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NOTABLE SKINNERS'
Alec McCowen (1925–2017) was a distinguished English actor celebrated for his extensive work in theatre, film, and television. Born in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, he attended The Skinners' School and trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. McCowen began his stage career in 1942 and quickly rose to prominence with performances in repertory theatres across the UK and abroad. He became a key figure in the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Old Vic, playing iconic roles such as Richard II, Mercutio, and Malvolio. His Broadway appearances earned him multiple Tony Award nominations and Drama Desk Awards, and he was appointed CBE in 1986 for his services to drama.
McCowen also made a lasting impression in film, with standout roles including Chief Inspector Oxford in Alfred Hitchcock’s Frenzy (1972), Henry Pulling in Travels with My Aunt (1972), and Algy (Q) in Never Say Never Again (1983). He portrayed the Bishop of Ely in Kenneth Branagh’s Henry V (1989), Sillerton Jackson in Martin Scorsese’s The Age of Innocence (1993), and Reverend Raleigh in Gangs of New York (2002), his final film role. His performance in Cry Freedom (1987) and Personal Services (1987) further showcased his versatility. McCowen was also known for his solo recitation of St. Mark’s Gospel, which he performed internationally, including at the White House. He passed away in London at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of artistic excellence and theatrical innovation.
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Andrew Bernardi (born 22 April 1965) is a renowned English violinist, educator, and music entrepreneur. He attended The Skinners’ School, where his musical talents began to flourish, later earning a degree in music from Leeds University and a postgraduate scholarship to Trinity College of Music, where he led all the orchestras. Bernardi studied under celebrated teachers including Hugh Bean CBE and John Ludlow, and has performed with leading orchestras such as the Royal Philharmonic, BBC Philharmonic, and Guildford Philharmonic. He is the founder of the Bernardi Music Group, the Shipley Arts Festival, and the Stradivarius Piano Trio, all of which reflect his commitment to bringing world-class music to local communities.
Beyond performance, Bernardi is a passionate advocate for music education and charitable engagement. He has collaborated with institutions like the Yehudi Menuhin School, served as a tutor at Trinity Laban Conservatoire, and is a trustee of the Sussex Arts Academy. His outreach includes performances on international television and appearances in film soundtracks such as Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation and The Talented Mr Ripley. Bernardi plays the historic 1696 Amici Bernardi Stradivarius and a bow formerly owned by Yehudi Menuhin. His work continues to inspire young musicians and promote the transformative power of music across generations and cultures.
Bob Friend (1938–2008) was a pioneering British journalist and television presenter, best known as one of the original anchors of Sky News. Born in Tunbridge Wells, he attended The Skinners’ School, leaving at age 15 to begin his career as a cub reporter for the Tunbridge Wells Advertiser, where he covered Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation in 1953. After completing National Service with the Brigade of Gurkhas in Hong Kong, he spent a decade freelancing for British newspapers before joining BBC News in 1969. His assignments included reporting from Northern Ireland during the Troubles, a posting in Vietnam, and serving as the BBC’s first correspondent in Australia, followed by stints in Tokyo and New York. While in New York, he worked alongside Mark Thompson, who later became Director-General of the BBC.
Friend joined Sky News at its launch in 1989, quickly becoming one of its most recognisable faces. His on-screen partnership with Anna Botting became a viewer favourite, and his calm, authoritative style helped define the channel’s early identity. He conducted interviews with leading political figures and covered major global events, including UK general elections and international crises. His work earned him an MBE in 2003 for services to broadcasting. Friend also made cameo appearances in films such as Independence Day and Mission: Impossible, reflecting his cultural impact. He was married with two daughters and passed away in 2008 from a brain tumour. His legacy as a trusted broadcaster and trailblazer in 24-hour news remains widely respected.
