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OLYMPIC HOCKEY STAR
GEORGIE TWIGG VISITS SCHOOL
The magazine for students, parents, staff and friends of The Duke of York’s Royal Military School
SPRING 2015
DISPATCHES
Another term goes by, and as we work hard towards the excitement of the summer, I think we can look back with pride to the Spring Term, and all the School’s achievements. I hope that this issue of Dispatches gives a fair reflection of some of the memorable events of last term.
I would particularly like to draw your attention to the article on page 21 concerning our new Student Chapel Wardens. We all know what a huge part Chapel plays in our lives here, and for two students to commit to helping the Padre on a regular basis (given their busy lives and other commitments) is testament to their dedication to matters spiritual.
I am still looking for inspirational suggestions concerning what we should be placing in our Time Capsule, currently lying dormant under Small Square. Some ideas have already come forward – a selection of School ties, sample menus, and photos of ceremonial events and School sporting teams – but we still need many more thoughts on this. Ask yourself this – what, in 100 years’ time, would define us as a School and a community?
Dispatches magazine is always a collaborative effort – many thanks to all those members of staff and students who have submitted articles. Special thanks, as always, must go to our roving photographer, Mr Henderson, and the Marketing team of Mrs Baker & Miss Seton, without whom we would never meet any of our deadlines.
Stephen KingEditor
2 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE PRINCIPALDear Parents and Guardians,
This term has been a fantastic start to 2015 with a variety of events and inspiring visits to encourage students to reach their potential. The School has strengthened its ties with international schools welcoming students from France, Spain and Bangladesh through its doors. These links provide students and staff with the opportunity to share ideas and better understand different cultures.
The School was very lucky to receive Olympic Bronze Medallist Georgie Twigg who gave exclusive training sessions to the girls hockey teams on the astro-turf pitch. Former Dukies have also returned to the School to share their experiences at the Dukie Careers Fair in the Nye Hall Performing Arts Centre. This is the second year that the School has run the Dukie meets Dukie careers project and the number of exhibitors has more than doubled in that time.
Students enjoyed a number of extra-curricular activities last term including a subject-based academic trip to Dungeness Power Station. On top of this, Adventure Training was the largest on record showing the
popularity of this trip and celebrating student ability in outdoor and team building activities.
We invited Dukie, Capt Calvin Smith, back from the Anti-Tank platoon of 2 PARA to give a CCF weaponry workshop and attend the Regimental Dinner. Dukie, Josh Flynn, also gave up his valuable time to talk to the School and the Military Band about his recent training in the Royal Marine Band Service.
The students themselves have worked hard producing excellent music exam results and organising a series of fundraising events for charities including Red, White and Blue Day, Scotty’s Little Soldiers and Comic Relief. We wish all students the best of luck in their exams this Summer Term and look forward to seeing families and friends at Grand Day on Friday 3 July.
Chris RussellExecutive Principal
EDITORIAL
COVER PICTURE: Olympic bronze medallist shows how it is done. Photo by Cameron Henderson
SUCCESS FOR GAP PLACEMENTS FOR SEPT 2015:Jacob Black St Paul’s College (Brisbane, Australia)
Curtis Jackson Scots PGC (Warwick, Australia)
Molly Stewart Scots PGC (Warwick, Australia)
Piers Askew Knox Grammar School (Sydney, Australia)
Nitesh Gurung The Scots College (Sydney, Australia)
Joanne Hardway Pymble Ladies College (Sydney, Australia)
Chloe Butler Pymble Ladies College (Sydney, Australia)
All who applied have been placed!
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 3
CAREERS FAIR DUKIES GO BACK TO SCHOOL IN THIS ISSUE
Dukies enjoyed a Careers Fair with a difference last term – all the exhibits were manned by alumni of the School.
The event, assisted by Allan Mayo from The Dukies’ Association, gave Year 10-13 students the opportunity to talk to Old Dukies about career and higher education choices and how to write job applications.
A host of hands-on exhibits included physio anatomic models and exercises; how to use a cuffed endotracheal tube used in tracheal intubation; and how to take a person’s blood pressure. Technical activities included programming a model aircraft, analysing aircraft engine diagrams and finding out about WW2 military intelligence techniques – some still in use today. Subjects covered included healthcare, engineering, professional services, military, environmental management and design.
Kirk Hirons, from GE Aviation said: “It has been really rewarding to come back to DOYRMS and offer Dukies work experience opportunities. We are building a number of links between GE Aviation and the School, giving support to academic staff as well as students.”
But, whatever their age, there was an element of nostalgia for them all, according to Gary Maile, now in the auto industry. He said: “After the 37 years between leaving school and going back, there have been some changes but hearing that clock tower chime at 9am ripped those years away and it was like I’d never been anywhere else.”
Executive Principal, Chris Russell, said: “We are very grateful to our former pupils for giving their time to pass on their knowledge and experience to their successors. This event has created many useful and fruitful links between the School and the world of work.”
NOW THIS WON’T HURT - MUCH
SUCCESS FOR GAP PLACEMENTS FOR SEPT 2015:
Fundraising for Red Nose Day Page 23.
A record year for the School at The Duke of Edinburgh Awards. Page 4.
Royal Marine, Josh Flynn, returns to the School. Page 10.
Links with Bangladesh Page 13.
Adventure Training in Dartmoor Page 14.
4 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
RECORD YEAR FOR SCHOOL DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARDS
Dukies and other local school children
received their Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke
of Edinburgh’s Awards at The White Cliffs
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Presentation
Evening on Friday 13 March 2015 in the
Nye Hall Performing Arts Centre.
263 students, from Duke of Edinburgh’s
Units including Dover College, Sandwich
Technology School, Sir Roger Manwood’s
School, Dover Grammar School for Girls,
Harbour School, Dover Open Award Centre,
Dover District 3rd Explorer Scouts and
Castle Community College Deal received
Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards presented
by Guest of Honour Mr George Jessel DL.
