CH on The One Show - Tuesday, 31st August
Christ's Hospital pupils wearing their distinctive Tudor-style uniform will be featured on BBC1's 'The One Show' on Tuesday, 31st August at 7pm (and on BBC iPlayer for seven days) as part of a piece relating to school uniform and its place in social history.
For another view of Housey see FT.com’s article on British school uniforms where Blue coats cut a dash.
GCSE Stars!
Christ’s Hospital pupils performed exceptionally well at GCSE level this year with 93% of all entries being at A*, A or B grade and 75% of entries at A* or A grade. The overall pass rate at A*- C was 98%.
21 pupils from a cohort of 111 obtained all A or A* grades.
Notable performances include:
Chloe Bussell (from Copthorne) achieved a clean sweep of 14 A* grades
Oscar Davies (Hungerford) and Julie Panzieri (Hove) achieved 13 A* and 1 A grade
Bart Callaghan (Horsham) 11 A* and 3 A grades
Natalie Wireko-Brobbey (North London) 11 A* and 2 A grades
Terez Berry (Isle of Wight), Phoebe Corker-Martin (Normans Bay) and Oliver Hare (Worthing) with 10 A* and 4 A grades
John Franklin, Head Master said "Given Christ's Hospital's broad intake and focus on the more traditional academic subjects, this is a particularly pleasing result. I congratulate all the pupils and their teachers for their hard work".
Outstanding A Level Results
This year’s A Level results were outstanding, with an overall pass rate of 100%, an A/B pass rate of 68% and an average UCAS points total of over 300 points per pupil.
24 candidates achieved three or more A grades at A Level, with one scoring four A* grades. And while national results indicate that one-in-12 scored A Level A* this year, Christ’s Hospital achieved a slightly higher ratio of one-in-10.
Most of this year’s A2 cohort achieved or even exceeded their predicted grades and, in spite of increased pressure on university places this year, Christ’s Hospital is confident that it will continue to maintain its proud tradition of sending the majority if its leavers to top universities in the UK and abroad.
“These fine results reflect the dedication and hard work of both pupils and teachers alike,” said John Franklin, Head Master. “With the future looking increasingly uncertain for many young people in the UK, it is reassuring to know that so many of our pupils have secured a place at a good university.”
Notable performances included:
- Alex Woolley [Bethnal Green] with four A* grades;
- Hugh Lindley [Godalming] with three A* grades, plus an A grade;
- Will Lawrenson [Ramsgate], Poppy Kibble [Exeter] and John Ash [Angmering] who all achieved three A* grades;
- Andrew Corbett [Westbury, Wilts] with one A* and three A grades;
- Dominic Neale Draysey [Lewes] with four A grades;
- Sally Hill [Chichester] with two A* grades and one A grade.
CH Cricketers Victorious in Somerset
Christ’s Hospital’s 1st XI travelled to King’s School, Bruton for a three-day cricket festival (5th to 7th July) in a splendid setting and returned as unbeaten Festival winners.
Cricketing highlights included an extraordinary innings of 130 from Stuart Whittingham in the final game with fine supporting batting from Calvin Williams. Alex Satterfield was awarded a new trophy for player of the season, presented by Christian Somma, 1992 Captain of CH 1st XI.
Head of Cricket, Howard Holdsworth said, “The boys were fine ambassadors for our School. Their win was greatly deserved as they all pulled together to support each other”.
Match Scores
| CH 215 all out | City of London Freeman’s 133 all out | CH won by 82 runs |
| King’s Bruton 110 all out | CH 111-3 | CH won by 7 wickets |
| St Peter’s York 279-9 dec | CH 280-5 | CH won by 5 wickets |
For full match reports here and the slideshow here.
Athletics Successes
Christ’s Hospital’s 100m hurdler Nick Ofonagoro continued his successful season with a win at the Home Countries Under 17 International in Glasgow on Saturday, 17th July where he represented English Schools.
Despite a high wind, Nick’s time of 13.25s was just three hundredths of a second off his personal best, which he clocked the previous week running for Sussex at the English Schools’ Track & Field Championships in Birmingham.
Also representing Sussex in Birmingham in the inter boys competition was Christ’s Hospital’s Saoirse Chinery-Edoo who reached the Discus final with an exceptional throw of 43.10m to achieve national standard distance.
Christ's Hospital Leavers' Ball
The Grecians (Upper Sixth) Leavers’ Ball on Friday, 2nd July had an 'Alice in Wonderland' theme, with trumpet-playing white rabbits, servers wearing giant playing cards and the Queen of Hearts, Mad Hatter and March Hare in evidence.
