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2007-08

Christ's Hospital GCSE Results 2008

Christ's Hospital pupils recorded excellent results at GCSE level this year with a record 90% of all entries being at grades A*, A or B, and over two thirds of all grades being A* or A grades. The overall pass rate at A*-C was 97%.

Sixteen pupils obtained all A or A* grades with Alex Woolley, Will Lawrenson and Hugh Lindley gaining a clean sweep of 12 A* grades apiece. Peter O'Boyle from Horsham managed 11 at A* and one A grade.

The Head Master, Mr John Franklin was delighted with these results and said, "This cohort of Christ's Hospital pupils has given themselves an excellent academic foundation on which they can build their Sixth Form studies over the next two years."

"We extend our congratulations to these pupils for their excellent grades and the hard work over the past year that went into them."

Athletes Excel

With the Beijing Olympics and elite sport at the forefront of everybody's minds, it was impressive to see pupils at Christ's Hospital achieving national success during the summer holidays.

Athletes Nick Ofonagoro and Saoirse Chinery-Edoo, both aged 14, have had a busy summer; competing in the English Schools at Gateshead and the AAA outdoor UK under 15 championships at Birmingham. Competing for Sussex in the English Schools, both athletes performed exceptionally well. Nick finished equal 3rd in the final of the 80m hurdles and Saoirse finished 5th in the discus. A month later in the outdoor championships Nick fell when leading his semi final in the hurdles but Saoirse achieved further national athletic success for the School when he achieved a PB of 40.22m and a bronze medal in the discus.

Arthur Mayhew, Head of Athletics at Christ's Hospital said "the achievements of these athletes have been unbelievable and to be ranked so highly in the power of 10 rankings is a great credit to the hard work and commitment of the two boys. It has been encouraging to see that both boys have now joined local athletics clubs and this can only help to further improve their development in the future".

Christ's Hospital A2 Results 2008

Once again this year's A Level results were outstanding, with an overall pass rate of 99%, an A/B pass rate of 73% and an average UCAS points total of 325 points.

No fewer than 28 candidates, which is nearly a quarter of the group, achieved three or more A grades at A Level. Of particular note were Rosa Blaus, who gained five A grades and Ralph Hick, Edward Hudson, Dean Ryan and Helen Talbot (from Horsham) who achieved 4 A grades.

Also amongst the top performing candidates were Duncan Evans (AAAAC), Harry Dadswell (AAAB), Christopher Hockey (AAA), William Warman (AAA) and Matthew Phillips (from Horsham with AAA), who have all won places at Cambridge.

The Head Master, Mr John Franklin, said, "I am delighted with these results and very proud that the vast majority of our boys and girls have, through their own hard work and the support of their teachers, gained grades that will allow them to move on to exciting and fulfilling careers in the wider world".

In recent years well over 90% of Christ's Hospital pupils have progressed to their first choice of university and indications are that this will again be the case, with most pupils taking up places at Russell Group universities in this country or at good universities in the USA.

Grecians Ball

It is a tradition each year at Christ's Hospital to have a theme for the Leavers' Ball. This year, Grecians created a Chinese theme. The event (on Friday, 4th July), began with a reception hosted by the Head Master in his garden to the accompaniment of Chinese musicians.

The evening continued in Big School, with a Chinese banquet and dancing to a live band. At the end of the evening, Chinese lanterns were lit which flew into the sky to mark the end of the evening and their time at the School.

Prestigious Engagements for the Christ's Hospital Band

Despite the England team losing to New Zealand at Lord's on Saturday, 28 June, a cheer went up as the Christ's Hospital Band marched on.

This was the Band's 14th appearance for the MCC at Lord's for the Nat West Series England vs New Zealand (NZ won by 51 runs). The Band performed superbly led by this year's Band Captain, Lucy Edgington ably assisted by Rayhun Aminian, Robert Glenny and Emma Pitt. The Senior Drummer was Alice Goble.

Following this prestigious engagement, the School received many written tributes to the Band from members of the crowd who were so impressed by these young musicians.

Next term the Band's public engagements include Ypres, Menin Gate on 6 October, as part of World War I commemoration and the Lord Mayor's Show, London on 8 November.

Kukri Sports Sponsorship

Kukri Sports Ltd and Christ's Hospital School proudly announce a three year partnership to kit out the School's representative sports teams. The famous Kukri logo will appear alongside the traditional Christ's Hospital shield on all the team's sports kits for its pupils from age 11 to 18.

Laura Thomas, Director at Kukri GB, said "We are delighted to be Christ's Hospital's official sports team kit supplier and will be developing a bespoke design for this unique and historic school".