John Andrews, Chairman of the White
Cliffs Panel of the Duke of Edinburgh’s
Award, said “In a brilliant evening attended
by over 500 young people and their parents
at The Duke of York’s Royal Military School,
once again the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
winners made all who attended proud
of our young people. We heard about
volunteering that raised huge funds for
cancer research, support for children’s
groups, sporting achievement and exciting
successful expeditions among many
examples. Our Guests including George
Jessel DL, the Chairman of KCC and our
Town Mayors were all rightly impressed by
all they witnessed during this magnificent
event.”
The evening of celebration also included
musical entertainment and speeches from
Cllr. Mike Hill, Kent County Council Cabinet
Member for Community Services, and Mr
George Jessel, DL.
Norry Barber, County Co-ordinator for
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award said “This
has been a record year across Kent. 2,455
awards have been completed which is the
highest we have ever had in a single year.
This includes the highest ever number of
Bronzes and Golds. The reporting year
ends on 31 March. This is reflected in
White Cliffs success as this is the first year
that the District has achieved more than
250 completed awards (total 263) which
includes a record number of Bronzes (192).”
MANY CONGRATULATIONS
MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 5
Bronze AwardInes Adeogun-Phillips
Jed Adkins
Bidhur Aggarwal
Adebisi Akintola
Archibong Ani
Jordan Baker
William Bowden
Jack Broom
Taylor Burgess
Emanmuel Obi Ayanwu
Rhiannon Clarke
Andrew Cole
Ahmed Mattawaa
Aaron Furlong
Ben Furlong
Nikhil Ghale
Rimiss Ghale
Beatrice Gray
Elinor Haynes
Harry Hodson
James Hutchings
Zakary Hynes
Joanes Ijebor
Moses Iwalewa
Leo Lai
Chloe Little
Ellie Lloyd
Naveed Malik
Emily Malone
Taylor Marsh
Jack Matthews
Adam McCann
Mark McDonald
Aidan Modebe
Oliver Morwell-Neave
Caitlyn Oakes
Morgan Oakes
Oliver Ormrod
Kieran Parry
Rupeni Ravitisai
Yesm Saru
Roshan Shrestha
Prerika Sunuwar
Luke Taganekurukuru
Bryony Blandford Tagg
Joseph Thomas
Jamie Tickner
Emeka Ughaonu
Reece Walker
Rachel Ward
Kian Wickramaratne
Hannah Williams
Edward Wilson
Marcus Wynter
Jasmine Yorke
Silver AwardBrandon Baker
Bailey Bushby
Patrice Crosbourne
Sasha-Lyn Flynn
Dickon Gray
Praja Gurung
Isabella Henry
Adam Jodko
Michael Lessels
Shanade Marsden
Curtis Orme
Tiga Patchett
Robson Phillips
Sunim Rai
Matthew Rigler
Adam Roberts
William Rogers
Pasangnema Sherpa
Sandesh Thapa
Stephen Walley
Gold AwardJessica Miller
DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD WINNERS
MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR A VAST ARRAY OF TALENT
Students, staff, parents and governors
enjoyed the Musician of the Year
competition held at the end of term in
the Nye Hall Performing Arts Centre. Six
students competed in the Junior School
Category and eight students competed
for the Senior School Category in a very
close competition.
Some of the students shared their talents
with the audience by playing their chosen
instruments including snare drum, guitar,
cornet, piano and saxophone while the
other half of the entrants impressed with
their vocal performances.
Isobel, who played the snare drum,
was crowned Musician of the Year and
Senior winner, while Rachel, singing her
own composition, was the runner up.
George, playing the saxophone, won the
Junior category, with Ashleigh coming
second playing guitar.
While the judges deliberated their
final decision, the audience enjoyed
performances by the Senior Chamber
Ensemble, the Girls’ Senior Dance Troupe
and the Basement People, a student rock
group.
The visiting judge, Professor Ben Saul
(teaching professor at the Guildhall School
of Music and Drama, and senior lecturer
in Music Therapy at the University of the
West of England) provided encouraging
feedback on every performance. He said
“I am both delighted and honoured to
be adjudicating this evening, and to be
able to listen to and comment on such a
vast array of talent”. Ben is well known
locally as Director of Music at St Thomas
of Canterbury and Director of the Kent
Youth Choir.
Samantha Bryant, representing the
Friends of DOYRMS who generously
sponsored the event, accompanied Ben
when donating the prizes to the worthy
winners.
To view more photos of the contestants,
please go to our Facebook page www.
facebook.com/doyrms
SENIOR WINNER ISOBEL
JUNIOR WINNER GEORGE
6 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
TAKE EVERY OPPORTUNITYCHIEF SCHOOL PREFECT
Unlike CSP’s before me, I cannot speak of the times in Haig and how these experiences shaped me into the student I am today. Having only joined in Year 10, my experiences of Junior Houses have only come this year, as JUO of a Junior Guard. However, the four short years at this prestigious School have had a huge influence on me and my future. Coming from a state school in the centre of Birmingham, the culture of the Duke of York’s shook me in my first years. The requirement to be such a flexible student was something which challenged me enormously, but I feel as if I have become a more rounded individual in the time I have spent here.
Staff and students will constantly speak of
the opportunities this School offers. The magic of a place like this is that it doesn’t matter what background you’re from, or your particular abilities. This School caters for everyone. Whether it’s music, sport, drama, academic, or CCF - we have it all.
Every day, I see students trying new things, taking on new challenges and taking themselves out of their comfort zones, and this is why I feel so proud to be part of this School.
I can remember my first rugby session back in Year 10, never having picked up a rugby ball before. When Mr Spight asked me why I was persistently passing the ball forward I replied, “Sorry Sir, am I not allowed to do that?” Luckily my skills and knowledge progressed, and thanks to a lot of coaching and plenty of opportunities, it is with pride that I represented the 1st XV just four years later.
When I addressed the School back in September at the start of the academic year, I spoke of the unique community we live in. I highlighted the importance of our military heritage and the responsibility we have towards that. Representing my mother, who is a serving Officer in the QARANC, is the single greatest honour I
will achieve at this School. It doesn’t make a difference if you’re Chief School Prefect, Rugby, Cricket, Hockey or Netball Captain, SUO, JUO, scholar, prefect. If you don’t take pride in the heart badge you wear week in, week out, then you are doing yourself and
the School a huge dishonour.
