School News

Excellent GCSE results at Christ's Hospital

Students at Christ’s Hospital, Horsham, are celebrating after receiving excellent GCSE exam results. Almost 90% of candidates gained A*, A or B grades while just under 70% of all grades awarded were A*s or As.

The top local student, with 9 A* grades and two A grades was Zachary Newham, whose father is the Vicar at Wisborough Green. As well achieving excellent results overall, Zachary was one of four students from Christ’s Hospital who scored in the top five marks in the AQA English Literature course nationally this year.

The new Headmaster of Christ's Hospital, Mr John Franklin, said that he was delighted with the overall grades achieved, adding, "It is particularly pleasing that in four subjects, over 85% of all grades awarded were A* or As".

Pictures (L-R)
Debbie Thomas, Catherine Lee and Rachel Fisher celebrate their GCSE results.

Christ's Hospital Celebrates A-Level Achievements

Staff and students at Christ’s Hospital can celebrate an outstanding set of Sixth Form examination results.

The results revealed an overall pass rate of 99.9%, with 78% of all passes being at grade A or B. Although 31 students gained straight As, the most outstanding individual performance was by Jennifer Bates, who in addition to gaining three A grades was also equal top nationally in Archaeology. Jennifer, who comes from the Isle of Wight, achieved perfect scores in all six of her Archaeology papers.

Other top performers included:
Jon-Selous Borlace from Crawley, who gained five top grades (Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, History);
Raffaele de Leon from Haywards Heath achieved four As (Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry);
Mark Laichena from Ealing gained four grade As (Economics, History, Mathematics, German) plus an AEA (Advanced Extension Award) with Merit in History;
Gabriella Yongue from London was awarded four A grades (Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology and Geography);
Grigorij Sutov from Lithuania added As in Biology and Mathematics to top grades already gained last year.

The new Head Master of Christ’s Hospital, John Franklin, said he was delighted with these results. “Students at Christ’s Hospital are encouraged to do their very best academically,” he said, “and these results are a tribute to their hard work and to the commitment of the teaching staff who have worked so hard to ensure that all of our students enjoy the success they deserve.

“Unfortunately, the seasonal complaints about falling standards at A Level do a grave disservice to our students. The truth is that students at Christ’s Hospital are working harder now than ever before and, by and large, are doing better, particularly in the traditional academic subjects.”

Pictures (L-R)
Celebrating straight A grades (L-R) Tristan Franklinos has a place at St Andrews to study Classics, Harry Dadswell (AS Levels) returns to CH to complete A-Levels, James Frecknall plans a gap year before studying History
More success (L-R) Sam Hall will study Chemistry at Bristol University; Issi McCall plans to go to Drama school after a gap year; Ollie Noye has been accepted for Geography at Loughborough University.

Leaving Grecians are US-Bound

Heading for the United States next year are leavers Mark Laichena (pictured left) and David Westerhout. Mark has won a Morehead-Cain Scholarship to the University of North Carolina and plans to major in Economics and Public Policy. David has gained a place at Berklee College of Music in Boston where he will specialize in music technology in a business environment.

Mark and David travelled to the US in the Lent term for interviews (Mark first passed initial selection by the Morehead-Cain Foundation in London in November) and both received unconditional offers for their respective courses.

2007 Grecians' Ball

The Grecians' Ball took place on Friday, 6th July and was a highlight of the year for many leaving Grecians. For this year's 2007 leavers the theme was '007'. Dressed in black tie and ball gowns the pupils began the evening with a procession down the main Avenue at Christ's Hospital, led by musicians playing the James Bond movie theme. After photographs with parents and hundreds of younger pupils, the leavers joined the Head Master in his garden for a Champagne reception before moving to Big School for a dinner dance.

This year the Head Master, Dr Peter Southern, in his final term before retirement, was also remembered with a rendition of the James Bond inspired song 'Nobody Does It Better' sang by one of Christ's Hospital's talented singers Hannah O’Reilly. (Hannah leaves Christ's Hospital for a place at a Music Conservatoire in Birmingham.)

HRH The Duke of Gloucester visits Christ's Hospital

The departure of David Farrington, Mike Simpkin and Peter Southern was formally marked by a visit from Christ's Hospital's President, HRH The Duke of Gloucester on Monday, 2 July. Accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant (Mr Hugh Wyatt) and Mrs Wyatt, the High Sheriff (Mr Colin Field), Mrs Margaret Johnson (Chairman, West Sussex County Council) and Mr Roger Paterson (Chairman, Horsham District Council), HRH and the Royal Party met pupils (President's presentees), toured the Art School and attended a special reception. During lunch, there was a short speech from Sir John Whitehead, member of the Council of Almoners, who reflected on the Treasurer, Clerk and Head Master's significant contribution to Christ's Hospital.

Engaging business with education

A sunny evening in the Quad and a magnificent Beating Retreat practice all helped to launch the Business Donation Governorship Scheme, recently promoted by the West Sussex County Times in the ‘Business Matters' newspaper. The aim was to encourage local businesses to support a CH child with a particular career interest, such as in Science, Law or Engineering. Around 20 guests attended the launch on 3 July which has already generated interest. For more information, please contact Tony Thorn, Development Office, 01403 247654 email tt@christs-hospital.org.uk

Athletics honours for Christ's Hospital

On Saturday the 7th July Christ's Hospital athletes competed in the National track and field final at Chelmsford.

Over 900 schools from across England set out in a competition for junior (Years 7&8) and intermediate (Years 9 & 10) boys and girl athletes.

Christ's Hospital's junior boys were also joined by intermediate girls from Burgess Hill High School. The English Schools' Athletic association (www.esaa.net) event starts with a county and then regional event, before the top 12 teams are invited to compete in the national final.

Christ's Hospital were in last place at the half way stage after the track events but an outstanding performance in the field saw the school finish third and reach the podium for the first time.

Richard Baker Director of Sport at the school said 'This was above and beyond our expectations, we knew that competing at this level against schools of the caliber of Southend High and Judd was going to be unbelievably tough. To finish third was incredible and great credit goes to all the boys who have been part of this incredible achievement'

He added 'The track and field cup is becoming an increasingly important event across the country and our thoughts now turn to preparing our athletes for next year's event. In the light of 2012, I believe it is an important event and one which will help to increase participation and develop excellence in school athletics, the track and field cup is a vehicle to achieve this'

The performance in the final is a boost to the school which has three junior boys competing in the all England Championships in Birmingham next weekend (14/15 July).

