the ronian issue 58 autumn 2014
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The RonianISSUE 58 - Autumn 2014
w w w . s a i n t r o n a n s . c o . u k
Inside: HRH Duchess of Cornwall visit • Armistice & World War I • Nativities • All Weather Pitch
The Headmaster writes...
2
The highlight of our busy term was the royal visit, when we welcomed Her Royal
Highness, the Duchess of Cornwall, to dedicate the new all-weather pitch to the
memory of her late brother, Mark Shand (OR 1959-64). ‘Shandy Ba’ is nearly finished
and should be ready for play next term. The official opening will be on Brodie Day
(Saturday 14th March), just before the senior Cross-Country races.
Another special event was Armistice Day when the Rt Reverend Michael Whinney (OR
1939-44) opened Chapel Court. It is a beautiful and significant addition to the school.
These events, and the Autumn Fayre, Bonfire Night and Carol Service, encouraged
Old Ronians to come back and see what we’re up to. It’s heartening when previous
generations applaud our progress and remark that we have kept alive what keeps the
School so special.
Over the summer, Cranbrook announced its Academic and Music scholarships and the
final tally for 2013/14 was an unprecedented 35 awards, won by 23 children in 7
different disciplines. Of course it’s not all about scholarships, and we celebrate the fact
that our children succeed and flourish in so many areas of School life. Some of this
happens quietly, under the radar, and some of it is represented by some very personal
battles! We are equally proud of everyone.
The last few months have been something of a roller-coaster and I salute the staff who
have rallied around with such grace and good humour. Someone once said that people
are like tea bags - you find out what they are really like when you put them in hot
water! Our people are certainly made of strong stuff!
Emma and I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
With kind regards,
William Trelawny-Vernon
Headmaster
Following an Assembly given by Joy from
fields of cancer care and research, the P
the worthy cause.
Mrs Hinchcliffe ran through the Pre-Prep
Hall. Louis and Amy, the Gappies, got up
‘The Best Song Ever’ by One Direction. A
go by, it’s an event we should repeat eve
Ceramic poppies made by Shell and
3
In this issue...
HRH Duchess of Cornwall visit 5
Maths in Motion 6
In our Chapel this term 6
Harvest Produce and Carols 7
Saint Ronan’s has the cutest delegates 7
This term in... Bicton 7
Three Wise Men were followed by the Landlord’s Cat 8
A busy and festive term in the Music Department 8
Violet Vassar-Smith 8
We Will Remember Them 10-11
Stars in their Eyes 12
Class 3 visit Biddenden Vineyards 12
Paradise Farm 13
RE moves with the times 13
Armistice Service & Opening of Chapel Court 14
Armistice Announced 15
Spring Term Prizes 16
Pitch Perfect 17
Cross Country 18
Hockey & Netball 19
Football 20
Coming up... Next Term
Term begins 8th January
Class 4 trip to Rye 20th January
Midway trips to Tunbridge Wells Mosque 21st/22nd January
Evensong 23rd January
Reception trip to Pizza Express 27th January
Childrens’ Burns Night 4th February
Shell trip to Portsmouth 5th February
Burns Night - FOR event 7th February
Music Department Open Week begins 9th February
Half Term 13th-23rd February
Evensong 27th February
Book Week begins 27th February
Prep School Book Fair 6th March
Prep School Exams (Upper & Remove) 9th March
Pre-Prep Parents Evening 10th March
Judo Grading 12th March
Red Nose Day 13th March
Informal Concert 13th March
FOR Quiz Night 13th March
Brodie Shield & Opening of ‘Shandy Ba’ 14th March
ABRSM Exams 15th-17th March
The Wizard of Oz 25th/26th March
Term Ends 27th March
Dancing for Macmillan
m Macmillan, who explained her company’s important work in the
re-Prep and Prep Schools danced enthusiastically to raise money for
moves with the children before their moment came in the Sports
p on stage in the Great Space and led the Prep School in a dance to
A total of £443 was raised and, if the happy faces were anything to
ery year.
d Midway, inspired by the River of Blood at the Tower of London
4
‘Shandy Ba’
Her Royal Highness pictured with the ‘Mark Shand Elephant’donated by Professor Dacre
5
All images © Sarah Clark Photography
Duchess of Cornwall names All-Weather Pitch in her brother’s memory
The children and staff of Saint Ronan’s were delighted and
honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness, the Duchess of
Cornwall, when she came to dedicate the Astro to the memory
of her brother. Shoes shined and flags waved as the Duchess
drove up the drive, lined with children, to be greeted by the
Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Viscount De L’Isle (OR), Mr and Mrs
T-V and the Head and Second Prefects. Led by the
Headmaster, the Duchess toured the school, which she had
last visited over 50 years ago when her brother, Mark Shand,
was a pupil here.
