news - Gordonstoun

gordonstoun
record
news and updates for summer 2014
80th anniversary
voyage
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Bruce House
Duffus House
Hopeman House
Round Square
Altyre House
Class of 2014
Class of 2014
Cumming House
Gordonstoun House
Plewlands House
Windmill Lodge
contents
Open Day AddressAcademic UpdateRoyal VisitThe GA
Staff Farewells Exchanges News in BriefSpotlight On
Meet the StaffArt and DesignSports Roundup News from the
Student Profiles Open WeekendPerforming Arts Junior School
The Cagebirds
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Open Day Address
Mr Simon Reid
ba
our curriculum for the cohort of children who will be
taking this new look GCSE. The children affected
are currently in Year 6 of the Junior School. So we
announced at the end of April that from September we
are making changes to the Year 7 and 8 curriculum
so that it teaches them the content and the skills they
will need in preparation for the new GCSEs and, in
addition, ties in much more effectively with the Year 9
curriculum. Like many prep schools all around the UK
we have therefore decided that the Common Entrance
curriculum does not help us progress through to GCSE
and will therefore introduce our own end of Year 8
examination. We will continue to accept Common
Entrance, alongside our own examination as the basis
of direct entry into Year 9.
The Principal enjoys a Sail Training Voyage with Year 10 students
It is a 100 years since the outbreak of the First World
War and 80 since Gordonstoun was founded, very
much in the shadow of the Second. Kurt Hahn’s
passionate desire to teach young people about steering
the right path in life, very much in his mind 80 years
ago as he fled imprisonment in Nazi Germany to found
a new school in Scotland, rings as strongly today, as it
did 80 years ago.
To celebrate the 80th Anniversary of our Foundation,
over 80 days we are taking our Sail Training Vessel,
Ocean Spirit of Moray on a voyage around Great
Britain which we are calling “80 Years in 80 Days”.
Manned by students we will be calling in at Edinburgh,
Ipswich, St Katharine Docks in London, Brighton,
Portsmouth, Salcombe, Bristol, Liverpool and Glasgow
before making our way home.
This approach to education has benefits which are far
wider. The All-Parliamentary group on Social Mobility
published their “Character and Resilience Manifesto”
in January of this year. Based on extensive research
their conclusions were that Character and Resilience and I quote, “the attributes that enable individuals to
make the most of opportunities that present themselves,
to stick with things when the going gets tough, to
bounce back from adversity and to forge and maintain
meaningful relationships” - must be fostered.
This year the Henderson Climbing Wall has been
completely refurbished and Ogstoun Theatre has a
beautifully designed extension which includes two
classrooms for dance and drama, offices and a new
Dance Studio. It was opened by Their Graces the Earl
and Countess of Wessex and its timing is fortuitous: this
year marks the 20th year that we have been running
Dance as part of the curriculum at Gordonstoun.
They cited the growing body of evidence that these
so-called “soft skills” may be as crucial for academic
attainment as IQ and that there is, in addition, a clear
link between these skills and increased wages in later
life; because an increase in reliability and persistence
has a direct impact on productivity in the workplace.
This is no news to anyone who has been associated in
even the smallest way with Gordonstoun over the last
80 years.
As you will be aware from reading the newspapers
there is a lot of change coming from the Department of
Education at the moment. One of the most significant
areas of change involves extensive alterations to
the GCSE examination. It is important that we tailor
Mrs May Henderson, who endowed and refurbished the climbing wall
in memory of her son Gordon Moray Henderson (Duffus ‘78), with
the Lord Lieutenant of Moray, Lt Col Grenville Johnston.
2
Open Day Address
Professor Bryan Williams OBE BA MA CQSW
I wrote to you in April 2012 outlining ambitious
building plans for developing the boys’ boarding
houses and turning Round Square into a Centre
for ISC and Classrooms - in fact a project that Kurt
Hahn first mooted to parents in 1944, so it is not just
your current Principal who has fallen behind in his
plans! Now the Ogstoun extension is in use, we can
start work on completely altering the old dance and
drama area and returning it to its original use as a
boarding house, though with significant extension and
complete modernisation. I am delighted to say that the
Governors approved the commencement of this work
at their last meeting and the work is due to start in the
autumn.
the immediate and wider community; and play a full
part in the sporting and cultural life of the school. Most
rise to these multi-dimensional challenges but none of
these things can happen to their maximum potential
unless our students are happy, feeling secure and
confident in themselves.
Once this is built, our aim is to move Cumming House
into the new area so that the upgrade of Cumming
can commence. It is difficult at the moment to tie this
into specific dates but what is clear is that we will move
ahead with this programme as quickly as we prudently
can. We remain excited about the prospect of where
this will take us and I will let you know as our capital
development plans unfurl.
I can, however, reassure you that the safety, security
and happiness of your son or daughter is the prime
concern of every Governor and every member of
staff at Gordonstoun. Pastoral care today is highly
regulated and structured and is, properly, at the heart
of everything that the school does. Our latest Care
Inspectorate Report commented on the “extremely
positive health promotion and child protection
procedures” at Gordonstoun. Such a reputation is not
achieved simply by rearranging procedures but results
from deeply embedded practices in which all are
involved.
There has been much publicity recently about
distressing things that took place mainly, but not
exclusively, in boarding schools in the 1970s and
1980s. The Times has been particularly active in its
reporting and I am sure many of you will have read
their shocking revelations. It is entirely right that
these things are brought out into the open and that
perpetrators are brought to justice.
I have now been three years at Gordonstoun. They
have been very enjoyable, challenging and fulfilling.
There is something special I believe about this place
and its people, you feel it when you first arrive but it
is a feeling which grows as you get to know it. I hope
you feel it, too. This is how the ethos of a school like
Gordonstoun can effect an individual, those around
them and ultimately the wider world. This was the spirit
of Gordonstoun 80 years ago, and it is very much still
alive today.
Professor Bryan Williams, Chair of Governors
It has been a busy and eventful year at the school and
Open Day is a focal point when we can meet others
and celebrate much that is noteworthy. As a parent of
an OG, I have many happy memories of being shown
round by a daughter who was rightly full of pride in
her school. I always enjoy the opportunity to come to
Gordonstoun but particularly to spend time with our
students - your sons and daughters.
Professor and Mrs Williams meet The Princess Royal at St Katharine Docks
To return to my starting point, we are rightly proud of
the calibre of our pupils, and students and visitors to
the school typically comment on their strong sense of
personal identity, their distinctive individuality, open-ness,
sense of fun, courtesy and concern for others. This is
living proof of the wisdom of Kurt Hahn’s educational
philosophy and of the commitment of all who make
Gordonstoun the successful school that it undoubtedly is.
We make many demands on our young people.
We expect them to participate fully in the school’s
academic curriculum, meet the many challenges of
expeditions in the hills and on the water, broaden their
horizons through engagement in international projects
and conferences, be of active service to others in both
3
Staff Farewells
Graham Broad
joined the
School in 1973 as Head of Geography.
He retired at the end of the Spring
Term as the last member of the
academic staff to have served under
four Headmasters...Messrs Kemp,
Mavor, Pyper and Reid. He worked at
Gordonstoun for 33 years with an 8
year gap in the middle when he left
to be the highly successful Headmaster of Rockport School
in Northern Ireland. Throughout this time he has been very
closely supported by his delightful family, his wife Carleen
and children Claire, Mark and Tim.
Graham is a classic schoolmaster and his all-round
commitment to every aspect of life at Gordonstoun has
been a constant characteristic of his time here. He was an
outstanding teacher of Geography and led his department
with a clear vision and the desire to inspire young people
to develop their knowledge of his subject. On his return to
Gordonstoun in 1995 he taught within the Learning Support
and EAL Departments.