The Ball began with a reception in the Head Master’s garden where, in keeping with the theme, drinks were served in ill-matched crockery with jam tarts given out to all. A dinner dance with a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party followed with dancing to a live band that included Old Blue musicians.
The Ball traditionally takes place on the last night of the academic year and is organised by the Grecians themselves with the help of two staff, Ian Stannard and Amanda Walsh. A pupil Committee works for six months before the Ball to manage preparations and harness creative skills in making props to bring the theme to life.
Beating Retreat, 3rd July, 2010
The academic year drew to a close, in accordance with Christ’s Hospital custom, with the Leaving Service in Chapel followed by Beating Retreat in the Quad. The Band performed both music and formations magnificently on what proved to be another very hot afternoon.
The March On to Eagle Squadron was followed by an evocative programme of music that included Pomp and Circumstance No. 4 and Teike’s Steadfast and True. At the centre of the ceremony was the powerful display of drumming that is the Beating Retreat tribute to Christ’s Hospital Leavers. The Day Thou Gavest and Last Post was performed as the Finale with solo trumpet played by Leaver Tom Isaac.
View Beating Retreat video here
Sports Day
School Sports Day on Tuesday, 29th June was another warm and sunny day and saw fine performances from several athletes including Nick Ofonagoro's winning time of 11.01 seconds in the U17 100m event.
The inter-House competition was keenly battled in all age groups with overall success claimed by Middleton (Boys) and Coleridge A (Girls).
View Sports Day slideshow here
Girls |
|
|---|---|
| Age Group | Winner |
| 2nd Form | Coleridge B |
| 3rd Form | Coleridge A |
| LE | Leigh Hunt |
| UF | Barnes B |
| Seniors | Coleridge A |
Boys |
|
|---|---|
| Age Group | Winner |
| 2nd Form | Middleton |
| 3rd Form | Maine |
| LE | Middleton |
| UF | Middleton |
| Seniors | Peele |
Parents' Day
It was perfect weather for lunch alfresco on Parents’ Day on Sunday, 27th June and rows of hampers and picnic rugs were unpacked on the Avenue lawns.
Visits to the Museum and Art and DT exhibitions were popular with shade-seekers after lunch while activities and fundraising stalls in the Quad were well-supported: especially the opportunity to throw a wet sponge at a teacher. Before returning to boarding houses for tea visitors much enjoyed performances by the Gospel Choir and orchestra rehearsals in Big School.
The Band at Lord’s
By Georgia Garrod, Deputy Grecian, saxophonist
For 16 consecutive years the Christ’s Hospital Band has provided Lord’s Cricket Ground with lunchtime entertainment during a day of international test cricket. This year was no exception and on the second day of the England v Bangladesh Test Match on Friday 28th May we made our way to Lord’s.
It was an occasion that exceeded even our own expectations. The preceding weeks had been dogged by weather-related cancelled rehearsals and tentative tries at formations which were more ambitious than any we had previously attempted, for instance ‘The Folding Band’. Timing was tight as we had to wait at School for those taking their science GCSEs to reach the coach so, upon our arrival, with barely enough time for lunch, we were immediately ushered into a quick briefing. Then it was straight out to the starting position (the passionate cricketers among us craning to see how many runs Trott had reached so far).
Lunch was called and the gate was drawn back; we rushed onto the pitch and faced the most daunting sight any member of the Band ever sees during their time at Christ’s Hospital – 28,000 cricket fans, not particularly interested in watching a marching band, looking down at you. After five years in the Band, I can safely say that under these conditions it can be particularly easy to lose concentration and wander out of line or play the wrong part of a march, but our Band has a marvellous ability to pull ourselves together and deliver amazing performances and this is exactly what we managed to do that day.
Playing at Lord’s is an opportunity matched by no other that being in the Band offers you; it is an honour to walk the same cricket pitch as people representing your country and every year the challenge summons the best the Band can offer. It is something to be proud of; my dad did always say he wanted to “see my children play at Lord’s”.
Skinners’ Procession, 3rd June
The Skinners’ Company is one of the “Great Twelve” livery companies with a history going back some 700 years. In times gone by it governed the use, production and sale of furs used for trimming garments for people of exalted rank.
Skinners’ link with Christ’s Hospital originated in the early 17th Century when William Stoddard bequeathed a sum of money to The Skinners’ Company for the ‘relief of the poor’. Sharing Christ’s Hospital’s ethos in prioritising children of families with need, The Skinners’ Company has presented children to the School ever since.
In common with most Livery Companies, the Skinners have a Church Service on the day when the new master is elected for the forthcoming year. This year’s master is Mr J C Minter. The Skinners hold their service on Corpus Christi Day and maintain the tradition of processing from their Livery Hall at Dowgate Hill in the City of London to St James Garlickhythe in full regalia. The posies carried continue a tradition dating back to medieval times when flowers were used to ward off the unpleasant smells of the city streets.