Her Royal Highness met some of his contemporaries,
including one of his former teachers, David Duttson, and saw
his name written in the Confirmation book in the School
Chapel.
After inspecting the construction site, Her Royal Highness
unveiled a plaque in the Sports Hall and named the pitch
‘Shandy-Ba’ (Mark Shand’s nickname at School). The
Duchess was then whisked away by helicopter, waved off by
the children.
6
I met our teachers for the day sitting with Mrs Peacock on the
sofas on the red sea carpet. They were as exited as I was for
the day ahead!
We walked down to the DT workshop. We then logged on to
the computers and then onto the Maths in Motion website. Our
first task was to measure the size of the bends and straights of
the track on the sheet we were given and then determine
whether they were large bends, medium bends, tight bends,
large straights medium straights or small straights - this
puzzled some of us! This data was then transferred onto the
computers. Our next task was to create and design our race-
cars, which was the theme of the day. After Mrs Lloyd had
finally picked the colour of her car(!) we began the next task,
which was to ‘create’ our engine by changing our engine
tuning, suspension adjustments and aerodynamic down force.
Using this data and some original information we worked out
our safe speeds. This was put into each feature of the track.
The fun really started when we started the practice laps. This
really brought the competitive side out of everyone, Mr
Bennett and I especially! Everyone went over their safe
speeds by about 50%.
With the practice laps done we had to brief our pit crew. This
involved measuring the track and working out how much fuel
you needed and when to have a pit stop.
Finally it was time for the race. It started and I was in the lead,
I made it around one lap but my engine overheated! The race
carried on and Mr Bennett won.
Overall it was a great day. I would certainly recommend the
program to anyone with the opportunity.
By Jamie Jordan, Upper GV
Maths in Motion Challenge In our Chapel this term
The Prep School gathers in the Chapel twice every week
for our “regular” services, but the Autumn Term is always
rich in additional gatherings for special occasions. The first
one of these this term was the annual Dedication Service,
on 12th September, whose order of service pretty much
replicates that of the same service at Saint Ronan’s… in
1913. Two weeks later, we welcomed Reverend Craig
Huxley, from Benenden School, who spoke in our Harvest
Festival. Though the service itself was beautiful and
uplifting, what made it even more memorable was the fact
that pupils accessed the Chapel via the “new” corridor for
the first time that night.
The most momentous event in the Chapel was, however,
on Tuesday 11th November, when we held two Armistice
Services: one for pupils in Years 1 to 5, and one for the rest
of the Prep School, as well as about 80 guests, most of
whom were Old Ronians. Robin Griffith OR spoke in the
service, very movingly, on the theme of remembrance. The
Chapel Court was subsequently opened, with a further
address by the Right Reverend Michael Whinney.
Our sole Evensong Service of the term was on Friday 14th
November, when Simon Davies, Headmaster at
Eastbourne College and Trustee at Saint Ronan’s, visited
us. The fire alarm slightly spoiled proceedings, as it rang
minutes before the service was due to start; it was the first
time that we had to evacuate the Chapel! Our next guest
speaker, on 5th December, was Reverend David
Commander, Rector of Benenden and Sandhurst – and our
host for the Carol Service. Appropriately enough, he spoke
in our Chapel on the topic of Carols and Christmas.
There were two high-profile “Chapel” gatherings in the final
week of term – though neither actually was in our Chapel.
The first one was the termly Whole-School Assembly, in the
Great Space, which was led by Kathryn Bender, the Head
of Nursery and Pre-Prep. This was our own version of a
Christingle Service, designed to appeal to children (and
Staff) of all ages. Finally, to finish with a flourish, the term
was concluded by the Prep School Carol Service, held for
the first time this year at St George’s Church in Benenden.
Carols and choral pieces resounded, and the “usual”
readings were heard – with one addition this year, which
probably was one of the highlights of the service, when two
Class 4 pupils (William Durtnell and Jemima Spence) read
as a poem the words of the song “Mary, did you know?”.
7
Each house takes a turn to showcase what they’ve been up
during the course of a term.
The term in...