Appointment of New Clerk and CEO of Christ's Hospital Educational Foundation

The new Clerk and Chief Executive of one of the largest charitable educational Foundations in the country, Christ's Hospital, is to be Paul Tuckwell, a former top banker in the City of London. Mr Tuckwell is to take over the reins on 3 September from the present Clerk, Michael Simpkin.

Paul Tuckwell is 50 years old and was educated at Eastbourne College and the University of Loughborough where he gained a degree in Banking and Finance. After his initiation into banking with Lloyds Bank International Limited, working in London, Uruguay, Paraguay and Bahrain, he joined N M Rothschild and Sons, enjoying a quick progression in this world-renowned investment bank. He became the youngest member of the main Board of the company and led the Bank's corporate banking arm. Recently he has devoted some of his time to voluntary work, assisting two charities working with disadvantaged children.

Welcoming his appointment, the Treasurer of Christ's Hospital, David Farrington said: “Paul will bring a wealth of experience to Christ's Hospital (Foundation) which currently invests £18.9m per annum in the education of 840 pupils at the School in Horsham, West Sussex. Children, particularly those of families in social, financial or other need, enjoy an outstanding boarding education at little or no cost to their parents. Paul and his team will manage a significant investment portfolio, along with a fundraising, development and admissions strategy to ensure the School's ethos, dating back to 1552, is preserved”.

Mr Tuckwell lives in Pyrford, north of Guildford and is married to Rosie; they have a son and a daughter. He is a Liveryman of the Guild of International Bankers. Mr Tuckwell commented, “Christ's Hospital has achieved so much over so many years and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of its further progress”.

Christ's Hospital Band at Lord's

The Christ's Hospital Band performed on the pitch for the MCC at Lord's on Sunday, 1 July 2007. The Band has been honoured to be invited to perform at three major engagements this year, in February opening the Six Nations England vs Italy match for the RFU at Twickenham, in April for Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club at Withdean and now for the MCC at Lord's.

The 100 strong band of talented musicians aged 12 – 18 was honoured to be making its 13th appearance on the pitch at Lord's to entertain a packed stadium at the England vs. West Indies one-day International. It provided a wonderful spectacle and the pupils wore their distinctive Tudor style Bluecoat uniform of ankle length blue topcoat with saffron yellow socks. This year's Band Captain is Geoffrey Janes, 18, (London) Assistant Band Captains are Adam Lindley, 17 (Surrey) and Dennis Savage,17, (Shropshire) Senior Drummers are Yuli Levtov, 17, (Bognor Regis, West Sussex) and Luke Newham,18, (Wisborough Green, Horsham).

Band Master Terry Whittingham said, “Lord's is a very prestigious engagement for the Band and we were delighted to be invited back. We have had an excellent year and this engagement draws our academic year to a very successful close. The Band has gained so much experience from all our engagements and from watching the sport at these great events”.

Christ's Hospital Athletes Get Gold

Christ's Hospital has had another superb start to the schools' athletics season both with some significant individual successes and in the national track and field team competition.

This year the school has provided a record number of Sussex county medal winners throughout the age groups. The junior boys (aged 14) produced the greatest number of medalists including gold for Charlie Kowszun in the hammer and Gideon Hammond in the shot (Gideon also achieved the English Schools' qualifying distance). Silver medals were won by Efe Idemudia in the 100m, Michael Davies in the long jump and Oscar Gush in the high jump with a bronze for David Okpala in the triple jump.

Intermediate James Foreman gained gold in the triple jump, while in the seniors (aged 17) Albert Johnson in the 3,000m was another gold medalist and his brother Gilbert achieved bronze in the 1500m, along with Danjuma Mshelia in the 100m.

Richard Baker (Director of Sport) said, “We have been fortunate this year to have Mick Jones (former Commonwealth Gold Medalist in the hammer) in our coaching team which has helped us develop further the technical disciplines of some of the throwing events. It has been a steep learning curve for many of our athletes and we are very grateful to Mick and all the other coaches and teachers for their time, effort and enthusiasm”.

Seven boys from Christ's Hospital then represented Sussex in a South East inter counties tournament and two more pupils achieved the English Schools' qualifying mark – Michael Davies in the long Jump (5.74m) and Nick Ofonagoro in the hurdles (12.10"). Along with Gideon, they will be competing for Sussex in the all England Championships in Birmingham on Friday 13th and Saturday 14th July.

These outstanding individual performances have been matched by some excellent team performances in the track and field cup. The junior girls finished third in the regionals, the year 10 boys won the county round and finished a narrow second in the regionals, and the year 8 boys won both the county and regional tournaments and qualified for the National Track and Field cup final at Chelmsford on Saturday 7th July.

For further information visit the English Schools' Athletics Association website www.esaa.net or see the track and field championships live on Sky sports on Saturday 14th July.

Public Inquiry

Following a Public Inquiry on Tuesday, 12 June regarding the Station Yard development at Christ's Hospital, Mike Simpkin, Chief Executive of Christ's Hospital Charitable Foundation, commented:

“The site in question has been considered suitable for housing development by Horsham District Council for some while. It is classified as a Brownfield site because it has previous and existing industrial uses. In its current form it is visually unattractive and spoils the amenity of nearby residents, especially those who occupy new housing built recently near the site.

“The number of units proposed is modest and is in accordance with the numbers expected by Horsham District Council. Importantly, we fully understand and support the need for there to be a proportion of affordable/rental properties in order to increase the scant chance that many have to afford a home in or around Horsham.

“Its closeness to the railway station marks it as being sustainable and this is increased by the fact that Christ's Hospital is surrendering land to accommodate cars more safely. Additionally, our plans for roads and car parking leading to the Station have been most extensively and sensitively examined with the assistance of local residents. The current arrangements are both hazardous and especially dangerous at night, particularly for school children. The development will enable notable improvements to take place and has been designed to accommodate a bus service, a cycle path and a much-needed retail unit to bring additional benefits to potential home owners, including a very low risk of increased traffic.

