In this episode, we speak with Steve Burnhill (75-82), Old Grovian, former Vinter House boarder, School Governor and Trustee of the Woodhouse Grove School Foundation. 

Steve reflects on his years at The Grove, the profound influence of David McCarthy, former Head of Vinter House and Second Master and his love of rugby under J. Keith Jones, 1st XV Rugby Coach and former Second Master. From Loughborough University to going on tour with England and the Barbarians, sport shaped his outlook on life and leadership. 

Now an entrepreneur and philanthropist, Steve shares lessons from founding Northern Game Feeds, giving back and reconnecting old friends at the 1975 reunion - a conversation about heritage, mentorship and the lifelong spirit of The Grove.

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School

In this episode, we sit down with Keith Jones (st78-16), who joined Woodhouse Grove in the Summer term of 1978 as a teacher of Geography and PE and went on to transform its sporting culture over nearly four decades.

Keith shares his journey from growing up in Carmarthen, Wales, where he captained the Wales U15s and later represented his country at U18 and U19 level, to studying PE and Geography at Exeter University (St Luke’s) under the influence of mentor Goronwy Morgan. After a brief playing spell with Llanelli, his path led him to The Grove via an unforgettable 1978 interview that changed the course of his life.

He recalls early days teaching Geography and PE in gowns and tracksuits, living on campus with his wife Marian, their son Rhodri and developing a new vision for Grove Rugby, as Keith says: "because winning becomes a habit".

Keith reflects on milestones such as the 1991 Canada tour, the 2003 opening of the new Sports Hall and working under Headmasters David Miller, David Welsh, and David Humphreys. With warmth, humour and humility, he looks back on the people, traditions and moments that defined his time at The Grove and the joy of seeing generations of Grovians grow through sport.

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Softley (st14-), Assistant Head - Sixth Form and Futures, to explore how the Sixth Form at Woodhouse Grove is redefining post-16 education.

With a clear focus on the mantra “Grow – Develop – Stand Out from the Crowd,” Chris shares how the Sixth Form team champions a flexible, tailored approach for every student, whether they’re continuing from Year 11 or joining from another school.

Topics include:

• Why the one-size-fits-all model doesn’t work
• Pathway choices: A-Levels, BTECs, Apprenticeships & more
• How The Grove supports personal growth, wellbeing and future planning
• The Flexible Pathways Programme – because no 16-year-old should have to know exactly what they want to do
• Opportunities through Futures Friday, career mentoring, OG Career Profiles and The Grove Business Directory
• A day in the life of a Sixth Former – from Woody’s café culture to form discussions and weekly themes
• Games afternoons, community service, leadership roles and the real-world feel of the new Sixth Form building
• Sixth Form Tours: Rugby, Cricket, Netball – and much more
• Boarding life for Sixth Formers – flexible, welcoming and supportive

Plus:

• Chris’ personal passions – from family time to all things sport
• His answer to Toby Waterhouse's question: “One pint, one person, past or present – who are you choosing?”

Don't Miss:

Sixth Form Open Evening – Thursday 13 November 2025

Find out how to book, what to expect, and why this event is unmissable for prospective students and families. Click here to book: Open Mornings / Arrange A Visit | Woodhouse Grove School

Listen now on all major podcast platforms.

#GrovianVoices #SixthFormAtTheGrove #FutureReady #GrowDevelopStandOut #IamGrovian

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School

Join us for a vibrant, nostalgic and heartfelt conversation with Toby Waterhouse (80-91, st18-), Old Grovian and current PE & Games teacher at Brontë House. From his first days as a Year 4 pupil in 1980 at Brontë, through his Grove School years (Findlay House, class of 1991), to his present-day full-time teaching role, Toby reflects on four decades of deep-rooted connection with the Grovian community.

In this episode:

• Schoolboy tales from Brontë House (ice on the pool, Whernside pride and early boarding days)
• Sprinting through Grove memories: art mischief, rugby tours to Australia & Canada and a missed tour photo!
• Teachers and friends who shaped his journey – names like Roger Howard and Keith Jones
• From London life to Yorkshire roots: career twists, epiphanies and a new purpose in coaching
• A day in the life of Brontë House PE – from Reception swimming to Year 6 sports
• Fond tributes to David Garner and tales of ‘surprise’ van trips

Whether you’re an OG, a current student, a parent, or a proud member of the Brontë House/Grove community, this episode is packed with personality, passion and plenty of PE stories.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School

We launch Series 2 of Grovian Voices with none other than Donna Shoesmith-Evans (st92-25), who only just retired this July after an incredible 33-year career at The Grove. From her first steps into the school for a job interview to a heartfelt farewell this summer, Donna shares her rich, warm and often hilarious reflections on life at The Grove.

Having worn many hats - History teacher, boarding staff, PE and eventually head of teacher training - Donna's journey is deeply rooted in The Grove's fabric. She married in the school chapel, her son James (OG 05–20) was christened and schooled from Ashdown, Brontë House and through The Grove. Donna forged lifelong friendships with colleagues including Tony Zammit and David Wood.