BICTON
This term all the Houses competed in the House Shout. We
were asked to choose a war song, a hymn and a soloist. The
war song we chose was, ‘We’ll meet again’ and our hymn was,
‘Seek ye first the kingdom of God’. Well done to Orlando
Copplestone, who played the recorder for our soloist part! We
all sang well and worked very hard to sing our songs
beautifully!
I would like to congratulate our Bicton
runners who did lots of races this term
against other schools, with some
excellent results! The runners
competed in the Brenchley Relay
against lots of schools and the boys
came second in their race (the girls
also did well).
This term we welcomed our new Year 3s to Bicton. I’m proud
to say that the old Bictonians did a very good job of welcoming
them! We played lots of games to get to know each other and
then ate ices together. I think Years 3 and 4 have done the
best job of earning most of our Shows and Show-ups this
term. Well done to Rebecca Redmayne, who got 35 shows!
We have had a number of people from Bicton who have
helped with charities this term. Sam King helped make lots of
cakes and sold them to make money for the Rhinos. Herbie
Stephenson and Finlay Carver did a 60 mile bike ride and
earned £18,000 for the Brain Tumour Charity, set up in
memory of their friend. A massive achievement!
We also had a number of House assemblies. Most of them
were spent practising for the House Shout and eating ice-
creams! But after Half-Term, Mrs Morrell (our Housemistress)
handed out the Bicton Bear, Jeff, to the people who had the
most shows. Olivia Hamilton and I also gave a talk on ‘the
beginning of Santa’! The children had to guess the names of
Santa’s reindeer. Quite a few of them had forgotten!
I have really enjoyed being House Captain of Bicton this term
and everyone has been very supportive and encouraging.
Bicton is always remembered for being the kindest House!
Also, thank you to Mrs Morrell, who has been an amazing
Housemistress! By Eva Sayers, House Captain.
Harvest Produce and Carols
The Class 3 children have been busy with our Community
programme this term and have done fantastically well. Early in
the term we delivered a mountain of Harvest Festival goods to
the elderly in the village; some of which we were able to
distribute in person, to the delight of the residents and the
obvious pleasure of our pupils.
Last week the children returned to sing carols and to chat to
the residents over tea and biscuits. The residents were in
agreement about how delightful, polite and confident the Saint
Ronan’s children were when socialising outside of School and
in a different environment.
As in previous years, Saint Ronan’s sent five delegates to
Benenden, to participate in the 7th Model United Nations
conference. The pupils and the respective committees they
sat on were: Alice Clapp (Health), Gus Statman (Human
Rights), Fraser McConachie (Political), Sos Stevens
(Economic) and Sophie Charlesworth (Ecology and
Environment).
Although the delegates were new to the MUN, all participated
very well and made salient points in their respective
committees, Gus even making a point of information in the
General Assembly. Sophie spoke eloquently on the
importance of water in the Middle East, Fraser defended the
rights of journalists working in conflict zones, Alice railed
against animal testing, Gus condemned torture in sharper
tones and Sos convincingly pointed out that there are some
jobs or even roles in entertainment that are gender-specific.
Although Saint Ronan’s received no honourable mentions for
its debating skills, they were voted ‘cutest delegate’ in their
respective committees!
Saint Ronan’s has the cutest delegates
8
The Three Wise Men
were followed by the
Landlord’s Cat!
Whilst we don’t know for sure if there was a cat following the
Wise Men, in this instance the title refers to the Nursery and
Pre-Prep performances of the Nativity.
The Frogs, Caterpillars, Hedgehogs and Rabbits performed
‘The Three Wise Men’ and opened the show with ‘Twinkle,
twinkle little star’. The audience was immediately captivated.
It’s difficult to remember a Nativity when our youngest
performers sang as clearly and sweetly, and spoke their words
at such volume. The Wise Men were very learned, being
skilled at astronomy, literature and exploring, but they did work
the poor camel very hard, to the delight of those watching. At
the Dress Rehearsal Mary and Joseph had obviously had a
marital tiff prior to stepping on stage, but harmony was
restored by Friday when the soloist Angel and the rest of the
cast soothed them with their singing.
At a certain Bethlehem inn, the landlord's cat was so fed up
with the hectic atmosphere and with being ignored by her
owner that she was on the verge of leaving town. However,
with the arrival of Mary and Joseph in the stable, as well as
Wise Men and The Shepherds, the cat sensed that something
very special was about to happen (cats know these things.)
Naturally she was determined to find out exactly what it was
and the children in Owls, Squirrels, Badgers and Otters helped
her in this quest, acting their parts confidently and
competently. The narration was word-perfect and clear, as was
the singing, which received rapturous applause from the
audience.
