turns’). The nature of school lifenecessarily leads to much freneticism, and a good deal of it circular, but we might do well to considera little more that stone cross that stands at the heart of this little globe of ours, as school life revolvesaround it in myriad form. We might remember that, far from being an antiquated elegy, it is an urgentsonnet for today. If we look closely enough, we may see that it offers a yet brighter vision for theworld: a pathway to peace.Simon Bland,Master in Charge of the Johnian

Contents Meet the Johnian Team 2 School Trips School News 4 St John’s pupils get the opportunity to travel across the globe in search of inspiration and knowledge Guess the Teacher 6 Morocco 68 Valete 8 Library 12 From the Archives 14 Features Queuing Catastrophe 70 Houses Breaking Barriers 72 Housemasters and House Captains round up the year Out without a doubt? 74 Churchill House 18 Vocational East House 22 Duke of Edinburgh Gloucester House 26 CCF - RAF Review 78 Haslewood House 30 CCF - Navy Review 80 Montgomery House 34 CCF - Army Review 81 North House 38 Charity and CSU 82 South House 42 84 Surrey House 46 Sports West House 50 Rugby Football 88 Performance 56 Hockey 92 Music 58 Netball 96 Chapel Review 60 Cricket 100 Choir Tour 62 Sailing 106 Drama 64 Swimming 110 Debating 112 Results 114 A level grades, AS level grades, Prize winners, University Places and Sports Results for 2015-16www.stjohnsleatherhead.co.uk THE JOHNIAN 1

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School NewsNew ScienceCentre opensAfter many months of planningand construction, the School’sbrand new Science Centreopened its doors to pupils onMonday 9 November 2015.Dr Paul Reilly, Head of Science, commented:‘We are delighted to have moved in andbegun lessons in the new Science Centre.The building has been designed forpupils to explore the sciences throughexperimentation, research and discussion,and we are very excited to get started.’The Science Centre will not only provideoutstanding facilities for teaching andlearning, but will open doors for educationalpartnerships with other schools anduniversities, identifying St John’s as a future-thinking centre of excellence in science.The building was later officially opened byLady Arabella Stuart-Smith, granddaughterof the School’s beloved ‘Monty’, the FieldMarshal Montgomery, 1st Viscount ofAlamein. St John’s wins Independent Schools Award St John’s has been awarded ‘Community Initiative of the Year’ at the prestigious TES Independent School Awards 2015. Up against tough competition, St John’s was commended for its care and community service. The judges described it as a “fantastic outreach scheme that also benefits the School’s pupils”. Since the first holiday in August 2014, the pupil volunteers have surpassed themselves by, caring for the holidaymakers with consideration, compassion and humility.4 THE JOHNIAN

St John’s named in Countytop 100 cricketing championsschools The School’s U14 cricketers haveSt John’s has been included in The Cricketer been crowned county champions inmagazine’s guide to the sport’s top 100 schools an impressive afternoon against Stfor 2016. The list was compiled from an original George’s, Weybridge in the Surreyproposal of over 450 schools across the length Schools Cricket Association U14and breadth of the UK and includes schools Final. On winning, team captainthat have made considerable investments in Will Farnsworth commented: ‘It isimproving facilities, coaching and dedicated a fantastic achievement for a teamtime in pursuit of cricketing excellence. that have only just come togetherAt St John’s, a training programme runs this year to beat a well-establishedthroughout the winter months for all cricketers, St George’s side. We are all excited forproviding a great opportunity for players to next year’s English Schools Nationalcontinue honing their skills out of season. Cup. I think I speak for all of us in thanking Mr Bruggemann and MrHead of Cricket David Hammond commented: Pepper for preparing us so well this‘After an extremely successful season, it is a year.’privilege to be recognised by The Cricketer asan institution with talent in cricket. Building on The School’s U16 sevens squadthe success of our junior teams, we are set out to get their second trophyconfident that cricket at St John’s of the week, with an outing at theis in safe hands.’ Surrey Sevens tournament. In the final against RGS Guildford, all 12 members of the squad made an impact, and had spectators gasping at their energy levels and clinical attack. At the end of a long day, St John’s were crowned Surrey U16 champions, with an unheard of 50-point barrier broken. It was also a great year for the School’s swimmers, with success at the Surrey Swimming Individual Championships and a fantastic outing at the London Aquatics Centre. St John’s boys competed in both the senior and intermediate races, and the intermediate boys were crowned Surrey champions with their incredible combined scores, beating the likes of RGS, Reeds, Caterham and Charterhouse. THE JOHNIAN 5

We know them now… but did we know them then? Have a browse through the photos and see if you canGtueeass cthhe er...pickoutyourteacherfromthebunch! Answers on the inside back cover 1 2 36 THE JOHNIAN

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Patrick Noble Patrick Noble joined St John’s in September 1974. Born at the outbreak of the Korean War, he was educated at the Duke of York’s Royal Military School in Dover and went on to read Geography at University College of Wales, Aberystwyth, where he also studied for his PGCE. In a teaching career spanning 43 years, he has taught in only two schools: Charterhouse for one year and St John’s for the remaining 42 years;the equivalent of 126 terms. A majority of academic staff at St John’s were yet tobe conceived when Patrick joined the Common Room.It is quite impossible to overstate Patrick’s contribution to St Patrick’s time as housemaster of North House were amongJohn’s School. Generations of pupils, parents and staff have his best years at St John’s. Appointed in 1987, he retired frompassed through the large, open doors of this school, and all the House 15 years later in 2002. Being a housemaster was,have benefitted from Patrick’s warm, generous heart. Patrick’s for Patrick, all about vocation and service – and certainlyclassroom has been his castle, but he is equally at home in the not a stepping stone to promotion. Patrick has always putoutdoors. He has revelled in fieldwork. He would regularly before his own interests the wellbeing of those in his charge;take his GCSE set to Reigate, not for any interest in the town parents and pupils alike look back on this time with greatitself but because of a rather marvellous café whose full fondness. Patrick has never been the retiring sort, however,English breakfast was a gastronomic delight. When in harsher and he was determined not to disappear into the obscurityenvironments, he would have with him a flask of piping of the back benches. Taking on the mantle as Head ofhot coffee and his Shepherd’s staff. His yeti-like figure was UCAS, countless pupils benefitted from his help, expertisereassuring to pupils whose constitutions were no match for the and hours of endeavour. He has, throughout his time at Stwintery blasts of the Yorkshire Dales or the Lake District. John’s, contributed much to the life of the School Chapel, administering the sacrament faithfully at each celebration of thePatrick’s education at a military school meant he quickly found Eucharist.himself commissioned into the School’s CCF, rising to becomethe contingent commander, holding the rank of lieutenant Patrick embodies the quiet integrity and honesty that one mightcolonel. In recognition of such a long and distinguished say defines the best schoolmasters, but his longevity has alsomilitary career, he has been awarded the Queen’s Golden and been of great import: his understanding and knowledge aboutDiamond Jubilee Medals by Her Majesty the Queen and the the School is unequalled. He has always been quick to listenCadet Force Medal with no fewer than five clasps. Whilst in and slow to judge. One might go as far as to say he has becomeregular attendance at summer tea parties at Buckingham Palace, a much-loved institution, having now taught the children andhe has been equally at home on the ranges at Bisley, directing grandchildren of his earliest pupils. It is with joy and sadnesscadet fire. Patrick has always been a three-term sports coach that we say farewell, wishing him well in retirement. We trustcome rain, wind or shine: rugby in the autumn, more rugby in that it will be long, healthy and prosperous.the spring and athletics in the summer. His presence has beenformative for both colleagues and pupils alike, whether in the Richard Allanstaff changing room lifting spirits in preparation for the rainand freezing temperatures outside, or driving a school minibusto some far-away sports fixture. He is a connoisseur of post–match entertainment. THE JOHNIAN 9

John Barber content within the classroom, he has been a ready participant in all areas of school life. In January 2013, Richard was promoted toJohn joined us as Head of Spanish from Whitgift where he had spent Housemaster of Churchill, following Nick Smith’s departure. Allmost of his life - first as a schoolboy then as a well-respected teacher accounts would suggest that he has run a very happy house andof Spanish, French and Italian. He is an excellent linguist with a real Alex Tate tells me he has been a valuable member of the SHS team.joy for words and for speaking in a foreign tongue. He has brought Though he has overseen a decline in Churchill’s sporting dominance,his enjoyment of languages to the classroom where the pupils often he has had notable successes with debating and key innovationscomment on his genuine enthusiasm. The ideas he has implemented such as the introduction of a meditation room for the stressful examin the Department have been well-received and have breathed period. The pupils in Churchill have loved him, the overridinglife into both Spanish and French at St John’s. The Fourth Form impression being of a fair but firm approach, a sense of fun and aspelling bee is a highlight of the calendar and John’s skills with the fixation with healthy foods.microphone in hand both there and on trips to southern Spain havesurprised and impressed in equal measure. Sport is, however, his passion. In football he has, with Andrew Bass, helped to mastermind back-to-back league titles for the School’s 1stJohn’s greatest skill as a teacher is perhaps his ability to make XI in 2013-14 and 2014-15 – a quite fabulous achievement. Underpotentially complex issues appear simple. This has been of real his leadership, St John’s U16 team also reached the last 32 of thebenefit to both his pupils and the Department and Emanuel School U16 World Youth Cup which, as a tournament of 170 teams, waswill now profit from his clarity of thought as he moved there to take no mean feat. Essentially, Richard has been an inspirational teacher,on the role of Head of MFL. a brilliant housemaster and a passionate sports coach. Canford will benefit hugely from his experience and we might all hope that hisWe thank John for all that he had done in his time with us and wish move even further south will turn out to have been a most successfulhim the best of luck in his new challenge where he will surely be a adventure.success. Mr DavidsonMr Hicks Jess KirkRichard Jones Jess Kirk joined St John’s five years ago, a teacher of biology and aRichard Jones first left the dark satanic mills behind in 2008, and tutor in North House under the helm of Richard Allan. She provedafter eight years in Surrey, he has been almost fully civilised. Joining a pillar of support to many from her first day. Throughout herSt John’s in 2010, he brought to the economics and business time at St John’s, pupils and colleagues alike have respected herdepartments a pithy industrial insight. His teaching is unique, enormously and she has never missed an opportunity to go theenthusiastic and infectious – things readily transmitted to the extra mile. From organising conker competitions or taking photospupils in his charge. His technological savviness has ensured the of every house event, she has epitomised the North House motto ofdepartments’ successful use of blogs and iPads: always innovative passion, integrity and perseverance. Subsequently as Housemistressand hard-working, he will be a difficult act to follow. Never solely and then tutor in Haslewood, the girls continued to sing her praises, commenting on her never-ending positivity, helpfulness and clear10 THE JOHNIAN leadership. As a biology teacher, Jess has been the perfect resource for teaching ideas. She is natural differentiator and keeps a perfectly colour-coded teacher planner and an advanced filing system, but best of all have been her faultless whiteboard diagrams. Fully involved in the life of St John’s, girls have been thrilled time and time again to find out that Jess was to be their coach, whether for netball, hockey or rounders. After an exceptional five years, it is a sadness to say goodbye. We wish her well, particularly in the mothering of her two children, and know that she will find success in whatever the future holds. Miss Finnegan

