DISPATCHESfluencycontent-schoolwebsite.netdna-ssl.com/File... · Senior winner, while Rachel,...

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.


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


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


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.


CAPTAIN CALVIN SMITH REGIMENTAL DINNER AND CCF WORKSHOP

READY...AIM...FIRE!


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...


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


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.


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


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!


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!



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


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


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!


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


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?



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


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


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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