The children deserved their afternoon of parties and a visiting
Father Christmas, which rounded off the term nicely, if rather
excitedly!
The Spring term saw the launch of the School’s official social media presence. If you
haven’t already had a chance, do take a moment to ‘like’ us on Facebook and ‘follow’
us on Twitter. Both are proving to be highly popular ways of keeping up with all the
events taking place at school. /saintronans @saintronans
9
The Music Department has had a full and busy term. We
welcomed Glynnis Dickinson to the Piano Department. She is
an experienced teacher and
was Assistant Director of
Music at Holmewood House
for over ten years.
As soon as term got
underway, rehearsals began
in earnest for the annual
House Shout. This year the
theme was ‘Songs from the
World Wars’ and the shield
was won by Tongswood. Their
instrumental contribution was
Luc Doane, a Stanley Harris
Scholar, who stunned us all
with his rendition of Rutter’s
‘The Lord Bless you and keep
you’.
The Orchestra began
rehearsals for the Michaelmas
Concert at the end of
November. Mrs Effie Sparkhall
conducted a wonderful
Concert, with music ranging
from the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ to
‘Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer’.
Our Wind Band heralded Christmas with a set of Carols at
pick up time and between the two Nativities. They were ably
led by Mr Jonathan Rutland.
A busy and festive term in the Music DepartmentOur instrumentalists have been hard at work, with Ruairi
Pringle and Orlando Copplestone entertaining Alumni and
dignitaries at the Chapel
Court Opening luncheon and
performing in the Chapel
when we were visited by the
Duchess of Cornwall.
Once again we had a bumper
crop of Merits and
Distinctions in the recent
ABRSM music exams.
William Ashenden was
awarded a Saint Ronan’s
music scholarship and tie for
attaining Grade 5 on the
Saxophone.
The Music Department has
been assisted by Tim Daniell
(retired Director of Music at
Walthamstow Hall) and Arran
Keith, who stepped in to
accompany choirs, soloists
and exam pupils this term.
We look forward to the arrival
of our New Director of Music,
Mr David Force, who comes
to us from Eastbourne College. David is a superb musician
and an inspiring teacher. He takes up his post in September
2015.
The House Shout
The Michaelmas Concert
Violet Vassar-SmithRight at the end of Half Term and, surprisingly, on time (which
I suspect was her mother's influence), Violet Vassar-Smith
was born at Pembury. This caused much rejoicing, not only
for her parents but also for the pupils, who were glad to see
the back of me for a week (particularly Midway RVS, who were
treated to the kind offices of Mr Fox). Violet, who was 9 lbs
when she was born, weighed in at the end of term at 10 lb 14
oz and is thriving, even if she is most active at about 3am.
Thank you all for your kind thoughts, words, cards and
presents. Lydia and I are so touched and grateful to be part of
such a supportive community and we look forward to bringing
Violet in at the beginning of next term to meet you all. RVS.
W E W I L L R E MThe 4th August this year marked the centenary of the start of
the country’s involvement in the First World War. The school
was not in session at the time, but had resolved to remember
the occasion in the course of the term. It seemed appropriate
enough to do so around Remembrance Day (though, of
course, November 11th was a significant date in 1918, not
1914) and two “cross-curricular days” were scheduled. The
aim was learning rather than solely remembering, and a range
of activities was planned for the pupils.
In particular, the Pre-Prep focused on the lives of Charles and
Norman Gunther, the sons of the Tongswood Estate owner
who both dies in the war. Children also scattered poppy seeds
around the War Memorial in the school grounds – and ended
their cross-curricular days with a “street” party (in the Harris
Building!) to celebrate the Armistice.
In the Prep School, work on the Great War started on Friday
7th November with a fascinating Lecture by John Graham-
Hart, a journalist and former parent who has extensively
researched the topic. His talk was not, however, designed to
compile facts and figures, but rather to encourage the children
to find a personal connection with the era – as he put it in one
of his articles on the subject: “So if you would like to give your
child an appreciation of this exceptional time in our history,
one way is to help them find a guide, someone to take them
back and walk beside them through those extraordinary years.
Step back a couple of generations and most families have an
ancestor who died in the Great War.”
One manifestation of this
approach was the display
that was put together
thanks to numerous
contributions from
members of the whole
school community –
especially parents,
whom we warmly
thank for their
outstanding support with
this. In the end, ninety
pupils and Staff had their
photos “on the wall”,
alongside documents
(even archives) about their relatives involved in WW1. Several
nationalities were represented, with men and women, civilians
and soldiers of various ages and ranks. The effect
was not quite as stunning as the “Poppies at the
Tower”, but nonetheless conveyed something of the
multitude of connections that can still be traced from
the present day to a century ago.
