VALETE
James Walsh J ames Walsh arrived at Dulwich in August 2017 in a teacher exchange with Rob Wood, who headed for Newington College in Sydney in return. Walshy, as he became affectionately known, quickly found his feet taking the U13A rugby team, helping with the winter cricket programme, and demonstrating his ability as an outstanding PE practitioner with his day-to-day teaching. His boundless energy led to his call-up to assist with the early morning High Performance Programme, although the boys involved are still struggling to come to terms with his choice of music at that time of day. During the Lent term James had the privilege of being under Nick Brown’s wing as the U15B team’s coach, in what would be easily his most successful season, despite his relatively modest knowledge about football in general or the offside rule in particular. The snow put paid to his chances of bringing home any Rugby 7s silverware, but the summer term saw him running for the sun cream as he donned the famous Dusters Cap and took to the outfield. Fortunately for the opposition Walshy left the sandpaper at home, and chose instead to give the ball to Mr Whitehead for an over that could be described as rough. James has been an outstanding member of the Common Room, involving himself in numerous activities including a ski trip and a tour to San Sebastián. I don’t think we could have asked for a better exchange member of staff, and whilst we welcome back 6ft 6ins Rob Wood with great affection, I will be sad to see 5ft 8ins Mr Walsh leave these shores, as the balance on the department height scales is once again tipped firmly in favour of the bigger man. I would like to take the opportunity to thank James and his wife Jenna for being such good sports in taking a leap of faith and allowing the exchange to happen. I hope to see them both on the outfield at Dulwich again in the near future. Phil Greenaway
Catherine Blair O ne could be forgiven for thinking that working in the examination office would make for a rather humdrum, pedestrian existence, with only the very occasional spark of excitement or interest. One could only have gained this impression if one had never worked with Catherine. Catherine lights up any office with her tremendous creative energy, her ready wit and her easy and enjoyable conversational tone. She has been a veritable tour de force as the College has had come to grips with the burgeoning bureaucracy inflicted upon it by the Examination Boards. Catherine’s attention to detail, tremendous drive and willingness to help have endeared her to all within the Dulwich community. Many would have grown disaffected when faced with the organisational shortcomings of Dulwich boys and staff. Catherine has always remained genuinely eager to help, bringing to bear her efficient professionalism, diplomacy and grounded sage advice. The College offices, staff and boys have benefitted greatly from her expertise and enthusiasm. Catherine successfully combines a steely determination to master any task she encounters with a beguiling charm and tremendous sense of fun that make her a pleasure to work with. The examination office has been richly enlivened with Catherine’s humorous anecdotes, erudite literacy advice and extensive knowledge of London’s gastronomic delights. A career working as an editor in an arts or lifestyle supplement surely beckons. After 10 very successful years working at the College, Catherine will be sorely missed. Whatever the future holds for Catherine, I am sure that she and her family will continue to prosper, and will have a fun time in the process. Mark Grantham-Hill
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