Christopher Mortlock a series of initiatives and changes to the management structure of the academic side of the School, she raised the standards of teachingChris arrived in 2014 having completed his masters at an august across the departments. She also improved the collection and use ofinstitution in the east of England. At heart an academic, and bookish academic data. One of Emma’s skills was to get the best out of thoseby nature and temperament, he has always maintained the very best who reported to her. She inspired loyalty and respect from her closeconversation with pupils and staff alike. His contribution to school team and the Heads of Academic Departments. She had the highestlife has been immeasurable. An extraordinarily fine teacher with professional expectations and her colleagues responded accordingly.an intimate and engaged knowledge of the subject, his pupils have Emma is a linguist by training and continued to enjoy teachingadored him. As composer-in-residence at St John’s, he has dedicated French through her time at St John’s. She was rated highly as anumerous pieces to the School, and we will miss the forensic detail teacher by all of her pupils; her classroom manner was gentle butthat exists not only in those but also in other areas of his life. the pace of her lessons strong. Her pupils appreciated that she was always keenly interested in the progress of each and every one them.Mr Mortlock has splendidly, for a music teacher, shown his Not surprisingly, their public examination results often surpassed herundoubted strengths in sport: he knows and loves his football above stated expectations.all else. It is quite difficult to articulate what a loss Chris will be tothis place. His dedication to pedagogy, his seriousness about life, his Extraordinarily diligent, committed and determined, Emma drovedetermination that pupils should be engaged with society – all these forward an agenda for change. But she was also highly consideratehave made him widely respected and, consequently, much missed. and caring. She would debate and discuss ideas with enthusiasm andMr Bland would communicate her thoughts with clarity and lucidity. A very effective public speaker, she was also known to write the occasionalSarah Palette email.Sarah has been an excellent asset to the Drama Department this It was little surprise when Emma announced that she had beenyear. Despite starting in the ‘middle of things’, Sarah’s inspiring work offered the post of Headmistress of Croydon High. Their gain is mostwith the Upper Fifth drama pupils help them deliver outstanding certainly our loss.performances for their scripted exam. In particular, her work on The HeadmasterBerkoff’s Metamorphosis and David Campton’s Cagebirds wasstriking in terms of pupils’ expressive physicality and poise. We have Clare Reeveshigh hopes that these pupils will achieve the very best of marks fortheir pieces. Clare’s time at St John’s has been greatly appreciated by those who knew her, and she has commanded respect across the School for herSarah also directed and delivered a highly entertaining and cheerful shade. A devoted teacher, her pupils in maths had a strongimmersive production of The Tales of Beedle the Bard with regard for her wisdom and excellent subject knowledge. She will,Fourth Form and Lower Fifth pupils. Her verve, enthusiasm and perhaps, be remembered best for her encouraging tones in CCFcommitment for the project gave the pupils the confidence they and the regular Duke of Edinburgh trips, of which she was a keenneeded to deliver a charismatic and engaging performance. accompanier. The girls of South House will miss her greatly, as will the netball and hockey teams which she coached with devotion.In the short time she has been here, she has built a strong rapport Never happier than in the company and consumption of fromage,with the pupils and her good humour and positive attitude will be we are certain that gastronomic delights await her in pastures new.missed in the Department. We wish her all the best for the future Mrs Rawlingsbeyond St John’s.Mr Garbett Raquel SerranoEmma Pattison Raquel leaves St John’s following a most impressive time as the School’s language assistant. Pupils have enjoyed her company andEmma Joined St John’s from Guildford High School (GHS) in assistance very much indeed and her gentle good humour in theSeptember 2012. She had been the Head of Modern Languages at department has been appreciated by her colleagues. She was, duringGHS and, as such, she brought experience and drive to the new her time as a house tutor, personable and reliable. She goes on topost of Assistant Head with responsibility for the professional great things, and we wish her well.development of the teaching staff. After an impressive first year, she Mr Vargaswas promoted to Deputy Head (Academic). In the three years in thisposition she transformed the academic life of the School. Through THE JOHNIAN 11

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This academic year the Library has provided After the half-term break, Julian Thomaspupils with an arc of experiences and learning presented a fascinating talk on the history,ranging from the Victorian Gothic to modern- causes and consequences of the Russianday terrorism. Events, talks and displays have Revolution, a talk that was challenging andencompassed the experience of voluntary work engaged both Mr Thomas and the Headmasterin Africa, the causes of the Russian Revolution, in a fascinating discussion. The author Andythe advertising industry and the Holocaust - Mulligan had pupils enthralled with hisnot forgetting creative writing, Shakespeare, talk about his books Trash and Liquidator,Agatha Christie, an OJ author and a journalist. addressing issues around street children andWe have celebrated World Book Day, National corruption.Non-Fiction Month, the power of GraphicNovels and award-winning books too. The new year saw Nick Johnston-Jones exploring the world of advertising, the worldCAROLINE FINNEGAN in which he had his first career, sharing withPRESENTED AN his audience the adverts in which he had a partILLUSTRATED TALK whilst demonstrating what makes a good andON HER GAP YEAR a bad advert. Neil Whitmore provoked muchEXPERIENCES OF thought and contemplation with his reflectionsWORKING FOR on the causes and consequences of theCHARITIES IN AFRICA, Holocaust, and recommended some excellentSTARTING OUR titles to be read in order to learn more.PROGRAMME OFEVENTS BY LEAVING Comedy writer Dave Smith shared with theUS ALL WITH A DESIRE Fifth Form his tips for successful creativeTO TRAVEL AND writing, many of which were put to use inUNDERTAKE CHARITY the classroom and the programme of eventsWORK AND WISHING continued with Mr Pepper’s discussion on theWE COULD DO GAP war on terror, including some personal storiesYEARS ALL OVER from his own family. After the Easter break,AGAIN. the theme of war on terror continued with a visit from the journalist and author VanessaComing back to St John’s, the author Andrew Altin, whose account of her experiences inNorris was next on the programme, speaking Syria was honest and moving.to the Fourth Form about his experiencesas a pupil here in the 1960s through to his Work on Gothic literature, dystopia andwork writing for TV and radio, and to finally Shakespeare prompted some interestingbecoming a children’s book author. displays and much book borrowing as well as a number of fantastic recommendations. The staff book group meetings have resulted in some unusual choices of book being added to the Library stock and with displays of current award-winning books there has been, once more a wide choice of reading material available to all. Plans are underway in the Library for new and exciting author events and staff talks, a new collection of books for the incoming Third Form and new initiatives too – the new careers and university selection being just one of these. So do watch this space for an update this time next year of all that has happened at the heart of the School, in your Library! Mrs Ellis-Barrett 13THE JOHNIAN

During the year further biographies and photographs were uploaded to the War Memorial Archive www.stjohnsleatherheadatwar.co.uk We remembered, amongst others, those Old Johnians wounded or killed in action at Gallipoli, Ernest William Mainprice and Neville Seymour who were killed in the Battle of Jutland on 31 May 1916, and the six OJs who were killed on the first day of the Battle of the Somme, 1 July 1916: Lieutenant Henry Stewart Jackson, aged 20 Private Arthur Frederick Clarke, aged 21 2nd Lieutenant Charles Fouracres Greenlees, aged 21 Captain William Haldane Round, aged 23 Corporal Frederick Thomas Croydon Payton, aged 20 Captain John Bedell Rutledge, aged 33A dawn vigil was held on the Quad on Friday 1 July 2016 from 7.20am to 7.30amto mark the centenary of the first day of the Battle of the Somme. A short serviceled by the Chaplain included prayers, readings and the laying of a wreath at thewar memorial.14 THE JOHNIAN