The procession is led by the Company Beadle with his mace. Behind him come the tutor and pupils of Christ’s Hospital and then the Livery of the Company.
Newbury Young Musician
One of Christ’s Hospital’s talented musicians will compete at the Newbury Young Musician of the Year Final at the Corn Exchange, Newbury on Sunday, 20th June. Clarinettist Oscar Davies, aged 15, will be performing two pieces, Andante Con Moto from the Grand Duo Concertante by Weber (from memory), and the first movement of the Poulenc Sonata.
Since joining Christ’s Hospital, Oscar has gained a high distinction for Grade 8 Clarinet and is now studying for his diploma. In autumn 2009 he won the RCM’s Senior Woodwind Competition and this year is applying for the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain.
The Newbury Young Musician competition is organised by the Southern Sinfonia who celebrate their 20th anniversary this year and is funded by Greenham Common Trust Ltd. All finalists are between the ages of 15 and 18 (Oscar is one of the youngest) and the winner will have chance to play as soloist in a major concert with them. The judges include Southern Sinfonia patron Sir Roger Norrington.
An update: Flautist Ellie Nugent was the winner in a final of "a very high standard of instrumental performance". Reviewer Derek Ansell added: "Oscar Davies on clarinet played like a master".
Speech Day At Christ's Hospital
Christ's Hospital School near Horsham was honoured to receive The Right Worshipful The Lord Mayor Locum Tenens, Alderman Sir Robert Finch and the Sheriffs of the City of London, to Speech Day on Saturday, 29th May.
In-between the showers, the traditions of the day went ahead including the March Past by 800 pupils to the accompaniment of the School's famous Band, just back from performing at Lord's First Test! A posy of flowers was presented by a junior pupil to Lady Finch.
The Senior Grecian (Head Pupil) Lily Hayes, 18, gave the traditional oration to which the Lord Mayor Locum Tenens warmly responded. Lily spoke of her seven years at Christ's Hospital, gave thanks to numerous people who had enriched her education and for the benevolence of the Foundation and its supporters, many of whom were represented on Speech Day.
Academic prizes were given to pupils for excellence in particular subjects. Awards and trophies given by Livery Companies and other generous supporters were presented for special achievements and breadth of education.
National Girls’ Fives Championships launched at Christ’s Hospital
The first ever National Girls’ Fives Championships was hosted by Christ’s Hospital on 16th May, 2010 with four schools taking part in a spirit of keen but sporting competition.
Master-in-charge of Fives at Christ’s Hospital, Mr Edward Hatton said: “All our players worked very hard in the run-up to the tournament and their achievements speak for themselves. The improvement they all showed over the course of the tournament was particularly noticeable, to the point where some of the U12s and U13s may find themselves competing in mixed school teams next year!”
Notable Christ’s Hospital successes were:
U18 singles runner-up – Lily Hayes
U18 singles plate – Petrea Harries
U18 doubles runners-up – Lily Hayes and Petrea Harries
U18 doubles plate – Hannah Heslop and Harriet Spain
U16 doubles champions – Coralie Strong and Fiona Blair
U16 singles plate – Louisa Haywood
U14 singles plate – Coralie Strong
U13 singles champion – Louise Mathias
U13 singles runner-up – Olivia Walsh
U13 doubles champions – Louise Mathias and Olivia Walsh
U13 doubles plate – Sophie Glenny and Mairi Watt-Cooper
View the national Rugby Fives Association report here.
Christ’s Hospital Band at Lord’s
The Band will be performing popular marches during the lunch interval of the England v Bangladesh First Test on Friday, 28 May.
BBC Sussex Interview
The benefits of a boarding school education was the discussion topic for BBC Sussex's afternoon programme on Friday, 14th May at 1.20pm. Christ's Hospital's Head Master John Franklin was interviewed live by Sarah Gorrell about the School's unique charitable tradition, selection process and opportunities for children from all backgrounds.
The interview can be heard via BBC iPlayer on the 'Listen Again' service for seven days.
Total for Rwanda Project Tops £5,000
Pupils from Christ's Hospital and Tanbridge House School have together raised over £5,200 to help fund Save the Children and UNICEF projects in Rwanda for the young victims of genocide. Christ's Hospital pupils met Lynn Whittaker of Save the Children this week to present her with a cheque for half of the total raised and an equal amount will go to UNICEF. Fund raising events over the last two terms have included a collaborative Theatre evening and Fashion Show by the two schools at Christ's Hospital as well as separate events such as the sponsored "Running for Rwanda" in which over 100 Christ's Hospital pupils took part to raise £3,100. Save the Children's Lynn Whittaker said: "This is a wonderful effort and we are very grateful. Contributions like this really do make a difference to children's lives".