Prep School pupils also took part in Drama workshops,
listened to an enlightening talk by a Kent Community
Archaeologist, watched a live broadcast of a special School
Assembly held at the Tower of London,
found out about different aspects of the
Great War, engaged in debates, wrote
diaries or soldiers’ letters, made ceramic
poppies, re-enacted the Christmas Truce of 1914, on
the playground or on stage – among other things…
The Headmaster’s assessment at the end of the cross-
curricular days was absolutely right when he wrote: “it’s been
an exceptional couple of days – totally inspiring”!
Kent archaeologist Richard Taylor shows Prep School children
a genuine World War 1 Lee-Enfield rifle.
10
11
M E M B E R T H E M
Saint Ronan’s Remembers The Great War
War letter written by Midway pupil based on a scene from the trenches.
12
Stars in their Eyes
The special entertainment at the Feast this year was a
production of Stars in their Eyes. Pupils have auditioned
throughout the term, pretending to be different musical acts,
and seven made it through to the final night. On a night of high
drama, Poppy Barker as Carly Rae Jepson won the
prestigious trophy. Congratulations to all the contestants, who
sang wonderfully well on the night - and thanks to Abba for
their guest appearance! The finalists were:
Emma Beart as Amy Winehouse
Rosie Stickney as Kate Bush
Catherine Redmayne as Adele
Poppy Barker as Carly Rae Jepsen
Lizzie Wooff as Lilly Allen
Caitlin Milborne and Grace Easton as Ariana Grande and Iggy
Anushka Ramyead and Asia Davies as The Glee Warblers
‘On Tuesday the 7th October there was a buzz of excitement
in Class 3. 3TT were wrapping up warm for their trip to
Biddenden Vineyard. We clambered onto the mini buses, 3RB
and 3EP trudging along with us. When we got there the
geography trip began.
We met a friendly man called Mr Knight who took us on a tour
of the vast vineyard. 35 acres of grape trees lined liked
soldiers in front of the Queen. After we saw the amazing
vineyard we went and looked at the awesome machinery. The
red one wrapped the bottles and the other put the apple juice
in. There were containers as big as giants.
The thing I liked the best was when we were allowed to taste
the most delicious apple juices. We tried Russet, Cox, Early
morning Windsor, Worcester and even pear! I really enjoyed
the trip and hope to go back there soon.’
Class Three pay a visit to Biddenden Vineyards
The Farm has continued to grow. More hard areas have be
laid in preparation for the winter and the arks have been
arranged more systematically (very entertaining when it came
to moving the pigs!) We now have a new member to the team,
Debbie Dallaway, who runs the Farming extras. Debbie is a
familiar face at School as she also works in the Kitchen. She
keeps pigs herself and her local knowledge and animal
husbandry know-how have been invaluable.
We sold hundreds of pounds of delicious sausages and joints
on the Red Sea Carpet and the money raised will be ploughed
back into food and bedding for the Farm. The manure has
rotted down and we are now the proud owners of enough rich
compost to keep the School going for some time.
The chickens have gone from strength to strength and have
been more confident in their sorties, including the Sports Hall!
Time perhaps to have their wings clipped. As ever huge
thanks to the children for their hard work and to our parents for
supporting the Farm by buying the produce.
Religious Education moves
with the times
Almost every R.E. lesson in the Pre-Prep is “hands-on”; in
Class 3, pupils are known to play with Lego or act out stories
(in class!); in Class 4, one task this term involved leafing
through a collection of Christmas cards – but by the time
pupils get to Year 8, the “fun” element has to make way for
questions such as “Outline some non-religious reasons for
social justice”, or “Explain the relationship between human
rights and punishment”. Still, this term, probably the most
stimulating R.E. activities took place in Years 5 and 6.
Without having to leave the Great Space, Shell enjoyed a
colourful morning of discovery in October, when the annual
Hinduism workshop took place. Very many wonderful artefacts
were on show, as well as story-telling, facepainting, dressing
up, dancing… and a wedding ceremony involving two of the
pupils – which we understand is probably not legally binding!
Pupils in Midway studied Judaism, and some of this was done
somewhat inventively. The first highlight of the term was the
Shabbat Demonstration, at dusk (more or less) on Friday 3rd
October. As well as the actual ceremony (and eating!), some
pupils also had to bake the bread – and the write-up for the
whole event was done in the style of the pop song “Last Friday
Night”!