Graham’s affinity for racket sports has led to his long
term involvement with both tennis and squash, as an
accomplished competitor in the local area and also as a
passionate Master in Charge. Generations of Gordonstoun
students have been successfully introduced to these sports
and have had their skills nurtured and extended by his
innovative, direct but very compassionate coaching style. His
involvement with Elgin Tennis Club has been considerable
and he was the major catalyst with regard to the foundation
of the Moray Firth Squash League. Graham’s involvement in
other sports has led him to organise a huge number of tours
both at home and overseas which have included tennis to
the Youll Cup at Wimbledon, hockey to the Oxford Festival,
cricket to the West Indies and squash to India.
In addition to the above, Graham has made a significant
contribution to the pastoral life of the school. He has been
the Housemaster of Gordonstoun House, an Assistant HM
in Bruce and in the recent past a highly effective Tutor in
Cumming House. His caring, knowledgeable and tenacious
approach to this aspect of his time here has been greatly
appreciated by the boys and the HMs that he has supported.
Outside of the school he has been actively involved in the
local community as a Special Constable, Lay Preacher and
through his work with the Child Contact Centre in Elgin.
Everyone at Gordonstoun will miss him greatly but he will be
very much looking forward to spending time with Carleen,
labouring in their magnificent garden, on the Moray Links
and with his rapidly increasing number of grandchildren. We
all wish him a long, restful and happy retirement!
Andy Collins joined the staff in August
2009 as Housemaster of Cumming House,
History teacher and rugby coach and he
has brought a level of professionalism and
expertise to all three areas which has benefitted
the students enormously. As HM of Cumming
he has also nurtured a whole generation of
boys through the school, and his avuncular
presence will be missed by those he leaves
behind. His study in Cumming reveals much: bookshelves full of
tomes on British naval history; a small and easily missed photograph
of Andy playing rugby for England; trays of soft drinks and beers
(Sixth Form only of course!); and photos of Cumming boys, all evoke
the atmosphere of Cumming and the skills he has brought to leading
it. Latterly Andy has also piloted the scholarship co-ordinator
position, introducing the Wednesday evening ‘Academus’ society
and interviewing scholars individually to promote their development
and heighten awareness of their position as scholars. He leaves us,
with his wife and three children, to be the Assistant Head (Housing)
at Millfield School. We wish him all the best in his new post.
Matt Hall has a genuine enthusiasm for
sharing his love of Geography, about which
he is so passionate, and has an almost boyish
delight in the subject that students respect and
appreciate. His time at Gordonstoun has also
been marked by his genuine love for outdoor
education; his contribution to expeditions and
mountain biking has been highly valued. Matt
has embraced the international perspective
of Gordonstoun by having the responsibility of leading the RSIS
Ladakh project in 2013 and has also fully committed himself with
energy and passion to the Fire Service. Matt is returning to the state
sector armed with new experiences gleaned from Gordonstoun and,
although we will be sad to see him go, we wish him well on this new
adventure with young people.
Louise Kemp arrived at Gordonstoun
in 2011 and quickly made her mark leading
the development of teaching and learning in
the English Department. Her own teaching
was outstanding and a collaborative approach
and the openness and support within the
department helped ensure its considerable
success. Never afraid of a challenge Louise
was one of the first females to tutor in a boys
boarding house, earning the respect of her tutees and supporting
the House fully, including House expeditions. Joining the Fire
Service; going on expeditions, passing her Powerboat Award and
many other contributions are examples of Louise’s wholehearted
endorsement of the School’s ethos. Louise leaves us to become
Head of Sixth Form at Wisbech School, Cambridgeshire.
4
Staff Farewells
Laura Bowman arrived at
Gill Carfrae burst into the
Biology Department three years ago
and she quickly established herself as
a friendly engaging teacher with an
imaginative approach to her lessons
which were always meticulously
planned. Within the department she
was always fully prepared to share ideas
and to discuss how best to deal with
certain topics. Gill has been a valued part of the Hopeman
Pastoral team and has spent many hours helping to run the
horse riding activity at Gordonstoun. Her colleagues within
the department will miss her energy and her sense of fun but,
of course, we wish her all the best as she continues in her
‘island hopping’ career.
Gordonstoun in 2012 as AHM at
Hopeman House and the House staff
and girls immediately fell in love with
‘Miss B’ and her kind and gentle spirit
and caring nature. The girls have
loved sharing Laura’s brews and her
homemade face packs have also gone
down a treat! Laura experienced her
first expeds with the House and has been brave at trying lots
of new things! Both on and off duty, she has been a very real
presence in the House and has also worked phenomenally
hard as a member of the Drama and ISC departments.
It goes without saying we will miss her greatly and wish
her every success as she pursues her PGDE to become a
qualified teacher.
Peter Geaves joined the staff in
April 2011 and rapidly made his mark
as an enthusiastic teacher within the
Maths Department. He was a tutor in
Bruce House and supported the boys
and the House with enthusiasm and
commitment. A keen swimmer and real
fitness fanatic, Peter was a valuable
swim coach and a key member of
the Pool Lifeguards service. In his own time he regularly
competed in cycling and swimming events and is now
focused on triathlons and hoping to break into the National
squad, having cleaned up in the inter-House event! Peter
leaves to take up a teaching post in Leeds.
Brian Miles has been helping
to maintain a male presence in the
Languages department since January
2011. This fresh-faced, dynamic French
teacher has been a breath of “young”
air in the department, teaching a
wide range of ages and abilities with
great energy and loads of ideas.
He has been heavily involved in the
broader curriculum of the school - organising and leading
expeditions, tutoring in Cumming House, Year 9 Leader,
assisting with the Paris trip and the Romania project last
summer and, latterly, Head of the Mountain Rescue Service.
Brian has evolved as a skilled practitioner and he will be
sorely missed by staff and students alike. We wish him every
success in his new post on the Isle of Man.
Kate Turbett
Geraint Watkins’ contribution
to music at the Junior and Senior
Schools, as well as the pastoral and
extra-curricular life of the school has
been immense. From his teaching of
every year group in the School, leading
countless ensembles and the day-to-day
co-ordination of music at the Junior
School, to the organisation of concerts,
music tours, Sing! Moray, social events, cross-country, the
occasional Real Ale appreciation evening and his many duties
as AHM at G-House, Geraint has been a true asset to the
many faceted aspects of School life into which he has thrown
himself. There are many students who have been inspired in
one way or another by Geraint’s passion for music and he
has ensured that he leaves music at the Junior School thriving.
He will be dearly missed at Gordonstoun by both staff and
students but we wish him well as he takes up the post of Head
of Senior Music at Marlborough College Malaysia.
joined in 2011
and, from the very start, threw
herself into all the opportunities that
all teachers at Gordonstoun are
challenged with - and much more.
She not only transformed photography
in the School but also managed to
fit in sailing (including Tall Ships),
expeditions, being Commander of First
Aid Service, a tutor at Hopeman and leader of staff circuits
sessions! As a dynamic professional, Kate committed herself
wholeheartedly to the School, always with spirit, enthusiasm
and a sense of fun. She gave so much of her time to guide
art students not only through their coursework and exams
but also their art portfolios for further study applications. The
art students and staff will hugely miss her joie de vivre, warm
personality and boundless energy. We wish her all the best
in her travels to work at Sha Tin School in Hong Kong as Key
Stage Three Co-ordinator of Art.
5
Meet the Staff - Mr Al McNeill, HM Cumming
been on Sail Training Voyages, dangled off the end of a rope
in MR, led students up mountains and spent time with them
socially. I have also been involved in the Thailand Water
Project twice, working in support of Kim Barton. There is never
a dull day at Gordonstoun!
What made you go into
teaching?
I was an Engineering Officer
in the RAF for 20 years and
had done a couple of jobs
that involved an element of
instructing and presenting
which I really enjoyed. I also
like working with young
people and so teaching
seemed like an ideal fit as a
second career.
