Rob Dembrey OA (1984-91) was born in East Dulwich. Teachers at Rob’s local state primary school remarked to Rob’s mother, a single parent, that he was a talented student who should consider applying to Dulwich College. When Rob toured the school, he immediately felt at home.
Piano with Luis Parés, Head of Keyboard: “Teaching piano during lockdown presented many challenges, and in many ways changed the way our pianists went about their learning. Whilst exams were cancelled and live concerts postponed, we quickly transitioned to teaching virtually, with all the difficulties that software presented at that time. On the positive side, more time at home allowed our pianists to practise more than ever before, and our teachers were able to correct many bad habits in our pupils when practising on their own instruments (height of the piano stool and tone production being the most common examples). In addition, the pandemic provided us with new learning opportunities, particularly in the digital space, including hosting many pre-recorded concerts and projects, and our first online Winter Concert and Bach Competition. I’m particularly impressed by the determination with which the boys adapted to this challenging time and learnt new skills so quickly.” Art and Design Technology with Suzanne Rowe, Teacher of Junior School Art and DT: “I recorded step- by-step Art and DT projects for boys to do at-home, and I designed them so that the boys spent as little time as possible looking at their screens and working as creatively as possible. Year 5 boys created their own 3D name sculptures, using any resource they had at home, and I was so impressed that our boys had such an appetite to be creative. It was also a delight to see families get involved - some parents and carers even joined us.” Football and Physical Education with Tom Whitehead, Head of Football: “20-21 lockdowns unfortunately coincided with the main football season, so we had to cancel all in person training and matches. Despite home learning, every student who had chosen football had the opportunity to participate in virtual tactical talks, fitness challenges and ball mastery sessions amongst the other weekly activities. It was our goal that we get the students playing and moving as much as possible, offering activities that all could get involved with, even those who had limited space to practice, whilst developing their tactical understanding of the game through access to discussions, videos, external speakers and analysis presentations. The groups really got creative recording their weekly challenges in various locations around their homes and it was brilliant to watch them compete against one another in the skills school challenge or try to improve on their previous bests each week in the keepie uppies. Although not much football was played, having such a high level of involvement combined with the passionate discussions about football made it such a positive even if a little different Lent Term.”
“Even at 10-years-old, my head and heart were set on it.” Rob was accepted to Dulwich and received transformative financial support without which he could not have attended the College. Today, Rob is grateful for the impact that a holistic Dulwich education had on him. “Without Dulwich, I’m not sure I would have the confidence I do today. I found at Dulwich that all interests and passions were equally valued – whether music, academics, theatre. The College made sure that I had everything I needed to succeed in terms of academics and co- curriculars, providing me with extra funding to purchase school blazers and rugby and cricket equipment. I’m grateful that so many supporters today support the Bursary Appeal. You are transforming lives, opening doors and supporting boys to be the best they can be.”
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