As part of the partnership agreement, Kukri will also be supporting the School's Major Tours Fund initiative, geared to give disadvantaged children sporting opportunities abroad.

John Franklin, Head Master said "Kukri won the contract over several other major companies due to their excellent product quality and their empathy with Christ's Hospital's charitable mission. Kukri will also be one of the sponsors of the SET Sussex Open Sevens event hosted by us on 1 March 2009. We look forward to building a strong partnership with them".

Christ's Hospital aims to help raise the profile of sport in schools and the Kukri association will ensure its representative teams will set an example, both when playing at home and abroad, the pupils will not only look professional but perform professionally - a great winning formula!

The Kukri Sports home page can be found here.

Picture: Back Row Far Left : Scott Gamble, Sales Manager - London South, Centre: John Franklin, Head Master, Christ's Hospital School, Horsham and Far Right: Laura Thomas, Director Kukri GB, with pupils in their traditional Tudor style uniform.

Christ's Hospital Students in 3 Peaks Challenge

Six students from Christ's Hospital set them themselves an incredible challenge for charity - in less than 24 hours on Saturday, 24th May, they aimed to peak the highest mountains in the UK - Scotland (Ben Nevis), England (Scafell Pike) and Wales (Snowdon) - furthermore, part of their climbing attire will be their traditional, rather heavy, Tudor style uniform!

Training for the Challenge started 7-8 weeks beforehand, slowly increasing the intensity. The team ran about 3-4 miles on flat land in the morning with walking boots. This included wearing heavy rucksacks, weighing up to 1.5 stones, about five times the weight they carried up the mountains with them.

Zac Newham, 16, said "The Challenge was a constant battle between our determination to finish in the time limit and of our ever increasing physical tiredness. Each peak was harder than the next and, if it hadn't been for our astonishing driver, John Turner, winning back our time from the traffic jam we encountered between Scafell Pike (the Lake District) and Ben Nevis (the Grampians) the overwhelming sensation of joy and disbelief, that came with finishing Ben Nevis just before our 24 hour time boundary, would have turned to despair. It was a great team effort that pushed us through for most of it besides the experience and advice provided from our instructor, Clare Bowen. What an amazing week-end!"

The team included Zac Newham, 16, Scott Mighall, 17, Robert Glenny, 18, Jonny Hedges, 17, Abi Sharp, 16 and Olivia Hitt, 16, led by Ms Bowen (Biology teacher who also leads the School's Duke of Edinburgh groups) and Mr Turner (Physics teacher) who did the driving (the driving time is included in the 24 hour Challenge).

They raised £1,323.85 for Tearfund alone. The project was initiated entirely by the pupils and sponsorship online is possible by visitingwww.justgiving.com/ch3peaks

Speech Day 2008

On Speech Day this year Christ's Hospital was delighted to welcome The Right Honourable The Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman David Lewis. Following a service in the School's Chapel the pupils marched past the Mayoral party to the accompaniment of the Band and junior pupil Choe Webb presented a posy of flowers to the Lady Mayoress.

After lunch, Senior Grecian (Head Pupil) Alex Baskerville gave the customary Oration in Big School to which the Lord Mayor warmly responded. Prizes and awards were presented to a number of pupils including:

A complete portfolio of photos of Speech Day 2007 will be posted on our website shortly.

Astronomy Day

Second Form pupils at Christ's Hospital watched agog as they were immersed in an afternoon of astronomical activities on Tuesday, 13th May 2008. The event was inspired by the Horsham Astronomy group who meet regularly at the School. The visiting guest speaker from this group, Bob Mizon, arrived with his very own inflatable Planetarium! Bob is not only a keen astronomer but also campaigns against light pollution, so an additional environmental perspective added to the success of the day.

This is how some of the pupils described the experience.

"Bob was very enthusiastic as he talked about how he saw the night sky when he was a little boy in London but now he doesn't because of light pollution" said Leeza Awojobi, aged 12, who is from London. This was particularly relevant for the 40% of the year group who come from London. The children were gripped by his hypnotic presentation.

Francesca Fiennes, aged 11, commented on the Planetarium

'As we crawled in, I knew this would be an experience I would never forget. I had been in a Planetarium before but this was different. There was a light in the middle of it, which projected the animals onto the silver canvas of the dome. Bob spun the cylinder around, telling us of the stars and constellations in our galaxy. He then projected a large group of twinkling stars on to the canvas. They were everywhere, twinkling and glittering above our heads. Everyone gazed at them enraptured!'