What do you like doing when you aren’t at School?
Spending time with my wife Lucy, my children, Isla and Jenny,
and my daft collie, Skye. I also enjoy lots of sports and keep in
touch with friends mainly through sport. I also like playing the
piano (badly).
How does your family feel about the move to
Cumming?
How long have you been at Gordonstoun and what
roles have you had?
I arrived at Gordonstoun in September 2009 as a Maths
Teacher and Tutor in Round Square. I am also involved, as
a Mountain Leader, in the Outdoor Education programme
and in the activities programmes. I was a member of the
Coastguard Service for three years and am now with the
Mountain Rescue (MR) Service. I have also run the school golf
programme for five years.
We are all really excited about it. To be honest, I wouldn’t
have applied for the job if it wasn’t something that the family
fully supported. With Jenny joining Year 9 and Isla moving
into Year 10, the timing could not be better for us to take on
the role of HM. Lucy has always been a fantastic support to
me and I am looking forward to working with her in trying to
maintain the House as the friendly and welcoming place that it
already is for the boys.
How much pressure do you feel to win the InterHouse Athletics next summer!?
What do you most enjoy about life at Gordonstoun?
I love working alongside so many enthusiastic and like-minded
staff and I really enjoy the relationships that we are able to
build with our students. Students see me in so many different
guises here, and not just as the geeky Maths teacher! As well
as interacting with our students in the classroom, I have also
Huge amounts! In fact, after this year’s event, a parent
remarked that I must feel a bit like David Moyes taking over at
Manchester United. I am really hoping to last a bit longer in
post than David Moyes did!
John Maclean, Chef
Tastes in food have changed
over the years. Whereas in
the past students may have
enjoyed stodgy puddings,
nowadays there is a choice
of either yoghurt or fruit for
lunch. Some foods, however,
never seem to go out of
fashion, John says that pizza
and chips is just as popular
now as it was 32 years ago
when he first arrived.
We often think of Gordonstoun as a busy place of study and
outdoor pursuits but do we give enough thought to what
goes on behind the scenes at a School like this? Meet John
MacLean, one of the School’s longest serving members of
staff. John has been a chef in the school kitchens for 32
years and is one of 50 kitchen staff, who prepare over 600
meals for students and staff at breakfast, lunch and dinner,
seven days a week. In addition, he and the team cater for
events such as sports fixtures, parents’ days and many other
off-campus activities the school organises. This is practically
a 24 hour operation.
John’s long and dedicated service to the School has enabled
him to meet and feed an array of people from all walks of
life. When asked about his most memorable experiences at
Gordonstoun he said that, apart from Royal visits, it would
have to be the introduction of the new serveries and the
extended choice of meals. He wonders whether current
students realise how lucky they are, being able to choose
their meals and even go back for seconds. How times have
changed! A salad bar was inconceivable a mere 15 years
ago but it is now very much part of a wide variety of foods
which students get to choose from on a daily basis.
According to John, he witnessed an array of pranks during the
1970s and 1980s and he remembers the time when refectory
staff arrived early one morning to find that every single item
of furniture had been removed from the dining hall!
Times and tastes in food may have changed but one thing
that is constant is the sheer dedication and hard work that all
the kitchen staff put into ensuring that every member of the
Gordonstoun community is well fed.
6
Student Profiles
George Barlas, Year 9
All of my memories so far have involved being part
of a team, whether it is rugby, the Pipe Band or the
Adventure Race.
Being a team player
is so important and
Gordonstoun has
taught me how to do
that to the best of my
ability.
I joined Gordonstoun at the start of Year 9 and moved
into Duffus House.
I am a very keen rugby player and I have played in
every one of the Under 14 XV games this season in
which we have remained unbeaten. I can’t wait for next
season to start so we can try to retain our unbeaten
record.
I have also joined the Pipe Band and was part of
the Band that won the Scottish Schools’ Freestyle
Champions title in Edinburgh in March. This was a very
proud day for me as we had all worked really hard and
we overcame some stiff competition from other Scottish
schools.
In fact, I think that
is how I would sum
up my first year at
Gordonstoun. I have
found more in myself
than I ever knew was
possible!
Another highlight came in the Summer term when I took
part in the Round Square Adventure Race. This really
tested me physically and mentally but I am glad to say
our team completed the course and we certainly lived
up to the school’s motto ‘Plus est en Vous’.
Roll on Year 10!
much on offer that at times it was difficult to know what
to go for next. The variety of opportunities on offer has
taught me to manage my time effectively as well as to
know how and when to take the lead.
Whether I was captaining the First XV Rugby Team at
the Scottish Schools’ Plate final at Murrayfield, sailing
on Ocean Spirit, going on exped, or going about my
duties as Guardian, I have strived to make my time at
Gordonstoun as fulfilling as possible.
As a result I have acquired a ‘can do’ attitude in all that
I do and an ability to talk confidently to a wide range of
people from all walks of life. These are all skills that
I know will help me in the future. What that will be
I cannot yet say but I know that I have a thirst to explore
as many different opportunities as possible.
Hamilton with his father at Murrayfield
Hamilton Burr, Year 13
Prior to sitting the Fire Service Scholarship I had never
heard of Gordonstoun, so I was surprised and intrigued
when my father, a serving member of the Scottish Fire
and Rescue Service, suggested I sit the Scholarship
examination.
I start my post Gordonstoun journey with a year out
in Australia working as a Gap year assistant at Scotch
College in Melbourne. After that I hope to go to
Aberdeen University. I leave Gordonstoun with a heavy
heart but I know that the positive experiences I have
had at the school will live with me forever.
Following a four week settling in period I soon got used
to the hectic pace of Gordonstoun life. There was so
7
academic update
Scholarship Enrichment Programme
Mr John Buchanan
broader horizons. The rise of the anti-hero in popular culture,
the pros and cons of libertarianism and the changing nature of
the university application “personal statement” have all been
recent highlights.
The benefits and opportunities proffered by the Gordonstoun
educational experience are available to those young people
who demonstrate outstanding talent, ability and passion in the
fields of academics, performing arts and sports, irrespective of
financial background. The school, alongside a myriad of trusts
and organisations, makes an investment in our scholars and
their futures, and it is my responsibility to develop and oversee
a programme which will both nurture and challenge this group
of disparately gifted individuals, throughout the course of their
Gordonstoun careers.
In order to truly challenge our scholars, as well as thoroughly
prepare them for the rigours and demands of following their
passion beyond the level of secondary school education,
Gordonstoun casts its eye outside of the school gates. Each
department can direct pupils towards, and then support their
involvement with, a host of external essay competitions, optional
additional examinations or holiday enhancement or research
placements, to focus on but a few options. Many of these
contests and events are co-ordinated by leading, internationally
acclaimed universities and colleges, exactly the type of institution
where our scholars should be aiming to further their education
in the years to come.
Just as our scholars are expected to make a significant,
meaningful contribution to Gordonstoun life, I am equally
committed to ensuring the school reciprocates in kind. As a
scholar progresses through the Lower School, they are invited
to attend our Forum events. Addressing Philosophy, Ethics and
Politics in turn, the scholars engage in a number of seminars,
workshops and guest lectures, as led by both the Gordonstoun
staff and distinguished visiting speakers. Previous topics of
discourse have included free will vs determinism (starting
within the context of the Harry Potter universe), digital piracy
and whether prisoners should have the vote. The Sixth Form
Academus events follow a similar model, but with much, much
The Gordonstoun ethos is rooted in the belief that there is much
more to an education than exam results. It is imperative that
all of our students, particularly the scholars, are encouraged to
pursue their intellectual and creative passions independently,
outside the walls of the classroom and far broader than the
confines of the school timetable.