Monty Exhibition Monty’s granddaughter, Lady Arabella A free booklet ‘Field Marshal the Viscount Stuart-Smith, who came to St John’s on Montgomery of Alamein’ was producedAn exhibition to celebrate and recognise Wednesday 25 May to open the new to accompany the exhibition andField Marshal Montgomery’s significant Science Centre (following in the footsteps provides an overview of Monty’s time asinvolvement with St John’s and to of Monty who opened a science lab Chairman of the Governing Council, withcommemorate the 40th anniversary of extension in 1957) and spent over an examples of hishis death in 1976 and 50th anniversary hour looking at the exhibition, reading great generosityof his stepping down as Chairman in the comments from OJs and quotes and details of1966 was held the Old Chapel from from Monty’s Speech Day talks. She was some of the24-28 May 2016. As Chairman of intrigued to hear the recording we have many projectsSt John’s School Governing Council for of the Field Marshal giving a lecture on he funded16 years from 1950-1966 and then the battle of El Alamein to the Sixth Form over the years.President of the Council from 1966 until in 1964 – with his very distinctive voice Illustrated withhis death in 1976, Monty made a huge and the sound of him tapping on the map photographscontribution to the School and showed he drew on a blackboard with a stick to from thegreat generosity in giving his own time emphasise a point! Our thanks go to OJ archives andand money and managing major funding John Thorpe, who made the recording includingraising projects. and presented it to the School in 2009. anecdotes from OJs, this bookletItems on display included artefacts and Also on show was an amateur video also tells the story of his regular visitsphotographs of Monty laying foundation of the 1959 Speech Day filmed by OJ the School, when he would have lunchstones, opening buildings, with Speech Robert Read (Sy ’54-’59). In this short with the Headmaster and senior pupils,Day guests, with prefects, and welcoming film, Monty can be seen walking across and of the hospitality he extended to staffroyal visitors to the School. Original the Quad with guest of honour, HRH the and pupils alike. It is hard to quantifyhandwritten letters and notes from the Duchess of Kent (Princess Marina) and the extent of Monty’s generosity duringField Marshal relating to the School as Headmaster Hereward Wake, with parents his long connection with St John’s, butwell as signed copies of his memoirs and and other Speech Day guests looking on his personal donations equate to a gift ofmany books presented to him and signed from the cloisters. This historic footage nearly £500,000 in today’s money. Copiesby war leaders and politicians were also brought back memories for many of our are still available from the School Archiveson show, together with memorabilia from visitors. – to request a copy, contact the Schoolthe 1951 centenary celebrations such as Archivist, Sally Toddthe programme for the ‘Lavender Hill [email protected]’ film premiere, a menu card from aMansion House dinner, press cuttings andsigned photographs.The exhibition was well attended withover 250 visitors during the week.Pupils, OJs, parents, grandparents,former members of staff and members ofthe public commented thatthey found the exhibitionfascinating and informative.The displays, stories andexhibits brought backmemories for many, thanks tothe wonderful contributionsfrom OJs of the 1950s and1960s. 15THE JOHNIAN

ANABELLE DAVIES(U6, SOUTH)16 THE JOHNIAN

Houses BEING PART OF A HOUSE COMMUNITY IS ABOUT IDENTITY, PRIDE, A TREMENDOUS SENSE OF BELONGING... AND WINNING THE HOUSE PANCAKE RACE! 17THE JOHNIAN

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Churchill As Angus highlights in the House Captain’s report, the past academic year was hugely HOUSEMASTER REPORT successful and I would like to thank him and the team of House Prefects for the role they played in making the year such a success for Churchill House. His report highlights the many talents which we have in the House and across a very broad spectrum! Particular highlights for me were the black tie supper at the start of the academic year and the house singing competition where we got to see the whole house working together. As this goes to print, I will have left the School and Dr Leonard will have taken over as Housemaster. I have absolutely no doubt the House will continue to thrive under his stewardship and I wish him the best of luck in his new role as Housemaster, which is undoubtedly the best role in teaching. I know he will be ably supported by what will be a quite outstanding Sixth Form group and I am sure they will lead the House with as much vigour and passion as those who have done so before them. I would like to thank the outstanding tutor team who have made my job easier with their fantastic work with their tutees. Finally, I would like to thank Jane, who is integral in maintaining the smooth running of the House. Jane is an outstanding matron and you cannot underestimate the role which she plays in the House. I am extremely grateful for everything she has done for the House during my time and indeed before. It has been an honour and a privilege to lead Churchill and I remain very proud of each and every boy who has passed through and contributed to making Churchill the warm, loyal and fun place which it is today. I am sure Churchill will continue to go from strength to strength. Richard Jones 19THE JOHNIAN

House Captain report exploited a nuance in the motion unanticipated by the girls’ house, sending us flying through to the final against West.In September, for the first time, Churchill House held a black Here, we proposed ‘This house believes that social media doestie ‘Gentlemen’s Supper’ in the Dining Hall to celebrate our more harm than good’ and, after a closely fought affair, theplace as top boys’ house in last year’s House Shield and the start flamboyant oratory of West proved no match for the relentlessof the new academic year. We were treated to a delicious three- ripostes from the Churchill team, and we emerged as seniorcourse meal and took the opportunity to interact with different house debating champions once again.year groups, as well as welcoming the new Fourth Form boys.Mr Tate featured as guest speaker during the evening and told Encouraged by a visit from former Churchillian and Englandus about his trek to the Magnetic North Pole in 2006, regaling international George Kruis, as Christmas approached wethe Churchill boys with tales of frostbite and polar bears. Our finished the term with the house rugby competitions. Clad inhouse charity this year was the AMECA trust, and in January blue and white from head to toe, the lads were out in force to2016, we welcomed renowned explorer and star of Channel support the teams. The junior A team progressed bravely from4 documentary ‘Walking the Himalayas’, Levison Wood who a tough group to the semi-final, whilst the Bs were knocked outdelivered an entertaining and inspirational talk to an audience in a semi-final shrouded in controversy. The inter A team alsoof over 500 guests in the Chapel. reached the semi-final, losing narrowly to the eventual winners, West. The senior As faced a tough competition after losing AFTER A MEMORABLE EVENING, WE WERE several players to injury, but those who came in played with DELIGHTED TO FIND THAT WE HAD RAISED great spirit. It was therefore left to the senior B team to add a trophy to the cabinet. A testosterone-fuelled final saw tensions £6,047 FOR AMECA. threaten to boil over, before the squad finally vanquished North House with a last-minute try in extra time to win the cup.The year began with the house singing competition, andthe boys Rickrolled their way into the audience’s hearts As the new year began, the juniors and inters were lookingwith a triumphant rendition of ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’. to follow the seniors by winning their respective debatingMeanwhile, in the part-song, countless hours of practice led to competitions. The juniors did brilliantly to reach the semi-an impressive performance of ‘California Dreamin’’, with Alex final with Scott Parker, Dylan Crawford and John Shaw allSemple leading an amateur but enthusiastic group of Sixth performing very well as the main speakers. Meanwhile, theForm singers. inters were very unlucky to be knocked out in the group stages, though Tom Wood, Alex Semple and Ben Tudor ledMiraculously, neither performance was placed by the judges, impressively from the front and were well supported by thebut thankfully far greater success came later in the term in floor. This term also saw the launch of a new school musica competition traditionally dominated by Churchill. The competition, with Charlie Winefield and Jack Maison-Haymansenior house debating saw main speakers Angus King, Sam winning the ensemble trophy whilst Charlie also won theThornton and James Hughes bring home the first silverware percussion competition for his performance on the drums.of the year, with some great contributions from the floor. After Alex Semple was later placed third in the inaugural concertocruising through the group stages, Churchill faced a confident competition, playing the first movement of Mendelssohn’sHaslewood in the semi-final, proposing the motion ‘This Violin Concerto in E minor with a professional orchestra.house believes that it is necessary to commit ground troops todefeat ISIS’. Thanks to an intricate plan of attack, Churchill Later in the Spring Term, Harvey Tribe, Ed Beech, Ben Bound and James Candfield were crowned house badminton20 THE JOHNIAN champions as they beat Monty by six points overall, whilst Hayden Storey and Tarun Perry came third in the house golf competition. Joe Duncan and Jamie Phillips represented the House exceptionally well in the house poetry, though we were not quite able to repeat our successes of the last few years. A new cross- country competition, featuring only a few of the best runners, hardly played into the hands of a house that has always relied upon overall house spirit to carry us through, though Charles Watkins completed the fastest leg. The house hockey was keenly contested with both the seniors and inters putting in strong performances, but it was the house pancake race which caused the most distress. We went into the event as defending champions and confidence was high amongst the three teams. It was with dismay, therefore, that we learnt that all three teams had somehow

been disqualified for incorrect ‘flipping’. We also finished as runners-up in ANthe house film and croquet competitions, the latter following a tense and INTERVIEWlengthy penalty shoot-out in the final. We were also placed in the swimming WITH...and shooting competitions. ‘Salvation Jane’At the end of an exciting, enjoyable and successful year, we had to sayfarewell to two popular figures in the House: first, the beloved Mr Lotsu As told to James Hughesand then the revered and respected Mr Jones. After four fantastic yearsas Housemaster, Mr Jones is leaving St John’s – along with Mrs Jones and What has been your highlight this yearArchie – to become a boarding housemaster at Canford School in Dorset. as house matron?We all wish them the very best of luck for the future and thank them forall they have done for Churchill. Next year, Dr Leonard takes over and we My highlight this year, being househope that he, Jane, the tutors and the boys have as much fun in Churchill as matron, was the house singingwe have had. competition. It’s fantastic to see all the boys join together and work so hard as aAngus King team, watching all their hard work pay off and hearing them sing so well with such passion is delightful. With Mr Jones leaving this year, would you like to say a few words on his time as Housemaster? Mr Jones has been a fantastic Housemaster to the boys and an amazing mentor to me, he is passionate, loyal and caring at every level, it has been a pleasure to work alongside him and he will be sorely missed around the House. What is the best part about being Churchill House matron? The best part for me is watching the boys begin their journey of maturity and leaving ready to face the world having evolved into perfect gentlemen. What makes the relationship between you and the Churchill boys so special? My relationship with the boys makes me so proud, they can come to me for anything they need, they constantly listen, learn and grow. Our relationship is built on trust, honesty and respect. We are like one big family, filled with team spirit. They are all kind, caring and have amazing individual characters. They make my job an absolute pleasure every day. 21THE JOHNIAN