Ever since Mr Quinn opened the door for my first day in Roberts four years ago, this School has given me nothing but good memories and lifelong friends. I have
witnessed myself grow and develop in this School. I have nothing but fond memories of the people around me and the places I have been. I am very fortunate to have had the support of friends, my house parents, various Matrons and of course my family. It is without doubt a place I will never forget, and a place I will only speak of in the highest regard.
If I have one message or piece of advice to students coming through the School in younger years it would be this. Take every opportunity you possibly can. Regret nothing, you can learn from everything and anything you do, and above all, don’t wish your time away. I would like to wish everybody all the best for the future, especially those of you taking your exams after half term. I leave you with the words of Winston Churchill, “Success is going from failure to failure with no loss of motivation”.
JacobChief School Prefect
“ This School caters for everyone. Whether it’s music, sport, drama, academic, or
CCF - we have it all..”
CAFÉ ARTWORKWhen I was asked if I would like to Exhibit my work in the café I was delighted because I had worked so hard on these photos. It was the cherry on the top when
I finally saw them framed and up on the wall in the café. Boat Planet is of the boats at Folkestone Harbour and Planet and Planet 2 were taken in my local park when
we had snow at Christmas. I used them to do emulsion printing and I scanned them in, then using Photoshop I made the images into planets.
Isobel Centenary, Year 12
Boat Planet Planet Planet 2
Capt Calvin Smith PARA and members of the Anti-Tank platoon of 2 PARA visited the School CCF to show off the sort of weaponry that is used by an airborne support company. Captain Smith comes from a service family, his father having had a distinguished career in both the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and the Light Dragoons.
Calvin joined the School in 2001 and left upon completion of his “A” levels in 2006. He was a member of Roberts House and his twin brother (Dean) and younger
brother (Shaun) were also members of the School.
Calvin’s interest in military matters was obvious in both CCF and Ceremonial from the very start. This culminated in promotion to Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major in the CCF during Year 12 and his appointment as Senior Under Officer in School Ceremonial during Year 13.
Upon leaving the School, Calvin went on to gain a BSc in Sports Science from Swansea University and was also a member of the University of Wales Officer Training Corps, where he gained a commission in the Territorial Army.
He then went on to attend the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, where in September 2011, he was presented with the prestigious Sword of Honour as the best Officer Cadet of his intake. He was commissioned into the Parachute Regiment and now serves as the Anti-Tank Platoon Commander of the Second Battalion.
Calvin also attended the Regimental Dinner in the evening and is pictured above with SUO, Shanade, and Drum Major, Srijan.
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 7
CAPTAIN CALVIN SMITH REGIMENTAL DINNER AND CCF WORKSHOP
READY...AIM...FIRE!
8 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
FUNDRAISING
In February, the Year 12 BTEC Public Services
students took the train to London to visit
the Houses of Parliament. The visit was
designed to help the students understand
how the government makes laws and to
understand the election process. Once in
London we walked down Whitehall, passed
Downing Street with its high security gates
and saw other important buildings with
fantastic architecture and statues. On
arriving we had to pass through airport
style security before we were split into
two smaller groups and taken on a tour of
Parliament. We were lucky to have both
Houses in session and listened to an MP
in the House of Commons introducing a
Private Members Bill talking passionately
about changing the laws regarding deaths
in mental health settings. It was surprising
to see how few members were in the House
to listen to this.
The House of Lords were voting after a
second reading of the Zero Hours Contract
Bill. The House of Lords was full and we
saw Lord Lawson and Lord Prescott sitting
on the red leather benches. After the tour
we had a workshop on elections and learnt
about the different types of voting systems
including first past the post, the alternative
vote and proportional representation. The
students created their own political parties,
delivered manifestoes and commenced
voting. It was a fantastic experience and,
to complete the day, we walked up the
beautiful Horse Guards Road and the
Parade before the somewhat delayed train
journey home.
Miss Ann Ryder
Public Services Teacher
Friends of DOYRMSFriends of DOYRMS
The Friends of DOYRMS were delighted last term to sponsor the annual ‘Musician of the Year’ competition and were honoured to be invited to assist with the judging on the night. Very worthy winners were awarded iTunes vouchers along with trophies for their wonderful performances. (see page 5)
Entering into the Summer Term, Grand Day, our main fundraising event of the year is fast approaching. Please could you contact our secretary Steve Sheppard ([email protected]) if you are able to assist us with some of your time on the day by joining our rota to either help with setting up or running a stall. We look forward to hearing from you.
CHARITY UPDATEAs this issue of Dispatches goes to press, the School is busy collecting money to donate to the Nepal earthquake disaster fund. During the Lent Term, we concentrated on raising money for Comic Relief (Red Nose Day) on 13th March, as well as for our chosen School Charity of the Term, Scotty’s Little Soldiers. In total the School raised over £900 for these two worthy causes, and on behalf of the Chaplain and the rest of the Charity Committee, a hearty “congratulations and well done” is due to everyone who has contributed.
The Summer Term’s School charity is The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, nominated by Wellington Housemaster, Mr Lyon. We will be looking for a local (Dover or Kent based) charity for the Autumn Term – suggestions please to Mr King or Padre Cook.
HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT PUBLIC SERVICES TRIP
SCHOOL DISCO A BIT OF NIGHT FEVER...