During the afternoon the pupils also experienced a spectacular display of rocketry. One of Christ's Hospital's Physics teachers, Mr John Turner, demonstrated two types of rocket. The pupils set up a Launch pad and counted down to blast off.

This is how Rosie Dodd, aged 11, described what happened next, "The smoke screamed out of the bottom of the rocket as it flew what seemed thousands of metres in the air. I couldn't see it anymore as it disappeared towards a massive oak about 60 metres away, COOL!"

Alan Smith (Head of the Royal Mathematical School at Christ's Hospital) shared his passion and great knowledge of Astronomy with the year group during his presentation about Mars.

Quentin Corker-Marin, aged12, described the talk. "He told us all about how scientists were thinking of the possibility of people living on Mars, and about its discovery and that it is about a 3rd of the earth's size but has an un-active volcano about 3 times bigger than Mount Everest! It was amazing! We were all captivated and amazed at all these facts."

The pupils retreated back to their boarding houses buzzing with excitement having enjoyed an inspiring day which will stay with them for a long time. And who knows, maybe one or two of them will find future careers in Space exploration!

Christ's Hospital forges links with livery companies

Christ's Hospital was delighted to make new acquaintances and renew some old during a recent Reception at Mansion House with the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman David Lewis. At an event hosted by Christ's Hospital Foundation and School for over 80 Livery Company Masters and Clerks, this was an opportunity to thank them for their generous support and to introduce Christ's Hospital's recently appointed Head Master and Chief Executive. The Livery guests also had the chance to meet pupils, some of whom were presented to the School by The Livery. Musical entertainment was provided by two talented pupil musicians, Tom Poulton (piano) and Leo McCulloch (saxophone).

Please contact Sam Rider, Development Director for information about ways in which to support Christ's Hospital sr@christs-hospital.org.uk

Christ's Hospital students in 3 Peaks Challenge

Six students from Christ's Hospital have set them themselves an incredible challenge for charity - in less than 24 hours on Saturday, 24th May, they aim to peak the highest mountains in the UK - Scotland (Ben Nevis), England (Scafell Pike) and Wales (Snowdon) - furthermore, part of their climbing attire will be their traditional, rather heavy, Tudor style uniform!

Zac Newham, 16, "You may have heard of crazy people doing the 3 Peaks Challenge - that's what we are going to do! Inspired in our Maths lesson by a teacher who told us about this Challenge, we thought it would be a great way to raise money for our summer projects. We've been training for the past 7-8 weeks, slowly increasing the intensity. We started off by running about 3-4 miles on flat land in the morning with walking boots. We've been wearing heavy rucksacks, weighing up to 1.5 stones, about five times the weight we will carry up the mountains with us. At least one of us will be proudly wearing our 'Housey' uniform and will carry the Christ's Hospital flag!"

The team includes Scott Mighall, 17, Robert Glenny, 18, Jonny Hedges, 17, Abi Sharp, 16 and Olivia Hitt, 16, led by Ms Bowen (Biology teacher who also leads the School's Duke of Edinburgh groups) and Mr Turner (Physics teacher) who will be driving (the driving time is included in the 24 hour Challenge). The money raised will go to Tearfund, Olivia's project in the Arctic and Zac's project in The Gambia, West Africa.

John Franklin, Head Master said "There is more to education than sitting behind a desk and Christ's Hospital is always keen to encourage young people to participate in extra-curricular activities. We are all very supportive of this ambitious challenge and we hope everyone will help the students reach their fundraising goal".

The project has been initiated entirely by the pupils and sponsorship online is possible www.justgiving.com/ch3peaks.

Old Blue explorers' journey ends

At just 19 Old Blues Rob Gauntlett and James Hooper became the youngest Brits to set foot on the summit of Mount Everest on May 17th 2006. They have now just sailed into Sydney harbour (9th May) having successfully completed their 22,000 mile Pole to Pole journey.

The objective of their expedition "180 Degrees - Pole to Pole" was to become the first people to travel using only human and natural power from the North to the South Pole. The purpose of the expedition was to experience and relate to others the effects that global warming was having on the planet.

Travelling 22,000 miles using only renewable resources and their own energy, they have experienced temperatures from -50 degrees C to 50 degrees C as they crossed the globe. On the way they could see the recession of the Arctic ice cap happening and the early melt of areas once permanently ice capped.

Rob, 20, and James, who turned 21 during the trip, and the crew of the yacht on which they have sailed the final leg arrived at the Geomagnetic South Pole on Thursday 24th April. (The crew on this final leg also included Charlie Berenger, also an Old Blue). This was the official end point of their journey.