22 THE JOHNIAN

East The boys in East have had a great year and it has been a pleasure to see them mature and HOUSEMASTER REPORT gain success in many areas of school life. At the start of the Autumn Term, we welcomed 15 new Fourth Formers to the House, as well as Kareem Swandells, Silas-Paul Johnson and Harry Fussell to the Lower Sixth. The year’s inter-house competitions began with the house singing event. The boys sang emotive ballad ‘Let it Go’ from animated film Frozen in the unison competition, led by Oscar Pearce (U6) and Kyle Jackson (L6) on the piano. The House achieved the 3rd place podium position, which was a testament to their dedication and teamwork. Sam Smitheman’s cameo role was the icing on the cake! The part-song singers also performed ‘Naïve’ by the Kooks, led by Kyle and Oscar, but were unlucky not be placed. One highlight of the sporting year was Oscar Pearce and Ayo Babatunde’s victory in the house squash competition. The Autumn Term ended on a high for the East juniors who won the inter-house rugby competition defeating West in the final. Sam Smedley, Sam Smitheman and Toby Gray were others who performed well. The seniors and inters were less fortunate and the former’s winning streak came to an end. In the house golf, Ben Howe came 5th (playing off a low handicap), Luke Read (4F) finished 7th and Matt Fidler (U6) came 8th. The seniors also enjoyed performing in the house film competition led by Oscar and Charlie Fletcher (U6), with Ben Pointeau (U6) playing a lead role. In the Spring Term, it was time for everybody’s favourite house event… house cross-country! With a change of format this year, only elected runners were allowed to enter, which was disappointing for some who had been training throughout the year. Elliott Jones (U5) in the inters event, Ben Pointeau (U6) in the seniors and Toby Gray (4F) in the juniors performed extremely well, flying the green and black flag with pride. In the pancake race, East were placed 6th overall following some controversial disqualifications, notably in the senior competition when Tom Yorke (U6) crossed the line in first place but was disqualified due to the team failing to flip their pancake at all designated spots. In the house football and house hockey, East did not achieve to their potential, with the seniors achieving 3rd place and the juniors being placed 5th overall. However, the Fourth Form debaters were exceptional. James Perkins and Harry Mead both spoke articulately and with eloquence. With help from other East Fourth Formers on the floor, they achieved first place. 23THE JOHNIAN

HOUSEMASTER REPORT CONTD Again, Vyncent Lowery and Charlie Bennett performed very well House Captain report in the swimming pool, the latter as part of the freestyle relay team who won the South East Regional Championship going into the The 2015–16 school year has been tremendous for National Championships. Will Aldridge-Bate and Oliver Attard East House, starting with the addition of the new performed well in the ski team qualifiers in Southampton also. Fourth Form and some new faces also entering the An individual highlight was James Perkins’ (4F) performance Lower Sixth Form. in the Howells Cup for Woodwind in the St John’s music competition, coming 3rd overall in the School. This is quite a feat September kicked off with the most prestigious for a Fourth Former in his first year at the School. house competition, the house singing, run by Oscar Pearce and Kyle Jackson. A few eyebrows were raised In the Summer Term, the boys did not fulfil their potential in throughout the School at our choice of song for the some competitions, including the house cricket, in which we house unison section, the highly regarded ‘Let it Go’ were placed 4th following a play-off against West. from Frozen, a very popular film amongst members of the House. However, East House ‘shocked the world’, The house tennis was more positive, particularly for the juniors managing to achieve third place in the unison. The who just missed out on top spot, with Sam Attard (L5), Ben part-song, also led by Oscar and Kyle, involved many Bayly (L5), Louie Fronzoni (L5) and the very promising Michael talented Fourth Form boys, with Toby Gray standing Georgiou (4F) setting the standard. The senior pairings of Matt out with his impressive solo in our rendition of ‘Naïve’ Fidler (U6), Ollie Attard (L6), Tom Yorke (U6) and Ben Pointeau by The Kooks and all involved were commended for (U6) came 4th. the hard work and effort that had clearly gone into the rehearsals. The house athletics was another highlight as East were crowned overall winners, including winners of the seniors, juniors and The term flew by and the hotly contested inter-house relay. table tennis competition was soon upon us. Heated games were played across all year groups. In an intense Particularly worthy of commendation in the juniors were Peter final between Henry Coughlan and Matt Fidler, Matt Sinclair (4F) who won the junior 300m and shot put, Toby Gray came out victorious. (4F) who won the javelin, Sam Smedley (4F), winning the high jump and Will Aldridge-Bate (4F) winning the long jump. In the As the Christmas holidays came upon us, tiredness inters, Harry Lynn came first in the long jump, and in the seniors, crept in around the House after a hectic term, Silas-Paul Johnson (L6) carved up the opposition in the 100m however, this did not stop East House from succeeding and 200m to take gold. In addition, Ethan Jones came first in the in the senior house squash and the house rugby 1,500m, Kareem Swandells (L6) took gold in the shot put and finals. Oscar Pearce and Ayo Babatunde were seen as Tomiwa Adeboya (L6) did the same in the high jump. All in all, underdogs in the squash competition with many of the the boys rounded off the year in style from a sporting perspective. other houses having strong competitors. Despite this, both players won their finals and brought the trophy Away from school, Ardan Suphi was awarded the Junior 14 back to East House. gold medal for the double sculling event in the Rowing National Championship. The house rugby is traditionally the most longed-for house event of the school year. Whilst in the seniors The House Charity event took place at the start of the Summer and the inters, things did not necessarily go our way Term, which was in support of the SHINE Trust. SHINE provides this year, the Fourth Form again stood out against opportunities for underprivileged youngsters. Charlie Fletcher West House. Ably captained by Harry Mead, East (U6) and House Captain Ayo Babatunde (U6), took to the stage House started the game in full flow, with Sam Smedley as the Master of Ceremonies in the event which raised over grabbing a try early on for East. With two individual £3,600. There was an auction, a quiz, some fantastic musical moments of brilliance, Peter Sinclair then used his performances, including the house unison and videos from electric pace and height advantage to storm past the different year groups. West backline and put East House into an even more comfortable position at the end of the first half. The Ayo Babatunde (U6) led by example throughout the year as second half was a tighter affair, however, with West House Captain (and School Prefect) with the other House pulling two tries back. But East kept their cool came Prefects: Tom Yorke, Charlie Fletcher, Matt Fidler, Ben Pointeau, out winners in the end! This wrapped up a brilliant Oscar Pearce, Callum van Beveren, Henry Eames and Ross Teicht first term where different members of the House had also maturing into the role. I would like to thank Mr Sartorius, excelled in sport, academia, music and drama. Mr Ward, Mr Smith, Ms Dalton Mr Cross and Mr Hammond who have worked tirelessly this year as house tutors. Jill, the House As the new year came upon us after a fantastic Matron has, as always, been fantastic in her support for the boys Autumn Term, we did not use the cold weather as an and staff. Gratitude and best wishes must go to Mr Hammond excuse to rest on our laurels. The Upper Sixth Form who moves to Assistant Housemaster of Monty. Finally, I would became heavily involved in one of the newer house like to express my appreciation to the Upper Sixth leavers who competitions, house film. Special mentions should go have contributed a great deal to East House and the School over the past five years. Their charm, good humour and commitment have played a huge part in establishing the spirit and atmosphere within the House. We wish them all the best for the future. Ashley Vargas

out to Oscar Pearce who directed the film with expertise, along with ANCharlie Fletcher who used inspiration from Ainsley Harriott to help INTERVIEWchoreograph ‘The Bad Trip’ and Ben Pointeau who was unlucky to WITH...not have won the award for best actor (this is well worth the watchon YouTube). However, the film won the award for the best use of ‘Jill Mountford ’sound and all members of the Upper Sixth should be commendedfor their efforts. A role at the heart of the St John’s community is that of a boarding house matron. We sentThis was shortly followed by the longed-for house cross-country. James Perkins (Fourth Form, East) to find outTo everyone’s disappointment, the School decided to only have more from East House Matron, Jill Mountford.select runners from each house to compete this year. Toby Gray,Elliott Jones and Ben Pointeau performed well in their races, What made you want to be a matron?leading from the front. I don’t know; the thought had never crossed my mind, but I got made redundant from my previous job and sawUnfortunately, neither house football or house hockey went as this advertised and so I thought I’d give it a shot.planned this year, but the Fourth Form should be proud of theirwin in their debating competition with special mentions to James What is the best part of your job?Perkins and Harry Mead as main speakers throughout the Spring Being with the boys.Term. What is the worst part of your job?Another highlight of the year was the East House charity event Being with the boys.that took place just after half term of the Spring Term. Our Housecharity leader, Charlie Fletcher (U6) decided to choose SHINE Which year group is the messiest?as our charity. SHINE focuses on providing children with better Fourth Form, they’re really terrible.education, primarily improving their English and maths skills. Ourcharity night was a huge success with £3,607.01 being the overall What is the best thing about East?total figure raised for SHINE and the every house member should The boys and the sense of community and friendshipbe commended for their efforts for raising money for such a good they have.cause. Getting to know JillThis school year has been fantastic for East House, with the workethic, attitude and enthusiasm clear in the many house events that Jaffa Cake or biscuit? Biscuit.we have triumphed in, and also the dignity showed at times we Justin Bieber or Kanye West? Justin Bieberhave not necessarily done as well as hoped. The Fourth Form in Favourite type of music? Soulparticular have impressed this year with every member of the year Great British Bake Off or X Factor? Neither, Poldarkgroup playing a part in the large amount of success that East House and Victoria are my favourites at the moment.has achieved this year. If the same attitude can be applied in the Night out or Night in? Night outforthcoming years, the future for East is bright. Book or TV? Book. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is one of my all-time favourites.Ayo Babatunde Favourite sport? I’m not especially sporty but I like watching boxing and football. What are your hobbies? I like doing gardening to relax. What do you like to do with your free time and holidays? I like going to the theatre and cinema or going away for the weekend. Favourite food? I’m quite into Moroccan food at the moment. What couldn’t you live without? My family obviously, but probably my Kindle. Who’s on your dinner party guest list? Margret Thatcher, Audrey Hepburn, James Corden, Will Farrell, Muhammad Ali and Tom Hanks. If you won the lottery what would you do? I would go on an exotic holiday with all of my friends, my ideal location is probably the Bora Bora Islands in the South Pacific. 25THE JOHNIAN

