SPOTLIGHT – WARMINSTER SCHOOL
During this time when we are missing our much loved community, the Spotlight shines not on an individual, but on Warminster School.
Remind us, who founded you?
Warminster School (Lord Weymouth's) was founded in 1707 by Thomas Thynne (1640 – 1714), who had been created 1st Viscount Weymouth in 1682, to educate the sons of his Longleat estate workers. You could find out a bit more on 'our history' page, or now there is time to fill, read Through the Wren Door.
How are you coping with lockdown?
Well, as you know we have been here since 1707 so it takes a lot to shake us here. We are carrying on business as usual as much as possible. Helping our wider community and waiting patiently for staff and pupils to return in hopefully the not too distant future.
Describe a typical Warminster day from a lockdown perspective.
Our teaching and administrative staff keeping the Warminster routine alive virtually and everyone embracing remote working successfully. Mrs Snell, our stalwart member of the Admissions Department and House parent of Boniface House, (so still working from home!) opening up reception, answering the phone and holding the fort (never forgetting to wear her identity lanyard even though there are no visitors).
What do you miss the most?
The pupils and staff are the heart and soul of the community here at Warminster. We miss the sound of pupils laughing; we miss the rhythm of the School day. But, in a short time, we will all be back together reflecting on this unprecedented time stronger, more resolute in our values and prepared to roll up our sleeves in the Warminster way and build a bigger, brighter future together.
What do you think makes Warminster a special place to live and learn?
It has to be the link between the old and the new, forging ahead preparing our pupils for their futures, whilst always remembering Warminster's roots; over 300 years of young men and women launched into the world – it’s very powerful to have known Warminster was the launching pad. One of the greatest things is seeing pupils grow from nursery to the Sixth Form and then coming back as Old Verlucians.
What are you most looking forward to?
The Warminster family coming back bigger, better and stronger. And of course, the never-ending beeping of lights at the zebra crossing and the laughter!
What would surprise us about you?
Warminster has one of the oldest Fives courts in the country.
What did your school reports say about you?
Humble about my successes.
Note/advice to teenage self
“The level of our success is limited only by our imagination and no act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.” Aesop
Your mantra/motto or favourite quote?
#Communityofopportunity
A possession you would save from a fire?
Unquestionably, it would have to be the Wren door.
Guilty pleasure?
Being part of ALL the Warminster magical celebrations hosted for our community throughout the academic year. That special moment, just before the parents and Warminster community arrive before the end of year WSPA Summer Ball – the chilled bottles of bubbles are ready, the marquee decorated and our amazing catering staff waiting for the green light. They are all special times when we can come together.
Favourite TV programme?
No contest, all our fabulous Yellow Balloon films on Vimeo.
Last book you read?
Through the Wren Door.
Which actor would play you in a movie about your life?
Richard Attenborough – much loved, worldly wise, elderly but young both in mind and spirit.
Favourite tipple?
Hunter’s gin with a fever tree tonic and all the trimmings.
Twitter or Facebook?
Both and Instagram too!