Speaking of their achievements, Head Master of Christ's Hospital, John Franklin said: "Christ's Hospital has been very proud of Rob and James's achievements and their initiative to draw attention to such an important issue as climate change. We wish to congratulate them on successfully completing their journey which is yet another phenomenal achievement".

Details of Rob and James's trip may be found on www.180degrees.co.uk.

BIG BIKE RIDE at Christ's Hospital

Christ's Hospital is the NSPCC's Sussex venue for their national BIG BIKE RIDE this summer.

Heading off from the grounds of Christ's Hospital on Sunday, 20th July, along one of three different routes - the South Downs Way for the more ambitious to a delightful ride around the School's stunning grounds. Refreshments, entertainment and lots of bike information also happening on the day!

To join in, please visit the NSPCC's BIG BIKE RIDE website www.bigbikeride.co.uk.

Picture:
Sally Gunnell supporting the NSPCC's BIG BIKE RIDE

'Of Mice and Men' - A Classic Text for Students
Friday, 25 April 2008 at 8pm, Christ's Hospital School Theatre

Christ's Hospital School Theatre is the setting for John's Steinbeck's 'Of Mice and Men', a classic Literature text which is frequently a chosen set text for students studying English at GCSE or A-Level.

Presented by Say Two Productions, the production is touring nationally on a 10 weeks tour into schools in the UK and Ireland at selected theatres - Christ's Hospital is the only show south of Birmingham.

'Of Mice and Men' is John Steinbeck's classic tale of two friends who discover the underside of the American Dream. Set against a backdrop of America's Great Depression, George and Lennie are determined to buy a small farm of their own after years of making a living as itinerant farm workers. The two friends soon discover the flip side of their American Dream and the friendship is tested to its limits.

A good all round show suitable for children (aged 11+) and students or anyone who likes classic literature, this is not to be missed.

Contact the Box Office at Christ's Hospital on 01403 247434
Tickets £6 (£5 concessions) Friends £4
Facilities for Disabled People
Free Car Parking

Pupils Rise to Engineering Challenge

Christ's Hospital pupils have been working with the international electronics and systems group Thales as part of National Science and Engineering Week (NSEW), a 10-day celebration of science, engineering and technology.

On 13 March 2008 students in Year 10 took part in a UAV (unmanned air vehicle) Challenge, where they were engineers for the day. Working in teams, the students were tasked with researching, designing and building a model UAV, suitable to safely carry a "radioactive payload" - an egg.

The activity also included the students making a PowerPoint presentation and recording a broadcast advertisement. At the culmination of the day each team made a presentation to their fellow pupils, teachers and Thales representatives, promoting their model. Finally a test flight was made where the aims were to both land the vehicle without breaking the egg and achieve the greatest distance.

Head Master John Franklin said: "In running this event Thales has helped our pupils develop a practical interest in engineering and science which will make them think about their future career paths, particularly at a time when they are focusing on important A Level and university course choices. We hope that this will lead to more companies offering this type of educational experience for our pupils".

Students Inspired by First Woman Solicitor QC

Christ's Hospital students eager to pursue a career in law were treated to a lecture by June Venters QC on Wednesday, 5th March at the School. June was brought up in a council flat in Peckham and now sits as a Recorder in the Crown and civil Courts. She has also broken new ground for the profession by being the first woman solicitor to be appointed Queen's Counsel.

During her visit to Christ's Hospital, June was taken on a tour of the School, joined pupils for lunch and gave a talk to Senior Pupils who are interested in reading Law at University. The students were keen to ask questions about subjects to take at A Level that would steer them towards a degree in Law, what areas of Law are best to work in and what the future held for the current Legal Aid system. June also talked about how she became a solicitor and how she now works in the fields of Crime, Public Law, Child Care, Family Law and Serious Fraud cases.

Fascinated by Christ's Hospital and its ethos, June said "I knew very little about the School before my visit and can appreciate what a wonderful educational opportunity this is for children who come from very different and sometimes difficult backgrounds. I hope that I have inspired the students to continue working towards their career goal".

June Venters founded the Camberwell-based law firm Venters in 1991 and it now has offices in London and Reigate. In 1996, a documentary 'Law Women' was made about her working life.

Christ's Hospital's Cricket Appeal

For details of latest appeals, including the Restoration of the Cricket Pavilions go to the buildings projects page.

Christ's Hospital Memorabilia

The Christ's Hospital Association has a selection of CH memorabilia which you will find in their online shop on the CHA website - more items will be added in the coming months.

Three school chefs win gold, silver, bronze

Three chefs from Christ's Hospital School cooked their way to success in the British Open Cookery Championships held at the Hotelympia food service and hospitality show in London this week.

