New deputy head for school

One of the oldest and most famous educational establishments in the country, Christ’s Hospital has started the academic year with new deputy head Tom Lawson.

“This is one of English education’s best kept secrets,” said Mr Lawson, who left his role as a teacher in Winchester College, Hampshire, to step up to this new venture.

“I hope I’ll bring experience of the best of boarding schools, but also I hope some of the academic stardust of Winchester rubbed off on me over the last 15 years, so I can shed some of that here.”

The independent boarding school that houses around 800 students is steeped in a history like no other that can be traced back to 1552 London.

Mr Lawson said it’s an exciting place to be.

“We have a wide range from all over the country - locals, West Sussex, Londoners, people from the north and some from all over the world.

“The site is big - there’s a sort of magnificence here. The mission statement of the school talks about the Christian faith and all its mystery and splendour, and one of the ways it does that is with a splendid display.”

Everyday Mr Lawson joins the headmaster John Franklin to watch the marching band and students file into lunch wearing their traditional Tudor uniforms.

“The uniforms were super snazzy in 1552 and we haven’t changed them since. It’s a really important thing for us because it links us with our fine traditions and makes the young men and women look attractive without sexualising them.”

On Friday October 11, the school enjoyed a Tudor day, which saw teachers dress in Tudor-style costumes and the students taking part in a Tudor-themed chemistry lesson, banquet and falconry display.

“We have a very committed teaching staff and they live in. We all live as a family and community and that sets a good tone.”

For more details about the school and its bursaries visit www.christs-hospital.org.uk