As Sedbergh prepared for Remembrance Sunday we were honoured to receive a rare visit from the Gallipoli Association who came to speak to Year 11 pupils about the WW1 Gallipoli campaign.
Mike, Sophie and Tom from the Gallipoli Association led a tailored and moving workshop. The team spoke about the Association’s work surveying the battlefield sites and providing educational trips for young people. Their discussion about underage soldiers during the campaign was particularly poignant. The Year 11’s were shocked to hear that the youngest allied casualty of the Gallipoli campaign was Desire Blanco, a 13 year old French solider. The youngest British military casualty was Private Richard Scott who died on 13th June 1915 aged 15. He had claimed to be 17 when he enlisted.
The workshop was tailored to feature details of the 66 Sedberghians who served during the Gallipoli campaign, and the 27 who lost their lives, with information about the actions that Sedberghians were most closely involved with.
Mike gave a personal account of his great uncle, Private John Arthur Crane’s service and death during the campaign, and spoke about his personal pilgrimage trips to Gallipoli to honour and research Private Crane. As the workshop drew to a close Mike invited two pupils to participate in ‘blowing the whistle’, re-enacting a battlefield advance with an original artifact, a whistle that was used in 1915 during the campaign. After the formal end of the workshop pupils had the opportunity to view – and in some cases handle – guns, swords, munitions, medals and uniform used at Gallipoli. This final segment of the workshop was in keeping with the ethos of the whole event, structured to be engaging, shocking, surprising and deeply poignant. Staff and pupils were tremendously grateful to Mike, Sophie and Tom for the preparation, thought and great effort they had gone to in order to bring this special workshop to Sedbergh.Bob Peters, a former Sedbergh School scholar, has been a great supporter of the School. He kindly agreed to share his experiences at School and in business.
You were at Sedbergh 1984 – 89 in Lupton House. What was Sedbergh like in those days?
When you compare it to now it was a lot more spartan. If you were last back to the changing rooms after a rugby match you’d be getting into a bath that was brown, and full of mud, because ten other boys had gone in before you. It was tough environment, particularly to come in as a day boy as I did through the bursary system. I’d left my friends in Sedbergh town to become a ‘Sedbergh School boy’ so they felt I wasn’t one of them, but at the same time the Sedbergh School boys didn’t accept me straight away because I was a local. It was very personable, though – class sizes were very small. My history class had just five or six of us in the class. I have really happy memories of being here, and I got a lot out of it.
How did your Sedbergh education prepare you for later life?
It instilled the values which I hold today: kindness, a toughness, a humility, confidence, knowing right from wrong, and a discipline that has been really important throughout my life. It didn’t necessarily prepare boys for the career route I took but the values have been important to me.
You left School in 1989. What did you do after leaving School?
The first thing I did was head to the north of Cornwall with lots of Sedberghians. We spent two or three weeks there partying, having fun, and pretending to surf, and then I didn’t have any connection with Sedbergh for over 20 years.
I didn’t want at that time to be part of the ‘Old Boy’ network. For many years I didn’t want to have anything to do with Sedbergh and had a real chip on my shoulder about it. When people found out that I’d been to private school they thought I was a bit of ‘posh boy’ and that irked me, because I’m not a ‘posh boy’. I came to Sedbergh on a bursary and my mum, Val Varley, worked so hard to look after us. She was a cook in Winder for years, and a matron, and did every job going at School. The other boys I was at Sedbergh with would go off on exotic holidays in the summer, and my brother and I would spend the summer holiday cleaning toilets at Killington Services to save money for our family. At the end of the summer we’d go camping in the Channel Islands with mum – different from the holidays of the boys I was at school with, but they were the best holidays. People assume I had a silver spoon, but I’ve never been gifted anything, other than my bursary. I’ve always had a strong work ethic, ever since my mum and stepfather were running the Cross Keys at Cautley, and my brother and I were coming home from Sedbergh School in the evening as day boys and going straight out waiting on tables and washing up in the kitchen. I’ve worked very hard all of my life.
When I became successful with my travel business I felt it was time to re-engage. I’ve always had a connection with Sedbergh, my mum still lives here and so I’ve always visited, this is home for me. Coming back in my early 40s I started to catch up with the old Masters, and got involved with the OS Club and the School. I don’t have children and have to spend my money somehow, giving back to the Roger Lupton Scholarship and Bursaries Scheme really appealed to me. I was given a bursary and I’m really grateful for that. I wanted to use my money to do some good.
