Prospectus
An Uplifting Atmosphere
In Memory of Mr M Felimond
It was both an emotional and uplifting atmosphere when The Downs School hall was packed to capacity to participate in a concert in memory of Mr M Felimond, a teacher at the school who tragically died during the Christmas break.
Students initiated,organised and staged the event whose proceeds are to go to the “Felimond Children’s Educational Trust Fund”.
Following the tragic and sudden death of his teacher, a sixth form student had the idea of organising a concert to raise money for Mr Felimond's children's trust fund. With the help of other sixth formers, auditions took place, the venue booked, publicity undertaken and rehearsals got under way. Mr Felimond's family were in the audience and expressed their thanks to the students who organised it and to those who performed.
Students and staff of the Downs School together entertained and paid tribute to their teacher or colleague. The first act to appear was Mr Poore, one of our long serving and inspirational Maths teachers. He had reputedly retrieved his guitar, after 30 years in the attic, to sing What a wonderful World, whose words included;
Don't know much trigonometry
Don't know much about algebra
Don't know what a slide rule is for
But I did know that one and one is two
And if this one could be with you
What a wonderful world this would be
But Downs School I love you
And I know that if you love me, too
What a wonderful world this would be
The audience were in for a treat with acts which included many of our talented youngsters performing solo or in groups, dancing, singing, playing cello, singing in Spanish (one of the languages taught by Mr Felimond) all punctuated by anecdotes and memories.
At one point a mystery dancing group took over the stage in very untidy Downs School uniforms. Indeed their uniforms looked a little small and there was a rumour that members of staff were involved! After much jostling at the end of the routine, letters on each of the dancers' backs spelled out ‘UNIFORMITY!!!’
Although sad in many ways the occasion was very upbeat and felt very positive. It celebrated all that is good about youngsters having the opportunity to bring out their talents in a school environment, something Mr Felimond had dedicated his career to, and to give back to the community.