However, what seemed to catch the pupils’ imagination most
was when they were asked to build synagogues – though not
quite in the real world: the school purchased an educational
licence for the well-known video game Minecraft, which
enabled the children to get really creative… albeit virtually.
13
14
Armistice Service and Opening of Chapel Court
This year’s Armistice Day Service was special for several
reasons. As we always do, we remembered the Old Ronians
who had given their lives so bravely in the service of their
country. It was all the more poignant because it also marked
the hundredth anniversary of the outbreak of the First World
War in 1914. Our thanks to Robin Griffith (OR 51-56) for his
insightful ‘numerical’ address during the service, which was
thought-provoking and moving for adults and children alike.
This year’s service also marked the opening of the new
Chapel Court. WB Harris’ vision of a fitting link between the
School and the Chapel has been realised at last, with the
creation of a memorial garden, with War Memorial, to replace
what was lost when the School moved from Worthing. We are
hugely grateful not only to our generous donors but also to
Stephen Langer, who designed the project and kindly gave so
much of his time.
Listed to the right are those who attended the ceremony.
James Harris unveils the bust of WB Harris.
Rt Revd Michael WhinneyThe bust of WB Harris
Some of the Old Ronians who gave their lives during WW1
Mr Brian Alexander
Mrs Caroline Alexander
Mr Johny Armstrong
Mrs Jean Arnot
Mr and Mrs Keith Arnot
Mr and Mrs Roger Baden-Powell
Mr and Mrs Nick Block
Mr and Mrs Nick Bray
Dr Sara Butler-Gallie
Mr Ben Clarke
Mrs Mary Cox
Professor Kathy Dacre
Mr and Mrs Robin Dalton Holmes
Viscount Malcolm Davidson
Mr and Mrs David Duttson
Mr James Gough
Mr Robin Griffith
Mrs Mary Hale
Mr and Mrs John Harrington
Mr and Mrs James Harris
Mrs Judy Harris
Mr and Mrs Gos Home
Mrs Arran Keith
Mr John Kimpton
Mr and Mrs Stephen Langer
Mr and Mrs Jeremy Lucas
Mr and Mrs Tim Milling
Mr Timothy Monckton
Miss Sue Morgan-Kirby
Mr Christopher Page
Mr Tony Pape
Hon. Philip Remnant
Mr and Mrs Graham Rhodda
Mr and Mrs Andrew Russell
Mr and Mrs Jeremy Russell
Mr and Mrs Bruce Seton
Mrs Merrill Shaw
Mr Christopher Snell
The Very Reverend Henry Stapleton
Mr Michael Swiney
Mr David Tennant
Mr Richard Turner
Mrs and Mrs James Underhill
Miss Juliet Vassar-Smith
Sir John and Lady Vassar-Smith
Mr Richard Vassar-Smith
Mr and Mrs Christopher Whinney
The Right Revd Michael and Mrs Whinney
Mr and Mrs Tim Whinney
15
On 11th November 1918 Brigadier-General R.N. Bray (above
right) wrote a letter to his son, Robert (above left), then at
Saint Ronan’s, telling him that the Armistice had been signed.
This letter has recently been bought at auction and the buyer
has sent us a copy, which we reproduce.
R.N. Bray died of wounds shortly after the end of the war and
is commemorated by a window in our chapel as well as on our
new war memorial.
There is a nice quirk of history involving R.N. Bray. When war
started he was commanding the Shanghai Volunteer Corps, a
body funded and manned by the trading nations involved in
business in China. He was recalled to fight in France but
continued to be paid by the Corps for the first few months of
the war. Hence, he started fighting the Germans with one
third of his salary coming from Berlin.
R.N. Bray’s son, Sir Robert, was the first of many Brays to
attend St Ronan’s and went on to become the senior general
in the Army. He retired in 1970 as NATO’s Deputy Supreme
Allied Commander, after 44 years service..