How did your early career experience lead you to the business you have today?
I spent 15 years working at TrailFinders essentially doing my ‘apprenticeship’, working with the first class and business class customers. My skill set lay very much in the luxury end of the market, working with people who spent anywhere between £5000 and £500,000 on their holidays. I was fortunate that when I set up my own company many of those clients moved with me so I had a ready-made portfolio of clients from day one. That was humbling. People invest in people and I felt honoured that the clients had enjoyed working with me, and were confident that I could provide that service when I set up business by myself.
I feel blessed that I have the perfect work-life balance, I love what I do. I love getting up in the morning and helping people book their holidays. My role at ‘Bob Peter’s Travel Counsellors’ has changed over the last few years, in that I built up a team of other travel counsellors who work with me, and they are the ones who now have direct contact with the clients and I’m now in a business development role bringing in new clients, getting referrals. As such, I’ve stepped back and let my team take the reins.
I now look after around 30 OS, facilitating their own travel arrangements. They love that they’re being looked after by an OS, and I love that I’ve reconnected with them and can give back by providing a service for them.
Why is Bob Peters’ Travel Counsellors unique?
Our clients trust us because we will go the extra mile to find the best solution and the best fares. If we spot that there’s a fare the day before that would save a client £500 then we’ll highlight that. We always look at the long game, if you look after clients and give them a good service then they’ll be loyal and they’ll tell their friends.
We work with celebrities planning their bespoke luxury holidays, but also with ordinary people organising a special holiday that fits their needs. I’ve never had a request that we haven’t been able to fulfil. Whatever a client wants from their holiday we find a way to provide it. Everything we do is personalised, we’re not restricted by only using partner hotels or airlines in the way that other travel companies are. We can book anything, anywhere, anytime.
One of the more unusual things I’ve done was during COVID-19. Two weeks into lockdown I had a call from a friend asking if I could support one of her friends with a travel issue. I was perplexed as no one was travelling anywhere at that point. The next thing I knew I was organising the travel for twenty rocket scientists from Space X who were at Lake Como in Italy and needed to get to Orlando. Over the next three years I did five rocket launches, transporting the scientists on a mixture of private jets and commercial flights, together with their accommodation and car hire to get everyone in the right place at the right time. My work is incredibly varied and unlikely but we’re willing to take on anything and always find solutions.
Looking back, bizarrely, COVID-19 was the best thing to have happened to my business. Martin Lewis from Money Saving Expert highlighted the company as the best in the country in terms of ensuring that all of our clients got all of their money back for COVID-hit holidays, and within a short timescale. We are ATOL protected, so none of our clients lost a penny. Our clients were raving about the service they’d received and that had a snowball effect. As the world opened up again, not only were we inundated with enquiries from people we’d worked with before who were re-booking, but those people had also generated a wave of new referrals, as they were telling all of their friends about the service they’d received.
Your company Bob Peters’ Travel Counsellors is a major sponsor of Sedbergh Alumni events. Why is it important to you to give back to Sedbergh?
My brother and I benefitted from the bursary system at Sedbergh, and ultimately, it’s the right thing to do to give back. Sedbergh is still home to me, and to be able to give back to my hometown is important, it draws me back.
Many of my contemporaries from Sedbergh are now parents of pupils here and it’s wonderful to reconnect with them and remain part of the community. By sponsoring events, such as those I’ve sponsored recently in both Sedbergh, and at Lord’s Cricket Ground on the 3rd October 2025, I’m helping keep that community going and that’s important to me.In November, the Sedbergh community gathered in Hong Kong for a fantastic evening – the first get-together in over two years, and one made all the more special as 2025 marks 500 years of Sedbergh’s excellence in education.
Around 40 people attended, including an impressive turnout of Old Sedberghians along with parents, friends, and even one OS who happened to be passing through the city. Set against the backdrop of Hong Kong’s iconic skyline, the event was a reminder of the strength of our global community.
Headmaster Dan Harrison gave an inspiring speech reflecting on the School’s recent milestones and sharing an exciting vision for the future. Development Director Ben Collins reconnected with OS spanning many generations, highlighting the bonds that Sedbergh fosters.
We are delighted to now be establishing a Hong Kong Sedbergh Association group, which will run its own events to build and deepen connections, friendships, and business networks among OS and families in the region.