Christ's Hospital Honours its War Dead
On 27th April, representatives of Christ's Hospital, led by the Head Master, Mr John Franklin, and Chaplain, Father Ian Colson, attended a service at St George's Church in Ypres to unveil a plaque donated by an anonymous Old Blue commemorating the 670 Old Blues, and staff, who had made the final sacrifice in all armed conflicts.
The Deputy Head, Mrs Jo Thomson, read "Aftermath" by Siegfried Sassoon and Thomas Isaac, Grecian, played the Last Post and Reveille.
The school staff and pupils were supported by a small group of Old Blues, the majority of whom had served in the British Army, who later laid a CH crested poppy wreath at the Menin Gate during the Last Post Ceremony.
Schola Cantorum at St Paul's
On Monday, 15th March, visitors to St Paul's Cathedral had the opportunity to hear the Christ's Hospital Schola Cantorum sing evensong in one of the City of London's most iconic buildings.
New Director of Development
Christ's Hospital is pleased to announce that Lesley Humphreys has been appointed as Director of Development, taking up her new role in June. She will lead the Development team in a focused effort to reinvigorate fundraising - an effort that is vital to enabling Christ's Hospital to remain true to its mission of providing an outstanding education to disadvantaged children regardless of their means. For over 450 years Christ's Hospital has provided substantial financial support to the families of its pupils, the vast majority of whom pay either nothing or only a small contribution towards the cost of their education.
Lesley's focus initially will be directed at strengthening existing generous support, including increased alumni participation in regular giving, and in building new relationships. Christ's Hospital has a long and outstanding record of helping disadvantaged children to realise their potential, but demand continues to outstrip the income derived from investments. Lesley's considerable experience and excellent record of fundraising accomplishments will set the School and the Foundation on a new course that will engage current donors and inspire additional support; she will be a welcome addition to the Christ's Hospital team. Lesley is currently Marketing & Development Director at Millfield, the largest co-educational boarding school in the UK where, among her many accomplishments she built the school's. development programme. There, she launched a Leaver's Gift which resulted in a participation rate of over 50% and secured the first endowed scholarship at Millfield. She serves on the Board of Trustees for the IDPE (Institute of Development Professionals in Education) and chaired the CASE (Council for Advancement and Support of Education) Europe Schools Conference at Oxford in 2010.
In her early career Lesley worked in international stock broking in the City, for Reed Elsevier, and for one of the UK's top 50 law firms. David Cooke, the Clerk and Chief Executive of Christ's Hospital Foundation said "I am delighted that Lesley Humphreys is joining us, and with her drive and impressive credentials I know she will make a really positive impact on our critically important fundraising activities".
Workshops for Primary Schools
Children came from schools in Horsham District and three other counties to join staff and pupils at Christ’s Hospital for a Maths and Music Workshop on Friday, 12 February.
Around 40 children, aged 9, many with their instruments and accompanied by their teachers, tuned into either the Music or Maths workshops offered by Adrian Bawtree, Director of Music and Alan Smith, Head of Maths with teacher, Arthur Mayhew, ably assisted by pupils Alex Moore and Candy Bowtell. Following a working session in the morning, the event culminated in a presentation to parents of how Maths and Music connects exploring binary numbers and self-similarity, finishing with a musical performance involving all the children.
St Peter’s Primary School, Leatherhead, one of the 15 schools who attended the day commented “The children returned to school full of enthusiasm and buzzing with the excitement of a most stimulating programme”.
Ben Vessey, Christ’s Hospital Deputy Head said “We were delighted to welcome so many children, staff and parents to Christ’s Hospital. The aim of the Workshops Programme is to provide a valuable and different educational experience for the children and feedback to this end has been extremely positive”.
Chefs Scoop Bowlful of Awards
A team of six Chefs from Christ's Hospital competed with the best at Hotelympia – one of the biggest events in the catering industry diary – and came home with an array of medals and awards.
The event takes place every two years and attracts hotels from as far away as Dubai and Turkey as well as Chefs from the armed forces, schools and commercial contracts throughout the country. This year it was held at the Excel Exhibition Centre in London.
Mike Blunden, General Manager for Chartwells, Christ’s Hospital’s catering contractors, said “A tremendous amount of time and effort goes into preparing each exhibit and we are extremely proud that all the Chefs that entered came away with an award. Special thanks go to chefs Kevin and Rob for all the time and help they gave to everyone who entered”.