Bob Woolmer (1948–2007) was an accomplished English cricketer and internationally respected coach. Born in Kanpur, India, he moved to England and attended The Skinners’ School, where his cricketing talent began to flourish. Woolmer played for Kent County Cricket Club from 1968 to 1984 and earned 19 Test caps and 6 ODI appearances for England between 1972 and 1981. A technically sound right-handed batsman and medium-pace bowler, he is best remembered for his heroic 149-run innings against Australia in 1975, batting for over eight hours to save the match. His international playing career was curtailed after joining Kerry Packer’s World Series Cricket and participating in a rebel tour of South Africa, which led to a temporary ban from Test cricket.
Woolmer’s legacy was truly cemented in his coaching career. He served as Director of Coaching at Warwickshire, where he mentored players like Brian Lara, and later coached South Africa (1994–1999), leading them to victory in the 1998 ICC KnockOut Trophy, and Pakistan (2004–2007). He was a pioneer in using computer analysis and data-driven strategies in cricket coaching, influencing stars such as Hansie Cronje, Shaun Pollock, and Inzamam-ul-Haq. Tragically, Woolmer died during the 2007 Cricket World Cup in Jamaica under mysterious circumstances, sparking widespread speculation and investigations. Despite the controversy surrounding his death, Woolmer is remembered as a visionary coach, a thoughtful mentor, and a man deeply committed to the spirit and evolution of cricket.
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Christopher Hogwood (1941–2014) was a celebrated English conductor, harpsichordist, and musicologist, widely regarded as a pioneer of the Historically Informed Performance (HIP) movement. Born in Nottingham, he attended The Skinners’ School before studying Music and Classics at Pembroke College, Cambridge, graduating in 1964. He trained under influential figures such as Raymond Leppard, Thurston Dart, and Gustav Leonhardt, and studied in Prague under Zuzana Růžičková. In 1967, Hogwood co-founded the Early Music Consort with David Munrow, and in 1973, he founded the Academy of Ancient Music, which became a leading ensemble in the revival of Baroque and Classical music using period instruments.
Hogwood’s career spanned five decades and included over 200 recordings. His landmark projects included the first complete cycle of Mozart’s symphonies performed on period instruments and a best-selling recording of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, which charted alongside pop albums in the 1980s. He served as Artistic Director of the Handel and Haydn Society in Boston (1986–2001), Mostly Mozart Festival in London, and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra in Minnesota. His operatic work included productions of Don Giovanni, Dido and Aeneas, and The Marriage of Figaro, with performances at venues such as La Scala and the Royal Opera House. Hogwood’s legacy endures through his recordings, scholarship, and influence on generations of musicians dedicated to authentic performance practice.
Colin Edward Smart (born 5 March 1950) is a former international rugby union player who played as a prop forward. Educated at The Skinners’ School, Smart began his rugby journey with Tunbridge Wells RFC, where he captained the team before moving to Newport RFC in 1973. He became club captain in 1975, during its centenary year—only the third Englishman to hold that role in the club’s history. Under his leadership, Newport challenged for the Welsh Unofficial Championship, won the Cardiff Centenary Sevens in 1976–77, and lifted the Welsh Cup in 1977 after defeating Cardiff. Smart played in 306 matches for Newport, scoring 60 points, and famously led the team against touring sides including Australia and the All Blacks.
Internationally, Smart’s career was marked by a unique choice—having played for both Wales Students and England U-23s, he declined an invitation to play for Wales in 1974, opting instead to pursue a place with England. He earned 17 caps for the national team between 1979 and 1983, participating in tours to the Far East, Argentina, and multiple Five Nations Championships. Known for his strength and leadership, Smart’s career also included the infamous ‘aftershave incident’ during a post-match celebration in 1982. After retiring from rugby in 1983, he continued his career in education as a teacher in Newport. His legacy remains strong in both English and Welsh rugby circles.