26 THE JOHNIAN

Gloucester Well done girls – we did it; we won the House Shield! Gloucester House, in only its HOUSEMISTRESS REPORT third year, just keeps going from strength to strength and this goes hand in hand with those girls representing the House. Under the care of Chanelle Allen and Mimi Rothwell, the whole house was galvanised to give a wonderful performance in the house singing competition, finishing in second place. Alice Bloomfield managed to persuade the girls that they could aim high in the part-song and they did exactly that to gain first place. Girls representing almost all the year groups - as well as newcomers Charlotte Coe and Hannah Peet - gave a stunning performance of Alice’s arrangement of ‘Suddenly I See’. There have been many a time whilst on duty this year that I have re-watched that performance. What a fantastic start to the year. Following on from half- term, Matron did her usual organising of the girls to make sure that the House charity dinner would showcase the wonderful talents that exist amongst those in Gloucester. Emily Hart gave a superb rendition on her violin, which will live in the memory of all of us privileged to be there. It seems that the Fourth Form may also have started off an initiation of sorts with their lovely cup song. Although we did not manage to retain the senior debating trophy, Gloucester competed strongly in all competitions and this time it was the inters team of Darcy, Emilia and Sophie who out-mustered South in the first all-girls debating final. The Autumn Term ended with the house hockey tournaments, and such is the strength of hockey in the School, all three houses were able to provide strong teams. Although Gloucester had to hand back two cups, it did not decry from the excellent hockey that was played. The junior Bs did win their tournament with Fourth Formers Martha Witt, Annabel Jennings and Georgina Holden all making their debuts for the House. At the end of term, Louisa Bray was given the nod to represent England at U18 level and I and the whole house would like to congratulate her on such a wonderful achievement. Alongside Ellie Grove in athletics, Gloucester now boasts two international athletes. In the Spring Term, we gained an additional Fourth Former, Bea Hewetson, and such is the friendly and inclusive nature of the House she took no time at all to settle in. This term the girls prepared themselves for Mrs Parker’s 24-hour Challenge, with Gloucester being the first girls’ house to do the Quad Run. On Wednesday 23 March at 4.00pm, the whole house ran the first lap and a combination of 1, 2, 3 and 4 girls continued this through to 4.00pm the next day where again the whole house joined together for the final lap. This very much symbolises the unity that runs through the House. Lucy Gee and Hannah Potter dominated the house golf, and in the major sport of this term, the standard of netball is fast 27THE JOHNIAN

catching up with the hockey. Again the girls were involved in A match. Furthermore, Gloucester placed second overall inhigh-quality tournaments seeing the seniors win the A team the house hockey and this was the first year during whichtournament and the juniors coming away with both the A we were able to put out a full senior B side. The house fivesand B team trophies. competition was close and saw Gloucester lose narrowly to South in the finals, placing us second in the senior matches.With so many girls being involved in exams, the SummerTerm gives the Lower Sixth and Lower Fifth the opportunity A very important house event was our house charity evening,to take a lead, and both year groups certainly rose to the which raised money for our house charity, CPS Nepal, byplate. Olivia Stock and Pippa Hansford led the way in putting on dinner and entertainment for our parents. Thisorganising the house tennis teams and the quality of players charity runs an orphanage in Kathmandu, which Matron hasallowed Gloucester to take victories at all levels. Such is the visited during her time at St John’s.depth of sporting talent, Gloucester also came away with thehouse cricket. The House worked as one in the athletics, and This year Gloucester House has raised a combined total ofagain no-one shirked away from any event. Finishing second £4,800 throughout the fundraising events this year, the largestin all age groups allowed Gloucester to win the trophy overall. amount raised since Gloucester House was opened. MyCharlotte Corbett (House Captain), Jasmin Cornish (Deputy thanks go to Miss Jones for raising an extra £30 by auctioningHouse Captain), Louisa Bray, Hannah Potter and Sophie a bag of carrots.Salsbury are to be congratulated with their appointments asSchool Prefects and they will work alongside Charlotte Coe, As well as the charity evening, pupils raised money throughZoe Elliott, Genevieve Loewenthal and Bethany Verdon- the annual 24-hour Gloucester Challenge. This year, all girlsBurton on the House prefect body. were involved in completing a 24-hour Quad Run, which proved to be a lot of fun and a very successful event inLise Parker which over 1,840 laps were completed. This clearly showed the commitment of all girls in the House to the charity, asHouse Captain report everyone ran willingly through the night in order to complete the challenge.This year has been extremely successful for Gloucester House.We started off the year in the way we intended to go on by The final fundraising event of this academic year was theenthusiastically participating in what is easily one of the most recent Gloucester barbecue which, despite the weather,competitive house events of the year: the house singing. produced a good turn out and allowed parents and pupilsA lot of time and effort was put into the production of both from different years within House to integrate with onethe unison and the part-song, which definitely paid off as we another. Furthermore, this year Mrs Parker started up awere placed second and first in the unison and the part-song unique and popular concept of the Gloucester Gossip, whichrespectively. allows parents of pupils to get to know both house staff and each other better over tea and coffee on a Friday once a term.Following on from this was the junior house debating, in Gloucester is known for its friendly and welcoming ethos.which we reached the semi-finals, and the senior house This created through a strong support network of tutors anddebating in which, although it was keenly contested, we were in house staff, and all girls in house are very appreciative ofpipped at the post by East in our third debate. everything they do for us.Gloucester always excels in inter-house sporting events, Many thanks to all the house staff, especially Matron and Mrsnotably the house netball in which we came first in three Parker for ensuring the House runs smoothly and providingout of the four divisions, including the competitive senior us with such an amazing environment where we can achieve to the best of our abilities in every aspect of our lives both28 THE JOHNIAN within and outside of school. Chanelle Allen

AN INTERVIEWWITH...‘Lisa Monroe’Catherine Perkins interviews the House Matron of Gloucester,Ms Lisa Monroe, who prioritises survival over sentiment, anddescribes herself simply as: independent, chilled and adventurous.Around school she is famous for her stunning artistic and subtlydidactic displays featured at least five times a year in the lobbyof Gloucester. The secret to her inspiration?Well maybe we’ll find out....Do you prefer snow or sunshine?Give me sunshine every time.Book or TV?Curled up with a good book!What are your hobbies and What superhero are you?why do you enjoy them? I am Wonder Woman. I can doI love walking in the anything I set my mind on.countryside no matter whatthe weather. Walking not only gives If you were washed up on a desertme much needed exercise, but also island and could only take threesilence and space to think whilst things with you, what would theyadmiring the surrounding nature. I be?love to just look at what I see around A dingy for shelter and fishing, anme. I also sing in a choir once a week. enormous box of matches and aThis provides me with a bit of a social fishing net. But if I could take one dishlife and singing is uplifting for my to eat for the rest of my life, there issoul! My latest hobby is learning to no doubt that it would have to be Stplay the ukulele, for which I have no John’s vegetable curry!talent...Nevertheless, I am loving thechallenge! If you could give your 16-year-old self some advice what would youIf you won the lottery, what would say?you spend the money on? That’s easy. Work hard at school.I would buy everyone I know a house Because working hard means that youso that they would never have to can achieve anything you want to. Butworry about it. And for me? I would always remember to have as much funspend the rest of my life achieving my as you can; be crazy and love everylife dream: to travel the world. minute of life!What is an ideal weekend to you? What do you moan about the mostA combination of a good lie in, a in Gloucester?beautiful walk with friends, dinner Moan? [As she thinks about all thewith one of my children, and a theatre mess the Upper Fifth have left behindtrip. in their dayroom...again...] There is nothing to moan about...!If you weren’t a matron what wouldhave been your ideal career? 29THE JOHNIANWhen I was younger I dreamed ofbeing an actress, but my mother toldme to ‘play it safe’ and get a ‘normal’job. So here I am!