Brigadier-General R.N. Bray1872-1921
General Sir Robert BrayOR 1918-1921
Armistice Announced
Letter to Ronian boyfound at auction
Autumn Term PrizesSenior Prefects
Head Prefect A. Erith
Second Prefects O. Chatterton / M. Chesters
Heads of Houses
Bicton L. Marsh
Pembroke A. Stevens
Selden F. Joarder-White
Tongswood Z. Barker
School Appointments
Captain of Boys’ Hockey O. Addis
Captain of Rugby N. Easton
Captain of Netball S. Charlesworth
Captain of Cross Country S. Lund
Captain of Lacrosse C. Goodacre
Headmaster’s Special Prizes
O. de Winton, L. Doane, S. Lund
Most Shows
Remove A. Erith
Upper J. Jordan
Midway D. Dent
Shell G. Bartleet
Class 4 R. Redmayne
Class 3 B. Wyatt
Exams Best Average
Remove Z. Barker
Upper F. McConachie
Midway T. Tweedie
Shell C. Milborne
School Prizes
Sight Reading D. Dent
Public Speaking A. Stevens
Harris Cup O. Addis
Football Prizes
U13 Player of the Season N. Easton
U13 Most Improved D. Gorman
U11 Player of the Season F. Kirkland
U11 Most Improved E. Hues
Girls’ Hockey Prizes
U13 Player of the Season A. Erith
U13 Most Improved M. Clarke
U11 Player of the Season R. Honychurch
U11 Most Improved C. Redmayne
House and Form Prizes
Senior Form Midway RVS
Junior Form 3 RB
House Cup Pembroke
Bicton Prize E. Sayers
Pembroke Prize J. Gotts
Selden Prize B. Booth-Clibborn
Tongswood Prize A. Erith
Form Tutors’ Prizes
Remove KK A. Statman
Remove PG S. Lund
Upper DB J. Beeching
Upper BC D. Gorman
Upper GV J. Funnell
Midway SC E. Balfour
Midway RVS G. Parsley
Midway IP B. Lambert
Shell RT G. Wood
Shell RH L. Stewart
Shell NH E. Tapper
4 AW P. Connell
4 EM T. Hall
4 LS J. Heard
3 RB R. Campbell
3 EP R. Macleay
3 TT M. RamyeadThe Great Space in November: below left: Children in exams;
below right: Grandparents’ tea
16
17
Pitch Perfectin three months!
All being well, the new ‘Shandy-Ba’ All Weather Pitch will be completed in time for the beginning of the Spring term.
S p o r t S a i n t R o n a n ’ s
18
The Saint Ronan’s Cross Country squad has been out in force
this term. Competing in six events, over some extremely
challenging courses, we have achieved some superb results,
making this arguably the best start to a season in recent
years.
Back in September when the ground was still hard, Years 2, 3
and 4 took part in the Rawlinson Run, hosted by DCPS.
Notable performances over the fast, flat courses were
recorded by Lotte Harrison, Ned Taggart , Bea Wyatt, Jack
Kirkland, Hope Rutter and Charlie Ellison. They were
supported well by their team mates, the fierce competition
leaving us just out of the medals.
The Brenchley Relays provide an opportunity for a select team
to race at home in front of a vocal crowd, fresh from practice
for the House Shout. Our girls’ teams put in some stoic
performances, but the boys’ A team of Archie MacLeod, Fin
Kirkland, James Crawley and Sebbie Lund really gave their
supporters something to cheer about, finishing a fantastic
second. The Brenchley Shield was claimed by DCPS, with
Sevenoaks Prep second and Saint Ronan’s and Marlborough
House sharing a hard-fought third place.
Forty-one runners made the trip to Sevenoaks Prep for the
Thomas Trophy. Again, we were just out of the medal
positions, but there were some wonderful performances: Bea
Wyatt, Hope Rutter, Joseph Fuller, Charlie Ellison, Wilf Wyatt,
Fin Kirkland, Sebbie Lund and Oli Milborne all finishing in the
top thirty.
With a well-attended early morning running cub taking place
every Thursday morning (the lure of Richard’s breakfast
enticing the children out of bed for a 7.15am start), the
training, effort and resolve finally bore fruit when both the U11
and the U13 Boys’ teams were rewarded with third place in the
IAPs District 2 Cross Country meeting. Carlos Nieto-Parr and
James Crawley, both returning to fitness, led the teams home
in 3rd and 7th places, the forces of Wilf Wyatt, Fin Kirkland,
George Kidd, Archie Rutter, Archie MacLeod, Oli Milborne,
Sebbie Lund, Olly Addis, Guy Pryke and Freddie Dear
combining to put Saint Ronan’s up with the might of Yardley
Court and DCPS.