Doug Taylor, a former pupil of The Skinners’ School in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, went on to make significant contributions in the field of aerospace engineering, particularly in the development of aircraft ejection seat technology. His early education at Skinners’—a grammar school known for its strong emphasis on science and mathematics—laid the foundation for his technical acumen and passion for aviation. After leaving school, Taylor pursued engineering and eventually joined the Douglas Aircraft Company, where he became involved in pioneering work on escape systems for military aircraft.
Taylor played a key role in the development of the Advanced Concept Ejection Seat (ACES II), a high-performance escape system designed to improve aircrew survivability under extreme conditions. The ACES II featured multiple operating modes, electronic sequencing, and advanced stabilisation mechanisms, and became the standard ejection seat for aircraft such as the F-15, F-16, and A-10. His work helped shape modern ejection seat technology and contributed to the safety of countless pilots worldwide. Though not widely known in popular media, Taylor’s legacy lives on in the engineering innovations that continue to protect aviators today.
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Gregg Lewis, a former pupil of The Skinners' School in Tunbridge Wells, has become a celebrated figure in the world of sport fishing. His most distinguished accolade is being named the first-ever Grand Slam Master Angler by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), a title awarded through the Catch a Florida Memory program. This recognition came after Lewis successfully completed all eight saltwater fishing Grand Slams—each requiring the capture of three specific species within a 24-hour period. His journey, which began in 2020, spanned four years and included strategic expeditions across Florida’s diverse marine habitats. Lewis’s achievement not only showcased his angling prowess but also highlighted his commitment to conservation and sustainable fishing practices.
In addition to his Grand Slam triumphs, Lewis has earned a place in the Saltwater Fish Life List Club, having caught 62 of the 70 recognized species, and has 10 entries on the Reel Big Fish list, which celebrates memorable-sized catches. He also made headlines by landing a 193-pound yellowfin tuna during the 76th Destin Fishing Rodeo and previously reeled in a 672-pound bluefin tuna off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach. His team has twice won the billfish catch-and-release division, releasing ten marlin in one season. These accomplishments reflect not only his technical skill and endurance but also his deep passion for the sport. Now retired, Lewis continues to inspire the angling community, mentoring others and sharing the lessons learned from his extraordinary career.
Harry Sloan, born in Pembury, Kent in 1994, is a professional rugby union player known for his powerful presence as a centre. A former pupil of The Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells, Sloan began his rugby journey at the age of six with Cranbrook RFC. His talent was quickly recognised, and by age 15 he was scouted by Harlequins Academy coach Howard Graham. Sloan progressed through the ranks, representing England at U18 and U20 levels, where he won the 2013 Six Nations Under 20s Championship and back-to-back Junior World Cups. He made his senior debut for Harlequins in 2012, scoring a try in the LV= Cup, and later debuted in the Premiership in 2014.
Over the course of his career, Sloan has played for several clubs including Harlequins, Ealing Trailfinders, Saracens, and French side Agen. Known for his versatility and strength in midfield, he has been a consistent performer, particularly during his time at Ealing and Agen. Despite facing injuries that occasionally hampered his progress, Sloan remained a determined and impactful player. His journey from local club rugby in Kent to the international stage is a testament to his dedication and resilience, making him a notable alumnus of Skinners’ School and a respected figure in English rugby.
Ian Tapp is a renowned British sound engineer and alumnus of The Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells. With a career spanning over three decades since 1987, Tapp has worked on more than 120 films and television productions. He is best known for his work on Slumdog Millionaire (2008), which earned him both an Academy Award and a BAFTA for Best Sound Mixing. His technical expertise and creative finesse have made him a sought-after figure in the film industry, contributing to critically acclaimed projects across genres. Tapp’s early education at Skinners’ laid the foundation for a career that would take him from Kent to the global stage.
His impressive filmography includes a wide range of high-profile titles. Notable works include 127 Hours, Ex Machina, Annihilation, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, The Theory of Everything, Brooklyn, Steve Jobs, The Legend of Tarzan, Paddington 2, Emma., Radioactive, Sharper, and The Secrets of Dumbledore. He has also contributed to television series such as Midsomer Murders, Rosemary & Thyme, and Sex Education. Tapp’s consistent excellence and innovation in sound design have earned him multiple nominations and awards, solidifying his legacy as one of the UK’s most accomplished sound engineers.