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 9
HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT PUBLIC SERVICES TRIP
These include:
Name Instrument Grade Result
Arati Rai CLARINET 1 87 DISTINCTION
Harry Cowley CLARINET 8 76 MERIT
Jasmine Rogers CLARINET 4 76 MERIT
Suchita Tamang CLARINET 1 91 DISTINCTION
Leon Povey CORNET 1 89 DISTINCTION
Madeline Ulyatt CORNET 3 80 MERIT
Brooklyn Malone CORNET 1 85 MERIT
Joshua Still EUPHONIUM 1 87 DISTINCTION
Abigail Broomfield FLUTE 1 83 MERIT
Ludovica Mega FLUTE 1 87 DISTINCTION
Name Instrument Grade Result
Lauren Hagger FLUTE 1 93 DISTINCTION
Chloe Still FLUTE 1 75 MERIT
Thomas Barker SAXOPHONE 1 87 DISTINCTION
Jasmin Smith SAXOPHONE 1 92 DISTINCTION
Alexander Gleeson SAXOPHONE 2 75 MERIT
Emily Pitt SNARE DRUM 1 92 DISTINCTION
Isobel Churm SNARE DRUM 3 84 MERIT
Benjamin Thorne SNARE DRUM 1 85 MERIT
James Brown SNARE DRUM 1 76 MERIT
Well done all!
Nineteen Dukies have received outstanding grades in their music exams taken last term.
World class hockey player Georgie Twigg visited the School to meet its sports teams and demonstrate her internationally-acclaimed skills. After a tour of the School, Georgie held coaching sessions for the girls’ hockey teams who enjoy competing against other schools in the region.
Georgie gained her first international cap for the England senior team in 2010. Since then she has been named England
Hockey’s Young Performance Player of the Year for four consecutive years. Georgie’s biggest achievement to date is winning a Bronze medal at the London 2012 Olympic Games; she also took part in the Olympic Torch Relay.
Chris Russell, Executive Principal, said: “Georgie proved to be a great inspiration to our hockey squads, especially the coaching sessions when she demonstrated her exceptional skills.”
SCHOOL DISCO
OLYMPIC HOCKEY STAR VISITS SCHOOL
COVER STORY
A GREAT INSPIRATION
EXCEPTIONAL SKILLS
SUPERB MUSIC GRADES EXAM RESULTS
10 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
What made you come back to school and give these sessions to Dukies?
Not enough people know about the Royal Marines School of Music and the opportunities that it provides. There are three main reasons why Dukies should consider the Royal Marines for a music and military career:
Travel – I have been really lucky to travel with the service and play in venues and alongside other musicians.
Pay and benefits – I am studying for a BMus Degree and being paid for it! The service has provided me with an alternative to university and also gives long holidays.
Lifestyle – you make friends for life and I have been able to take part in activities like sports and social events.
DOYRMS gave me a good military bearing including how to conduct yourself around staff and keep up high standards especially with regards to uniform. I was inspired by Director of Military Music Rtd Major David Cresswell and was greatly supported by percussion teacher Janne Metsapelto. I was always taught the best music at Dukies and trained to give a good accompaniment - this is my chance to give something back.
What do you think DOYRMS gave you to prepare for your career and what is it like to be back?
Consistency, structure and support is what helps Dukies the most, there was always a good atmosphere even when peers’ parents were away in Iraq or Afghanistan. The things I miss most are dorm life and singing
in Chapel. I came back for Remembrance Weekend last year and singing ‘Sons of the Brave’ brought back a lot of memories and emotions.
I was not a rugby player but was introduced to hockey at School and continue to play for the Royal Navy. I was mentored by my Housemaster, Cameron Henderson, and Deputy Housemaster Michael Ripault. With their guidance, I rose to Deputy Head of Kitchener House and was made a Prefect before leaving for the Royal Marines School of Music. I am still in touch with a number of Dukies, made easier by social media, and meet up with a number of them in my spare time.
The new build is very different, I really like the Centenary Sixth Form accommodation and can see the benefits of the other buildings and refurbishments for all Dukies.
What is it like at the Royal Marines School of Music and what advice would you give to Dukies who are considering a similar career path?
It is a privilege to be part of the best band service in the world. I hope that other Dukies will have the same opportunities and
mentoring that I have had at DOYRMS and since. My instrument was always the snare drum but, training at the Royal Marines School of Music in Portsmouth, I have also learnt to play the clarinet and violin from scratch in just over two years and eight months.
My advice to current Dukies is study hard, learn your scales and make use of graded exams (they provide extra UCAS points as well). Always look at your options and take every opportunity that comes your way.
ROYAL MARINE JOSH FLYNN DUKIE RETURNS
On Tuesday 17th March, Royal Marine Josh Flynn (Kitchener 2007-2010) revisited the School for three days to talk to students about joining the service and to give music lessons. Josh gave a very inspiring speech to the whole school in Chapel before starting a series of music workshops. Katherine Seton caught up with him in the new School Café to find out about his visit.
BACK WITH THE BAND AGAIN
Josh’s father is a retired RAF Nursing Officer, his mother was a teacher and his younger sister, Sasha, also attends DOYRMS. The family have always had a military background and Josh’s grandfather served in the Army - so Josh’s choice to join the Royal Marine Music Corps has not divided the family yet!
Rtd Maj. David Cresswell said “It was fantastic to have the opportunity to welcome Josh back to speak to the School. I had no doubt that he would be successful in his career with the Royal Marine Band Service, but to see his enthusiasm, progress made so quickly and how well he has fitted in was wonderful. He also drove himself in his own car, underlining many of the additional advantages and benefits that service life can bring. In particular the entire Year 7 group sat so attentive and quiet during his engaging talk and display in a way that has never previously been experienced!
“The icing on the cake was welcoming Josh to march with the band on Sunday next to his sister Sasha, both playing clarinet and with their Mum in attendance too. Josh cut a fine and outstanding presence on parade, a wonderful example of the Royal Marine Band Service. I am proud for the part I played in giving him the opportunity to pursue this career and hope that others will be inspired to follow in his footsteps.”
Year 11 students travelled to London for the ‘GCSE Science LIVE! Show’ at the Dominion Theatre. The show provided GCSE level students with top tips from a chief examiner and interesting lectures from famous names in the science world.
Opening the show, the chief examiner gave a detailed talk about what to expect in the GCSE Science papers and how to tackle the different kinds of questions that would come up in May. Following him, Professor Lord Winston gave a detailed insight into the reproductive system and his ground-breaking work into pre-implantation genetic diagnosis
and preventing deadly genetic diseases.