Ben Sulston, Rob Dant and Tomas Kourek competed in the live event after successfully designing menus for classes including School Catering, Essential Cuisine and Senior Traditional Pasta. After several hours of creative cooking they returned to the kitchens at Christ's Hospital with a total of one gold, two silver and three bronze awards.

Ben, who is Executive Head Chef for Chartwells, the company that provides Christ's Hospital with its catering services, won Gold (Best in Class) in the School Catering/Social Services competition. Ben said: "Every day at School we prepare breakfast, lunch and tea for 850 hungry boarders so we are constantly cooking tasty, imaginative food at high speed. By comparison, working live for the competition judges was as easy as pie!"

Picture (L-R):
Winning chefs Tomas Kourek, Ben Sulston and Rob Dant in the Dining Hall at Christ's Hospital School

Master in mathematics competition success

A 17 year old Christ's Hospital pupil, Tim Hennock, was one of three boys representing the UK who won the Romanian Master in Mathematics competition in Bucharest which was held between 8th and 10th February. The competition was hosted by the Tudor Vianu School, an elite maths and computing school. It is the first time in a decade that the UK has won an International Mathematics competition, battling it out with strong contenders such as Russia and Romania.

Twelve teams took part in this inaugural competition including Bulgaria, Poland, Serbia, Moldova and Yakutsk. The five hour examination paper covered geometry, algebra and combmatorics.

Tim, who also won an individual silver medal, said "It was a tough paper. Coincidentally, one of the questions was set by a UK mathematician, Dr Christopher Bradley, who started his teaching career at Christ's Hospital in the later 1970s. I was proud to be part of the British team with Jonathan Lee and Dominic Yeo and to win such a prestigious competition".

Tim has been awarded the 'Travers' Buckle by Christ's Hospital - the prize for proficiency in mathematics which originated in the 18th Century by Samuel Travers who left money to the School to further the development of maths.

Picture:
Tim Hennock with his individual silver medal

SET Sports Tours Sussex Open Sevens 2008

Sunday March the 2nd saw one of the most important and major warm-up tournaments for the Roslyn Park National Schools Sevens, take place at Christ's Hospital School. This event has been running for over 30 years and has witnessed great sporting talent emerge from this region, some of who are now playing for England.

The day involved 32 teams representing premier schools from all parts of England with the main competition won by Epsom College who beat Cranleigh School 24-19, in a tense and pulsating final that went to sudden death and in front of a crowd of 600.

Awards were presented by Head Master, Mr John Franklin, and Christ's Hospital's sponsorship partners including SET Tours (who are organising the Christ's Hospital Rugby and Hockey Tour to Australia in 2009), as well as Barclays, Land Rover UK (Harwoods), and Kukri Sports. With well over 1000 people in attendance and the event covered by local news and the press, the day was a great success.

Included in the line up was British Lions legend Dean Richards as well as international rugby stars Andy Gomarsall of Harlequins and England, England Sevens winger Richard Haughton, and Glen Jackson of Saracens and New Zealand. Meanwhile, four top International and Guinness Premiership Referees including Wayne Barnes and Andrew Small, as well as the Organiser, Premiership referee, Sean Davey who said "This was a fantastic day throughout and I was greatly impressed by the quality of play and the support given by our corporate sponsors and the local community, to both the School and the Christ's Hospital team"

Lady Bountiful and the Bluecoat Boys

On Friday, February 15th at 11am, "Lady Bountiful and the Bluecoat Boys" is scheduled for transmission by BBC Radio 4.

The programme will tell something of the story of Ursula Ridley who was a Governor of Christ's Hospital from about 1918 until the early 1960s and who presented a number of boys from 1922 to 1957 from the Ogmore Valley in Wales. Her involvement there was known to very few people but she became known in the Valley as Lady Bountiful.

Radio 4 looks at the story through the eyes of three of the boys she presented: Maldwyn Osborne (presented in 1944), Colin R E Davies (1951) and Martin Reed (1957) - possibly her last presentee from South Wales. These three Old Blues returned to CH for the first time in years for the making of the programme last October and shared many memories during what proved to be a moving visit.

Pictures (L-R):
BBC producer Steve Groves records Maldwyn Osborne and Martin Reed talking to Head Master John Franklin
Welsh Old Blues Colin R E Davies, Martin Reed and Maldwyn Osborne

A Great Opportunity to Join England Rugby Stars at CH on Sunday, 2 March

England scrum-half Andy Gomarsall and Saracens fly-half Glen Jackson will be among those attending the SET Tours Sussex Open U18 Sevens on Sunday, 2 March, at Christ's Hospital. The Tournament brings together 32 premier rugby-playing schools from London, Kent, Surrey and Sussex. Included in the line up are four top International Guinness Premiership Referees including Wayne Barnes as well as a number of professional academy players.