“We have acted with all due consideration to the various issues, including protecting the amenity of those residents nearest to the railway line by aiming to improve their outlook with fencing, bushes and trees which will also help reduce any increase in noise from the car park. We will work with them to maintain their quality of life.”

Gatwick Diamond Games

On Sunday 10 June, Christ's Hospital played host to three-a-side football as part of the Gatwick Diamond Games. Organised in association with Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club, sixteen teams of 11–14 year olds from across Sussex took part, including two teams from Christ's Hospital. The day culminated with the winning sides taking on three representatives from the Albion, including ex-professional, Gerry Ryan.

Winner of the 11–12 year old group was Chichester, while local team Horsham claimed victory in the 13-14 year old group. Hosts Christ's Hospital came second and third respectively. Guests were also treated to a performance from Christ's Hospital's 100-strong band, famous for its appearances for the MCC at Lord's and the RFU at Twickenham.

Stephen Launchbury, Bursar at Christ's Hospital said, “We were delighted to host this three-a-side football tournament as part of the Gatwick Diamond Games and welcome to Christ's Hospital so many representatives from the world of sport and members of district councils in the Gatwick Diamond area.

“The Gatwick Diamond venues are bidding for inclusion in the official training camp guide and this is an excellent way of showcasing and raising awareness of the facilities at the six participating venues. Should we be successful, there is the potential opportunity to gain a lasting legacy of improved or additional sporting facilities, encouraging elite athletes of the future. Over the next few months, we will be evaluating this potential and if the circumstances are right, we have the exciting possibility of providing a training camp for a national squad in 2012.”

The Gatwick Diamond Games is a unique event to be held in Sussex from 2007 – 2012, involving clubs, districts, School sport partnerships, children and youth services, national governing bodies, the business sector and media. In the spirit of the Olympics, the Gatwick Diamond Games will be a true ‘partnership' games. Participating venues are: K2 leisure centre, Crawley; Christ's Hospital School and Bluecoat Sports Club, Horsham; East Grinstead sports club, Mid Sussex; The All England Jumping Course, Hickstead, Mid Sussex; Olympos, Burgess Hill; Nivea Sun Yellowave venue, Brighton & Hove (to hold events in 2008).

Speech Day at Christ's Hospital
Saturday, 26 May 2007

School Departments were open to visitors during the afternoon.  Tea followed in the Dining Hall where the Head Master's portrait was on display for the first time.

In addition, Dr Peter Southern, Head Master, received a replica of a statue of a Christ's Hospital pupil to mark his retirement. The presentation was made by Senior Grecian Oscar Jenkyn-Jones on behalf of parents of present and past pupils. The original statue stands in a niche in the School Quadrangle.

A complete portfolio of photos of Speech Day 2007 has been posted on our website.

Five Century-Makers Hit The Headlines

Christ's Hospital cricket has gone through a buoyant phase in the last decade and it is good to see that the teams at the School have started the term well. The picture shows five boys who have all scored unbeaten hundreds in the first half of the season.

From left to right: Michael Quest (Gr E, Capt of the 1st XI) 111 not out v Churt C.C., Alex Satterfield (Ma A, U15A) 101 not out v John Fisher, Jamie Noble (Mid B, U14A) 103 not out v Seaford College, Stuart Whittingham (Mid B, Capt of the U13A) 112 not out v RGS Guildford, and Alex Marsh (La A, Capt of the U15A) 111 not out v Seaford College. Michael Quest has played for the Sussex Academy, Jamie Noble plays for North Sussex and Stuart Whittingham represents Sussex at Under 13 level.

Alex Marsh, Alex Satterfield and Jamie Noble are hoping to make the final Christ's Hospital cricket touring party which will travel to Barbados on 30th March in 2008. Sadly, Michael Quest is in his final term and Stuart Whittingham is a little too young. There are 24 boys on the long list who are trying for one of the 15 places available. As well as playing six matches in Barbados there will also be many opportunities for all the boys who are selected to immerse themselves in another culture and a different way of life, along with some time put aside for revision!

Pupils Control £10m Telescope

Pupils at Christ's Hospital have had the fantastic opportunity to control a huge robotic telescope, situated on the other side of the world, using a computer in their classroom. Members of the School's Astronomy Club, with an audience of Year 9 science students, used the Internet to take images with the Faulkes Telescope which is located 10,000 feet above sea level on the volcano of Haleakala on the island of Maui, Hawaii.

The £10m telescope – the brainchild of British entrepreneur and enthusiast Martin “Dill” Faulkes – was designed to be used for educational purposes by UK schools. Christ's Hospital was fortunate enough to be awarded some observing time on Friday, 11 May, and the telescope was controlled by eleven-year-old Hayley Gelder, a first year student.

Christ's Hospital's Head of Maths Alan Smith explained, “We took control at 12 midday BST and as Hawaii is 11 hours behind UK time it was a great opportunity for students to do some night-time observing during the day.”

The pupils were able to study a spiral galaxy with a prominent infra-red star-burst region and eruptive variable stars that are normally too faint to be easily observed. With a primary mirror diameter of two metres, the Faulkes Telescope is almost the size of the 2.5m Hubble Space Telescope.

“Usually, we use computers to work in a virtual world,” said Mr Smith. “Here, we were using key-strokes to move and aim a completely unattended 24-tonne telescope situated 15,000 miles away, and we were able to see it happening via the webcam, in real time.”

Christ's Hospital Band perform for Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club

Young musicians in the Christ's Hospital Band performed at Withdean for Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club on Saturday, 28 April.

To celebrate the centenary of the tune 'Sussex by the Sea', the Band included this as part of their repertoire which was much enjoyed by the supporters. This is the second high profile engagement for the Band this year, having performed for the RFU Six Nations in February and they will be on the pitch again at Lord's on 1st July.

World Class Squash Player Coaches Pupils

Pupils at Christ's Hospital had the benefit of squash coaching by a world-class player, Carla Khan, Pakistan Women's Squash Champion, on Tuesday, 27 March at Bluecoats Sports Centre. Carla is also the grand-daughter of legendary squash player Azam Khan.