Jamie Spence, born on 26 May 1963 in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, is a distinguished English professional golfer and a proud alumnus of The Skinners' School. After turning professional in 1985, Spence carved out a successful career on the European Tour, where he claimed two notable victories: the 1992 Canon European Masters—secured with a stunning final round of 60—and the 2000 Moroccan Open. His best season came in 1992, when he finished 10th on the European Tour Order of Merit and reached a career-high world ranking of 57. Spence also represented England in the Alfred Dunhill Cup, contributing to their victory in 1992, and played in the 2000 World Cup.
Beyond his playing career, Spence has remained a prominent figure in the golfing world. In 2003, he was appointed Chairman of the European Tour's Tournament Committee, reflecting his leadership and respect within the sport. He has also worked as a commentator and media personality, including appearances on Sky TV’s Brainiac: Science Abuse and hosting his own radio show. Known for his deep ties to his hometown and early education at The Skinners' School, Spence’s journey from local schoolboy to international golf professional stands as an inspiring testament to dedication and talent.
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Jon Flanders is a distinguished conservation biologist and naturalist, renowned for his work in bat ecology and global species preservation. A former pupil of The Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells, Flanders went on to build a career that spans continents, contributing to major research on bat phylogeography, habitat conservation, and the effects of climate change on biodiversity. He has authored numerous scientific papers and collaborated with institutions such as the University of Bristol and Bat Conservation International (BCI), where he currently serves as Director of Endangered Species Interventions. His research has been pivotal in understanding the ecological roles of bats and advocating for their protection in regions including East Asia, the Americas, and the Caribbean.
Flanders’ conservation efforts have earned international recognition, particularly for his leadership in saving critically endangered bat species in Jamaica—a project he describes as the highlight of his 20-year career. His work combines rigorous field science with community engagement, exemplifying how collaborative conservation can yield transformative results. From assisting in agave surveys in Mexico to leading global initiatives at BCI, Jon Flanders continues to be a passionate advocate for wildlife and ecosystem health, inspiring future generations of scientists and conservationists—including those from his alma mater, The Skinners’ School..
Major-General John David Moore-Bick CBE, DL, born on 10 October 1949, is a distinguished former British Army officer and alumnus of The Skinners’ School in Royal Tunbridge Wells. He pursued higher education at St Catherine’s College, Oxford, before commissioning into the Royal Artillery in 1971 and transferring to the Royal Engineers a year later. His military career spanned over three decades, during which he held key roles including Commanding Officer of 21 Engineer Regiment during the Gulf War and Chief Engineer for NATO’s Implementation Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina. His strategic leadership earned him numerous accolades, including the OBE, CBE, and the Hungarian Order of Merit. He also served as General Officer Commanding UK Support Command (Germany) and later as Special Defence Adviser to Serbia and Montenegro before retiring in 2005.
Following his military service, Moore-Bick continued to contribute to public life. He served as General Secretary of the Forces Pension Society from 2007 to 2015 and was Chairman of the Governors at The Skinners’ School from 2005 to 2015, demonstrating his enduring commitment to education and his alma mater. He was also instrumental in founding the Skinners’ Kent Academy. His civic roles include Deputy Lieutenant of East Sussex, Master of the Skinners’ Company, and High Sheriff of East Sussex in 2018. A keen linguist fluent in German, Serbian, and Italian, Moore-Bick is a Fellow of both the Institution of Civil Engineers and the Chartered Institute of Linguists, reflecting his broad expertise and dedication to service across military, educational, and community spheres.
