Grovian Voices

Saying Yes: A Career in Broadcasting with Richard Graves

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2457490/fan_mail/new] In this episode, Old Grovian Richard Graves (87-94) reflects on his time boarding in Vinter House. The lifelong friendships forged at The Grove and a foundation laid for a successful career in broadcasting. From the rhythm of boarding life described as “prep, sport, prep, sport… repeat!” to the legendary Fish & Chip run. A passion for sport, playing cricket and rugby and friendships which remain strong to this day, 30+ years later! It’s an experience he feels set the platform for life beyond education.  Richard offers powerful insights for students and aspiring broadcasters, sharing lessons on taking opportunities, gaining experience, and backing yourself in a competitive industry. His message to students is clear: take every opportunity, believe in yourself, and build real-world experience whenever and wherever you can. Hear Richard’s reflections on broadcasting at the highest level, the power of community, and why Grove friendships last a lifetime. Your Host: Eve Corry, Head of Development & Alumni Relations at Woodhouse Grove (st24-) Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-) Music: Paul Corry Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School [https://woodhousegrove.co.uk/old-grovians/keep-in-touch/]

Building Confidence Through Sport: Kerren Jennings on PE, Passion & Purpose

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2457490/fan_mail/new] In Episode 27 of Grovian Voices, we sit down with long-serving staff member Kerren Jennings (st99-), Head of Year 9 at The Grove, whose dedication to sport, student development and school life has shaped generations at WGS.  From her early days as a passionate young athlete to becoming a central figure in the PE department and pastoral care, Kerren reflects on her journey, her influences and what continues to inspire her after decades at the school.  From attending her first sports tour with Eileen Mollard to the British Isles and then to South Africa with the rugby in 2003, to the first tour Kerren organised in 2005 to Barbados, she reflects on the impact and joy these experiences have had on students and staff alike. Kerren believes strongly that there is something for everyone at WGS. Her work is driven by a mission to educate students about the value of physical activity, provide them with the tools to stay active and instill the motivation and confidence to continue beyond school. Join us for an inspiring conversation, celebrating commitment, community and the lasting impact of great teaching. Your Host: Eve Corry, Head of Development & Alumni Relations at Woodhouse Grove (st24-) Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-) Music: Paul Corry Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School [https://woodhousegrove.co.uk/old-grovians/keep-in-touch/]

Full Circle: James Lockwood – 1 Year Anniversary Special

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2457490/fan_mail/new] Grovian Voices – 1 Year Anniversary Special With Headmaster, James Lockwood (86-92, st16-) To mark the first anniversary of Grovian Voices, we are delighted to welcome Old Grovian and Headmaster James Lockwood for a powerful full-circle conversation – from pupil to becoming the 18th Headmaster of The Grove. James reflects on arriving at The Grove in Year 9, stepping beyond his comfort zone and gradually discovering a deep sense of belonging that would go on to shape his character and forge lifelong friendships. He speaks warmly about the inspirational leadership and dedicated staff who encouraged him to embrace opportunity, grow in confidence and make the most of every aspect of school life. This episode traces his path into teaching and ultimately back to The Grove as Headmaster in 2016. At the heart of the conversation is his commitment to ensuring that every pupil today benefits from the same values-led education, strong sense of community and spirit of opportunity that defined his own experience. This special anniversary edition also marks the launch of the 1812 Society – a significant new chapter in The Grove’s story. More than a campaign, it represents a collective commitment from the Grovian community to support future generations and safeguard the school’s legacy for years to come. Join us as we celebrate one year of Grovian Voices and a story that truly captures what it means to be Grovian for life. Be The Difference. Be 1812. 1812 Society | Woodhouse Grove School [https://woodhousegrove.co.uk/1812-society/] Your Host: Eve Corry, Head of Development & Alumni Relations at Woodhouse Grove (st24-) Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-) Music: Paul Corry Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School [https://woodhousegrove.co.uk/old-grovians/keep-in-touch/]

Elite Mindset: Kathryn Leng on Leadership and International Cricket

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2457490/fan_mail/new] In this episode, we speak with Old Grovian Kathryn Leng (85–92) about her journey from growing up in Pudsey to representing England at the highest level. Reflecting on her years at Woodhouse Grove School, Kathryn shares memories of friendships, influential teachers and experiencing three Headmasters at The Grove. She reflects on how the school’s structure and values helped shape her resilience, discipline and leadership. Kathryn discusses discovering her love of cricket at a time when the women’s game had far less visibility, the people who supported her ambitions and the determination it took to pursue the sport seriously. From captaining England at Under-19 level to making her senior debut in 1995, she offers insight into what international cricket looked like in that era and how dramatically the game has evolved since. We also revisit landmark moments in her career, including her record-breaking 144 against New Zealand in 1996 and becoming the first woman to play in the Bradford Cricket League in 1999. Finally, Kathryn reflects on legacy, life beyond international sport, advice for the next generation and what cricket and being an Old Grovian has ultimately given her. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about courage, leadership and breaking new ground, and discover how one Old Grovian helped pave the way for the modern women’s game. Your Host: Eve Corry, Head of Development & Alumni Relations at Woodhouse Grove (st24-) Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-) Music: Paul Corry Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School [https://woodhousegrove.co.uk/old-grovians/keep-in-touch/]

From The Grove to the Screen: Dominic Leclerc on Story, Voice and the Arts

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2457490/fan_mail/new] In this episode of Grovian Voices, we speak with Old Grovian Dominic Leclerc (87–97), a screen director whose credits include Sex Education, Skins and Shameless, who reflects on his formative years at The Grove and the experiences that shaped his creative journey.  Dom recalls French with Mrs Hughes as his favourite subject, noting how language and storytelling influenced his early love of narrative. He shares memorable moments from his involvement in the performing arts at The Grove, alongside his participation in performing arts clubs outside of school, which helped him build confidence, find his creative voice and deepen his connection to the arts.  A key theme of the conversation is authenticity, with Dom emphasising the importance of staying true to one’s own voice as a director and creating honest, meaningful work rather than chasing trends or external validation. He also speaks candidly about the realities of the industry, describing it as highly competitive and demanding resilience, hard work and the ability to cope with rejection. Dom encourages students and aspiring creatives to trust their instincts and pursue their passions.  Tune in and enjoy this episode of Grovian Voices. Advert from Dove in the Room - a member of The Grove Business Directory: Website: www.doveintheroom.com [https://www.doveintheroom.com/] Your Host: Eve Corry, Head of Development & Alumni Relations at Woodhouse Grove (st24-) Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-) Music: Paul Corry Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School [https://woodhousegrove.co.uk/old-grovians/keep-in-touch/]