Christ's Hospital teacher, Andy Williams, said "The School usually has five squash teams: 1st, 2nd , U15 and U14 boys' teams and a girls' team. Carla was coaching a mix of these pupils. They were very enthusiastic, Carla was really good with them and they gained a lot from this experience. Thanks to Alex Obolenski (a former pupil of Christ's Hospital) who is a family friend of Carla's and introduced her to us. Alex has been playing squash for 47 years and claims he only started improving when Carla gave him some coaching last year!".

Christ's Hospital Rugby enjoys another bumper Sevens season

Christ's Hospital solidified itself as a powerhouse of junior rugby in Sussex by enjoying many successes during the Sevens season.

The Christ's Hospital U13's were crowned county champions in the annual tournament held at the School and also won 2 titles at Windlesham, before becoming runners up in the Surrey County Sevens Tournament. The U14's regained their county crown before producing some outstanding rugby, winning the Reigate Sevens for the first time in the School's history, beating St.Paul's in the final 33-7.

Richard Baker (Master i/c Rugby and Director of Sport) congratulated all the boys and staff on their effort in training throughout the term and subsequent successes in tournaments. He said 'This highlights the huge potential at the School and illustrates the achievement that can be gained through hard work and dedication'. He added 'such honours could not be achieved without the enthusiasm, expertise and commitment shown by staff and I would like to personally thank all the staff at CH who have been involved in the coaching of rugby during my time in charge'.

This season will be the last organised by Mr Baker who is becoming Housemaster of Middleton B from September.

Thanks to Chartwells, the School's caterers, who sponsored both the u13 and u18 sevens tournaments which were held at the School.

Appointment of new Head Master and Treasurer

Christ's Hospital, the 454 years old charitable boarding school that provides subsidised education for 97% of its pupils, has appointed a new Head, John Franklin, to replace Dr Peter Southern when he retires in August 2007, after 11 years service. John Franklin is currently Head of Ardingly College, Haywards Heath.

Born in Brisbane, John was educated at Ipswich Grammar School and the University of Southern Queensland, where he gained a first degree in the study of English and a Diploma in Teaching. He later gained a Master's Degree in Educational Administration at the University of New England, New South Wales.

He began teaching in Australia but moved to England in 1989 to teach at Sedbergh School and then became an Acting Housemaster at Marlborough College. He later returned to Australia as Deputy Head of St. Peter's College, Adelaide and Acting Headmaster for two terms. In 1998, John and his wife, Kim, came back to the UK as Head of Ardingly College where he was also a board member of the Woodard Foundation and a member of the Head Masters Conference. He is also an Independent Schools Inspector.

Sir Garry Johnson

Christ's Hospital's Council of Almoners (Trustees) has elected Sir Garry Johnson KCB OBE MC DSc (Hon) to take office as Treasurer as from 1st September 2007.

Sir Garry has a long history with Christ's Hospital. Born in Twickenham in 1937, he attended the School as a Wests' Gift presentee from 1948 to 1954. He worked in the City for a year, but then entered National Service and subsequently took a Regular Commission. He served in the Army until 1994, holding a wide variety of appointments in the UK, Europe and Asia. He saw active service in Malaya, Borneo and Northern Ireland, being three times decorated for leadership and gallantry. Later he was Assistant Chief of Defence Staff in the Ministry of Defence, Commander of British Forces in the Far East and Commander-in-Chief of NATO Forces in Northern Europe. After leaving the Army he became Chairman of the International Security Advisory Board (ISAB) and has been extensively involved in the field of conflict prevention. From 1995 to 1999, Sir Garry was Chairman of the National Council for Training and Enterprise in the UK. He currently chairs, or serves on, charitable boards working in the fields of culture, healthcare and education in both the UK and Nepal. He holds an Honorary Doctorate of Science from Southampton University.

Visit of the Archbishop of Canterbury to Christ's Hospital

Christ's Hospital welcomed the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd. Rowan Williams, on Wednesday 14th March as the guest speaker at a morning service in the School Chapel. This was followed by a lively classroom debate, a tour of the School and a lunch with staff and pupils.

The whole school community heard Dr Williams, who had just returned from Africa, talk about his experiences which he linked to the School's theme for the term "Being human". The Archbishop quoted an African saying, much used by Desmond Tutu, "I am because you are" to develop the theme that every individual grows in association with, and service of, others. After the service, the Archbishop joined Sixth Formers in class, as they debated contentious modern philosophical and ethical issues. The Archbishop's encyclopaedic knowledge was deftly employed to illuminate these discussions, but with a characteristic modesty on his part.

After lessons, the Head Master of Christ's Hospital, Dr Peter Southern, met with Archbishop Rowan to answer his questions about the uniquely charitable history of the School and Foundation, its pursuit of liberal educational values, its highly plural ethnic and social mix and its continuing commitment to the ideals of Christian service and civic responsibility.

Catherine Barber, a Deputy Grecian (Lower Sixth Former) was introduced to Dr Williams "I was invited to meet The Archbishop because I am a Sacristan and help out in Chapel every week. After hearing his sermon, I was really excited about meeting the Archbishop. I wasn't disappointed - he is a very learned man and seemed so happy to be at our School and to be able to talk to some of the pupils".

Next on the agenda was a visit to recent developments on the School site, designed to modernise and extend the boarding and extra-curricular facilities available to 840 pupils at Christ's Hospital.

The visit ended on a convivial note with a buffet lunch in the company of 70 pupils and staff. Dr Williams cheerfully circulated among his fellow diners, experiencing for himself something of the liveliness and enthusiasm that animate so many pupils at this ancient school. In the year of Dr Southern's retirement after 11 years in office, the Archbishop's visit to Christ's Hospital will long be remembered as a fitting tribute to a Head Master of great distinction.

Pictures (courtesy of Neil Fleming)

Stop the (virtual) press!

Saturday 10th March saw Christ's Hospital's 11-12 year olds sample the pressures of producing a newspaper in real time in the School's 'virtual newsroom'. Sam Gomez, aged 11, was Editor-in-Chief of Outlook, the publication produced on the day, one of the many attractions on offer at the boarding school's Open Day, visited by over 1000 potential parents and students.