Why study in the United states
Mrs Fiona Cox
There are many benefits to studying in the US, but don’t just take my word for it! Last year, more than 4,000 UK students chose
the US for undergraduate study and here at Gordonstoun nine Year 13 students have successfully applied to a wide range of
Universities across the US. Amongst the main reasons to apply are perhaps the following:
1.
The wide range of universities on offer: There are over 4,500 US universities offering undergraduate degrees. With
such a wide range of universities and degrees on offer, there is bound to be one that is a great fit for you!
2.
Experience American college life: US universities are known for their vibrant campus life. Cheer your university’s
football (American that is) team to victory or play sports yourself. There are wide ranging and diverse sports on offer.
Join a club - there are hundreds to choose from. There are so many ways to get involved in American college life.
3.
Have the flexibility to explore your academic interests before choosing your major: Undergraduate degrees in the
US are quite flexible. You can apply to US universities undecided about your major (field of study). Under the “liberal
arts philosophy”, you will take classes from a variety of subjects during the first 1-2 years before specialising in your
major field.
4.
Take advantage of funding opportunities: Many students are able to get funding help through scholarships from US
universities and external funding bodies. Scholarships are often offered to students based on merit, extracurricular
achievement, financial need, talent and/or personal characteristics, such as country of origin, field, gender or
ethnicity. If you look hard enough, there is a scholarship out there for you!
This year’s Year 13 students bound for colleges in the United States
8
reflections on exchange
the academy. I was also privileged enough to compete at
the National Age Group Championships with them, an
experience I will never forget!
Exchange is always an exciting time for Year 10, whether
they are off on exchange themselves or they are hosting the
incoming exchanges to Gordonstoun. For those going to
far off and not so far off countries, it is about a moment in
their school lives when they experience something different.
These differences can be profound, life changing and a
strong influence on their continuing careers at Gordonstoun.
Exchange opens up a window on new educational systems,
school cultures, country geographies, new friends, sports
and other adventures. Here are some of their reflections on
exchange this year:
Finnbharr Mason - St Andrew’s College, New Zealand
I really enjoyed the places I went and the new activities I took
up. It was definitely worth it to experience a different culture
and I hope to return one day.
William Cooper - The Armidale School, Australia
The best thing about exchange was the opportunity to
experience a different approach to education; there was a
different relationship between staff and pupils. Travelling to
the other side of the world has helped bolster my confidence.
Joss Main - Hilton College, South Africa
Playing sport was an incredible experience, it allowed me to
meet even more people and make more friends.
Joss
Emma
Shamil
Laura
Elizabeth
Tom
Finnbharr
Will
Pippa Blackwood Daly College, India
The experience of not only
travelling to another country,
but travelling around within
India, understanding the small
differences and cultures in the
different areas, was just fantastic.
Shamil Redpath - Ballarat
Grammar School, Australia
I am so glad I went on exchange,
it was an experience I will never
forget. My favourite experience
would have to be learning a new
culture and getting used to the
Australian accents!
Pippa
Isabella
Joanna
Catherine
Isabella Mackenzie - Eleraki School, Morocco
During my time on exchange I learnt so much about the way
the Moroccans live and how different their culture is from
ours. I thought that their dedication to their religion was really
inspiring. In just a month I made lots of new friends and
I definitely intend to go back as it such an amazing place
and there are so many exciting things to do.
Elizabeth Walker - New England Girls School, Australia
The best thing about my exchange was having an Equestrian
Centre in the grounds of the school. This was such a benefit
to me as it helped my riding so much and it got me so many
new friends.
Tom Chadwick - Oakhill School, South Africa
Exchange was one of the most incredible experiences I have
ever had. The friends that I’ve made and the experiences
I had, were truly amazing and unforgettable. It all went so
quickly and I wish I could have spent longer out there.
Joanna Monkman - St Cyprian’s Girl School, South Africa
To be immersed in a different world was incredible. One of
the best things I did was going to the Orphanage Hospital to
visit the children. It was a life changing experience.
Emma Booker Milburn - Herlufsholm Skol, Denmark
This experience was so incredible, I’d do it again any
day. Although Herlufsholm was completely different to
Gordonstoun in many respects... it helped me to experience
something completely new and boosted my independence.
Catherine Prendergast - Lakefield College, Canada
The main success of going on exchange was my downhill ski
racing. I had training and a race each week for three months
and in each race, I came either 1st, 2nd or 3rd. Before
leaving the school at the end of the term, I was awarded The
Most Valuable Skier. I stayed with a Canadian family who
were very supportive and had an amazing three months.
Laura Harrison - St Peter’s School, New Zealand
St Peter’s has an élite swimming academy. I found it great
swimming at school and made some amazing friends through
9
this is art
This year’s Art Exhibition this is art was a particularly
momentous occasion as it celebrated 10 years of whole school
Art shows. In just a few days the Art Studios were transformed
into one big Art Gallery which, over the course of the
Exhibition, over 700 people visited to view the art on display,
starting with a private viewing hosted by the Year 13 students.
The Design and Technology exhibition brought with it the usual
mix of original and creative design ideas from the GCSE and
A-Level examination courses along with a variety of Lower
School projects, all showing plenty of evidence of our new
laser cutter having been put to good use since its arrival in
January.
10
and design
80 Years in 80 Days
The Principal celebrated the launch of the School’s 80th anniversary celebrations on board Ocean Spirit of Moray as the boat
prepared to set off from Kyle of Lochalsh with a crew of Year 12 students on the first leg of her 80 day round Britain voyage,
calling at Edinburgh, Ipswich, London, Brighton, Portsmouth, Salcombe, Bristol, Liverpool and Glasgow en route. She made a
rare visit to the waters of the Moray Firth and, to the delight of the assembled watchers, ‘buzzed’ Hopeman harbour, looking
spectacular under sail.
Gordonstoun will be welcoming the TV cameras onto campus at the start of
the Autumn Term as a crew from ITN endeavour to capture a year in the life of
the school. They will be working mainly with students from Round Square and
Windmill and will be seen out and about around campus, accompanying students
on exped and sail training voyages, and generally experiencing all aspects of the
Gordonstoun curriculum.
Baton Bearer
NEWS
In Brief
Plus est en Vous
Year 13 student Hamilton Burr
was selected as Gordonstoun’s
representative to carry the
Commonwealth Games baton on
the first leg of its journey through
Hopeman on Thursday 3 July.
Hamilton, watched by his family and
several members of staff from the
school, received the baton on the
outskirts of the village and carried it
200m before handing it over to the
next bearer.
Simon Reid has discovered
that there really is more
in him this year as he has
accompanied student groups
on a Winter Skills expedition
in the Cairngorms and on a
Sail Training Voyage. For this
year’s Prep Schools’ Challenge
he decided that if the Queen
could parachute into the
Olympic stadium from a helicopter, he could abseil down
G-House to award the prizes. Unlike the Queen, however,
Mr Reid did not have a stunt double!
Round Square Adventure Race
Gordonstoun once again hosted this annual
event using the Cairngorms as the backdrop to
three days of challenge and competition. Based
at Badaguish, the event made full use of the
spectacular lochs, forests and mountains for
activities which included canoeing, climbing,
mountain biking, orienteering in the dark and
lots of mountain running. Although not winning
this year, the Gordonstoun team excelled in
the final event, the highly physical mountain
challenge, coming home over 20 minutes ahead
of their nearest rivals.
1111
Did You Know...
• During the Summer Term 860 student
nights were spent under canvas as part
of the Summer expeditions programme?
• Ocean Spirit’s Skipper, Ian Lerner, has
done approximately 150 sail training
voyages with over 2400 students since
he joined Gordonstoun in 1999?
• At the end of the Summer Term 56
students departed early to take part
in International Service Projects to
Thailand, Ethiopia and Romania?
a royal opening
Gordonstoun was delighted when Their Graces The Earl
and Countess of Wessex agreed to open the extension
to Ogstoun Theatre which has made an already
impressive facility into a stunning one to be known as
the Ogstoun Drama and Dance Centre.