Organised by Premiership referee, Sean Davey, the Event starts at 10.30am with full catering and bar throughout the day, plus Raffle and Auction with donated memorabilia including signed International Rugby shirts. The day finishes at 4.30pm.

Families, Rugby enthusiasts and all are welcome to help make this a great day for hundreds of children!

Christ's Hospital top West Sussex school for GCSE 2007

Christ's Hospital came top in West Sussex in the 2007 round up of examination scores published by the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

The average point score per student was recorded as 518.0 (Local Authority average 372.3).

This follows the results gained by Christ's Hospital candidates in public examinations in August 2007 which closely matched the pattern established in recent years, with excellent pass rates, further distinguished by top grades.

Blue Peter

BBC One, 5.00 pm, Wednesday 9th January
Repeated on The CBBC Channel, 8.30 am, Thursday 10th January

Blue Peter found out what it is like to be a boarder at Christ's Hospital when presenter Andy Akinwolere spent the day at CH meeting Habon Mohamud and her friends.

Third former Habon said of her television experience:

"The thing that I enjoyed mostly was being with Andy and crew. The best shoot was the last shot where we had a little game of rounders. Andy was really funny."

"From being involved in filming I learnt that, if you want to become an actress or an actor, it's a very difficult job, saying the right words at the right time, it's not easy. But the main thing I learnt is just being yourself and having fun."

Cadia goes back to School!

Christ's Hospital and Lloyds TSB Commercial were delighted to host the November Cadia meeting at the School in Horsham which was attended by over 150 businesses from throughout the Gatwick Diamond. Guests watched Lunch Parade and met pupils over lunch before being taken on a tour of site.

The event was an opportunity for the School to highlight its work and its need for funding to the local business community. The business community were encouraged to join the Corporate Donation Governorship Scheme which is a way for business to help the School identify, support and develop the next generation of scientists, engineers, musicians, business leaders and entrepreneurs.

For more information on the Scheme please contact Tony Thorn at Christ's Hospital on 01403 247654 or email tt@christs-hospital.org.uk

Term ends with a Christmas cracker bang

Over 800 Christmas crackers were pulled with great energy and excitement at the School's Christmas lunch on 7th December, the last Friday of the Michaelmas Term.

A big thank you goes to our catering staff for providing such a delicious lunch and beautifully presented tables. Thanks also to the School and Foundation staff that helped out in the Dining Hall by donning aprons, rolling up sleeves and wearing some very interesting headgear.

Lunch Club's Christmas celebration

Christmas trees, carol singing, turkey and hand-bell ringing - all the things of Christmas filled the Court Room at Christ's Hospital on Thursday 6th December.

The occasion was the Christmas lunch and festivities for the group of elderly people who regularly attend a monthly Lunch Club here at Christ's Hospital. The Christmas lunch is always the highlight of the year and it was again sponsored this year by J.K. Leech Fuels Ltd of Coolham.

The monthly Lunch Club, set up in 1993, involves 70 - 100 elderly people, some with disabilities, who live in Horsham and the surrounding villages. It is one part of the extensive activities which form part of the Christ's Hospital Community Action programme. This programme involves over 200 Christ's Hospital students each week visiting 30 - 40 different placements in Horsham and the local district. Many activities take place at Christ's Hospital as well.

In addition to a delicious Christmas lunch, there was carol singing (in both French, German and English!) from the youngest students, bell ringing from the boys of Middleton A Boarding House, a quiz, a raffle and of course a visit from Father Christmas!

If you would be interested in joining us for the monthly lunches, or indeed helping with the transport, please contact Marjorie Holdsworth on 01403 247571.

The Threepenny Opera

Venue: Christ's Hospital Theatre
Dates: Thursday 22nd, Friday 23rd, Saturday 24th November
Time: 8.00pm
Tickets: £10 (£9): Friends £8; Box office: 01403 247434

Also at Wilton's Music Hall, London, Monday 26th November, 7.30pm. Call: 0207 702 2789

The team at Christ's Hospital that brought you West Side Story, Guys and Dolls and The Magic Flute come together again to present THE THREEPENNY OPERA as their special Christmas production. The Music and Drama Departments at the School, both of which have outstanding reputations, are collaborating on this major event which involves a full cast of 25 plus band.