Working to a deadline of just over an hour, a group of 14 pupils used both imaginary events and live news feeds from Reuters press agency and BBC news to produce the newspaper. Editor Sam Gomez said, "It was much more difficult than I had expected but good fun." Under his editorship, pupils produced stories ranging from factual features on global warming to invented pieces on sport and the arts. For example, student Lydia Chantler-Hicks speculated on the possibility of discovering new work by Christ's Hospital old boy Samuel Taylor Coleridge on the School's site. Celia Shephard, the teacher in charge of the event said, 'The pupils got a lot out of the experience, having fun exploring the world of journalism and learning how to research and write stories to deadline and under pressure.'

In a follow-up to the event, County Times reporter Robert Tagg visited the School, meeting with members of the 'virtual newsroom' team and answering their numerous questions on what the life of a journalist holds.

The 'virtual newsroom' was comprised of a suite of wireless, internet ready laptops, that allowed pupils to place their stories into a template using the web to research them, and live news feeds to check for breaking stories around the world. John Herbert, Head of English at Christ's Hospital, explained that the process was one which 'taught pupils the reality of writing in a disciplined and organised fashion as well as teaching the values of co-operation and teamwork in the classroom.'

The project is part of the ongoing media education that pupils receive in the classroom at Christ's Hospital. 12 year olds are also taught to create their own advertising campaigns and pitch them whilst candidates in higher years write their own journalistic reviews, imitate tabloid and broadsheet journalism and, in the case of current Year 12 and 13 pupils, have been lucky enough to visit Farringdon Road, home of The Guardian where they took part in a day's extended course, learning about the journalistic process and trying their hand at writing their own stories.

The School sees media education as one route to pupils learning first rate writing skills. As the Head of English at Christ's Hospital said, 'Learning how the media works and how to write in media language sits comfortably in a school with as fine a literary heritage as ours - were Dickens or Coleridge alive today, they would undoubtedly use computers and be published in the press.'

Pictures (L-R)
County Times reporter Robert Tagg (back) meets members of the 'virtual newsroom' team
Pupils work on virtual newspaper Outlook
Darlene Roberts (left) and Annabelle Baldy-Gray (right)

Higgins to coach former schools sevens side

Bath Rugby winger Andy Higgins will be going back to his old school Christ's Hospital this week to help coach the Sussex school's sevens side. They will be preparing for the Sussex U18s sevens, which is being held at the school.

Andy will also watch some of the Under 13s Sussex county tournament, and hand out trophies at the U18s event on Sunday.

Andy, who played for the England Saxons in the Churchill Cup last summer, was pleased to have been asked back: "I am looking forward to going back to my old school and hopefully passing on some of the knowledge that I have gained from playing professional rugby to the schools sevens team. My mother still teaches there so I still have a strong link with the school."

Christ's Hospital's Sports Administrator Howard Holdsworth said: "Andy Higgins is revisiting a tournament he played in back in the 1998 and 1999 seasons. This tournament in 2007 coincides with the retirement of Andy's former headmaster Dr Peter Southern. Prior to the tournament Andy will be helping with the coaching of Christ's Hospital's First VII, working alongside his former coach and RFU panel referee Sean Davey and Christ's Hospital Director of Sport Richard Baker.

"It was thought a fitting tribute to Andy's contribution to Christ's Hospital sport to ask him to present the prizes at this prestigious occasion as his mother Sheila also retires in 2007 after thirty years' service to the school."

TOTAL LUNAR ECLIPSE, 3RD MARCH 2007

Members of Christ's Hospital School astronomy club are busy setting up their telescopes ready for the total lunar eclipse this Saturday.

The Earth's main shadow cone (umbra) will begin to move across the face of the moon at 9:30 pm and the whole of the moon's disc will be plunged into shadow and the moon may turn coppery red.

Christ's Hospital teacher Alan Smith says: "There is a very good chance of seeing a red moon around mid-eclipse at 11.20. With clear weather it should be easily visible to the unaided eye and just a small pair of binoculars will give you a very good view from your own back garden".

Mr Smith is also Chairman of the Horsham Astronomy Group which holds its monthly meetings at Christ's Hospital on the first Wednesday of each month. Further details of the club's activities may be found on the internet.

Christ's Hospital's Joe Launchbury listed for England Rugby U16s

Christ's Hospital Horsham pupil Joe Launchbury, 15, has been put forward to represent England at Under 16 level. Joe will line up in the England squad alongside Owen Farrell, son of Andy Farrell (rugby league legend, gaining his senior rugby union cap on Saturday at Twickenham) and David Rees, the brother of Wasps flanker Tom Rees (who is lining up for England A this Friday night). Clearly, for Joe, as for all these young men, one eye is upon progression to these senior squads.

Following repeated impressive displays for Sussex at county level, Joe's selection follows an outstanding performance for London & the South East in divisional trials. On Tuesday January 31st Joe was delighted to learn that he has been included in the England squad which will assemble at Castlecroft, Wolverhampton, on Wednesday 14th February.

Joe said, 'I'm delighted to have been listed, having played rugby since the age of 7, being at Christ's Hospital has really helped my rugby progression. I play second row and I'm optimistic that I will be selected'.

Director of Sport and Master in charge of Rugby at Christ's Hospital, Richard Baker said 'The School is very proud of what Joe has achieved. He has always been a player of much promise, with an excellent attitude and this is a fantastic reward for years of dedication and hard work.'

A squad of 62 players has been chosen which will comprise the England and England A teams to take part in two separate tournaments in April.

The England side will compete in the inaugural Four Nations Tournament involving France, Italy and Wales, which will be played on club grounds in the Black Country between April 5 and 11. England A will take part in the annual Millfield Festival in Somerset, which this year involves France, Wales, Scotland, Canada, Romania, Georgia and the USA, between April 2 and 8.

'CHIPS' Immersion programme at Christ's Hospital

Two pupils from a day school in Germany spent three weeks experiencing boarding school life at Christ's Hospital, Horsham (23 January – 10 February) whilst pupils from Christ's Hospital, Adrienne Stockley and Richard Akerele, took their places, but staying with German families. This scheme 'CHIPS' (Christ's Hospital Immersion Programme – Students) is offered in addition to other trips and exchanges that the German department at the School offers.