30 THE JOHNIAN

Haslewood It has been another fantastic year for HOUSEMISTRESS REPORT Haslewood. House spirit is strong and whether or not we have won out competitions this year, the House has turned out in true Haslewood style – supporting one another, covered in blue face paint and ribbons! The new girls that joined the House this year have well and truly become part of the family and they are looking forward to mentoring and welcoming our intake for September next year. Our House Captain, Millie Nevill, has been a brilliant leader, encouraging other girls to get involved with her warm and friendly approach. A huge thanks also goes to our prefects: Clare Convery, Chidi Mbakwe, Megan McInnes, Laura Whitehead and Isabelle Veasey. They have been true role models and their enthusiasm and positivity have inspired those around them. One of the highlights of the year has been house singing. It was wonderful to win the house unison – a competition in which every girl took part. The girls worked together very well and their commitment paid off. Moreover, Megan McInnes should be congratulated for her hard work putting together the outstanding part-song arrangement. The girls put their skills to use for the ‘Winter Wonderland’ gala night, preparing music and dance performances and fun and games for parents. The contributions of all of the girls who pulled the evening together and the support from Haslewood parents made the event a great success. The gala night, along with bake sales throughout the year, has brought the grand total raised to £6,500, which we hope will be a great help to Evelina Children’s Hospital. House rounders was another memorable event, with girls of all year groups playing together to win a landslide victory in every game. Furthermore, the seniors blazed into first place in house athletics. A special mention should also be given to our senior debaters. Imogen Tonnesen and Clare Convery spoke brilliantly with support from Laura Whitehead, and they managed to battle their way to the semi-final. We were all very happy to receive the news of the birth of baby Jack Evans in April. With Mrs Evans on maternity leave, I have loved spending the Summer Term in Haslewood as Acting Housemistress. The tutor team have worked tirelessly to support the girls, particularly as they have faced the pressure and challenges of examinations. Thanks also goes to our matron, Teresa, whose care and kindness is so greatly appreciated by the girls. Finally, I must pay tribute to Mrs Rawlings, who is leaving Haslewood after five years to tutor in the Lower School. Mrs Moon is also leaving Haslewood for a position as Assistant Housemistress in Churchill. They will both be greatly missed and I wish them well in their new roles. Danielle Dixon 31THE JOHNIAN

House Captain report Ellis Monk’s performance. Numerous ‘bake offs’ also highlighted the skills of the girls in the kitchen – producingSummer seeming a distant past, Haslewood set off on the new some truly outstanding cakes and contributed to the moneyschool year with the prestigious house singing competition. raised.First came the difficult decisions of the imperative song choice,and then the even more difficult task of getting 80 girls to be After circulating rumours, it was confirmed that this year’squiet long enough to practice one chorus. But all the girls’ hard house cross-country competition would not involve the wholework definitely paid off and the House celebrated winning the house, but that only our best runners would be put forwardunison for the second year running. Furthermore, despite not to compete for the trophy. After the less enthusiastic removedplacing, the House was extremely proud of this year’s part-song their ankle braces and stopped coughing as they walked pastorganised by Megan McInnes in which individuals presented LJ’s office, a team of five girls stepped up to run an astonishingtalents we were all unaware of. This year’s house singing truly time and placed 2nd. This pace can only be compared todemonstrated the unity of Haslewood House spirit. that shown in the annual pancake race, where it really was every man for themselves. Haslewood ran with a speed thatAs the term continued, the Haslewood debating team presented can only be compared to that of an Olympic athlete, so whenas a force to be reckoned with - with Laura Whitehead were informed of our disqualification from all three races, wewriting some outstanding speeches, which were presented flipped!well by many of the House’s good public speakers. The sheerdetermination and courage presented with floor speeches this The Summer Term quickly greeted us, ready for the House’syear is something all the girls should be proud of and, despite strongest event – house rounders. And this year’s team didbeing knocked out by Churchill in the semi-finals, Haslewood not disappoint. Some astonishing teamwork led the House toranked a very impressive 3rd place. being crowned winners for the fourth year running and the house rounders trophy was returned to its rightful place – inAs we progressed closer to Christmas, the mood in the House Haslewood’s trophy cabinet. Much to Mrs Rawlings delight,began to lift and rather interesting renditions of ‘All I want for Haslewood were also the first ever girls’ house to win the HouseChristmas’ rang out through the House. The annual Haslewoodjaunt was compromised by a melting ice rink at HamptonCourt, nonetheless, Haslewood had a very enjoyable meal out.The calendar year ended with an astounding effort in househockey and, despite not winning, brilliant unity was portrayedby all. A special mention should go to not only the excellentplaying but also the exceptional leadership shown by GeorgiaSmith, Georgia Winter and Sophie Tait.The new year brought the run up to exams and the hardwork started, yet spirits in the House remained fierce anddetermination to do well in house competitions remainedas high as ever. House netball was another high point withCharlotte Thompson setting a strong example and, despitebeing viewed as the underdogs, the House prevailed to gain2nd place.As always, a highlight of the year was the Haslewood charity evening, this year with a Winter Wonderland theme which had parents hooking ducks, playing netball and enjoying the infamous quiz. This year we had the pleasure to raise money for a charity very close to our hearts, the Evelina Children’s Hospital, and we hope our fundraising efforts benefit those less fortunate as ourselves. This event really brought the House closer together and many individuals talents were appreciated – such as Maddy Rees’ singing and Molly May and32 THE JOHNIAN

shooting cup - an effort the ANwhole house was delighted INTERVIEWwith. This year has been WITH...a hugely rewarding forHaslewood House, not ‘Teresa Smallbone’just in house events, butalso with strong academic Haslewood House Matronperformance and this wouldnot have been at all possible How long have you been a matron in Haslewood?without our team of tutors, I have been a matron in Haslewood six years – since itMrs Evans and, of course, opened.Teresa - the glue holding theHouse together. We would Best and worst part about being a matron?like to thank you for aiding The best part about being a matron is when I can help aour progression from nervous girl who is really upset or has a problem, particularly if IFourth Formers embarking can somehow cheer them up or ease the distress they areon the trip to Hindleap going through (even if it is only a cuddle). One girl, whoWarren to ‘mature’ young has left now, was really worried and upset about a lot ofladies. A special mention must things. She told me that what I said had made sense, andalso go to this years’ House that I had made her feel better about herself. The worstPrefects (Claire, Megan, Chidi, thing about being a matron is seeing girls upset.Lize and Izzy), who have beeninstrumental in the running Favourite house event?of the House. Being House My favourite house event is definitely the house singingCaptain this year has been an competition – we have some very talented girls!absolute pleasure and it has been an honour to lead Haslewoodthrough such a successful year. I would like to wish the House all Describe Haslewood in three wordsthe best in the coming years – I’m sure you will maintain the high Haslewood girls are caring, fun and we are ‘one bigstandard the House thrives towards. I have been very proud to be family’.part of such a remarkable house for five years andI wish all those leaving this year every success. 33THE JOHNIANAmelia Nevill

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Montgomery With AB having passed over the baton HOUSEMASTER REPORT after eight successful years at the helm, all eyes were on Monty; however, the boys ensured it was ‘business as usual’. Standards remained high in and out of the classroom and Monty’s reputation as a friendly and purposeful house flourished. The new Fourth Form settled quickly and were readily welcomed into the Monty community. Success in house competitions highlighted the ‘will do’ attitude of the boys. Across school events, whether academic, sport, music, drama, CSU, CCF, activities, societies or any other genre, there was usually a Monty boy or two leading the way. Pupils and parents pulled together to support the House’s charity, Cherry Trees, raising close to £4,000 in the process. The tutor team proved strong support for their charges, with Dr Leonard guiding the Fourth Form through their first year. Alas, he proved too good and has been snaffled by Churchill to become Housemaster next year. We also bid farewell to Mr Barber, who has been a calm mentor to the Upper Fifth, and wish him well at Emanuel. Mr Lawson also leaves us and the Lower Fifth will miss his repartee in the dayroom. However, with Mr Gregory, Miss Westerby-Jones and Mr Fowler still in situ, the boys are in safe hands. Becky Cooper-Smith, the Monty matron, proved to be the glue holding the House in place and the boys owe her a real debt of gratitude (as do I!). We say farewell to the Upper Sixth, an eclectic mix of characters all of whom, in their own way, have shown a real pride in the House and I hope they enjoy much success at university and beyond. Hopefully they have learnt more than just how to make a ‘good brew’! I am grateful to the hard work of the prefect team and particular thanks must go to the House Captain, Harry Witt, who has done an excellent job. He has taken on some of the less glamorous tasks and always comes up trumps. It has been a pleasure taking on the role of Housemaster of Monty – the boys have been excellent (most of the time!), the staff are as impressive a tutor team as one could hope for and the parent body has been supportive throughout. Onwards and upwards next year! Nick Platt 35THE JOHNIAN

House Captain report poetry, with Harry winning the Fourth Form competition. Monty has always been strong when it comes to badminton,This academic year saw a change of Housemaster for consistently doing well in the house competition. This yearMontgomery where Mr Bass departed and the long-serving we put in another strong performance with the senior team ofMr Platt took over the reins. Monty enjoyed a hugely successful Ben Wadsted, Cam Carr, Matt Thomas and Kieran Davidsonyear. The first major whole-house event of house singing winning the competition and the juniors, Eddie Douglas, Tomcame around in the first term where all the boys showed great Stansfield, Ed Thomas and Owen Thomas, coming secondenthusiasm and passion when we sang our house unison of overall. Eventually came the event everyone had been waiting‘Truly Madly Deeply’ by Savage Garden. Although we weren’t for: house rugby. Again Monty were in great form with everyplaced in the competition, the effort from all the boys was to team reaching the semi-finals. The seniors played some greatbe commended. The same is to be said about our part-song, rugby to reach the final, one of the biggest school moments forwhen they sung ‘The Man Who Can’t Be Moved’ by The Script some of the boys. Although West won the match, the Montywhich was, as always, of impressive quality. Notable mention crowd were exceptional, really proving the togetherness ofmust go to Ali Blair and James Gardner for their solos but also the House.to Guy Beresford for organising it all. Senior house fives alsocame around, where again we came up against North House in Spring Term came next and the success for Monty did notthe final for the fifth time in a row. Unfortunately, this year the stop. We had some impressive wins overall in inters fives ledtrophy went to North but Matt Denley must be mentioned for by Kieran Davidson and Ali Blair; inters hockey captainedbeing pivotal in our success in the game, having won three out by Martin Vogel, and junior squash won by Ed Timpson andof a possible five competitions. Austin Bell. The feared house debating also ensued during the Spring Term where unfortunately the seniors and inters failedIn October we also had our house barbeque where the sun to progress out of the groups. However, the juniors fared farshone and everyone got to know each other, particularly the better narrowly missing out on the title. They were brilliantlynew Fourth Form, who were welcomed into the House; they led by James Dale and Joe Brown as the main speakers butsettled in very quickly. During October Harry Simmonds arguably it was the floor points from the whole group that ledand Tom Stansfield also spoke beautifully during junior us to the final (Harry Simmonds to the fore). Senior squash were unfortunate to be placed 4th despite Lewis Catto and36 THE JOHNIAN Kieran Davidson playing some lovely shots. We look forward to next year’s competition as this youthful pair gained vital experience to go on and win next year. Angus Lonsdale and Ali Blair both also played well to end up 4th in house golf. House film is seen as a relatively new house event, and Camden Skerman-Stevenson displayed great enthusiasm to create a film solely on his own, something to be applauded. His film did not win the overall prize yet got a special mention from the judges for being particularly impressive. The beloved house pancake race occurred on Shrove Tuesday where Monty finished a strong 3rd with the senior team of James Bell, Matt Denley, Toby Mcrae and Adam Holley winning the senior race.