To combine aspects of Chemistry and Biology modules, Professor Andrea Sella from University College London explained how chemical reactions in nature give the zebra its stripes and the leopard its spots causing cells to produce different coloured pigments. Fascinating Physics lectures came from Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock who shared her knowledge of telescopes, satellites and the stars while Professor Jim Al-Khalili explained how theoretical Physics is used to understand black holes, wormholes, time travel and parallel universes.
Finishing off the programme, Professor Alice Roberts introduced the audience to a 1.5 million year old skeleton of a young child named Nariokotome Boy as part of her research into biological and physical anthropology. The students had a very long day in London with a massive amount of interesting scientific
information to process but the popular vote went to Professor Jim Al-Khalili and his theories around space and time travel.
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 11
TOP TIPS BY PROFESSOR ALICE ROBERTS
GCSE SCIENCE LIVE!YEAR 11 SCIENCE TRIP
AN UNBELIEVABLE JOURNEYSIXTH FORM DINNER
On Friday 6 March, we were fortunate enough to be visited by Tallan Skeels-Pigget who has competed for Great Britain’s Paralympics team and achieved
great things following a motorcycle accident in March 2003.
Before his accident, Mr Skeels-Pigget was an active sportsman, and a former Royal Navy fighter controller. However, after being involved in a serious accident, he was left paralysed from the chest down which meant he had to change his life around and adapt to his new body.
Incredibly, Mr Skeels-Pigget moved forward with positivity and determination to make the most out of his condition and due to that, went on to compete in sit-ski competitions at international level and has also competed in motorbike competitions. With this in mind, it meant that his visit was a very inspiring and moving experience for anyone who had the pleasure to meet and speak with him.
Mr Skeels-Pigget started his day by being taken on a tour of the School, and later on in the day had a Q&A with the Sixth Form students. During this time, Mr Skeels-Pigget explained in some depth about his accident, how he coped with it and how he has adapted to his condition and still managed to achieve incredible things. Following on from this, an Upper Sixth Form Dinner was held where he was the guest speaker. He delivered a presentation which detailed his unbelievable journey, showing true determination and motivation to succeed. Mr Skeels-Pigget taught us that even after an unimaginable accident, it doesn’t stop anyone from moving forward to achieve even better things.
Millie Centenary, Year 13
12 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
ADVENTURE TRAININGDARTMOOR
91 Dukies and 23 staff, along with 24 Bangladesh students and staff,
departed for Dartmoor on Friday 27 March for a week’s Adventure
Training. The annual expedition has become the largest and most
supported School trip of the year as students and staff give up a week
of their well-earned Easter holiday to endure what Dartmoor can
throw at them!
This year we welcomed our guests from Bangladesh, who arrived in the UK on Thursday and headed straight to Dartmoor on the Friday morning. Each student and staff member took part in a huge range of high impact and very testing activities - this week is not for the faint hearted!
Challenges included mountain biking along the Granite Way, indoor climbing at Bickleigh Barracks (very kindly provided by 42 Royal Marine Commandos), abseiling off the 175ft high Bickleigh Viaduct, gorge walking in the fast flowing - and very cold - River Tavy, kayaking, sailing, wind surfing and raft building. New to the
programme this year was paddle board racing on Roadford reservoir. Beginners followed the high ropes course, trapeze and Jacobs ladder at Kelly Enterprise and Adventure Centre in Tavistock. The extreme high ropes at Roadford were completed by the advanced group of students and staff. Unfortunately this
THE VERY COLD RIVER TAVY
OH MY, THAT’S HIGH!
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 13
year’s hike had to be cancelled due to very high winds and torrential rain, although each student did get two half-day hikes out on the Moor to experience the glorious scenery that Dartmoor has to offer. On the trip, six students completed their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award practice expeditions and a number of young Dukies overcame their fear of heights.
Adventure Training provides vital life skills in our ever changing and challenging world. Having the courage, confidence, teamwork skills, integrity and communication skills learned on adventurous activities provide our students with the edge to stand out from the crowd. The expedition will continue each year and with the support of generous donors and staff, will get stronger and better, providing the opportunities for Dukies to succeed and overcome life’s challenges.
RSM Steff Dowle
DON’T ROCK THE BOAT!
DUNGENESS POWER STATIONYEAR 10 SCIENCE
After passing several security checks, students and staff were dressed in necessary personal protective equipment including hard hats, ear defenders, hi-visibility jackets and eye protection before being shown around the main areas of the Power Station.
Dungeness B was the first Advanced Gas-cooled reactor to begin construction in the UK, back in 1965. It started generating electricity in 1983 and is due to be decommissioned in 2028. It supplies 1,040 MW of electricity to the National Grid.
Students learned about the process of generating electricity during their tour, seeing for real the processes in action as well as learning about the importance of
health and safety. After the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011, where a tsunami caused the meltdown of three reactors, Dungeness B has recently completed the construction of additional sea defences.
‘Our guides gave us loads of information about the Power Station, but they were funny too’ commented Bryony. ‘It’s odd to think that no-one at the power station is allowed to have mobile phones on
them’ noted Cheyenne, ‘but I suppose it is important for safety and security.’ The trip really benefitted the students who feel better prepared for their GCSE Science modules.
Year 10 Science students visited Dungeness Nuclear Power Station on the south coast of England on Wednesday 28 January.
1,040MW IS AN AWFUL LOT OF ELECTRICITY!
14 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 15
FOCUS ON LEADERSHIPLINKS WITH BANGLADESH
In January, Executive Principal, Chris Russell, visited two Cadet Colleges in Chittagong, Bangladesh, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the two schools. Speaking at the function, Chris Russell said that “This partnership will focus on leadership. I have been immensely impressed and The Duke of York’s Royal Military School pledges its total support to this new partnership and its sustainability.” This project is part of an ongoing two-year British programme for improving teaching skills in Bangladesh’s cadet colleges.
Since then, the AG of Bangladesh and Brigadier General Sheikh Pasha Habib Uddin have visited the School, and 20 students from Feni Girls’ Cadet College and Faujdarhat Boys’ Cadet College were taken on Adventurous Training. On the trip, the students undertook high ropes activities at Kelly College, hit the shops in Exeter, went rock climbing and mountain biking and experienced some of the great
British weather on Dartmoor in Devon. The High Commission in Dhaka said this new partnership will help to develop “...leadership qualities and citizenship through cadet exchanges, cadet level military exercises, leadership challenges, adventure training, and sports”.