Lieutenant James Stuart Launders, a former pupil of Skinners' School in Tunbridge Wells, went on to become one of the most remarkable submarine commanders in Royal Navy history. Born in 1919, Launders joined the Royal Navy as a cadet in 1938, quickly rising through the ranks due to his exceptional intellect and leadership. His early naval career included service aboard HMS Repulse, but it was his transition to submarine warfare that defined his legacy. In 1943, he was given command of HMS Venturer, a fast-attack submarine, where his strategic brilliance would soon make history.
Launders is best remembered for his unprecedented wartime achievement: the sinking of German U-boat U-864 in 1945 off the coast of Norway. This engagement remains the only recorded instance in naval history where one submarine sank another while both were fully submerged. For his courage and tactical acumen, Launders was awarded the Distinguished Service Order and the Distinguished Service Cross, both with Bars. After retiring in 1974, he continued to contribute to naval training until his death in 1988. His legacy endures as a testament to the calibre of leadership fostered at institutions like Skinners' School.
Marcus Dillistone, born in Royal Tunbridge Wells in 1961, is a distinguished British film director, producer, and writer, and a former pupil of The Skinners' School in Kent. He pursued further education at the Kent Institute of Art & Design and Staffordshire University, specialising in design and film production. Dillistone is best known for his film The Troop, which premiered at BAFTA in the presence of Princess Anne and was later screened for Queen Elizabeth II. He collaborated closely with legendary actor Sir John Mills, directing him in his final screen appearance in Lights 2. Dillistone founded Glory Film Co. and has worked with Oscar-winning cinematographers such as Jack Cardiff and Ronnie Taylor. His contributions to medical filmmaking earned him membership in the Royal Society of Medicine, and he has presented at major conventions like NAB and IBC.
Over his 35-year career, Dillistone has directed over 130 films across cinema, television, documentaries, and commercials. His filmography includes Lights (1998), Splat! (1999), Sir John Mills' Moving Memories (2000), The Glow (2001), Luxor (2009), and TheTroop: Redux (2019). He also played a key role in the music production for the Athens 2004 Olympic ceremonies. Dillistone’s work has won over 50 international awards, including IVCA Best Direction. His films have been featured in prestigious publications and screened globally, and he remains active in education, philanthropy, and workflow consultancy. Dillistone’s legacy is marked by artistic excellence, technical innovation, and a commitment to social impact through film.
Martin Boysen, a former pupil of The Skinners' School in Tunbridge Wells, is one of Britain's most influential climbers, renowned for his pioneering spirit and elegant climbing style. Born in Germany and raised in Kent after World War II, Boysen discovered his passion for climbing on the sandstone outcrops of Sussex. His early talent quickly propelled him into the upper echelons of British climbing. In the 1960s, he made significant contributions to the development of North Wales climbing, including the discovery of Gogarth and first ascents of iconic routes such as Nexus, The Skull, and Capital Punishment. Boysen was also a key figure in major Himalayan expeditions, including the first ascent of the South Face of Annapurna in 1970 and the South West Face of Everest in 1975, both under the leadership of Sir Chris Bonington. His autobiography, Hanging On, offers a vivid account of British climbing’s golden age and his adventures with legendary figures like Joe Brown and Gary Hemming.
In addition to his climbing achievements, Martin Boysen has appeared in several notable mountaineering films and documentaries. His filmography includes Everest – The South West Face (1975), which chronicles the historic British ascent of Everest, and Trango (1978), documenting the first successful climb of Trango Tower in Pakistan. He also featured in Doctor Tom (1994), part of a series on Scottish mountaineering, and Ama Dablam (1979), a documentary from The American Sportsman series. Boysen even served as a climbing double for Clint Eastwood in The Eiger Sanction and worked on Fred Zinnemann’s final film, Five Days One Summer. His contributions to both climbing and climbing media have left a lasting legacy in the mountaineering world.