Their Graces were on official business in Scotland,
representing the Queen, when they flew up to
Gordonstoun by Royal Helicopter, landing at
Sweethillocks to be greeted by the Lord Lieutenant
of Moray Grenville Johnston and his wife, Maryann,
together with Guardian Rupert Atkins and Colour
Bearer Maria-Pia Verhaagen.
Their Graces arrive at Sweethillocks by helicopter
They were then escorted to Ogstoun Theatre where
Rupert introduced them to the Principal, his wife
Michèle and the Chairman of Governors, Bryan
Williams. There were also some familiar faces waiting
to say hello - Mr Ben Goss and Mr George Welsh before the Royal Couple went into the new building
where they saw short dance and drama displays, met
staff and students and performed the official opening
ceremony.
Their Graces meet The Principal and his wife and the Chairman of
Governors
Following this Their Graces went to Gordonstoun House
where they had lunch before meeting representative
groups from the student and staff bodies and longserving members of the non-teaching staff in the North
Room. Their final act of the day was to pop into the
Junior School (see page 24) on their way to official
engagements in Elgin.
His Grace meets a group of Year 9 students
12
ogstoun drama and dance centre
The Countess charms two young members of the school community
Getting ready behind the scenes
Banter with the Royal Equerry
Rhiannon, the Royal Doorperson
The Royal Couple meet GY Dance
The Earl chats to students about their dance studies
The Earl meets some Year 12 Drama students
The Countess is fascinated by a
poster of the Earl’s school days
His Grace meets long-serving members of the Domestic Services staff
The Countess meets students
outside G-House
13
In the Design Department
Inter-House Athletics
Guardian Rupert Atkins speaks in Chapel
The Pipe Band outside Chapel
A display of Scottish dancing
Senior boys and girls at the start of the 400m
Inter-House Athletics
Musical entertainment outside the Refectory
Music in Ogstoun Theatre
A snippet from The Cagebirds
Services Display
14
open Day
Gordonstoun 1st XI vs The Principal’s XI
This year’s joint winners of the Fire Service award
rugby adventures abroad
Mr Steve Brown
party will return to school next year to form the nucleus
of the First XV squad.
It was with a genuine spirit of adventure that the 2014
rugby tour departed for Romania. Gordonstoun has
a very rich and proud history of rugby tours and has
played in Australia, South Africa, Argentina and Chile
in the past 20 years. The most recent tours have
included some of the less ‘mainstream’ rugby playing
countries like Sri Lanka and Croatia and so this year we
decided upon Romania.
Off the field Romania turned out to be a wonderful
place to visit, rich in history and culture and with a
warm and welcoming population. For the first half of
the tour we were based in Bucharest with its blend of
Austro-Hungarian splendour set against communist
utilitarianism. There were stunning churches and opera
houses which stood in stark contrast to the National
Palace of the Parliament, the world’s largest civilian
building. In fact only the Pentagon is larger.
Romania has a rich tradition of rugby and it is
beginning to rebuild in strength in the post Ceauşescu
era. We knew that we would be in for a real challenge
and we certainly were not disappointed. Playing four
matches in just nine days was always going to be
very demanding, even for a squad of 28 players. The
games were all very competitive and, whilst it was
disappointing to come away with just one victory, in fact
we could have won them all with a little more precision.
Two of the defeats - one by 27-24 and another by 2119 were particularly tense affairs.
The second half of the tour was spent in Brasov, a
town set in the beautiful Carpathian mountains of
Transylvania. We had a wonderful tour of Bran Castle
made famous by Bram Stoker in his Dracula novel. We
also visited Rasnov fortress and Peles castle in the ski
resort of Sinaia, which had been the summer home of
the Romanian royal family.
The tour was a wonderful experience and the players
gelled well and made friends wherever they went. They
were excellent ambassadors for the school and terrific
company. Romania challenged our preconceptions and
exceeded our expectations and the players returned
home with the odd aching limb and a wealth of
experiences they will treasure.
The Romania sides - one club side, one college and
two district teams - were all very uncompromising in
their direct and robust style with no quarter asked
or given, and the Gordonstoun players acquitted
themselves very well and learned a good deal in the
process. This is particularly pleasing as 17 of the tour
spring and summer term sports
Rugby
Mr Steve Brown
The 2013/14 rugby season finally drew to a close at the
end of April with a terrific performance in the team’s
final pool match at the Lathallan 7s. Although the team
did not do quite enough to fight their way out of a
tough pool, they did play some superb 7s which won
glowing praise.
This brought to an end a long but successful and
enjoyable season during which the First XV played
25 matches in total. They remained unbeaten in
the Caledonian North U18 League, they won the
Grampian Schools’ Plate for the second year running
and reached the final of the Scottish Schools’ Plate at
Murrayfield.
A bruising encounter with Marr College in the Scottish Schools’ Plate
captain Cameron Baxter. This season Full First XV
Colours were awarded to Hamilton Burr, Cameron
Baxter, Dylan Marshall and Ludo Emsens.
The team was superbly led by captain Hamilton Burr
(who represented Caledonia at U18 level) and vice-
15
spring and summer term sports
Cricket
Inter-House Athletics
Mr Ryan Denyer
Having prepared throughout the winter the cricket team
began the season with optimism and made use of the Moray
micro climate to get in some pre-season training. There
have been many matches and the team has enjoyed some
close encounters with the XL Club and the MCC as well as
some disappointments in the early part of the season. The
season was, however, defined by a lengthy trip to Edinburgh
which saw the First XI record a win against George Watson’s
College and demonstrate that they have the ability to
compete against even the strongest of school teams.
The Inter-House Athletics on Open Day got off to a flying
start. First up were the 200m runners led off by the Lower
School girls who gave an excellent account of themselves.
The other races followed suit producing some close races
and superb efforts all round.
Competitive and dramatic running events were matched with
some breath-taking efforts in the field events, not least from
the High Jumpers who as always put on a very good show in
front of a packed crowd of spectators. Vociferous and nonpartisan support is always a highlight of the morning and
this year the appreciative crowds were in good voice for all
competitors.
Jack Harrison has captained the side throughout the season
and has continued to show class and maturity in the way
he builds an innings, which has been of great benefit to the
young side. He has been well supported by all, but special
mention should go to the improvements made by Edward
Gledson as he continues to develop into a very trustworthy
wicketkeeper. We have been joined by Hugh Knight (Ballarat,
Australia) and Tyran de Vos (Bridge House School, South
Africa) on exchange for the Summer term and have enjoyed
the enthusiasm and competitive nature that is such a part of
their native character.
The three individual
trophies again produced
fierce competition, in
particular, from the Year
13 competitors who all
seemed to be able to
find the extra gear. The
Miele Shield for Senior
girls 4x100m was won
this year by the Plewlands
team. The Ian Ruscoe
Cup for the same event
for Senior boys was won
comprehensively by
Cumming. The individual
senior boys 400m race
for the Barty King Cup
produced fine efforts
and, in Kilian Greber
(pictured), a winner who
can come back and defend his crown next year.
As this is such a young side, it will be at the heart of
Gordonstoun cricket for the next couple of years and the
potential for the future is very exciting, given the talent
currently on display.
Hockey
Mr David Morton
Mr Chris Wilson
The boys’ hockey season was a very successful and proactive one with all of the boys putting in hard work and effort
during the training sessions.
A young, inexperienced First XI produced some good quality,
fast paced hockey throughout the season and although
results didn’t always go their way, some good results against
Robert Gordon’s College and Hutcheson’s Grammar School
were the reward for their hard work. The 2nd XI had a few
matches and started to play some good, attractive hockey
and finished off the season with a good result by beating
Strathallan.