Unfortunately the Fourth Form were ANdisqualified for not flipping the pancake, INTERVIEWa ‘rookie error’ but something that can be WITH...easily corrected for next year. Many werepleased to find out this year that house ‘Becky Cooper-Smith’cross-country had changed to just fiverunners as opposed to the whole house; Monty House Matronhowever, we still ran well, coming 3rdwith Will Hewetson running the fastest What is your favourite feature of St John’s?time in the ouse. Monty also had the My favourite feature would be the Quad, when the sunHouse Chapel assembly where we is shining it is a beautiful place to be.talked about the successes of LeicesterCity and how it can be easily related Is there any aspect of Monty House that you thinkto life within Monty, particularly being makes it stand out over the other houses?able to achieve anything through Monty is a warm welcoming, relaxed and happy house,hard work and perseverance. Special wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.mention must go to Will Farnsworthand Harry Robertson for standing up Do you have any funny anecdotes from your time asand speaking despite the nerves they matron?may have felt. Oh yes!!! Far too many to mention; not a day goes by when somebody doesn’t make me laugh.House football ended the term with with three of our teamsreaching the semis. The Fourth Form were particularly unlucky Do any moments at St John’s stand out as trulyto be knocked out at this stage; however, they will be as hungry important to you regarding Monty House?next year to progress further. There have been many moments, my favourite time is Monty gala night, every year the boys put on anThe final term kicked off with house chess where again we outstanding show for charity with usually two weeks’performed well as James Bell, Tom Holwell, Austin Bell and notice and everyone helps out in some way or another. Joe Brown were placed 3rd with Tom being unbeaten If you could improve Monty in one way what would throughout the tournament. Ed Timpson and Will you change? Perhaps for the boys to be a bit tidier! Probably asking Farnsworth kept the Monty fives tradition going by too much. winning the junior fives competition. The swimming team came a creditable 4th despite Tom Stansfield 37THE JOHNIAN being away and the shooting team came 6th. The senior croquet team got to the semi-finals before agonisingly losing out by the smallest of margins – but Monty would have won best dressed! Harry Witt

38 THE JOHNIAN

North When, out of interest, Jonny Coekin asked me what the North House motto (Passion, HOUSEMASTER REPORT Integrity, Perseverance) was in Latin, it sent me off looking for the roots of those three words and how the Latin might enrich what the House has come to reduce to PIP. The Latin word which best conveyed what we mean when we use the word passion in house is animosus, whose full meaning is ‘full of spirit or courage’. The Latin integritas conveys a sense of moral purity and uprightness. Constantia translates into English as ‘steadiness’ or ‘firmness’. I am grateful to Jonny for prompting me to seek out the deeper meaning of those words because it forced me to reflect on the values which we aspire to live by as members of North House. In my first year as Housemaster, I have come to know the boys as spirited, not least in the house debating and most certainly on the sports field. In his excellent report, the House Captain has singled out the names of those pupils who led us in the junior and senior debates and on the sports field from house rugby to house football; at the time when Sam was writing his report, the Summer Term with its string of house competitions from swimming to athletics had yet to take place. There are too many names to list here for those summer competitions, but it is enough to say that a large cross section of the House involved itself in croquet, chess, fives, swimming, shooting and tennis – to all those pupils who took part, I am very grateful. In no competition is a house more unified than in the house singing, which takes place near the beginning of the year. It is here that every single pupil plays his part and reminds us of the importance of unity and community in any house. However, a personal highlight for me was watching the House take part in the first Gala Evening. It was here that I saw exemplified best that other word in our motto – intergritas, with its sense of uprightness. I am grateful to the boys and parents who raised just over £2,000 for Ehlers-Danlos Support UK. At the time of writing this report the House Shield may just be within our reach and and even if it slips past us this time, it is the steadiness (constantia) of the boys in its pursuit which is the real prize of any house. The words animosus, integritas and constantia are now emblazoned on the wall of the junior dayroom – they are a constant reminder of what we stand for and of the qualities to which all of us in North House aspire. Gary Wade 39THE JOHNIAN

House Captain report favourites East. The Fourth Form showed showed their real potential by reaching the junior B finals. The senior B team alsoChange was rife in North House as the bell rang to signal the made the final.start of a new year at St John’s. The smell of new paint on thewalls of the dayroom, a new set of Fourth Formers ready to There was also individual success to be had with Tom Scrasestart their new life in North House and Mr Wade taking over and Tom Glasscock both being called up to the 1st XV squad.the reigns as Housemaster. Mr Wade has breathed new life into Luke Trimming, Will Merry, Charlie Hellier, Ben Geddes andthe House, renovating the Fourth Form dayroom and inscribing Stuart Shannon represented the A team in their run to the sixththe North House motto Passion, Integrity, Perseverance on the round of the NatWest Vase. Individual success also came to Iainwalls, reminding every North boy of the qualities which enable Alexander as he was awarded School colours for his unrivalledus to grow and achieve our potential. contributions to drama over the years.Over the past year, the House has achieved many successes. North continued our good run into the Spring Term withSetting high targets from the outset, we wanted to claim the the inters putting in a strong debating and badmintonHouse Shield for the first time in many years. Every year group performance. The juniors performed well in the house poetry,had the same goal, and although we failed to win the house and in the house squash, Ewan Armstrong and Will Merrysinging, Tom Harrison, Jonny Coekin, Tom Scrase and Olly secured the House second place. We did not have to waitHunt claimed the senior house fives at the start of the Autumn long for all five years to come together and win the mostTerm, giving us the first trophy in our new trophy cabinet. Thisstrong start set the tone for the year and we finished second inhouse squash thanks to Michael James and Jamie Gallagher aswell as an impressive effort in the house debating competitionwith Alistair Fleming and Olly Hunt leading the way withsuperb speeches. Hopes were high for the house rugbycompetition at the end of the first term. The inters especiallyshone, narrowly losing in the final despite superb performancesfrom Gresham Lynn and Luke Trimming; the seniors toppedtheir group thanks to a hat-trick from Tom Neale against40 THE JOHNIAN

coveted competition of all – the pancake race. This success wasfollowed with our house playing in four finals in house football;the senior As lost to West in the final despite the best efforts ofTom Harrison, Michael James and Tom Neale. The inters reachedboth finals with Gresham Lynn and Alfie Parker both impressing.North were not to come away empty handed with a great win inthe senior B competition, which edged us further in terms of theHouse Shield.As my North House tenure was coming to an end, my thoughtsturned to my tutor group, the ten of us who had survived thegruelling five years from that first weekend in Hindleap Warren tobecoming young men and spending our final days in each other’scompany. I am sure that we will always reminisce about ourwonderful time in North House from the stewardship of Mr Allanto that of Mr Wade, both of whom have made North House thegreat place that it is today.I thank the tutors on behalf of the House for their superbwork behind the scenes, making sure that every house eventis organised, often frantically at the last minute, trying theirutmost to run the House as smoothly as possible. Thanks toMiss Waheed, Mr Parry, Mr Blatch and Mrs Platt, each of whomis highly respected by their tutor groups. Special thanks go tothe Assistant Housemistress, Miss Dixon, who had a superbrun as Fourth Form tutor, so much so that she became actingHousemistress of Haslewood in the Summer Term, a role in whichshe has thrived.Finally, I would like to give personal thanks to Miss Finnegan andwish her the best for next year in her new role as Head of LowerSchool and thank her for all the work she has put in as my tutorfor three of my five years in the House. Of course, the Housewould not be as it is if it was not for our matron Diane Searle, orjust ‘Di’ to the boys. Di has looked out for us over the years, oftenshowing her generosity and kindness; she is a tremendous asset tothe House.Sam Gosling-Gleissberg 41THE JOHNIAN

42 THE JOHNIAN

South 2015-16 saw South House gain some phenomenal exam results with almost HOUSEMISTRESS REPORT 70% of the GCSE results reach A* and A grades, with several of the girls gaining clean A* sweeps! The A level results also did not fail to impress with eight of the girls gaining one or more A*s, with Sophie Evans (Cambridge), Sam Olsen (Bath), and Katie Stuart (Durham) securing two. Special mention should also go to Harriet Lee who not only gained 2 A*s but did so by overshooting her predictions by six grades!!! However, house life and school goes beyond grades. We’ve excelled on the sports pitches both in the house teams and with the number of girls from South in the A teams and senior squads. Most importantly though, whether the team was strong or not, the team was always there. Reliable and positive, whether it be the Macfarlane- Mead fives combo, the purple blur of the pancake race, the crushing cross-country side we put out or the quiet concentration of the house shooters, we were there. Rain or shine, our talented (or on occasion, drafted-in victims/ volunteers) were always there and never failed to deliver commitment, determination and house spirit, whether we stood a chance or not. House golf was surely the finest example of ‘give it a go’ spirit ever witnessed! Highlights of the South year have of course included the vast mountain of pizza eaten, the Christmas ice skating, cinema trips, countless movie nights snuggled under blankets and the daily karaoke break-time session in the senior day room. The House has seen the upgrading of Hallaton bedrooms and a bathroom, new boarding room furniture, the decoration of Fifth Form day rooms and much more besides. The girls have worked hard to keep the House running in such a positive and friendly way. Special thanks go to Abby and her team of prefects, the South tutor team, Matron Karen and our wonderful cleaners without whom the place would, quite simply, fall apart. Jane Clarkson 43THE JOHNIAN