Conditions couldn’t have been better (or worse) for this year’s
Dobson Trophy, as days of rain rendered parts of the course
totally waterlogged. The girls’ and boys’ teams ‘podiumed’,
coming third overall with some superb running from the mud-
caked athletes. Hope Rutter, Beatrix Wyatt, Joseph Fuller,
Carlie Ellison, Wilf Wyatt, Carlos Nieto-Parr and James
Crawley all finished in the top ten, both Carlos and James
coming second – really fantastic running.
Finally, at the Junior Knole Run, the Saint Ronan’s U13 Boys’
team recorded our best performance at the race in recent
years. Finishing seventh out of sixty-four teams, our first four
runners home were all in the top fifty and there were some
superb sprint finishes from our second team, who came
twenty-second. The Saint Ronan’s girls - Lily Marsh, Sophie
Charlesworth, Jade Beeching, Alice Clapp and Olivia Hancock
persevered around the challenging 2km course, encouraged
by the vociferous support team! Finishing 40th of 48, the girls
are to be commended for their effort.
Looking ahead, next term we will be competing at the Bracken
Cup / Woodmansee Shield at Somerhill; the Kent Schools at
Wilmington; the U8/9 event at Hilden Grange; the Stevens
Cup / Wainman Cup at Northbourne Park and the IAPs
Nationals at Malvern College. And of course, our own in-
house event, the Brodie Shield on 14th March.
Well done to all the runners who have worked so hard in
training, and competed so tenaciously in the races.
Curreat Saint Ronan’s!
Let Saint Ronan’s Run!
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S p o r t S a i n t R o n a n ’ s
If there was ever any doubt what a difference the new Astro
turf pitch will make, just ask the Years 7 and 8 girls. With
numbers stronger than ever, and C team representation for
the first time in both years 5 and 6, the courts and Sports Hall
were fully occupied by the juniors. This meant the seniors had
to train on grass. We were extremely fortunate with the
weather but couldn’t help but keep a watchful eye on the
construction of the Astro and think……this time next year!
The overall statistics shape up as follows: Matches played 46,
matches won/drawn 23, goals scored 46. It was the U10
teams who stole the show this year. The U10Bs played
fantastic hockey and were unbeaten, winning 5 and drawing 1
of their 6 matches. The As also played a convincing game and
were the highest-scoring team, with 18 goals collectively. The
U11 sides were also strong and will be teams to watch in the
future.
All of the girls should be congratulated for making great
progress and there are many individual highlights. Not only
those who have demonstrated outstanding skill and potential
(Alexandra Erith, Daisy Holden-Craufurd, Rose Honychurch,
Maddie McDonald, Grace Easton and Cailtin Milborne) but
also those who have trained hard every week and improved
tremendously over the course of the season (Olivia Hamilton,
Charlotte Goodacre, Matilda Clarke, Megan Hopper, Harriet
van Buer, Amelie Bottle, Catherine Redmayne, Maddie
Spence, Ella Balfour, Grace Alexander, Molly Sanderson,
Emily Hills, Sophie Ford, Georgina Wood, Saskia Wood and
Alexandra Codd), with some earning promotion to the A
teams.
The Inter-House hockey league was, as always, an extremely
enjoyable event with everyone doing their bit for their House.
Tongswood won the U13 competition and Bicton the U11.
Hockey Highlights
The U8/U9 girls have just finished a fruitful Netball season,
winning 17 of the 24 matches and scoring 107 goals
(conceding only 30). The U9 girls are a super group with bags
of potential. The A team were the highest scoring team (44
goals) winning 6 of 7 matches. The Bs also performed
consistently winning 5 of 7 matches, scoring 42 goals. The U8
teams enjoyed their first taste of competitive netball with both
A and B teams winning 3 of their 5 matches. Again, lots of
potential here and exciting times ahead.
Netball Report
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S p o r t S a i n t R o n a n ’ s
© Saint Ronan’s School 2015. Editor: Ben Clarke.
After watching the 1st XI beat Ashdown House in a close 3-2
win, one of their parents said that it was like watching Arsenal
v Hull City … and we were not Arsenal! That was a wonderful
compliment which highlighted our ambition to play a beautiful
game. This was not just confined to the 1st XI - all the teams
have been encouraged to play in this way, developing their
passing skills, close control and movement.
Alongside some impressive team performances there has also
been individual success. Nat Easton and Barney Hall have
both made the 2nd trial for the South East U13 Prep School
football team. Finn Kirkland has been selected for the final
squad for the U11 South East Football Squad (this team will
play in the World Youth Cup in Sweden next summer) and
Tom Hall (U9) is attending a trial with Brighton and Hove
Albion over Christmas.
Great teamperformances andindividual successes