Matt Mitchell - Gram Masterclass - Bronze Medal and Hygiene Certificate
Tomas Kourek - Steelite Passion to Inspire - Bronze Medal
Lubomir Kovar - Peppadew Culinary Challenge - Silver Medal and Best in Class Award
Robert Dant - Gourmet Classic - Bronze Medal
Tomas Kourek and Stephen Guy - Schwarz Pairing Challenge - Bronze Award and Best in Class Award
Robert Dant and Kevin Whitlock - Major Contract Catering Awards - Bronze Medal
Rugby SET Sussex Open 7s results
Sunday 7th March saw Brighton College School take the coveted SET Tours Sussex Open Sevens title in dominant fashion by beating John Fisher School 50-14 in the final at Christ’s Hospital. The ‘host’ teams Christ’s Hospital boys came second in their group, losing to RGS Guildford 17-14in a tough encounter - in the Quarter Final of the Plate; CH Girls did very well in their first tournament reaching the semi-finals and losing 15-0 to Wisbech School.
The day was well supported by over 3000 visitors and the regional professional clubs. Young players and children took the opportunity to talk to several professional players, including England 2007 World Cup player Peter Richards from London Irish, and Harlequin star and Puma international Gonzalo Tiesi and the players also had the privilege of having international referee, Wayne Barnes taking charge of the final.
With over forty schools involved, Guinness Premiership Referee and Tournament Director Sean Davey said, “This was an excellent day and advert for youth rugby and sport in the region. All the players should be congratulated for their athletic skills and sportsmanship displayed throughout and I am pleased that a Sussex school has taken the title. I would like to convey my thanks and gratitude for all those that supported this event, particularly our sponsors, the professional players and referees, and all the staff and visitors that made this event such a
memorable occasion”.
MAIN RESULTS:
SET Tours Sussex Open Sevens Trophy Final 2010:
Brighton College 50 John Fisher School 14
Plate Competition:
Oaklands 24 Bridgend College 19
Girls’ Competition:
Epsom College 17 Cranbrook School 7
http://www.wscountytimes.co.uk/sport/Video-highlights-of-the-Sussex.6139591.jp
'A Patch of Earth'
In a triumph of teamwork and talent, pupils from Christ’s Hospital and Tanbridge House School together staged a memorable evening of entertainment to raise funds and awareness for Save the Children and UNICEF projects in Rwanda. Playwright Kitty Felde was in the audience to see her play ‘A Patch of Earth’ - focusing on the face of modern genocide - powerfully interpreted by Luke Thomson and the excellent supporting cast. Mrs Felde said, ‘Watching a performance of one of my plays is like visiting old friends. The production of ‘A Patch of Earth’ staged at Christ’s Hospital is the best I’ve seen anywhere and it was very special to be part of the two evenings.’
The second half of the evening was a lively mix of song, drumming and dance that reflected the skills and work of both schools while the Fashion Show captured the united spirit of the evening and was a great hit with the audience who snapped up the hand-made bags produced by pupils for sale after the performance.
Also attending the opening night was Horsham MP Francis Maude who spent two weeks as a volunteer teaching 50 Rwandan primary school pupils. Mr Maude said, ‘I am so delighted that Christ’s Hospital and Tanbridge House School have been working together, strengthening community ties and links. It was a pleasure to see all the hard work put in by students and staff from the two schools to provide an informative and entertaining charitable event, it was very special’.
Both schools are engaged in other fundraising work for the Rwandan cause this term and are on target to raise £7000 to be divided between Save the Children and UNICEF.
The Rwanda Project
Christ’s Hospital and Tanbridge House School present
The Rwanda Project
Christ’s Hospital Theatre, 7.30 pm, Friday 26 and Saturday 27 February.
Christ’s Hospital has been working with Tanbridge House School in Horsham on a notable community project to raise money and awareness for UNICEF and Save the Children in Rwanda. Students from both schools have been meeting regularly since September to prepare an entertaining and thought provoking Theatre performance.
Students will perform the UK premier of the play ‘A Patch of Earth’ by Kitty Felde, award-winning US radio reporter and playwright, who will be flying over from Washington to attend both performances. This will be followed by a Fashion Show by both schools using African influences and the students’ own original ethical fashion ideas. Students will be modelling not only their designs but designs by Emma Watson from People Tree. The evening will conclude with combined performances of dance, drums and gospel music.
Francis Maude, MP for Horsham, has visited assemblies at both Christ’s Hospital and Tanbridge House School to describe his experiences of working in Rwanda and will attend performances with representatives from UNICEF and Save the Children in Rwanda.
During her visit, Kitty Felde will be holding workshops at both schools concentrating on Human Rights issues.