House Captain report 2nd (Lucy) and 3rd (Phoebe) place in the competition with a special mention to Emily Roe who won by miles, completing2015-16 has been yet another extremely successful year for all the course in an impressive 6 mins 55 secs for 1.1 miles. Souththe girls in South House and a year of new faces and change. is also home to the undefeatable fives team of Anna Mead andAs we said our farewells to Mrs Platt at the end of the 2015 Victoria Macfarlane who once again, were gracious in their winSummer Term, we welcomed our new Housemistress, Miss in the inter-house fives competition at the end of the SpringClarkson, as well as many into the Fourth Form and Lower Term.Sixth, and new house tutors, Miss Walsh, Miss Greenwood andMiss Serrano. As the Spring Term came to an end, exam pressures began to rise and university places were beginning to be accepted.The year started with a bang as we competed in the house A special mention has to be made to Sophie Evans (U6) whosinging with a tremendous performance of ‘Oh My Love’ by was successful in her Cambridge University application. AfterThe Score, enthusiastically conducted and lead by Harriet a day of intense interviews and years of hard and dedicatedLee (U6) and Katie Stuart (U6), but it was the part-song work, it all finally paid off as she was offered a place to studyperformance that stole the show. Led by Sophie Brewer (U6), modern and medieval languages in September 2016. Our manythe girls sang ‘Hold On’ by Wilson Phillips. They positioned a congratulations go out to Sophie, we couldn’t be prouder!tremendous 2nd place, making us all in South extremely proudof those who took part. As the Summer Term drew upon us, it was time for more house competitions. Whilst house rounders and house shooting didn’tThere is no doubt that the girls in South have a talent when go so well, we put out a full side with a mix of all year groupsit comes to the hockey pitch and this was showed when and it was great to see the year groups interacting and workingSouth House took home multiple titles and trophies after together. House swimming was a close race and luckily, basedthe traditionally fierce and competitive match of inter-house on the last relay alone, South swung the win by only 2 points.hockey. The girls stormed on to the pitch with determination(and of course the purple and black face paint) ready to win. Without a doubt the House has had many achievements whenGame faces on, Sophie Evans (U6) led the senior hockey it comes to the inter-house events; however, we have alsomatches to victory against Haslewood and Gloucester with had much success in supporting our chosen charity for the‘textbook perfect’ goals from the girls. The senior As, senior year, Sight for Surrey, a local charity established to help thoseBs and junior As all took home the first place position who are partially/completely blind. In the first week of themeaning that the overall house hockey victory went to Summer Term, South House hosted its annual gala night inSouth! As the Autumn Term came to an end, festive cheer order to raise money for the cause. The evening was full of actswas spread throughout the House. Although it might have and performances showcasing the many talents of our girls.been jam-packed full of school sport matches, Upper Sixth Performances ranged from Sarah Nelson-Jones (4F) playingUCAS applications, personal statements, the girls kept up to the piano impeccably, Katie Simmonds beautiful harp solo, tomomentum throughout. Keeping up the festive cheer, South a video race put on by the South House Prefect Team as well astravelled to the Hampton Court ice rink for a picturesque many more as the list goes on. The musical performances alsoevening of ice skating, hot chocolate and mince pies! extended to Macy McCutcheon and Millie Butler’s sultryAfter a well-deserved Christmasbreak, the girls bounced back intothe swing of things. Universityoffers began to pile in, pressuresbegan to rise as exams came closer,but this didn’t stop the South girlscontinuing their enthusiasm inthe House. With the Spring Termcame house netball and of coursethe much-dreaded house cross-country race. Whilst South didn’tquite conquer the house netballcompetition, their effort wasundoubtedly very commendable.The opposite could be said for thehouse cross-country where Southonce again dominated. Led byMelanie Hyde (L6), the team of 5;Phoebe McCutcheon (4F), EmilyRoe (L5), Lucy Bishop (L5), PoppyMaunder (L6) stormed ahead.South took home 1st (Emily),44 THE JOHNIAN

tones which were in complete juxtaposition with the hilarious ANcontributions from Miss Moors and Miss Jones. Needless to say, the INTERVIEWevening was a huge success, which alongside the bake sales put on WITH...during the year, we have raised over £5,000 for the charity. ‘South HouseIt is clear that the girls in South have had yet another spectacular Matron’year, thanks to the amazing support of all the South tutors andof course, our matron Karen. I wish the House all the best for the What do you like most about South?future and I’m sure that the legacy of South House will continue in The friendliness of the girls and the atmosphere of thethe years to come. girls in House.Abby Dwan What are your hobbies? Keeping fit and cooking. If you won the lottery, what would you spend the money on? It depends how much the win was. I would give some to charity and divide the rest between family and friends and South House. What is an ideal weekend to you? Relaxing, eating, having a great time. If you weren’t a matron what would have been your ideal career? A barrister. What superhero would you be and with what powers? I’m already Supergirl with telepathic powers! If you were washed up on a desert island and could only take three things with you, what would they be? Dr McDreamy Face lotion (keep it young) Flavoured water What do you moan about the most in South? The kitchen. 45THE JOHNIAN

46 THE JOHNIAN

Surrey It is approaching 70 years since the establishment of Surrey as St John’s first HOUSEMASTER REPORT dedicated boys’ day house. So much has changed over that period, but it is wonderful still to occupy our historic corner of the Quad. Yet change surrounds us … turn right out of Surrey’s main entrance and you are now faced by the redevelopment that forms the new Lower School. Next year our neighbours will be 11-year-olds. The School continues to evolve around us, growing in size, diversity and reputation whilst the houses offer a reassuring sense of timelessness and continuity. Certainly for the Surrey boys, the House is first and foremost a sanctuary – a place to consume epic quantities of toast and be amongst friends. But it is also a place of shared values. Every year we say farewell to our Upper Sixth and one or two others, whilst welcoming our fresh intake. It is remarkable, given this turnover, how consistent the ethos of the House remains over the years. The Surrey boys’ warmth of character, generosity and cheerfulness, in victory and defeat, will always define them, whilst their academic effort and ambition continue to set them apart as one of St John’s most high-achieving houses. House visiting is an innovation that allows pupils to spend time with friends in other houses, and it has been great to see so many new faces within Surrey’s day rooms this year. Visitors sometimes raise an eyebrow at the Muhammad Ali posters adorning the walls: what does boxing, that notoriously tough sport, have to do with Surrey, a house not always associated with sporting prowess? The answer, of course, lies in the man, not the sport, and all he represented – moral and physical courage in his prime, grace and dignity in decline. Boxing involves taking some knocks, and life is full of those. Looking back on a year when victory in house events was tantalisingly hard to come by, we can take pride in our resilience and willingness to take on any challenge ... Joe Watson, who took the house to within a point of victory in the fives competition despite playing solo against doubles opponents, is the year’s best example of fighting hard against the odds. With that kind of spirit even defeat becomes glorious! In closing, I would like to thank Steve Hughes for his fantastic contribution to Surrey over the past two years. His support for the boys has been second to none, and the energy, patience and good humour he brings to all he does has inspired us all. We wish him every happiness amongst our new neighbours in the Lower School. Don’t forget to visit! Nick Johnston-Jones 47THE JOHNIAN

House Captain report house fives (coming second by one point), considering that his partner was enigmatically absent throughout the competition,Last September saw the beginning of yet another epoch of is certainly admirable. Perpetual second-place finishes didsuccess for Surrey House, a year that was sure to make Surrey not faze the spirit of the ‘Red and White Army’, who stoicallyconcomitant with victory. The start of the Autumn Term saw continued to reach for victory.the arrival of yet another exceptional Fourth Form year group,whose nascent dedication and perseverance encapsulates the It was the Summer Term that would finally bring somevery spirit of the ‘Red and White Army’, and who are sure to long-awaited victories for Surrey. Our strong team of juniorbring success in the years to come. Particular praise should swimmers was sure to be auspicious, with Ed Galvin (4F),go to Conor Frow, whose exceptional effort in supporting the Ed Reed (L5), Nico Orr (L5) and Tom Shepherd (L5) swimmingHouse and in school life in general, plays testament to the brilliantly to bring home the junior swimming trophy for Surreystrength of this year’s intake. Not to mention that he beat House.Mr Johnston-Jones at chess on his first attempt (not an easytask!). The Summer Term also brought about one of the most talked- about competitions of the year, house chess. The anticipationThe Spring Term brought with it our house charity evening, the of such a high-octane event saw many Surrey boys practisingannual Surrey Curry. The hilarious entertainment organised by diligently in preparation. Nevertheless, this preparation paidour Upper Sixth managed to raise over £2,000 for the house off, as our exceptional team of Eamon Al-Saffar (L6), Seb Carleycharity, G.A.M.B.I.A, set up by our former house matron, Anita. (U5), Ben Greenbury (U5) and Charlie Tee (L6) played at theirThe Spring term also provided Surrey with the opportunity very best to bring back the title of the house chess champions,to showcase the theatrical acumen of our pupils, with the with special commendation going to Eamon, Ben and Charlie,mockumentary style house film, Educating Surrey, showcasing who won all of their games.the fine performances of many across the year groups. We sawa string of runner-up places for Surrey in a variety of house A second-place finish in the house shooting was yet anothercompetitions, from the house badminton to quite possibly accomplishment to add to Surrey’s repertoire, with particularthe most unusual, but arguably the most competitive event of commendation going to James Biggar (L6), who obtained thethe year, the St John’s pancake race. A special mention should highest scoring shooter in the School, creating a name foralso go to Joe Watson (L5), whose gallant performance in the himself as the formidable house sniper.48 THE JOHNIAN