The Threepenny Opera is inspired by John Gay's iconic Beggars' Opera. Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill produced in The Threepenny Opera "the greatest musical of all time" (The New York Times). Searing in its enactment of poverty and inequality, it yet manages to fuse potent music with humour, cynical charm and never to be forgotten characters. This production offers an evening of passion and politics, romance and reality. It will also represent an exciting opportunity for young first time opera-goers, as this is a work that will be performed entirely by students.

Photographs by John Garfield-Roberts

A close shave for Pudsey!

The Estates staff at Christ's Hospital persuaded fellow colleague, Clive Simon, 51, to shave off his beard of 28 years to raise money for Children in Need.

Clive, has worked for Christ's Hospital for 13 years as a grounds man and mechanic and is part of the team who maintains the 250 acre School campus.

Two colleagues, Rowena Harris and Diane Coller, with the scissors and shaver at the ready, volunteered to start the process off, with Clive feeling somewhat "apprehensive" at the thought.

Clive, without moustache and beard and looking 28 years younger, will now be collecting his sponsorship pledges of £125 and still rising for this worthy cause.

Lord Mayor's Show

On Saturday, 10 November, the Christ's Hospital 120-strong Band of talented musicians was again delighted to be part of the Lord Mayor's Show, returning to the City where the School was originally founded 455 years ago.

The Band Captain this year is Lucy Edgington and Senior Drummer is Alice Goble, both aged 17.

Christ's Hospital powers through in national rugby competition

Christ's Hospital's u15 rugby team has had an impressive season so far. Unbeaten as u13's and losing only once last year, they have conceded just three tries all season, while scoring 65 and an incredible 400 points in eleven games.

Recent victories over local rivals Brighton College and a comprehensive win over Tiffin are the latest in a long list of victories racked up over the course of the season. Their latest victory over Skinners saw them progress into the 5th round of the Daily Mail Cup and set up a tie with either St Paul's, Barnes or St Benedict's, Ealing.

They are led by skipper Efe Idemudia who has been an outstanding player and a leader over the last three years. The contributions of number 8, Gideon Hammond, and the full back Michael Davies have all led to the team's success. Other boys within the squad have developed their rugby having had very little experience and players such as Eddi Chimbudu-Campbell, Louis Davies, David Okpala and Oscar Gush are testament to this.

Good luck to them in the next round!

Carmen Installation procession

In recognition of Christ's Hospital's historic links with the Worshipful Company of Vintners, the Senior Grecian was invited to attend the Installation of the new Master, Mr Nick Meyer, on 17 October 2007.

Pictures (L-R):
Senior Grecian (Head Girl) pictured in procession
Senior Grecian with new Master, Nick Meyer, and the Clerk of the Company

Opening of The Doyle School of Design and Technology

On 12 October, Old Blue Jack Doyle was welcomed back to Christ's Hospital to formally open The Doyle School of Design and Technology, newly refurbished thanks to Jack's generous contribution of £200,000 towards its development. The state-of-the-art facility now incorporates interconnecting ground floor workshops, fabrication spaces, computing facilities and an upgraded foundry.

The opening proved a great success, with business leaders representing major companies and business organisations such as Rolls Royce, Barclays Bank, Seeda and Cadia, who were impressed both by the fantastic new facilities and the entertainment from Christ's Hospital's 100-strong Band.

Tony Thorn, Major Donor Fundraiser for Christ's Hospital, said: "Following the opening of The Doyle School of Design and Technology, a number of trust funds involved in engineering have come forward to offer their support under our Corporate Donation Governor scheme. The scheme will allow those involved to help mentor, support and guide a child, nurturing potential employees of the future as well as promoting industries, such as engineering, which have become less popular in recent times".

On November 30, Christ's Hospital is hosting an event for local business leaders in conjunction with Cadia, to provide more information about how business can get more involved with the School. If you would like to attend, or for more information about Christ's Hospital and the Corporate Donation Governor scheme, please contact Tony Thorn on 01403 247654, or email tt@christs-hospital.org.uk.

Bryony's squash success

Talented Christ's Hospital pupil Bryony Johnson is the new England Squash South East Area champion after winning the Under-17 tournament at Wimbledon on 7 October. To claim the top prize Bryony beat players from seven counties: Essex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Middlesex, Surrey and Sussex.

Currently ranked 14 in the U17 age group in England Bryony says she needs to play competitively four or five times a week to maintain her standard. She explained, "It is sometimes hard to fit in because I really enjoy playing netball and hockey and doing athletics for the school as well, and of course I have to keep up with my school work and have a social life!"