Tickets for the Theatre event will be available on the door or contact the boxoffice@christs-hospital.org.uk, telephone 01403 247434. Adults £2/Children 50p (all money will go directly to the charities).
St Valentine's Day
Glamour and romance transformed Dining Hall on Thursday, 11th February for Christ’s Hospital’s own special brand of St Valentine’s Day celebration.
Red balloons, streamers and paper hearts decorated the tables where Casanova Cassoulet was served with Passion Pudding and Melting Heart Biscuits and dreamy live jazz played as the Grecians delivered the traditional flowers and romantic messages.
Bluecoat Concert
St John’s, Smith Square
Review by Georgia Garrod, Deputy Grecian
The beautiful baroque columns and dazzling chandeliers of the Church of St John’s, Smith Square provided the backdrop for Christ’s Hospital’s most classically gifted pupils at this year’s Bluecoat Concert. The building itself is an architectural marvel, the four towers allegedly representing an overturned footstool kicked across the floor by a petulant Queen Anne in the presence of the architect.
Benjamin Kirk opened the show with bravura, playing a dazzling Bach’s Toccata in E major on the piano. He was followed by the Madrigal Choir with two enchanting vocal pieces, including the beautiful Arcadelt ‘Il bianco a dolce ciago’.
Henry Fowler and Hugh Lindley performed solo pieces on trombone and French horn respectively and Alex Moore gave a stunning solo performance of J S Bach’s ‘Toccata for Cello and Piano’. Rossini’s ‘String Sonata no.2 in A major’ was performed by four of the youngest pupils in the concert: Elliot Corner, May Shigeno-West, Gus Streeting and Bart Callaghan.
Henry Purcell’s composition ‘Trumpet Tune and Air’ opened the second half; the collective brass sound suited perfectly to the acoustics of the church, delivering uplifting and majestic reverberation. Mozart’s celebrated ‘Divertimento in F major’ was followed by Bach’s ‘Bradenburg Concerto No.3 in G major’ played with aplomb by saxophones and clarinets. Christ’s Hospital’s resident Jazz Band concluded the concert; their rendition of the laid-back Miles Davis classic ‘So What’ featuring magnificent solos, notably from trumpet prodigy Milo McKinnon.
All in all a sensational evening that would have been appreciated by the late architect Hugh Casson who said of the church: “just to come across it in that quiet square is an event. To enter it, to enjoy its spaces, to listen to fine music within its walls is an experience not to be matched in conventional halls.”
Running for Rwanda
On Sunday, 7th February, over 100 Christ’s Hospital pupils took part in Running for Rwanda, a sponsored run in the School grounds to raise funds for the young victims of genocide in Rwanda: this term’s Chapel Charity.
The team of runners ran a total 451 laps of the Mile and raised a magnificent £2,500. Special mentions go to Adam Jasko (18 laps), Tana Borlace (16 laps), and Toby Lane and Louis Grey-Edwards (13 laps each). Organiser Mr Andrew Phillips said, “Every House was represented and I’d like to thank all the runners for taking part with amazing spirit”.
The next major event in support of Rwanda is a joint presentation by Christ’s Hospital and Tanbridge House School on 26th and 27th February at the Christ’s Hospital Theatre.
View the video here and the slideshow here.
Blue Nights
Christ’s Hospital Theatre, Friday 22nd January
Review by Georgia Garrod, Deputy Grecian
Tables set out in a cabaret club-esque arrangement, an audience enjoying fine food and wine (served by a host of garçons) eagerly awaiting the world class instrumentalists about to pleasure their palettes; this is Blue Nights 2010. A new decade has brought a new era in the swing world of Christ’s Hospital with a sea of fresh singers bringing their debut performances to the stage. Rowan Piggott kicked off the evening singing the classic ‘Autumn Leaves’ made famous by Nat King Cole and later Eva Cassidy, with a small but exceptional Big Band consisting of stars of the jazz world.
The bar has rarely been raised so many times in one night with individual performances from some of the School’s most talented students including the breathtakingly accomplished Leo McCulloch on alto sax, Ferg Ireland on bass and Yuli Levtov on the drum kit, accompanied by an arsenal of Old Blues. The repertoire included loved jazz and swing classics, including ‘I Love You, Porgy’, a cheeky duet of ‘Let’s Do It’ and ‘My Secret Love’. Tom Traies, Georgia Garrod and Mr Mornington Lockett kept things fresh as a trio of tenor saxes with their New Orleans Hip-Hop rendition of Miles Davis’ ‘Gingerbread Boy’, while Idgie Broadbent-Smith’s performance of ‘Blues In The Night’ left spectators speechless.