Sir Martin James Moore-Bick, born on 6 December 1946 in Wales, is a distinguished retired judge who served in the Court of Appeal of England and Wales. He received his early education at The Skinners' School in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, before attending Christ’s College, Cambridge, where he later became an honorary fellow. Called to the Bar by the Inner Temple in 1969, Moore-Bick built a formidable legal career specialising in commercial law, particularly shipping and international trade. He became a Queen’s Counsel in 1986 and was appointed a High Court judge in 1995, receiving a knighthood. His judicial career culminated in his appointment as Lord Justice of Appeal in 2005, and he later served as Vice President of the Civil Division of the Court of Appeal from 2014 until his retirement in 2016.
Following his retirement, Sir Martin was appointed to lead the public inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, a role that placed him at the centre of one of the UK’s most significant and sensitive investigations into public housing and safety. His legal decisions, particularly in housing-related cases, have occasionally drawn public scrutiny, but his reputation for thoroughness and legal acumen remains widely respected. Outside the courtroom, Moore-Bick is known for his love of early music, reading, and gardening. His journey from a pupil at The Skinners’ School to one of the highest judicial offices in the country stands as a testament to his dedication and intellect.
Matt McCooey, born on May 27, 1981, in Nagoya, Japan, is a British-Japanese actor known for his versatile performances across television, film, and theatre. He is the son of author and journalist Chris McCooey and Kumiko Aoki. After attending Skinners School in Tunbridge Wells, McCooey pursued acting at Aberystwyth University and later trained at the Drama Studio London, graduating in 2004. His early career included notable stage roles in Shakespearean productions such as Romeo and Juliet, Twelfth Night, King Lear, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, showcasing his classical training and dramatic range.
McCooey gained widespread recognition for his role as DC Bill Wong in the popular British television series Agatha Raisin, where he was a series regular from 2014 to 2022. His screen debut came with a brief appearance in EastEnders, followed by roles in Doctors, Skins, and the animated series Invizimals. In 2020, he voiced Kenji in Thomas & Friends, further expanding his reach into children's television. His voice acting credits also include major video games such as Final Fantasy XIV and Total War: Three Kingdoms. McCooey continues to build a diverse portfolio, including directing and producing short films like Limbo and Cold Blood, affirming his creative talents both in front of and behind the camera.
Nick House, born in September 1974, is a British entrepreneur and influential figure in London’s nightlife scene. Raised near Tunbridge Wells in Kent, he attended the prestigious Skinners' School before studying at the University of Leeds. His early interest in entertainment blossomed during university, where he began promoting club nights. This passion evolved into a thriving business—Nick House Entertainment Limited—which managed over 20 events weekly across London’s elite venues. His breakthrough came with the launch of Mahiki in 2005, a Polynesian-themed nightclub that quickly became a hotspot for celebrities and royals.
Over the years, House co-founded several iconic venues including Whisky Mist, Bodo’s Schloss, The Punch Bowl (with Guy Ritchie and Madonna), and Steam & Rye (with Kelly Brook). Known for his flair in creating exclusive yet welcoming atmospheres, he earned accolades such as Best Promoter at the London Bar and Club Awards. Despite his success in nightlife, House is teetotal and maintains a grounded personal life. He resides in Notting Hill with his wife and children, continuing to shape London’s hospitality landscape with ventures like Gold in Portobello Market.
Nick Knowles, born in Southall, Middlesex in 1962, is a well-known British television presenter, writer, and musician. He spent part of his teenage years in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, where he attended The Skinners’ School. Known for his laid-back style and rugged charm, Knowles excelled at rugby and passed eight O-levels before leaving school at 16. His early life was shaped by frequent family relocations due to his father's career changes, which he credits for instilling a 'gypsy lifestyle' that influenced his dynamic career path. Before entering television, he worked various jobs and pursued creative interests like music, poetry, and comedy.