The Seniors were not the only students to shine. Two
younger athletes - Vladimir Kulichenko and Fidelis Amu
- demonstrated great effort and talent in High Jump and
the 100m respectively pushing hard on two of the longest
standing school records to win these events.
Nevertheless the Inter-House event is a team affair and,
although individuals may shine, it is the efforts of the entire
team that ultimately decide the winners. Well done to
everyone who participated and competed and gained points
for their team, every scrap of effort goes towards the overall
result.
The U15 A and B teams, with many new players unfamiliar
with the game of hockey, improved hugely over the course
of the season, producing some great results. The Cup
match against Douglas Academy was a good indication of
how much the team has improved. The U14A and B teams
also had a very pleasing season playing some good, fast
paced and skilful hockey. The boys trained superbly well
and were very keen to compete in matches and do their
best to produce good results, ensuring that the future of
Gordonstoun hockey remains bright.
This year’s winners were:
16
Junior Girls - Hopeman
Junior Boys - Cumming
Senior Girls - Windmill
Senior Boys - Cumming
spring and summer term sports
Netball
Miss Alix Dickinson
Gordonstoun netball has gone from strength to strength and
we had a great season with teams representing the school
in the Scottish Schools’ Cup, Highland Schools’ League,
Highland Ladies League and the Independent Schools’
Tournament.
The Year 9 and 10 teams have had excellent seasons with
both teams working hard to improve their individual skills
and strength as a collective squad. Their perserverance and
determination to improve paid dividends when the Year 10s
came first in the Highland Schools’ League followed by the
Year 9s in second place.
This year’s senior first squad has been a combination of
veteran Year 13s and less experienced Year 11 and 12
students. The Year 13 players, including Captains Amy
Gouk and Rose Owen, used their knowledge and previous
experience to develop a strong cohesive team. As a team they
have achieved great things this season; winning the Highland
Schools’ League, progressing to the final stages of the Scottish
Schools’ Cup and having some outstanding performances
against Ladies teams in the Highland Ladies’ League.
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Year 13 players
Amy Gouk, Rose Owen, Jordan Jones and Alice Kirkness, who
have all shown great dedication to developing both their own
individual performances on court but also that of their fellow
team members.
Tennis
Gordonstoun Captain, Stevie Donald, receives the trophy from the
Chairman of Elgin City Football Club, Mr Graham Tatters
Football
Mr Kevin Williams
The First XI football team enjoyed a very successful season,
winning an elusive and unique double of the Moray & Nairn
League and the League Cup. A tremendous unbeaten run
from October to April set them up for a grandstand finish
to the season - a League and Cup decider at Elgin City’s
ground when the school beat Buckie High 2-0 in an exciting
game played in front of a good crowd.
The team were also unbeaten in the Independent Schools’
League, qualifying for the knockout stages with five wins and
a draw. They then advanced to the semi-finals before losing
to the eventual cup winners.
A ‘break’ from all this action came in the shape of a football
tour in Munich! This was a very enjoyable experience for the
twenty players and two staff. The excellent training facilities
and visits to the sights were interspersed with four keenly
contested games and three very satisfying wins.
Mr David Morton
The Senior Gordonstoun tennis teams have been competing
once again in the CKD Highland Leagues, with lots of
success coming across the board.
With the season ending on a positive note, thoughts turn to
next season when the majority of the players return to play
for the school and defend their title.
The Senior boys have been pushing for promotion from
Division 2, losing only one of their League matches. The
team, led by Kilian Greber, has been very strong and has
yet to lose a set. The Senior girls, utilising a large pool of
players, have competed well in Division 3 and after a mixed
range of results have finished mid-table. Gordonstoun has
also been represented in the mixed pair’s League, which
gives the students a unique chance to play competitive sport
with the opposite sex. Once again the team has been very
successful and is due to finish second in the League.
Played 27
Won 18
Lost 6
Goals For 91
Drew 3
Goals Against 47
and Captain Isla Gale - have given their all throughout the
season. The junior boys - Pablo Rotger, Cameron Rowe,
Pepe Artola and Captain Laurenz Greber - have also all
improved, becoming more competitive and competent as the
season has progressed and have proved to be difficult for the
opposition to beat.
The U14 tennis players have enjoyed a busy season in the
Highland District Leagues with fixtures against local clubs
every week. They have visited the far flung reaches of
Inverness, Nairn, Rothes, Forres and Elgin in pursuit of the
League title.
Junior School teams have also enjoyed matches against
Glenalmond and Nairn Academy proving to be successful in
both and they performed very well as a team in the Moray
Schools’ competition, retaining the shield for the third year in
a row.
The girls’ team has enjoyed its matches and has improved
well as the season has progressed but has found the
opposition difficult to break down and defeat. The team
members - Harriet Gledson, Brodie McCallum, Lizzie Bailey
17
performing arts
Music
This has been another amazingly busy season in
the music department. We enjoyed an incredible
Spring Concert, fantastic results and feedback from
the many appearances at the Moray Music Festival,
Sing! Moray’s inaugural concert and Gordonstoun’s
Pipe Band becoming the 2014 Scottish Schools Pipe
Band ‘freestyle’ Champions. The end of the Spring
Term brought to fruition so much hard work from the
students and staff.
Alongside these major public events students were
performing in lunch time recitals, the Ronnie Berry
Jazz and Rock Show and, of course, their examination
recitals. Open Day really showed off the breadth of
musical talent Gordonstoun has nurtured. It seemed
that everywhere you turned on Open Day music was
on display. Bella Claydon’s very poised and confident
solo saxophone performance as part of the Principal’s
Address really highlighted that, whilst there are wide
ranging opportunities for musicians of all standards
to be involved in music making, there is also a
commitment to quality and excellence.
Dance
So far 2014 has been a very exciting year for Dance
starting in February with our annual Let’s Dance
Showcase in Ogstoun which involved over 70 students.
This was swiftly followed by GY Dance Company
performing at The MacRobert Centre in Stirling, as
part of the Scottish Youth Destinations Showcase. In
May our current dancers were joined by a number of
OG Dancers who returned to school to perform in
the annual GA Performing Arts Showcase, a special
year, as not only is the school celebrating its 80th
anniversary, but it is also twenty years since Dance
was introduced into the Gordonstoun Curriculum. Our
dancing OGs did themselves proud especially as we
put together a piece in just under an hour, no small
achievement!
This term has also seen an Exam Showcase from Year
11 and 12 students and a fabulous Performing Arts
Presentation on Open Day. While all these things have
been very exciting, one event has possibly superseded
them; the opening of our new Dance Studio and
Classroom in the new Ogstoun Drama and Dance
Centre by the Earl and Countess of Wessex. These
amazing new facilities will inject even more life into the
department with hopefully a rosy future ahead.
This year we are also saying goodbye to a special
group of Year 13 students, many whom have danced
during their whole school career. Good luck and best
wishes to all, especially Fabian Jackson and Alan Hunte
who are going on to further training at The Northern
School of Contemporary Dance in Leeds and The
Scottish School of Contemporary Dance in Dundee.
Drama
The past few months have, as always, been incredibly
busy and exciting ones for the Drama Department.
Year 11 GCSE students spent a fantastic day in
Edinburgh visiting The Edinburgh Dungeons as part
of their exam work exploring ‘The Unknown’, and
attending a performance of the National Theatre’s
acclaimed production ‘War Horse’ at the Festival
Theatre. All this set them up really well for returning to
school to prepare their own final practical work which
they presented in a showcase to family and friends and
then to the examiner.
Our A-Level students have also been busy with
practical work. The Year 12s performed in three
plays at the Ogstoun Theatre which were presented
to an audience of friends, parents and guests as well
as the examiner from Edexcel. As their final piece of
performance work our Year 13 students presented a
showcase of their work before focusing themselves on
the final written examination.