Piers Heagerty, Head of German at Christ's Hospital explained "The CHIPS scheme offers a unique opportunity for one or two motivated, able and responsible lower 6th form pupils to immerse themselves in the German culture and language by attending the Platen Gymnasium (our partner school in Ansbach, Bavaria) for 3 weeks and staying with a German family. Our students derive much benefit linguistically of course, but also in terms of cultural awareness and personal development. Initial feedback from pupils, parents and teachers, both here and in Germany, has been encouragingly positive".

Marieke Hartmann aged 16, was one of the students who currently attend the Platen Gymnasium. During her stay at Christ's Hospital, she fitted in well, wearing the School's distinctive Tudor style uniform and stayed in a girls' boarding house, Leigh Hunt B, joining in with the normal timetable and taking part in netball and horse riding. Her CH pupil mentor was Natalie Cox.

Of her stay, Marieke said "Although I was quite nervous before I arrived at Christ's Hospital, my feelings were completely unfounded. Everyone welcomed me in a warm and friendly manner and they managed to make the stay as uncomplicated and pleasant as possible. Staying here has helped my language skills; the boarding atmosphere is completely different from my own day school. As a result of many pupils coming from different countries and areas, there is a lot of tolerance and whole School seems like a great family. It's quite exhausting because although there are not as many lessons, the pupils have a lot of work to do for prep. I want to thank everyone who has contributed to making my stay so unforgettable".

Marieke was accompanied by fellow pupil, Fabian Arndt, mentored during his stay at CH by Harry Dadswell.

L-R: Marieke Hartmann from Germany and Christ's Hospital's Natalie Cox

New multi-media language resource at Christ's Hospital

A new multi-media language resource was officially opened at Christ's Hospital on Friday, 2nd February by Sir John Daniel, a former pupil of the School (1952-'61), now President and CEO of the Commonwealth of Learning, Vancouver and representatives from the Invermark Trust which was founded by the late Sir Denis Truscott, who was a Governor of Christ's Hospital.

The new resource comprises a suite of 24 computers, laptops and state-of-the-art software. The flexibility of the technology enables staff to adapt activities to the needs of individual pupils, allowing them to make the best of their potential. It will enhance their ability to explore other cultures by downloading plays, films and radio programmes as well as being able to record themselves speaking the languages, converse with one another and send audio files for assessment to their teacher.

Sean O'Boyle, Director of Studies at Christ's Hospital "The new resource will transform the School's ability to teach Modern Foreign languages which form a key part of our curriculum. It is also able to support other languages, such as those of emerging economies, and its versatility as a multi-media lab has applications across the entire curriculum. The facility will thus be an important factor for Christ's Hospital in keeping up with the pace of change in modern education."

Generously funded by Sir Denis Truscott's Invermark Trust and Sir John Daniel, it was the wish of the Trust that this gift should be used for a computer technology related project at the School.

Sir John, who flew over from the US, commented on this support "I did not specialise in languages but the solid grounding in French that I obtained at Christ's Hospital gave me the courage to go to the University of Paris to do a doctorate in science after my first degree. Becoming bilingual gave me a deep personal satisfaction and great professional opportunities in Canada and the US. I would like to help Christ's Hospital pupils to acquire the confidence and curiosity that comes from being able to speak other languages".

L-R George and Anne Preston (Invermark Trust and Daughter and Son-in-law of Sir Denis Truscott), Rosemary Lines and Jane Fairbank (Daughers of Sir Denis), Sir John Daniel, former pupil of Christ's Hospital and John Whitmore (Truscott family).

Christ's Hospital pupils demonstrating this resource at the official opening

Christ's Hospital band opens the rugby six nations England vs. Italy

The Christ's Hospital Band was invited to open the England v. Italy match at the RFU Twickenham on 10 February performing Jerusalem and the National Anthems on the pitch to a packed auditorium of 85,000, positioned only five metres away from the England team.

Geoffrey Janes, Band Captain and Adam Lindley, Assistant Band Captain, both aged 17, said "Having the privilege to play the National Anthems at an International event was a brilliant experience. We performed for 20 minutes on the concourse and then moved onto the pitch for the Anthems, standing only five metres away from the teams. We watched Johnny Wilkinson warm up – the atmosphere was electric. It was a fantastic honour to perform at Twickenham and to be introduced to the President of the RFU, Mr R (Bob) Rogers".

Their next high-profile engagement is for the MCC at Lord's on the pitch for the England vs. West Indies one-day International on 1st July 2007 with the full complement of over 100 Christ's Hospital musicians!

The Christ's Hospital Band Opens England v. Italy Match, 10th February

Christ's Hospital Band Opens the Six Nations England vs Italy Match on Saturday, 10 February

The Christ's Hospital Band has been invited to open the England v. Italy match at the RFU Twickenham on 10 February with around 50 young instrumentalists (of the normally 100 strong) playing on the pitch before the match and on one of the concourses as the supporters arrive.

The famous Christ's Hospital Band performs regularly at major public occasions including the Lord Mayor's Show, for the MCC at Lord's and now, for the first time since 1999, it will perform the National Anthems at the RFU when it introduces the England v. Italy match this Saturday.

Christ's Hospital's also has an historic connection with Twickenham, dating back to the 18th century. An education charity established through the Will of John and Frances West stated that children from families living in or adjacent to the ancient Parish of Twickenham may be eligible to receive a special bursary award. These pupils are known as Wests' Gift pupils and wear a silver-plated shoulder badge on their uniform. Some Wests' Gift pupils will also be returning to their home ground on Saturday to play in the Band.

Lucy Edgington, aged 16, a Wests' Gift pupil, who plays the trumpet said "Being a member of the Christ's Hospital Band is central to my enjoyment at the School, and I'm really excited to be going to the home of English rugby".

Terry Whittingham, Band Master at Christ's Hospital " It is a great honour for us to be invited to perform at this Rugby International Six Nations game. The children are very excited about this experience and much looking forward to it".

Christ's Hospital Bluecoat Concert

Monday, 5th February 2007, 7.30pm
St John's, Smith Square, London

This year our annual Bluecoat Concert is in the magnificent acoustic of St John's, Smith Square concert hall. Our most accomplished pupils will perform a showcase concert featuring jazz, brass, wind, vocal and string ensembles interspersed with some exceptional solo items.

