The Ruthinian 1 - Ruthin School

The Ruthinian 16
John Rowlands
John Rowlands assumed the headship in September of 1993 and filled the post with distinction for 17
years. He was quick to appreciate the ethos of the School, and by stressing the importance of the pastoral
responsibilities shared by young and old alike he preserved and enhanced that ethos. His keen understanding
of human nature well equipped him to listen sympathetically and to react effectively to all who came to him
with their problems, as all were free to do.
In addition to the cares of high office he found time not only to teach Geography and Psychology to A level,
consistently producing impressive results, but also to participate actively in a wide range of pursuits.
He led by example, taking more than his share of mundane duties such as supervision in order to lighten the
load for his colleagues; he was in effect permanently on duty throughout term-time, and his dedication and
attention to detail were an inspiration to students and staff alike.
In a small school life is inevitably tough; small means that margins are stretched and planning for the future
is inevitably constrained; a rich school has inevitably funds to fall back on, but most schools have to make
do with a limited income and possibly a few windfalls. Over the years the standard of facilities expected
has increased significantly. Against this background the development of facilities was a major priority and,
over the years, thanks to excellent work by Bursars John Wilkinson and Paul Smith together with a committed
view from the Governors, the School built new science labs, set up an indoor games room ( further
developed into a conference room), significantly improved boarding accommodation (acquiring Gladstone
to replace the very sub-standard Kenyon) and built a sports hall Hewer Hall, opened by the Princess
Royal. There is still much being undertaken but to have achieved this progress has been impressive given
the size of the School and the starting point.
In sport John was tireless in encouraging the efforts of all, whether stars or modest but honest triers, and he
also took part energetically whenever possible. For example he regularly played a major part in the
organisation of the Hill-fort Run, in which he ran on many occasions – until his knees gave up the ghost –
and raised the profile of this unique annual race to the status of a memorable event in which all sections of
the school community – students, staff, parents, Old Ruthinians and friends – involve themselves with
enthusiasm. He regularly accompanied school parties to watch the action at home fixtures at Goodison
Park. Resplendent in a bright orange jacket, he could be instantly located from all quarters of the ground.
Keith Tamlin, O.R, a director of Everton FC, always ensures that Ruthinians receive a warm welcome
there and we greatly enjoy the cordial relationship that they have built up between Club and School.
John is keenly aware of the value to students of fieldwork, and his Geography excursions, whether
locally or as far afield as Iceland, were always planned to be at once as instructive and as enjoyable
as possible. Those who shared his company on these occasions, as on the Goodison Park trips, will
long remember his ready wit and good-natured banter with particular warmth.
Drama was another field in which he took a particular interest. He made a number of cameo
appearances (usually in the staff pantomime) on stage to the delight of all, and most particularly of
those more accustomed to seeing him in more formal circumstances. Far from overshadowing the
efforts of less experienced players, his presence served to instil confidence and enhance their
performances. However his most significant contributions were back-stage, first building and
instructing a team of stage hands and later stepping aside to watch the students, managed by one of
their own number, taking a pride in carrying out these demanding and essential operations themselves.