With other marvellous presentations of performance
to the OGs on GA Day, to Parents on Open Day and
to The Earl and Countess of Wessex at the Opening
Ceremony of the Ogstoun Drama and Dance Centre,
the quality of work produced by our students has been
outstanding over the past two terms and they have a
great deal of which to be proud.
Gordonstoun at The Fringe
We will be taking two productions to the Edinburgh
Festival Fringe this Summer. The hilarious and slightly
risqué musical Avenue Q and the absurdist physical
theatre piece The Cagebirds will be performing as
part of C Venues’ programme of events. Everyone is
very welcome to come and enjoy these Gordonstoun
performances amidst the incredible atmosphere of the
Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
See www.edfringe.com for more details.
18
You are invited to…
The Gordonstoun Association
warmly invites you and your partner
to an Anniversary Ball
celebrating 80 Years of Gordonstoun
The Caledonian Club
9 Halkin Street, London, SW1X 7DR
Saturday 20th September 2014
7.00pm - 11.30pm
Dinner and Scottish Reels
Ticket cost: £100pp (including three course Dinner, Wine and Reels)
Dress: Black Tie
To request a booking form please contact Emma Thorpe in the GA Office
[email protected]
01343 837922
Please note: all tickets must be paid for in advance.
On receipt of payment a formal ticket will be issued.
Tickets must be produced to obtain entry.
Tables of 10 can be booked - tickets restricted to GA members plus one partner.
19
The Gordonstoun Association
Mr Steve Brown
Forres. Almost 70 folk gathered to enjoy a meal and
reminisce about their school days.
In February, Calcutta Cup weekend saw around 70
OGs gather in Panda and Sons, a great new bar on
Queen Street, owned and run by Iain McPherson
(Duffus 2005). The following day a squad of 25 very
talented players gathered at Raeburn Place to take on
Edinburgh Accies. It was the home team’s only game
of the day so they were able to field a very strong side.
It was a very competitive match and the OGs gave
their hosts a real run for their money, but in the end the
Accies were just slightly more cohesive.
On Saturday, GA Day itself, around 200 visitors
enjoyed the warm spring sunshine and a programme
which included presentations by students in the
Services, as well as students who had been on
international service programmes in Thailand
and Ethiopia and the Round Square International
Conference in the USA. In the afternoon there was
a performing arts showcase in the Ogstoun Theatre
which featured music, drama and dance. This included
a dance performance put on by a group of returning
OGs. There was also a very competitive netball match
between the OGs and the school netball team and a
wonderful dinner in the evening.
March saw around fifty OGs gather for the splendid
annual London Dinner in Fino’s. This was a most
convivial affair and all those who attended had a very
pleasant evening. The date for next year’s dinner has
already been set for Friday 13 March and as this is the
day before the Calcutta Cup match it is sure to be well
attended so booking early will be necessary to avoid
disappointment. In April the focus turned to Yorkshire
and the Ilkley Dinner at the eponymous golf club. Once
again this was a delightful occasion which brought
together those fortunate enough to live in God’s own
county.
Upcoming Events
A most wonderful GA Weekend was the springboard
for a whole series of events to mark Gordonstoun’s
80th Anniversary including the 80 Years in 80 Days
voyage and the Edinburgh Dinner on 18 August. The
final chapter in a series of celebratory events will be a
Ball in London (see invitation on page 19 for details).
This will be a ‘black tie’ occasion and will be the first
big ‘open’ set piece Dinner/Dance since the School’s
70th Anniversary party held at Gordonstoun and we
hope it will prove to be extremely popular.
The May Bank Holiday weekend saw over 250
former students and their families visit Moray for the
Gordonstoun Association Weekend. The school’s
alumni returned from as far afield as Canada, the USA
and South Africa, some after a gap of over 60 years, to
celebrate the school’s 80th Anniversary. Events began
on Thursday when the Old Gordonstounian Golf
Society overcame a spirited School team at Nairn Golf
Club and Friday saw the Annual Challenge match take
place at the stunning Castle Stuart course. On Friday
evening the Laichmoray Hotel in Elgin played host to
a reunion of former students of Altyre House, which
was part of Gordonstoun in the 1950s, but located in
Contact us:
Steve Brown or Emma Thorpe
Gordonstoun
Elgin, Moray IV30 5RF
T: 01343 837922
E: [email protected]
W: www.gordonstoun.org.uk
20
SPOTLIGHT ON… Tom Harrison, Musician
Read Tom’s interview in its entirety on the Gordonstoun website
Tom in Macbeth 2006
What are you currently
doing?
I’m currently working on the
music for season 15 of CSI:
Crime Scene Investigation in
Los Angeles. We provide the
musical underscore for the
show, on average we write,
produce and mix about 25
minutes of bespoke music
for the show each week. I’m
also the musical director for
the VocalizeU summer vocal
program this year which
happens in a few weeks.
Why did you choose to go to Gordonstoun?
I was at Aberlour House so it was just a natural choice from
there. Gordonstoun had a really strong music department so
I was obviously interested in that. However, I also wanted to
continue the great education both academically and otherwise
that I was getting at Aberlour.
Did you know you wanted to be a musician when you were at
Gordonstoun?
When I was at Aberlour I was in a punk rock band with some of
my friends. We once played on Open Day and I knew when we
came off stage that I wanted to do this for the rest of my life,
no matter what. I had found my passion instantly, I will never
forget that moment.
Which instrument did you learn at school?
I started on the trumpet and when I was about twelve I
remember seeing some friends play Blur’s Song 2 on guitars at
a school concert and all the girls went crazy. That was the start
of me learning the bass guitar. I studied bass and then guitar
with Ronnie Berry who was a huge inspiration to me. During
that time I also taught myself piano and drums.
How have your Gordonstoun experiences helped you as a
musician?
When I went to Berklee College of Music in Boston, I found
that I was able to sail through the classical music modules
which I had been taught at school. Gordonstoun really
educates the whole person. I have to say that when the music
industry in Hollywood gets really tough (and believe me, it
does!), I definitely draw strength from my days struggling up
one of the Cairngorms or sailing on Ocean Spirit.
Gordonstoun made us meet and socialise with esteemed
visitors to the school. We had to learn how to hold our own
in very formal situations from a young age. That training
has allowed me to feel at ease mixing with all the amazing
Hollywood legends that I’ve been lucky enough to brush
shoulders with.
What was the most important thing you learnt at Gordonstoun?
I know it’s a cliche but the school motto Plus est en Vous
definitely holds up. With Gordonstoun the sky is the limit, you
can do anything you put your mind to. Gordonstoun always
encouraged me and really drilled it into me that I could be
successful if I wanted to be.
What is the thing you are most proud of in your music career?
I think being awarded the sole place on the music internship for
the Television Academy of Arts and Sciences Foundation, who
created the Emmy awards is a highlight. I got to intern under
Alf Clausen at The Simpsons. I also worked for Snuffy Walden
who was the composer for The West Wing and hundreds of
other shows. Another big highlight for me was working with
my current boss John M Keane on the music for the Daniel
Radcliffe movie Horns and now on the CSI music.
What and where did you study after leaving Gordonstoun?
I ended up doing a foundation year sort of by accident. I had a
place to go to Durham University to study classical music but
I wasn’t really that interested in going there at the time so I
went to the ACM in Guildford, a technical college for young
rock musicians. I had AAA at A-Level and here I was doing a
Btec in rock vocals!
Following my year in Guildford I was offered a place at Berklee
College of Music in Boston, the best music college in the world
in my mind.
What advice would you give to students leaving Gordonstoun
today?
Study what you want to. You should pursue your dreams, you
only live once. Enjoy the rest of your time at Gordonstoun, work
as hard as you humanly can in your exams because soon they’ll
be over and you will want to have done your absolute best.