The special something that makes this event all the more spectacular is the array of world famous musicians playing alongside the pupils. Christ’s Hospital is home to some of the world’s most prominent and prestigious jazz musicians: tenor saxophonist Mornington Lockett has played in the bands of jazz pioneers like Jim Mullen; Andy Crompton has dominated venues such as the Royal Albert Hall with his skill on the trombone; Steve Titchener, once of the Glenn Miller Orchestra (UK) is now assistant Musical Director of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra; while the musical feats of Alex L’Estrange are too numerous to mention.
The second half saw the elite of the Christ’s Hospital Big Band take to the stage. Vocal teacher Michael Robinson opened the set with ‘Maria’ from the West Side Story with a swing twist. Other highlights were the tenor saxophone feature ‘One Tree Hill’, written by Steve Titchener and performed with the ineffable improvisational talent of Mornington Lockett. Will Knight, another Blue Nights newcomer, delivered an electric performance of ‘Have You Met Miss Jones’.
GCSE Results 2009: Achievement and Attainment Tables
Christ's Hospital's focus on traditional academic subjects underpinned outstanding examination results in 2009. At GCSE, pupils recorded the School's best ever results with 95% of all entries at A*, A or B grade and 80% of entries at A* or A grade. The Times placed Christ's Hospital 12th in its national rank of GCSE examination results for Independent Co-educational Schools.
A Level results were also excellent with an overall pass rate of 100%. 33 candidates (a quarter of the group) achieved three or more A grades.
View a summary of examination results from 2005 to 2009
GCSE Government Achievement and Attainment Tables
The fact that the Government does not officially accredit the IGCSE (International GCSE) qualification in either Mathematics or English (despite awarding it official status in other subjects) severely distorts the CH results in the West Sussex schools’ league table performance for 2009. All Christ’s Hospital pupils take IGCSE Mathematics, which automatically excludes them from any system counting, only A*-C passes in “standard” GCSE, since these measures usually insist on including Mathematics and English.
Click here for futher information
Annual Christmas Fête Success
The outstanding sum of almost £2,000 was raised at this year’s Christmas Fête, organised by Deputy Grecian Jasmine Porteous and her energetic team, for Amnesty and other charities. Held at Christ's Hospital on Sunday, 6th December, the fête was open to friends and family of CH pupils and involved pupils from Second Form (Year 7) to Grecians (Upper Sixth), staff and their families.
Jasmine said: "It was a great example of CH working together: especially the seniors who came together on the day to do stalls such as hair braiding, cakes (Mrs Walsh donated some exquisite cakes), there was a huge second hand bookstall and a bric a brac stall. The teachers did their bit as well - Mr Deller had a bread stall and Santa (aka Dr Wines) came to visit. Also we had fantastic live music with an all-pupil band and much, much more. It never ceases to amaze me how many people get involved to help out at these events".
Box Office - see forthcoming events
Click here for futher information
Luncheon Club’s Christmas Celebration
Christ’s Hospital hosted a special Christmas meal on Thursday, 10 December for nearly 70 elderly people from the Horsham area. The well established and highly popular Luncheon Club meets monthly in the Court Room and its members greatly value the companionship of the club which is part of the extensive Christ’s Hospital Community Action programme. The December event was very generously sponsored, as in previous years, by J K Leech Fuels of Coolham.
There were mince pies and coffee on arrival, a full Christmas meal courtesy of Chartwells, the school’s excellent caterers, as well as the usual fun activities – a quiz and a raffle. Traditional carols were sung by the Christ’s Hospital Junior Choir, under the direction of Dr Victoria Rowcroft and accompanied by John Runcorn. Following the tradition of their boarding house, the ‘Middleton A’ Handbell Ringers provided more Christmas music and also raised funds for the Michaelmas Term Christ’s Hospital Chapel Charity. Father Christmas paid a surprise visit to hand out gifts to everyone.
For more information about CH Luncheon Club meetings please contact Marjorie Holdsworth on 01403 247571.
The Band at Southwater Christmas Festival
Santa’s arrival in a fire-engine accompanied by members of the Christ’s Hospital Band drew the crowds as they marched with Santa into Lintot Square to open Southwater’s Christmas Festival this year.
The Band was delighted to be invited to be part of the Festival's opening ceremony on Saturday, 5th December.
Making History on BBC Radio 4
The BBC Radio 4 programme Making History, broadcast at 3pm on Tuesday, 10th November, includes an interview at Christ’s Hospital which explores the purchase by Vic Thomas of a book ‘The Elements of Navigation’.
The book was produced by George Charles Searle, aged 16 years, a Christ’s Hospital Royal Mathematical School pupil who left the School in 1808.
More information is available on the BBC website and the programme can be heard on the 'Listen Again' service.