In June, Bangladeshi students will be visiting DOYRMS to experience boarding school life in the UK and we may be able to see them in the Grand Day ‘Trooping the Colour’ ceremony. EXCELLENT RAFT BUILDERS
16 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
CHRIS VICKERSSTORES MANAGER RETIRES AFTER 22 YEARS OF SERVICE
Chris Vickers Joined the 3 Queens Regiment in 1970 and retired after 22 years of service as WO2 (TQMS). He joined the school on 1st March 1993 as Senior Storeman and was subsequently promoted to Stores Officer. Chris retired from DOYRMS in March 2015 after 22 years of service.
His initial time in retirement will be taken up with Grandad duties with his new grandson and then he hopes to do some travelling and charity work. We wish him a happy and healthy retirement.
SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTSLENT TERM
An Assembly was held at the end of March 2015 to celebrate the wealth of talent and dedication we have seen in sport over the Lent Term. A special thank you went out to the staff for coaching all our teams, those who captained and all of the pupils who represented the School in over 130 sporting fixtures.
Director of Sport, Mr Cloete made the following comments:
This has been a very full and exciting sporting term we would like to recognise and celebrate the efforts and achievement of all of you who have competed.
We have had a very mixed season in both
Netball and Hockey and having looked through the results, consistency seems to be the key to further developing and improving both our play and success.
We competed against some of the best sporting schools in the area and it has been pleasing to see the determination and effort from all. As we, as a School, further develop our sporting ethos, I am convinced we will see greater success and enjoyment through sport.
Sport is not only a timetabled commitment but a healthy way of life and I look forward to seeing the continued efforts and enthusiasm of all students over what will hopefully be a
fun, sunny Summer Term. At the end of the day, we strive for success but it is the taking part and sportsmanship that counts, so please do get involved.
Two of this term’s highlights were:
• Congratulations to the students who competed in the County Trampolining competitions, they won 1st and 2nd Senior Boys Trophies, 1st Intermediate Boys Trophy, 3rd Intermediate Girls Medal and eight finalist certificates.
• Congratulations to the U12 Girls Indoor Hockey team who came 2nd in the Kent Tournament.
RESULTS HockeyJunior Inter-House Year 7 NelsonJunior Inter-House Year 8 TrenchardIntermediate Boys KitchenerSenior Boys Roberts
NetballJunior Inter-dorm Year 7 WarriorsJunior Inter-dorm Year 8 GladiatorsIntermediate Girls MarlboroughSenior Girls Marlborough
Cross CountryJunior Girls Dorm GladiatorsJunior Boys Nelson
Intermediate Girls and Boys Wolfe and
KitchenerSenior Girls and Boys Clive and
KitchenerRugbyIntermediate Boys RobertsSenior Boys postponed
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 17
SPORTS SCIENCE LABSBTEC SPORT & A-LEVEL TRIP TO CANTERBURY CHRISTCHURCH
On 29 March 2015, BTEC and A-Level Sport students attended Canterbury Christchurch University’s Sports Science Fitness Testing Laboratories. To complete their Unit 7, BTEC students must be personally assessed on or witness a colleague performing advanced VO2 Max testing, Anaerobic Power (30 second Wingate Test), body composition (the bod pod), blood pressure and lung function spirometery tests - to name but a few.
Samuel braved the VO2 max test, Thomas the ‘bod pod’ and Callum and Robson the utterly exhausting Wingate test. The university caters for Olympic athletes and
was home to the Australian team during the 2012 Olympic Games.
This is the fifth year that we have attended the labs with BTEC pupils and I am always impressed with the professional manner in which Prof. Dan Stretch is able to take complex tests and deliver them in an exciting and educational manner. The students themselves always enjoy the afternoon and come away with a real flavour of university life.
Our gratitude as always goes to Prof. Stretch and his team.
Mr Cameron Henderson Leader, BTEC Sport
BREATH DEEPLY
...AND RELAX!
18 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
SPANISH STUDENTS X FACTOREXCHANGE VISIT
The School recently hosted 16 Spanish
students from Nuestra Senora de Loreto
on an exchange visit. As part of their
timetabled activities, they were given a
short lecture by Maj Cresswell about the
School military ethos and the history of
British and European military bands.
Having been informed about the use of
drums and bugles to communicate with
troops over large areas, particularly on the
battlefield, the students were then given
the opportunity to play both a drum and
a bugle. Ably assisted by three members
of the band, Alex, Isobel and Mene, first
came instruction on the drum, teaching
both the classic grip and then the much
used drum pattern called a ‘paradiddle’.
Following this they moved to bugle. After
a short period of instruction and some
very quick practice the totally unexpected
X Factor competition was launched. Also
totally unexpected was Alex’s extremely
good impersonation of the announcer
on the actual show which really did bring
the competition to light. Of the sixteen
competitors involved, nine produced no
sound whatsoever, four just a very small
peep, one a little more and two others
a barely recognizable and totally horrible
blast! The traditional ‘clap-o-meter’
system of marking was used and an
eventual winner proclaimed.
It was a fun way to end their lecture
and all not only learned much about the
School ethos and military bands, but had
an enjoyable morning.
Rtd Maj David Cresswell
Head of Military Music
IT’S HOT IN HERE!
FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTHJUNIOR BOARDING
Our new junior boarding houses are now fully established – Montgomery (girls), and Nelson and Trenchard (boys) are starting
to develop their own characters and ethos. As one Year 8 student commented: “…when you first start you’re all in the
same boat, you all help each other in any situation, no matter how big or small”.
COME ON! MY TURN! GOOD KITE FLYING
WEATHER
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 19
THE WELLINGTON SNOOKER TABLESCHOOL HISTORY
Many of you may have wondered why Wellington House is blessed with a full size snooker table, when many of the other Houses have to “make do” with mere pool tables.