A wonderful evening, and the start of a renewed chapter for Sedbergh in Hong Kong.‘I was saddened to see that Robert ‘Jock’ Pattman had passed away. There are some people you meet who you never forget and Jock was one of those. As a Scotland and Glasgow Rangers fan, he would have loved Scotland’s recent and spectacular qualification for the World Cup, but wouldn’t be so impressed with Rangers’ performances.
We were both in Winder House and on the School running team in the early 70s. Jock was a maverick but he was kind and we had some good fun. I want to pick out three instances:
In a closely fought race at Ampleforth in 1972, Jock won the race helping us win the match. He was very modest about it and more interested in the performance of others than bragging about his own performance.
In 1973 I was sent to the Sanatorium with a temperature of 105(!) and told I could not run in the Ten Mile, my only chance to run the race. Within 24 hours Jock was knocking at the Sanatorium window offering me an ‘escape route’. After a week I finally got out and Jock suggested we run the Ten Mile together to show I was fit to run the race. We had a great run round the course in 1 hour 17mins but breaking the rules didn’t impress the Housemaster!
My most lasting memory of Jock was the Blue Ribbon in the summer of 1973. Jock decided that three of us should run it including John Bullock who was a natural sportsman but not a recognised runner. Jock coaxed him round the Ten Mile, the Three Mile and most of the way up Winder in an excellent time before Bullock broke down. Jock was determined he should finish and they spent a long time arguing near the top of Winder as any chance of a good time slipped away. But Jock was like that. He cared more about others than himself, and added colour to our lives at Winder House in those days over 50 years ago now.
I haven’t seen Jock since Sedbergh but very much hope he had a good and enjoyable life’
We are pleased to announce that the November 2025 edition of Floreat Sedberghia has been published.
You can read an electronic copy of the newspaper below:
If you would like a hard copy please let us know and we will post one out to you.
Feel free to write to us and let us know your news – either email to osclub@sedberghschool.org or write to The Editor, The Development Office, Sedbergh School, Sedbergh, Cumbria, LA10 5HG.
We hope you enjoy reading it.
Following an extensive and highly competitive recruitment process, supported by expert guidance from Odgers, Sedbergh School is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Robin Pyper as Headmaster of the Senior School, commencing April 2026.
This appointment marks another significant milestone for Sedbergh School and the recently established Sedbergh Schools Group, which currently comprises Sedbergh School, Sedbergh Prep School, Sedbergh Fuzhou and Sedbergh Vietnam.
Robin brings a wealth of experience from leading independent boarding schools across the UK. Educated at Gordonstoun School, he went on to complete a BSc (Hons) in Sport Science & Physiology at the University of Leeds and his teacher training at the University of Warwick. Latterly, he studied for a Masters in Education with Educational Leadership at the University of Exeter, gaining a Distinction.
Robin began his teaching career at Bloxham School before progressing through a series of leadership roles at Merchiston Castle School and Lord Wandsworth College, where he served as Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Designated Safeguarding Lead. He is currently Deputy Rector (Senior Deputy Head) at Dollar Academy, overseeing the daily operations of its 5–18 boarding and day community.
Dan Harrison, Executive Head of the Sedbergh Schools Group, commented:
“We are thrilled to welcome Robin Pyper to Sedbergh as our next Headmaster. Robin impressed the Governors and senior leadership team with his warmth, integrity, and clear vision for leading a dynamic boarding school community. His commitment to developing the whole person aligns perfectly with Sedbergh’s values of Humility, Ambition, Resilience and Kindness. I am confident he will build upon Sedbergh’s strong foundations and continue to inspire pupils and staff alike. I’m really looking forward to working with Robin as we continue to enhance Sedbergh’s academic provision and the exceptional education we offer.”
Robin Pyper, incoming Headmaster, who will be joined in Sedbergh by his wife, Rachael, and two daughters, said:
“The opportunity to serve and lead a community as outstanding as Sedbergh’s is one which I am relishing. The School’s firm commitment to holistic education, underpinned by such strong core values, fosters an environment where every individual can thrive. Boarding life is at the heart of Sedbergh, and I look forward to working in partnership with pupils, staff, parents and alumni to strengthen our sense of belonging and ensure that Sedbergh continues to be a home where character, ambition and kindness flourish together.”