Carmen’s Procession, Cart Hiring and Installation Service
On Wednesday, 21st October Senior Grecian Lily Hayes and Second Monitor Alexander Woolley took part in the traditional annual Carmen’s Procession between Painters’ Hall and the Church of St Michael Paternoster Royal in the City of London. (Definition of Carman: a man who drives a car; a carter, carrier – The Shorter Oxford English Dictionary.)
On 19th March 1517 fifteen freemen agreed to provide horses and carts within the City of London. In 1529, the Carmen were incorporated and regulated by the Common Council of the City Corporation. The carters were to be licensed and would ply for hire from ‘carrooms or standings’. In 1582, Christ’s Hospital took over the licensing system and stands were placed near markets and, later, by the docks.
By the end of the Second World War virtually no carts plied for hire but in 1957 one of the liverymen resurrected the tradition. In 1965 the police abolished cart hiring and the last 18 standings; however the Carmen persuaded the Corporation to allow their tradition to continue on Installation Day when the new Master pays a fee of 5s to a Licensed Carman to hire his cart. The new Master installed in 2009 was Brian Wadsworth and the vehicle ‘hired’ was a 1929 Albion Dustcart.
Community Charter for Christ’s Hospital
A pupil-led initiative has resulted this term in the launch of a ‘Community Charter’ for Christ’s Hospital.
The Charter has been signed by all staff members and pupils and begins: - ‘We the undersigned agree to honour the principles as stated in the Christ’s Hospital Community Charter’. A promise to respect, be responsible, be generous and positive are just some of the principles stated and 30 copies have been framed and displayed around the CH campus.
Emily Barber, aged 17, began the project last year by researching other Community Charter models but, as she explained, “Christ’s Hospital is so different, we had to create our own formula”. As part of the launch of the Charter pupils were asked to review the School’s current peer-mentoring practice and this now extends across different houses and year groups with ‘community mentors’ identified through a yellow wrist band.
Jo Thomson, Deputy Head at Christ’s Hospital said, “The pupils involved in this project have worked hard over the last year to develop this initiative and we are delighted that it has now come to fruition. By signing the Charter, pupils and staff are pledging their commitment to Christ’s Hospital’s caring and supportive ethos”.
CCF Biennial Inspection
The biennial inspection of Christ’s Hospital’s CCF unit took place on 8 October, 2009.
Inspecting Officer was Lt Col. N Carson RSME and the formal inspection was conducted in the Quad where the three sections – Royal Navy, Army and RAF – formed up under Contingent Commander Major Claire Martin (CCF). Senior Cadet Alex Woolley led the parade with Cadet Sergeant Mefsut leading the Guard of Honour. A tour of CCF activities followed during the afternoon.
Exam Results
A full summary of the public examination results for GCSE, AS and A2 Level study at Christ's Hospital for the 2008-2009 academic year is now available.
Head Master John Franklin said: 'We are delighted with the performance of our cohort over the course of this year and are happy to report that The Times recently placed Christ's Hospital as 12th in their national rank of GCSE examination results for Independent co-educational schools.'
'Our hearty congratulations go to all of those Christ's Hospital pupils who have gone to make this such a successful academic year.'
You can download the results here: GCSE - AS Level - A2 Level.
St Matthew's Day
On Friday 18th September, senior pupils and the Christ’s Hospital Band marched through the City, escorted by mounted police, for the St Matthew’s Day Parade.
This annual occasion is watched by many people and gives Christ's Hospital the chance to reinforce its connections with the City. A special service was held at St Andrew, Holborn.
Traditionally St Matthew's Day was the day on which the Governors of Christ's Hospital School were elected. Since the School's move to Horsham, in 1902, St Matthew's Day has become the occasion when the Lord Mayor of the City of London distributes Largesse to a number of pupils at Guildhall and hosts a private lunch for the pupils. The Senior Grecian (Head Boy/ Girl) receives £10, Monitors £2, other pupils 50p.
ORDER OF THE DAY:
10.30 Pupils march from Carmelite Street to St Andrew
10.50 Arrive St. Andrew, Holborn
12.15 Depart St. Andrew, Holborn and march to Guildhall
12.45 Arrive at Guildhall
14.00 Depart Guildhall
BBC Radio London Interview
Tune in to the BBC's Listen Again Service to hear Tony Hogarth-Smith (CH Foundation Administration Officer) and pupil Uloma Wokoh (Grecian) interviewed live on BBC Radio London’s Robert Elms Show on Tuesday, 15th September at 1.30pm. The discussion covered CH’s history, its links with the City and St Matthew’s Day.
You can hear this interview via the BBC website on the 'Listen Again' service for seven days.