The history of the Wellington snooker table is a strange one – here’s a potted (!) history of how it came to be here.
It was way back in September 2011 when the unlikely, yet now well established partnership of Lyon and Warburton set out on their first collaboration: Wellington House. Warburton, the young fresh faced Grad from Folkestone let slip that he might be able to supply, for free, a snooker table for Wellington, provided that room could be made. Lyon, the younger and even fresher faced Housemaster, had always been keen to take possession of such a gift. By February 2012 I was made aware that the House was due a refurbishment sometime in the future, whilst slowly gathering dust the object known as Table One was waiting patiently. Sadly we all knew that getting the table in at this time would be problematic, not least because of the furniture arrangements. Moving it again before and after the refurbishment would be a mammoth task. So we had to wait, nearly 18 months.
Always in the background was the threat that the building where the table was stored could actually be gutted, and all would be lost. Mr Warburton is part of the family that had run and occupied the Grade II listed building known latterly as The Leas Club, that had bowling alleys, dance floors, a lengthy bar, pool tables and a sophisticated and nicely hidden away
snooker lounge. For three years since the club doors had been closed to the public, there was always the danger that once builders took possession, the chance to rescue the table would be lost.
The table, for those who might not be aware, is 12 foot long and 6 foot wide. It is made up
of five 6 foot long and 2 foot wide slates. Each slate took five of us to lift it from its base, carry it up two flights of stairs and into the back of the waiting van. Five muscle stretching journeys in total. Then the base, balls, cues, cover, legs, pocket and side cushions all went up. The dismantling was fascinating to watch and took just over two hours. The next phase was to get the table to Dover, unpack it and put it all back together.
Assembling the table once we got it back to Wellington was a nightmare. Six hours it took to put the beast back together, to level the structure, re-cloth the playing surface and screw on the cushions and pockets, but the end result is a wonder of sport. Those who actually
like and understand snooker will appreciate how I feel and how lucky the boys are to have access to such a quality asset. A trial night was had, a few balls potted and deep sighs uttered as the highest break of 15 was knocked in.
Over time, the old pink ball, which had actually gone a peach colour, was replaced with a
new shiny version and the light green, that had done a commendable stand in job as a blue, was retired when the correct sphere was carefully placed with due reverence on the middle of the green baize. Cues have been purchased
and a score board set to the wall. The table is ready for years of play, years of strategy and patient gentlemanly competition. I suppose at some point I will have to let the boys have a go! (only kidding). I have been impressed by some wonderful long potting and the diligence shown in mastering the art of the cue. This is, I suppose, a good place to express my sincere thanks to Mr Warburton for the table, and to Mr Spight for helping with the removal.
Mr Carl Lyon Wellington Housemaster
“ It took six hours to put the beast back together... but the end result is a
wonder of sport.”
DAMAGE CONTROL AND FIREFIGHTING COURSE
NAVY TRIP TO PORTSMOUTH
In March, keen cadets in the CCF Navy section took the opportunity to go to Portsmouth for two days to visit the Historic Dockyard and to complete the naval damage control and firefighting course. We arrived in Portsmouth at HMS Excellence and boarded HMS Bristol (our accommodation ship) to find our bunks for the night. We were fed in the mess and went straight to the Historic Dockyard for the afternoon. First stop was to Action Stations with its interactive displays of all things Navy and seafaring. Most popular was the moving climbing
wall and the short film about heroic navy and marine soldiers saving a family from pirates. The Royal Navy m u s e u m had many
interesting exhibits especially the one showing the rations of beer given to sailors (8 pints per day) - SLt Socci was particularly impressed with this.
We had a guided tour of HMS Victory before returning to Whale Island, supper and bed. An early start the next day and straight to the training centre for a morning of firefighting, learning how to use the equipment and put out different fires in ship scenarios. We changed out of the fire fighters suits and put on the damage control suits for an afternoon on
a simulated sinking ship. We were taught to block holes with wedges and clamp domes in place to stop the deck filling with water. The water was freezing and it gushed through the holes with quite some force. We definitely have some budding sailors willing to get under water and work against heavy torrents to block the holes. It was a great two days and the cadets were fantastic ambassadors for the School, really getting stuck in and enjoying themselves.
CCF Royal Naval SectionLt A Ryder
TWO BUDDING SAILORS?
20 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 21
FIRST EVER STUDENT CHAPEL WARDENS
SCHOOL APPOINTMENT
In March, Mr Saunderson retired as one
of the Chapel Wardens, which presented
an opportunity to reconsider how this vital
office might grow and develop under the
new Chaplain.
The Padre was keen to supplement the
Wardens’ roles and responsibilities with
support and assistance from the student
body, and after a meeting with Mr King
and Mr Socci (our new Chapel Warden)
the Wardens and Chaplain agreed that the
idea of Student Wardens would be both
pioneering and innovative.
Two of our faithful sixth-form
communicants were asked if they would
consider the role and we are delighted
that Aimee and Isobel accepted. Both The
Bishop of Dover and the Executive Principal
endorsed these appointments and they
now make a significant contribution to the
efficient running of the Chapel.
The Chaplain is keen to ensure that the
Chapel is shaped and influenced by the
majority – the students. Both Aimee and
Izzie will return as Year 13s next year and
they will assume the full Wardens’ role in
September.
The Wardens are invaluable to the Chaplain
in not just performing various tasks that
ensure worship is offered well, but also
as a conduit for comments, suggestions
and criticism. As they become more
comfortable in their new role they will find
this easier and perhaps more rewarding,
and it is hoped that the student body will
be able to communicate thoughts and
ideas to them.
Aimee commented: “I have already
learned to become a better individual,
and I am thankful for the opportunity to
encourage the student body on the values
and importance of the School Chapel that
is a highly respected part of our heritage.
I feel, like so many others, that our
Christian ethos helps shape us into strong
and confident individuals, and with this I
feel that our place of worship should be
guarded by the safe hands of those who
are fond of continuing to make it a special
and unique place of prayer. I look forward
to many more opportunities that this
position has to offer me. I can confidently
say that the School Chapel is my favourite
place to be”.