Dan Harrison, who joined Sedbergh after graduating from Cambridge University, has devoted his entire career to supporting pupils at Sedbergh School. His passion for the School remains as strong today as it was 32 years ago. As Executive Head of the Sedbergh Schools Group, he will continue to drive the strategic direction of the entire organisation and further support the commercial divisions, Sedbergh School Developments Limited and Sedbergh School International Limited.
Chair of Governors, Richard Gledhill, added:
“The appointment of Robin marks an exciting new chapter for Sedbergh. He brings both experience and vision, and we are confident that under his leadership the Senior School will continue to flourish. This appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to recruiting the very best leaders for our community, those who share our values and ambition for the future.”
The announcement of Robin’s appointment follows a period of growth and success for Sedbergh School. Recently named European School of the Year 2025, Sedbergh also achieved an outstanding ISI inspection in June, highlighting the School’s exceptional boarding provision. These achievements, alongside continued investment in facilities, including a £3 million sports centre, £2 million international-standard Tiger Turf pitches, and a new Sixth Form Centre, reflect Sedbergh’s dedication to providing an exceptional education and preparing pupils for life beyond school.
Over the coming months Robin will be visiting Sedbergh on a number of occasions to familiarise himself with the School prior to embarking on his new role as Headmaster.All OS, parents, staff and friends of the School are warmly invited to take part in the Symonds Run, which will take place on Frostrow Fell on Saturday 17th January.
Meet time: 2:00pm
Run start: 2:30pm
Course length: 4.8 miles
Teams: OS, staff, pupils, parents, and local runners
You can see a map of the course below:
2026 Symonds Run Map
Following the race, the OS Club will be hosting a dinner at The Dalesman Country Inn, Sedbergh, at 6:00pm.
If you are interested in running and would like to attend the dinner, please contact Ben Collins at bpc@sedberghschool.org.
Old Sedberghians are invited to join us for an exclusive evening honouring the proud rugby heritage of Sedbergh School. The Sedbergh Rugby Dinner will take place on Thursday, 26 March 2026 in the Carisbrooke Hall at the Victory Services Club (63-79 Seymour St, Tyburnia, London W2 2HF), bringing together past and present legends of the game.
The evening will commence at 6.00pm with a drinks reception, followed by a three-course dinner, and inspiring speeches from iconic Old Sedberghians—including the former England Rugby captain and player Will Carling—as we celebrate the values, camaraderie, and excellence that define Sedbergh rugby.
Carriages: 23.00pm
Dress code: Suit and tie/lounge suit
Cost: £120 per person, £60 for under 30s
Book tickets HERE.As part of our series celebrating inspirational Old Sedberghians, The OS Club was delighted to speak with Lieutenant General Sir Andrew Gregory KBE, CB, DL, who attended Sedgwick House from 1970 to 1975.
Sir Andrew has enjoyed a distinguished career in the British Army, defined by outstanding leadership, dedication and service. Following his retirement from active military duty, he continues to uphold the highest traditions of service in his current role as Master Gunner, St James’s Park – one of the most prestigious appointments within the Royal Artillery.
Watch the full interview HERE, where Sir Andrew reflects on his time at Sedbergh and his remarkable military journey.The Blackrock Dinner at Sedbergh School was a truly memorable evening, marking a historic full block fixture against Blackrock College, where all nine rugby teams competed in matches that were hard-fought, full of spirit, and played in the very best traditions of the game.
Powell Hall provided a fittingly elegant setting for the dinner, creating an atmosphere of celebration and tradition – the perfect venue to honour the legacy of Sedbergh rugby and welcome distinguished guests.
A highlight of the evening was the speech delivered by John Spencer (E 1961–66), President of Wharfedale R.U.F.C. and former England and British Lions player. His reflections on the game, his experiences, and the values of rugby resonated deeply with the audience, offering both inspiration and nostalgia. John’s name is woven into our rugby heritage, and it was a privilege to hear from someone who embodies the same grit, teamwork, and pride that continues to define Sedbergh rugby today.
The Headmaster gave a speech to the guests about the importance of teamwork and provided an update on the School.
Rose Seymour (L 2020-25) delighted us with a beautiful vocal performance, accompanied on the piano by her father, John Seymour, Director of Creative Arts . Her singing was truly uplifting and set the perfect tone for the celebration. It reminded us of the incredible talent that thrives here at Sedbergh.
Overall, the evening was a fitting tribute to the dedication and talent of Sedbergh’s rugby teams and a celebration not just of what Sedbergh has achieved, but of the people who make it such a remarkable community.