Knowles began his media career behind the scenes as a runner before transitioning to on-screen roles, starting as a reporter for TVS in the South East. He rose to national prominence as the host of BBC’s long-running home renovation series DIY SOS, which he has fronted since 1999. His television portfolio includes popular shows like Who Dares Wins, Secret Fortune, and Real Rescues. Beyond presenting, Knowles is also a writer and director, with interests in history and film. Despite his public persona, he is a self-confessed workaholic and has been involved in philanthropic efforts through his television work, particularly helping families in need through DIY SOS.
Oliver Dickinson is a renowned professional DJ and music producer, celebrated for his dynamic sets and genre-blending style that fuses house, techno, and UK garage. A proud alumnus of The Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells, Oliver’s passion for music was evident from a young age, where he first began experimenting with mixing tracks in his bedroom. After honing his craft at local venues and underground events, he quickly rose through the ranks of the UK’s electronic music scene, earning a reputation for his high-energy performances and innovative soundscapes.
Over the years, Oliver has headlined major music festivals across Europe, including Creamfields, Tomorrowland, and Glastonbury. His debut album, Frequency Shift, topped electronic charts and earned critical acclaim for its bold production and infectious rhythms. Beyond the decks, Oliver has collaborated with international artists, contributed to film soundtracks, and launched his own record label, Pulse Theory, which champions emerging talent in the electronic music world. His journey from a schoolboy in Kent to a global music influencer continues to inspire aspiring DJs and producers around the world.
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Professor Richard Holdaway, CBE, FREng, is a distinguished British space scientist and engineer, renowned for his leadership in the UK’s space sector. Born in 1949 and educated at The Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells, he went on to earn a PhD in aeronautics and astrodynamics from the University of Southampton. His early career included work on the Harrier jump jet at Hawker Siddeley before joining the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) in 1980. He became Director of RAL Space in 1998, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the UK’s capabilities in space science and technology, collaborating with NASA, ESA, and other international agencies. His contributions earned him a CBE in 2013 for services to UK space engineering.
Beyond his scientific achievements, Professor Holdaway has been a passionate advocate for public engagement in science. He has delivered lectures worldwide, including aboard Cunard liners, and holds visiting professorships at several universities, including Southampton, Kent, Beihang University in Beijing, and Embry-Riddle in the U.S. He also chairs multiple high-tech companies, such as Cambridge Space Associates and Stratospheric Platforms Ltd. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to innovation, education, and the exploration of space, all rooted in the academic foundations laid during his formative years at The Skinners’ School.
Sir Christopher Alan Bayly (1945–2015) was a distinguished British historian renowned for his pioneering work in British Imperial, Indian, and global history. Born in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, Bayly was educated at The Skinners' School before attending Balliol College, Oxford, where he earned his BA and later completed a DPhil at St Antony’s College under the supervision of John Andrew Gallagher. His doctoral thesis focused on political organisation in Allahabad between 1880 and 1925. Bayly held the prestigious position of Vere Harmsworth Professor of Imperial and Naval History at the University of Cambridge from 1992 to 2013, and also served as President of St Catharine’s College, Cambridge. He was a trustee of the British Museum and Director of Cambridge’s Centre of South Asian Studies.
Knighted in 2007 for his services to history, Bayly was a Fellow of the British Academy and recipient of the Wolfson History Oeuvre Prize. He contributed significantly to the academic community as co-editor of The New Cambridge History of India and as a member of various editorial boards. His scholarship emphasised the interconnectedness of global historical narratives, particularly the role of non-Western societies. Bayly passed away in Hyde Park, Chicago, in 2015 while serving as the Vivekananda Visiting Professor at the University of Chicago. In recognition of his legacy, the Royal Asiatic Society established the annual Bayly Prize for outstanding doctoral research in Asian studies, and he was posthumously awarded the Toynbee Prize for global history.
Solomon Akhtar, born on 18 February 1991 in Kent, is a British entrepreneur and reality television personality. He attended The Skinners' School in Royal Tunbridge Wells before pursuing a degree in Geography at the University of Exeter, from which he graduated in 2013. During his university years, Akhtar demonstrated a strong entrepreneurial spirit, founding SunBurnt Events and later Socialbear (formerly Instabear), a company that prints Instagram photos at events. His innovative approach earned him recognition, including the Best Graduate Start-up award from SETsquared in 2014.