Tickets: £12 (£8) Available from St John's Box Office
Telephone bookings: 020 72221061
Online bookings: www.sjss.org.uk

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Christ's Hospital School Boys Rugby Success

Congratulations to Ben Davey and Joe Launchbury who were recently included in the regional and national representative sides. See RFY press releases for further information on Ben http://www.irishrugby.ie/newspage/86013.html and Joe http://www.rfu.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/RFUHome.News_Detail/StoryID/15506

They will be competing for Ireland U18's and London South East U16's in 2007.

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SIGNIFICANT ENGAGEMENTS FOR THE CHRIST'S HOSPITAL BAND

The Christ’s Hospital Band led the Civic Party in the Lord Mayor’s Show on Saturday, 11 November 2006. The School was honoured once again to be part of this unique and colourful pageant. There were 144 entries this year, parading along the two-mile route through the Square Mile of the City of London, in celebration of the City’s tradition with entries comprising a mixture of past, present and future with businesses, livery companies, charities, Her Majesty’s Forces, the City Police and Londoners from all walks of life.

Following the Lord Mayor’s Show, the Band were invited to perform at an evening reception on The Royal Navy aircraft carrier and fleet flagship, HMS Illustrious, which steamed into London to support Remembrance Sunday and the Lord Mayor’s Show. As the centrepiece for the Navy’s Remembrance weekend celebrations, the 22,500 tonne Portsmouth-based warship moored off Greenwich to take part in a number of activities in the Capital during her six day visit (from 10 -15 November).

Geoffrey Janes, Band Captain, recalls this unique experience “We dined in the Junior Mess and then had the option to take a tour around the ship. Before the reception, we were greeted by Lieutenant Commander Rimmington who briefed us about what would happen at the end of the reception with regard to Sunset and the Guard of Honour. Half the Band (about 60 members) were lowered down on the aircraft lift from deck level to hanger level as we played the theme to ‘Thunderbirds’, which was a welcome surprise to all those at the reception! We then proceeded to play a short concert band programme consisting of Pathfinders March and Crown Imperial before a finale sequence which incorporated the Hymn Crimond, Sunset and finally, as the Band were raised back to deck level ‘Heart of Oak’.  This engagement for the Band was a superb experience and we are grateful to all concerned at the Royal Navy”.

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PATHFINDER PROJECT TO LOOK AT BOARDING PROVISION FOR VULNERABLE CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

Christ’s Hospital will be one of 51 independent and state maintained schools and ten local authorities taking part in the Department of Education and Skills Pathfinder Project to look at boarding provision for vulnerable children and young people.  The pilots will begin in November 2006 and run for two years.  The project could result in local authorities funding boarding places for up to 2,000 vulnerable children. 

Christ’s Hospital welcomes being part of this initiative and can bring a wealth of experience to the project because of its mission to provide a first class boarding education to children who may not have had the best start in life.

Mike Simpkin, Clerk, “Children at Christ’s Hospital benefit from the stability of being in a boarding environment.  It removes them from the emotional stress of being in a situation which may be holding them back.  We hope children who may be on the edge of going into care will be able to share the benefits enjoyed by our pupils”.

Since its foundation in 1552, the School has given a life changing educational opportunity to thousands of children from all backgrounds, irrespective of their parents’ ability to pay.

To be awarded a place at Christ’s Hospital, a child must qualify in the entry assessment but priority is given to those who will benefit from a boarding place. Several factors are taken into account when assessing applicants’ need for a boarding place such as stressful housing conditions, social or financial difficulties and family illness.  Many awards have been given to children living in overcrowded conditions or unsafe environments; to children in a single parent family, or with a parent suffering disability or illness.   It is this broad mix of pupils that creates a microcosm of society within the School’s 200 acre site.  The majority of pupils go on to higher education and good careers.

Notes:

Care Matters : Transforming the Lives of Children and Young People in Care (Government Green Paper) http://www.everychildmatters.gov.uk/_files/Green%20Paper.pdf

Press Release (Published 06.11.06 by Department for Education and Skills)
Children, Young People and Families Minister Beverley Hughes MP has welcomed the next stage of a project that will look at how boarding provision might be used to improve the life chances of some vulnerable children and young people.
Some children and young people who have multiple needs and those living in families with a high risk of breakdown or of being moved in to care may benefit from going to boarding school. Currently, the use of this sort of provision varies greatly between authorities and it isn’t suitable for all young people. The pathfinder project will seek to establish:

• Clear protocols for setting up these arrangements and establishing under what circumstances it is suitable;

• How boarding provision can benefit vulnerable children and young people;

• Better understanding of the expertise and ability to support vulnerable children which boarding schools need to be able to offer; and

• How local authorities can maintain a stable base for children in their home area.

The Department will work with ten local authorities and fifty-one schools over a two year period.

Beverley Hughes said: “Most parents want their children to be supported in their community and by a local school, but for some children this may not be the best way to meet their specific needs. There is evidence to show that attending a boarding school may be an appropriate way to help some of these children and prevent family breakdown or a move in to the care system.

“This type of provision won’t be right for every vulnerable child so we will look carefully at when it is appropriate, what the benefits for the young person might be and how we can ensure that it is being used consistently across local authorities. The needs and welfare of the young person must remain our primary concern. We need to make sure the schools have the expertise and ability to support these children and that any child who is boarding maintains a stable base in their home authority. “I welcome the involvement of the ten local authorities and 51 schools who have agreed to take part in the project”

Notes to Editors

1. The Boarding Provision for Vulnerable Children Pathfinder Project will commence on 6 November and is expected to run for two years. It will involve ten local authorities: Barking and Dagenham, Bexley, Buckinghamshire, Dudley, Hertfordshire, Northumberland, Southwark, Suffolk, Surrey and Westminster
2. 51 schools have agreed to become involved. These are: Abberley Hall, Aldro School, Ashby School, Brambletye School, Bramcote School, Brighton College, Brymore School, Burleigh Community College, Cheltenham College, Cheltenham College Junior School, Chilton Cantelo School, Christ's Hospital, Cottesmore School, Culford School, The Downs School, The Dragon School, Fettes College Preparatory School, Framlingham College, Friends School, Giggleswick School, Grenville College, Gresham's School, Horris Hill School, Kelly College, King Edward's School, Lancaster Royal Grammar School, Lord Wandsworth College, Loughborough Grammar School, Malsis School, Market Rasen De Aston School, Milton Abbey School, The Mount School, Mount St Mary's College, The New Eccles Hall School, Old Swinford Hospital, Reeds School, Royal Alexandra and Albert School, Royal Hospital School, Royal Masonic School for Girls, The Royal Wolverhampton School, St Anselm's School, St Lawrence College, St Peter's School, Sedbergh School, Sexey's School, Sherborne School for Girls, Slindon College, Steyning Grammar School, Terrington Hall School, Wellesley House and Windlesham House Schoo

