Reflections of Havergal: 1994-2019

Maintenance and Grounds Teams

Throughout its history, Havergal has been blessed with maintenance and grounds teams who have worked hard to ensure the well-being of the community and the (often-challenging) buildings and grounds that they tend with dedication and resourcefulness.

Havergal Horticulture Torch , Spring 2006

One familiar face belongs to Glenn Atkinson, who, in 1973, when he was still in high school, crossed Avenue Road from his aunt’s home to inquire at Havergal about the possibility of working at the school during his March break. Clearly, he distinguished himself during that week because he was offered a summer job and, ultimately, full-time employment. So wholehearted in his dedication to the school did he prove himself to be that he was made an Honorary Old Girl. Atkinson’s impact on students was highlighted when in spring 2003 the school welcomed a visit from Giles Havergal, the great-great-nephew of Frances Ridley Havergal and a highly regarded stage actor, playwright and director in his own right. When some Junior School students were apprised of the upcoming visit, one astute youngster looked at Atkinson and said, “Isn’t he Mr. Havergal?” She wasn’t far wrong. Over the many years that Atkinson has devoted to the school, he has learned first-hand what a challenge it is to maintain a building that has done yeoman’s service since 1926, and he has stories to tell:

Havergal’s Security team, 2007.

Security Team

The Watchman of Havergal Ludemus , 1904

The poem titled “The Watchman of Havergal” which appeared in Ludemus in 1904, creates nostalgia for simpler times, but Havergal is fortunate to have its well-being ensured by up-to-date security policies and procedures and a very well-trained staff who have become important and enthusiastic members of the community. For all that the Security staff are a reassuring presence at the school, they also like to have fun: “Architecture is a visual art, and the buildings speak for themselves,” said Julia Morgan, an early 20th-century architect. So—what do Havergals say? They speak of strong foundations, profound respect for a proud history and an abiding appreciation of beauty. They also speak of an openness to a future that is waiting to be created. Security at Havergal Rob Stepien, Security Manager

Memories of Havergal Glenn Atkinson, Mechanical Services Manager

• The challenges of a historic building (e.g., leak behind the fireplace in the EK) • Anecdote: Discovery of students in the tunnels off the Lower Common Room

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