Akhtar gained national attention in 2014 as a contestant on the tenth series of BBC's The Apprentice, where he reached the top five. Despite being eliminated for a vague business proposal, his charisma and creativity left a lasting impression. He continued to grow his business ventures, expanding Socialbear internationally and investing in new social media technologies for live events. Now based in London, Solomon Akhtar remains an influential figure in the UK startup scene, known for his dynamic ideas and media presence.
Stuart Thoy is a British musician best known as the bassist and harmonica player for the iconic Britpop band Dodgy. He joined the group in 2012, becoming a key part of their revitalized lineup during their later years. Dodgy, originally formed in 1990, rose to fame in the mid-1990s with hits like 'Staying Out for the Summer' and 'Good Enough.' Thoy’s addition brought fresh energy to the band as they embarked on new tours and released albums such as Stand Upright in a Cool Place and What Are We Fighting For. His musical contributions have helped sustain Dodgy’s legacy as one of the enduring names of the Britpop era.
Before his professional music career, Stuart Thoy was a pupil at The Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. The school, known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs, has a vibrant music department that encourages students to explore a wide range of musical styles and instruments. Thoy’s time at Skinners’ likely played a formative role in his musical development, laying the groundwork for his later success in the British music scene. His journey from a local grammar school student to performing on major UK stages with Dodgy is a testament to his talent and dedication
Timothy "Tip" Tipping (13 February 1958 – 5 February 1993) was a British stuntman and actor, best known for his work in iconic films and television series during the 1980s and early 1990s. A former pupil of The Skinners' School in Tunbridge Wells, Tipping went on to serve in the Royal Marines and the elite 21st SAS Regiment before transitioning into the entertainment industry. His military background lent authenticity and skill to his stunt work, making him a sought-after performer in action-heavy productions. Tragically, his life was cut short at age 34 during a parachuting accident while filming for the BBC documentary series *999* near Alnwick, Northumberland.
Tipping’s filmography includes both credited and uncredited roles in major films. He played Private Crowe in Aliens (1986), and contributed stunt work to Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984), Return to Oz (1985), and The Young Americans (1993). He also appeared in Batman (1989), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989), Death Wish 3 (1985), Lifeforce (1985), and Blue Ice (1992). On television, he featured in series such as Doctor Who, The New Statesman, Bottom, The Bill, and Poirot. His legacy remains as a talented and fearless performer whose contributions added realism and excitement to many beloved productions.
Will Edwards is a professional rugby union and former England Sevens player, born in Royal Tunbridge Wells in 1995. A talented fly-half, Edwards began his rugby journey at Tunbridge Wells RFC before moving to Sevenoaks RFC and representing Kent. He attended The Skinners’ School from 2007 to 2014, where his passion for the sport flourished. After school, he studied mathematics at Loughborough University, a renowned institution for sporting excellence, and played for Loughborough Students. His breakthrough came in 2017 when he was selected for the England Sevens squad for the World Series in Vancouver, a tournament England won. He went on to captain the national team during the Grand Prix Series in Clermont-Ferrand and played in major international tournaments in Paris, Singapore, and London.
Following the closure of the England Sevens programme in 2020, Edwards transitioned to the 15-a-side game, signing with Premiership club Harlequins. His adaptability and core skills from Sevens rugby quickly made an impact, earning him a Man of the Match award in the Gallagher Premiership. Known for his pace, footwork, and resilience, Edwards has become a respected figure in English rugby. His journey from a local schoolboy at Skinners to an international athlete is a testament to his dedication and talent, and he remains a proud ambassador of his hometown and former school.
QUICK LINKS
The Skinners’ School Development Fund 286884
The Skinners’ School Parents’ Association 1103916.