Izzie remarked: “I have taken on the role
of Student Warden because I see it as
an opportunity to act as a link between
students and teachers. For Junior School
some of the aspects of Chapel are ‘new’
or difficult to understand. As I have been
attending Chapel since Year 7 and was
confirmed as well in Year 7, I can explain
in basic detail why different aspects of
the Chapel Service take place and – to a
certain degree – what they actually mean.
So, I see my role as helping other students,
informing them about things I understand
and if their questions are outside of my
knowledge then bringing those questions
to the attention of Padre for an answer. I
enjoy the responsibility of my role as well
as having an opportunity to help other
students understand more about the
Chapel itself, the services and the School
history which is on display around the
walls”. Izzie has become our resident bell-
ringer as well!
Rev Nick L CookChaplain
UKMT MATHS COMPETITION
On Wednesday 4 March, four Year 10s attended the annual UKMT Maths Competition in Canterbury. We arrived relatively unprepared, having only practised twice due to our busy schedules; we found ourselves slightly intimidated by the amount of competition. Our team consisted of David, Jasmine, Rimsa, and myself (Chlöe).
We took our seats swiftly, and weighed up our competition; there were 14 teams overall. Our challenge was to win against at least half of the schools in each round.
The competition began, and before we knew it we had completed five rounds; one being a surprise origami challenge... using Maths! We can only remember a blur of competitive working out under short amounts of time and large amounts of pressure, each round growing more complex in some way or another. Jasmine, Rimsa and I found ourselves constantly confused by David’s incredibly fast calculations in what we assumed to be Romanian… However by the end of the competition we found that we worked very well as a team; making rapid decisions and solving questions far more easily.
Overall we were placed second in one of the rounds, losing only to Simon Langton Grammar School for boys by a single mark. The competition proved to be challenging yet highly satisfying – especially when we got questions correct! The experience was much more exciting than we expected it to be, and the four of us would highly recommend participation by students in years to come.
On behalf of myself and the team I’d like to thank Mr Russell for allowing us to participate in the competition and for Mrs Vandepeer for taking us - and being a
fantastic mentor.
Chlöe Year 10, Clive
22 DISPATCHES Spring 2015
SHADOWING WORLD POLITICS GLOBAL MODEL UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE
On Wednesday 7 January, five students embarked on the School’s first GLOMUN trip to Berlin. This trip was a Model United Nations
conference where each of us worked in pairs to represent different countries: Jamie and Piers represented South Africa, Patrice and Harry represented Jordan and Joanne represented Turkey. Before going on the trip we were given the title ‘Humanitarian Affairs and Human Rights - improving the situations of refugees and reducing refugee migration in a globalised world’. We used this title to research the state of refugees in our given countries. Overall, over 500 delegates from a variety of schools from seven different countries participated.
Upon arrival we were greeted by our host families and all went our separate ways to different locations around Berlin. Next morning we all assembled at the Bertha-von-Suttner-Oberschule to start the conference. The first day consisted of the opening ceremony, opening speeches, committees and finished with the General Assembly. As this was the first time many students had taken
part in a trip like this we had to quickly adapt to the conference style and its formalities. We were immediately thrown into the schedule of the event with Harry and Patrice giving an opening speech about Jordan and its refugee situation. This was one of many different speeches given from countries around the world expressing their alternate situations concerning refugees. After this, we broke into committees which were organised by continental regions. Within these committees we had to try and come up
with a resolution which we would present to the General Assembly on the final day. Whilst in these groups, we were given the opportunity to express our countries personal views more, and then assemble together to apply these domestic issues in
context to worldwide issues. This brought about many heated debates and constant switches between moderated and un-moderated caucuses.
Day two was mainly to help us finalise the policies we would put forward in our resolution: only one resolution would be put forward by each continental committee which would be discussed in the afternoon and would be voted on the following morning where two final resolutions would be examined and initially voted on until there was one agreed resolution by every country. With the long hours of debating we always looked forward to the lunch breaks - we would all meet up to visit the local
supermarket, where we would indulge in German chocolate and a local energy drink to get us through the final hours of the conference. Also in the breaks we were able to socialise with the other delegates from around Europe and trade school stories! Many people were intrigued by the fact that we came from a Military School.
The second day finished with a sightseeing tour around Berlin. We visited some of the great sights such as Potsdamer Platz and the Brandenburg Gate. Whilst travelling to these sites we were able to see other monuments such as the National
Holocaust Memorial which was greatly moving.
On the final day of the conference we were to vote on one final resolution, with the
majority vote going to Latin America and the Caribbean. This brought much joy to everyone as it marked the end of a very long but rewarding conference. A disco was a reward for all of our efforts and a final chance for us to celebrate with our new friends.
The political insight we have gained from this trip will stay with us for many years, with three out of the five of us going on to study International Relations at university. We would like to give our many thanks to Frau Bouraki for organising the trip and for giving us a great experience of Berlin!
Joanne Hardway and Jamie Hails.
Year 13, Centenary
“ ..many people were highly intrigued by the fact that we came from a
Military School..”
Students planned a series of fun activities planned to raise funds for Red Nose Day on Friday 13 March. In Food Technology they baked delicious cupcakes which were then decorated by Dukies in the Dining Hall. At the new café special Red Nose biscuits were sold and a ‘funny face for money’ drawing competition held.
In exchange for a donation, students wore their own clothes rather than School uniform, and many painted their faces. For an additional donation students were allowed to watch Comic Relief together in the evening. Chris Russell, Executive Principal, said: “Fun events such as Red Nose Day add a real buzz to the School while raising funds for a very good cause.”
RED NOSE DAY COMIC RELIEF’S
DISPATCHES Spring 2015 23
CAKES WERE DECORATED...
...AND THEN SOLD!
DISPATCHES is published by The Duke of York’s Royal Military School. Many thanks to all contributors.The Duke of York’s Royal Military School, Dover, Kent. CT15 5EQ. Telephone 01304 245023. www.doyrms.com
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CROSS COUNTRY IN PICTURES
WHO’S WINNING?
KEEPING A STEADY PACE