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CARMEN INSTALLATION PROCESSION

Christ's Hospital's historic connections with Livery Companies date back to when the School was founded in 1552 in the City of London.  On 18th October, the Senior Grecian and Second Monitor were invited to participate in the procession from Vintners' Hall to the Church of
St. Michael Paternoster for the installation of the new Master of the Worshipful Company of Vintners, Gerald Pulman JP.

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CHRIST'S HOSPITAL RUGBY 1ST XV

The new 1st XV rugby pitch at Christ’s Hospital was officially opened on Saturday, 14 October by Sean Holt, the Director of Sport England (who is a Horsham resident).   To celebrate the occasion, the School invited parents of the 1st XV players, the Old Blues RFC and the Old Blue Veterans (the oldest Old Boy Rugby Club) to support the fixture against Brighton College.  The day was a great success with a large turnout of supporters with the final score Christ’s Hospital 54 – Brighton College 5.

The game went very well from the start with the CH pack taking dominance with a very strong and direct method of attack and scored 4 forward-based tries via driving play in the first 20 minutes. George Ferguson at flanker (6) scored a hat-trick of tries. There were very fine performances throughout but particularly the back-row of George Ferguson, Sam Powell and Simon Tomkins, as well as outstanding contributions from Ben Davey (c) and Michael Quest (vc) who led from the front. Meanwhile, Marcus Garret-Anderson and full-back played exceptionally well with a string of counter-attacking runs which split the visiting defence on many occasions. Both Ben Davey and Michael Quest play for professional academies. Ben, 17, has been invited to the Irish Schools under 18a trial (part of the London Irish Professional Academy) during this half term and has also just qualified as a London Society referee, a rare achievement by someone of this age.

The post match event went very well with speeches and a presentation of a framed 1st XV shirt was made to Mr William Fairbairn (Chairman of the Old Blues RFC) and Kevin Cook (Captain of the Old Blues Veterans - who sponsored the shirts). Special thanks was given to International and RFU full-time Referee, Wayne Barnes, whose performance was a highlight for the young players of both sides.

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Christ's Hospital Present:
THE MAGIC FLUTE

Thursday, 30 November, Friday 1 and Saturday 2 December in the CH Theatre at 7.30pm

A classic staging of the battle between good and evil illuminated by brilliant shafts of comedy, this exquisite Mozart opera contains some of his finest and most memorable music.

Created in the very last months of Mozart's short but extraordinary life, it stands as an eternal monument to his musical genius.

Tickets £10 (£9) friends £8.

Book now to avoid disappointment: Christ's Hospital Box Office 01403 247434

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ST. MATTHEW'S DAY

400 boys and girls from Christ’s Hospital, a School founded in Newgate Street in 1552, will parade through London on Friday, 22 September 2006 in their traditional and colourful Tudor style uniform, along with the School’s Band to celebrate St Matthew’s Day.
St Matthew’s Day is one of the high days in Christ’s Hospital calendar. Traditionally, it was the day on which the Governors of Christ’s Hospital were elected. Today, there are over 650 Governors; their generosity continues to help support the education of Christ’s Hospital’s pupils.

10.30am: Grand Parade starts from Embankment (Carmelite Street EC1) and moves to Tudor Street (EC4) into Farringdon Street, left onto Charterhouse Street and into the Church of St Andrew, Holborn

11.00am: A thanksgiving service in the Church, attended by David Brewer, the Lord Mayor of the City of London and Vice President of Christ’s Hospital (invitation only).

12.20/30pm: The Grand parade will commence again from the Church of St Andrew to Mansion House via Holborn Viaduct, Newgate Street (marching past the site of the former school), around the side of St Paul’s Cathedral via Martin’s Le Grand and onto Cheapside to Bank, circling back via Walbrook to Mansion House (EC4).

12.50pm: Arrive at Mansion House where the pupils will have lunch with the Lord Mayor. To celebrate their City origin and links with the City Corporation, each pupil shakes hands with the Lord and Lady Mayoress and each receives ‘largesse’, a small sum of money, fresh from the mint.

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HERITAGE OPEN DAY and WEST SUSSEX FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL EVENT AT CHRIST'S HOSPITAL: SATURDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 2006

A rare opportunity for the general public to see Frank Brangwyn’s mural panels and sketches in Christ’s Hospital’s magnificent Chapel on Saturday, 9 September when the School will be open as part of The Civic Trust’s Heritage Open Days and the West Sussex Food and Drink Festival 2006.  This event commemorates the 50th anniversary of Brangwyn’s death. There will also be a lecture by Libby Horner, an expert on Brangwyn’s work.

Brangwyn's mural panels were commissioned early in the 20th Century by the first Head Master of the School in Horsham, the Revd Dr A W Upcott.  At that time, Brangwyn was relatively unknown.  The murals were prepared over a period of years between 1914 and 1923 on the theme of spreading the Gospel.

Christ’s Hospital will be open to visitors from 10am – 4pm.

The Brangwyn Lecture (limited to 300 on a first come, first served basis) is from 11.30 – 12.30.

Band Parade in the Quadrangle at 12.45 pm, when Christ’s Hospital’s 840 boys and girls march into lunch to the accompaniment of the 100 young instrumentalists.

The Museum at Christ’s Hospital will be open from 11am – 3pm.

As part of West Sussex Food and Drink Festival, Sussex Cream Teas will be available in Dining Hall from 2.30 – 4pm; a monumental frieze painted by Antonio Verrio dominates this great hall, along with other fine paintings.
 
ADMISSION IS FREE 
SUSSEX CREAM TEA £5 EACH

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