What are your hopes and ambitions for the future?
I want to keep doing what I’m already doing, just on a bigger
scale and continue the songwriting side as much as possible.
I always wanted to be in a popular band which I may pursue
further in the future. Right now I’d love to compose the musical
score for a television show in my own right, I’m working
towards that, fingers crossed it’ll happen one day soon.
To the Point:
Sail training or exped? Exped
Which House? Round Square (2007)
Favourite subject? Music
Which Service? Coastguards
Most inspiring teacher(s)? Nigel Gaston, Kenneth Bews, the
late, great Ronnie Berry and Nigel Williams
Sport or performing arts? Performing Arts!
21
News
from the Junior School
Head’s Introduction
Staff Farewells
What the Pupils Think
Royal Visit
Spring and Summer at the Junior School
Headmaster’s Introduction Mr Robert McVean
.
Many parents have told me how much their child’s
confidence has improved since joining the school and
I am delighted to hear it. Confidence is a quality we try
to build up in our children every day. A confident child
is one who can be certain about things and about what
is going to happen. A self-confident child is one who
is happy with themselves and who can treat success or
failure with equal demeanour. They are not concerned
with disapproval from others, they are happy with
their own performance. In comparison, arrogance is
believing something to be correct when it is not and
over-confidence is excessive belief in success with no
regard for failure.
important areas where confidence can be shown but it is
not just in these subjects where confidence is exhibited.
Children gain confidence by working together in sport
and the many collaborative activities which take place
in the classroom and in outdoor education. They gain
confidence and self belief when they are encouraged
by teachers but perhaps more so when they are
encouraged by other children.
I am therefore very pleased to notice that the children
of the Junior School are supportive of one another,
say encouraging things, include others and enjoy
competition for the fun of it. Confident children are
known to be more successful in their future careers and
in this edition of The Record you will see just a small
snapshot of how we prepare our children for the future.
The Junior School curriculum is broad and provides
many opportunities for the promotion of building
confidence. Music and drama are obvious and
Staff Farewells
Shonagh Davidson
Shonagh is a keen expeditioner and she enjoyed taking the
Year 8 pupils for their challenging Cape Wrath Expedition.
For this her enthusiasm was infectious and became a highlight
for her as well as for the children. In addition, Shonagh is a
keen photographer and over the years many of the school
events were photographed by her at a professional standard.
At the end of the Autumn Term we
bade a fond farewell to Shonagh
Davidson who retired after thirteen
years of service.
Shonagh loves horse riding and
for many years shared her passion
with many of the children, taking a
bus full of youngsters to ride every
week. Shonagh started at the school
teaching Years Three and Four and became Maths teacher
before the move to the Gordonstoun campus. Jinty, her much
loved dog, was a regular visitor to the school.
Shonagh will be fondly remembered for her passion for the
Junior School and her complete dedication to the children.
We shall miss her greatly and are very pleased that she
lives locally and has promised to attend our concerts and
plays. She is currently enjoying spending more time on her
photography and we wish her a very happy retirement.
22
Staff Farewells
Rhona Piper
Rhona is leaving us to follow her husband to a new job further south after a long association with the
school. She first came to the school in 2000 as a resident Matron and quickly became popular and
much loved by the children in her care. Her passion to become a teacher was later fulfilled and we
were delighted to welcome Rhona back to Aberlour House in 2008 as a teacher of Year 5.
Since then Rhona has been highly committed to the school in many ways, often running creative
projects of “up-cycling” and building kites as well as looking after the girls’ hockey team. She has
been highly dedicated to all the different activities and adventures of the children and, in recent
years, has masterminded the Year 4 and Year 5 expeditions to Lagganlia, which are always highly
memorable for the children.
Rhona’s cheerful, kind and good natured manner with the children has ensured that those in her care are very happy. Her
future pupils will be very lucky and we wish her every success in her new post at Craigclowan Prep School. I am sure we will
meet again on the touchline!
Rosemary Young
After seven years of outstanding service to
the school Rosemary has left to enjoy some
of her own expeditions and adventures.
Rosemary joined the school in 2007 at a
time when the school had just expanded to
include the hall and new dormitories. She
quickly took on the challenges of School
Secretary and PA to the Head and created
an efficient and friendly school office. The
role she enjoyed required dedication and
commitment, which was something Rosemary
was never short of and when the pressure
was on she had a remarkably good sense of
humour. She was always approachable to
children, parents and staff and was always
pleasantly straightforward with her advice.
We wish her every happiness with her new
adventures.
What the Pupils Think...
Pupils new to the Junior School at the start of the Autumn Term were asked recently to reflect on their first year at the Junior
School. Here’s what some of them had to say:
Jacopo
I believe changing schools was the best
thing I’ve done this year; Aberlour House
is different from other schools. Here they
really care about everyone. I really like
doing sports every day as it means you
always have fun.
I am a boarder and I am happy to no
longer be a day pupil. It is much better
because you have the chance to be with
your friends all day including weekends.
It is also nice to do different activities
on the weekends such as going out and
having fun with both the staff members
and with friends.
Alice
I really appreciate the chance to go
outside and learn new things like
sailing and canoeing. All the pupils and
teachers are really kind and supportive.
The opportunities are endless! Music is
probably my favourite because you have
so many options to choose from. I feel
like I’ve been here for ever, and I really
enjoy every single day.
Charlie A
I have really enjoyed my time at Aberlour
House so far because everyone is really
nice. I was in the ski team which was
great because it was really fun. I have
also enjoyed playing cricket.
Harriet
I love Aberlour House - everybody is
really friendly. I feel so welcomed and
I’ve made so many friends already.
I know we have a suggestions box but
honestly I wouldn’t change anything.
23
Flora
I am really enjoying Aberlour so far, I
have made many new friends and have
learnt so much. Although it can be tiring
it is worth waking up for and I have
achieved so much in the last year. I am
very excited about starting a new year in
Year 7.
Charlie H
I like Aberlour House a lot because
we do a lot of fun things that I didn’t
get to do in my old school like cricket,
hockey, cross country and lots of other
fun activities. I also like learning new
things like History, Geography, Science,
Projects and Sports. I originally came
to Summer School and made lots of
new friends and it’s just the same in this
school which is why I really like it.
our royal visit
After Their Graces The Earl and Countess of Wessex
had opened Ogstoun Drama and Dance Centre,
they paid a visit to the Junior School. The staff and
pupils had put on some fantastic displays in the Hall
highlighting all the main aspects of life at the Junior
School and Their Royal Highnesses were clearly
delighted to be there. Those pupils not in the Hall lined
the path to cheer the Royal Couple as they left to go to
their next official engagement in Elgin and a lone piper
sent them on their way.
Flowers for the Countess from the youngest members of the school
Waiting to cheer the Royal Couple’s arrival
Looking at the Green Group display
Representing the Junior School’s musicians
Demonstrating how to make the school greener
Chatting to the older pupils
Boarding at the Junior School
Meeting pupils and staff
24
A word for the four-legged
member of the school
A lone piper bids the Royal
Couple farewell
spring
and
summer
at the
junior school
The Hats Workshop
In make-up for The Witches
Sports Tour to Edinburgh
Year 7 Science at Hopeman Beach
Prep Schools’ Ski Championships
The Witches
On board Ocean Spirit
On Exped
Prep Schools’ Sailing Competition
Art on the beach
The Prep Schools’ Challenge
The Junior Highland Games
gordonstoun
celebrating 80 years in 80 days
Ocean Spirit in London
Receptions around the country on the following dates:
Edinburgh
18 JuneIpswich
London
2 July
Brighton
Portsmouth
12 JulySalcombe
Bristol
26 July
Liverpool
Glasgow
28 June
9 July
20 July
1 August
9 August
If you would like to come and see us along the way,
please email: [email protected]
www.gordonstoun.org.uk