Bryony was first taught to play squash by Graham Stevenson in Storrington, when she was eleven years old, before moving on to Horsham Squash Club. "Phil Lansberry made Saturday afternoon squash loads of fun for so many of us," said Bryony, "and at school Mr Williams has given me lots of support and encouragement."

Bryony now plays for the First team at Christ's Hospital as the number one string as well as being a County player at U19 level. "I am coached by Mike Harris of England Squash who has been working me really hard lately. I hope to be able to continue to improve my game and position in the England ranking."

"Winning the tournament on Saturday was a brilliant feeling - especially as it doesn't happen very often!"

CCF celebrations

This year's formal CCF inspection was conducted on 4 October by Rear Admiral John Lippiett, CB MBE currently Chief Executive of the Mary Rose Trust and Vice President of the CCF. Following a 36 year career in the Royal Navy, Rear Admiral Lippett's last Naval post was in command of the Joint Services Staff College, as the first Admiral Commandant. He was made a Companion of Bath for his services to the Royal Navy and NATO.

During the inspection at CH, all serving Old Blues were invited to join the CH Treasurer, General Sir Garry Johnson and Head Master, John Franklin to support the Army, Navy and Air Force cadets on parade.

Guests had the opportunity to meet the cadets and observe the various kinds of activities that can happen on parade days. Cadets also had the chance to find out more about careers in the forces, when they met the visiting Old Blues Officers over tea.

The Paddy Vincent Flying Scholarship

Old Blue, Captain P M C (Paddy) Vincent was present to watch the CCF parade on 4 October. Paddy, accompanied by his wife Mrs Susan Vincent, spoke to CH Cadets about the exciting new Flying Scholarship which will enable one of their number to attain a Private Pilots Licence and presented a cup to Cadet Warrant Officer Angus Denton (ThA\GrW) who is due to benefit this year.

Flt Lt Taliska Stuart-Gordon, OC RAF Section, commented on the valuable gift: "This is a fabulous opportunity for an outstanding cadet who has made a significant contribution to the section and who has a passion for flying to obtain a pilot's licence. We are very grateful to Paddy and his family since cadets would obviously struggle to find the £5000 to pay for lessons and training needed to gain a PPL".

Jurassic history on the curriculum

To mark the arrival of the new Head Master, John Franklin, at Christ's Hospital this term, the Australian Old Blues Society (former pupils) presented him with a Wollemi Pine, one of world's oldest and rarest plants dating back to the Jurassic era and recently rediscovered in Australia, having thought to be extinct.

John Franklin, born and educated in Australia, said "It is a privilege to be the Head of this remarkable School. The Wollemi Pine is particularly special to me as it brings a piece of Australia to the English countryside. This is a very thoughtful gift from the Australian Old Blues which will be much observed and enjoyed by staff and pupils as it matures. We much appreciate the ongoing support of the Society who have presented (supported) 11 children and raised over £50,000 towards the costs of educating pupils".

Note: The Wollemi Pine's mature foliage is Jurassic-like, featuring two rows of leaves on the branches, not unlike the spines on a Stegosaur's back. It produces cones from approximately 9 years of age. It has a unique chocolate brown bubbly bark which forms as the plant matures. Kernock Plants, based in Cornwall www.kernock.co.uk.

John Franklin (Head Master) accompanied by Old Blues and pupils of Christ's Hospital with Dr Jane Baker whose suggestion it was to present an Australian tree to Christ's Hospital to mark the appointment of the new Head Master.

Celebrating Christ's Hospital's city links

The tradition of the School's St Matthew's Day (21 September) celebration which stretches back to Christ's Hospital's foundation in 1552, was marked by a thanksgiving service in the Church of St Andrew, lunch at Mansion House and a parade through the City of 300 pupils accompanied by the Band.

St Matthew's Day was traditionally the day on which the Governors of Christ's Hospital were elected; former Governors include Sir Christopher Wren and the famous diarist, Samuel Pepys.

The invitation to Mansion House commemorates the School's City origin and links with the Corporation when each pupil meets the Lord Mayor, Alderman John Stuttard, and The Lady Mayoress, each receiving 'largesse', a small sum of money, fresh from The Mint.

Just three weeks into the first term for John Franklin as new Head Master, he commented "St Matthew's Day is one of the many important traditions of this great school when we thank the City and the School's many Governors (over 650 in all) for their generosity and continuing support".

Pictures (L-R):
Parade through the City
Thanksgiving Service at the Church of St Andrew, Holborn
Alex Baskerville (Senior Grecian), John Franklin (Head Master), Sir Garry Johnson (Treasurer), Paul Tuckwell (Clerk) and Ato Ocansey (Second Monitor)

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