We also learn about:

• The infamous Grease staff performance night!
• Her alter ego as “DJ Donna” on Radio Calderdale
• Her proudest achievements and the challenges of shaping young minds
• What she’s planning in retirement (yes, tennis is involved)
• And of course, her take on what truly makes her happy and the best advice she’s ever received.

Plus, she answers the mystery question left by last season’s closer, current staff member Kevin Eaglestone (st01-) ("What’s your superpower?"), and leaves one for the next guest in line.

And don’t miss the quickfire round at the end (with new questions for Series 2!) - Donna didn’t get to prepare for it, and that’s half the fun!

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School

In this insightful and entertaining episode, we sit down with Kevin Eaglestone (st01-), Assistant Head (Organisation) at The Grove, for a deep dive into the intricate workings of the school and plenty more besides!

We lift the curtain on the operational side of school life.  Ever wondered how many chairs are set up for Prize Day? Or what goes on behind the scenes at the start of each day? You’ll hear it all here. From logistics to leadership, Kevin offers a fascinating look at the machine behind the magic. 

Of course, it wouldn’t be a conversation with Kev without covering his passions. Expect talk of cars, running (including the inspiring Rob Burrow Marathon), and even Bingo – yes, Bingo! Whether it’s coordinating events, inspiring students, or heading out on a long-distance run, Kevin brings humour, heart and a huge amount of experience to everything he does.

We also chat through:

• The daily rhythm of a senior leader at The Grove
• His proudest achievements and biggest challenges
• What truly makes him happy (spoiler: not just family and friends)
• The best advice he's ever been given
• And why he loves what he does

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about what really happens behind the scenes at The Grove.

Tune in now to Grovian Voices – where every voice tells a story.

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School

In this inspiring episode of Grovian Voices, we sit down with Joe Bedford (00-02, st13-), Old Grovian and now the School’s Head of Rugby. Joe reflects on a remarkable journey that began in West Leeds and took him to the heights of professional rugby, before bringing him full circle back to The Grove, where his passion for the game was nurtured.

Joe played over 200 senior games across the Premiership, Championship and Pro12, representing clubs such as Leeds Carnegie, Rotherham Titans, Newport Gwent Dragons and Doncaster Knights. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing - this episode dives deep into the resilience, discipline and support that shaped Joe’s path, both as a player and now as a coach and mentor.

Joe shares what drives him as a teacher today and why Woodhouse Grove still holds a special place in his heart.

"Woodhouse Grove believed in me. It changed my life."  Joe Bedford

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School

In this inspiring episode of Grovian Voices, we welcome Major General Professor Tim Hodgetts CB CBE OStJ DL, one of the UK’s most senior military medical leaders and a proud Old Grovian who was a day boy in Atkinson House from 1974 to 1981. A recipient of both the Governor’s Scholarship and the Davy Book Leaver's Scholarship, Tim reflects on how his time at The Grove laid the foundation for a distinguished career in medicine, leadership and innovation.

From pinning his career goal above his bedframe as a schoolboy to becoming the UK Surgeon General, Tim has never followed the expected path. A non-conformist in a conformist organisation, he has carved out a reputation as a creator and a disruptor, continually striving to challenge the status quo and drive positive change to improve outcomes - for patients, for systems and for society.

In this episode:

• Tim’s journey to The Grove and memories of school life - favourite teachers, sports and early ambitions
• How the school’s values shaped his outlook and future path
• Highlights from a decorated military and medical career
• Insights into building resilience and navigating Post-Traumatic Growth
• His role as an agent of change within structured institutions
• The founding of citizenAID™, a UK-registered charity empowering the public to respond in life-threatening situations
• A personal look into his poetry collection: Frontlines & Lifelines: Collected Poems from an Army Doctor in Crisis and War
• Life beyond the uniform - hobbies, creativity and what truly brings happiness
• The best piece of advice he’s ever received

Major General Hodgetts offers a powerful, personal and refreshingly unconventional perspective on leadership, healing and the courage to challenge systems in pursuit of better outcomes. His story is a remarkable example of early aspiration evolving into a lifelong legacy of service and innovation.

Frontlines & Lifelines is available on Amazon:

Buy the book on Amazon

Learn more about citizenAID™:

www.citizenaid.org

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School

In this uplifting episode of Grovian Voices, we sit down with the ever-positive and forward-thinking Hannah Boggie, our Lettings, Events & Operations Manager. From managing the day-to-day operations to curating unforgettable events, Hannah gives us an exclusive look into the vibrant world of Grove Enterprises.

Discover just how much The Grove has to offer – whether you’re looking to hire the swimming pool, the theatre, the all-weather pitch, or even the charming space at Brontë House, Hannah breaks down the wide range of venues available and how they’re used by the community and beyond.

Hear all about our recent hirers and the exciting events that take place over the summer break – including sports residentials, rugby and cricket camps and some truly unique occasions like a wedding and even the UK’s first jigsaw speed puzzling event, all hosted right here at The Grove.

Outside of her busy role, Hannah opens up about her passions – from home cooking and health and fitness to her love of finding inspiring events to attend and soaking in the serenity of the golden hour.

Whether you're a curious listener or a potential hirer, this episode is packed with insight, energy and inspiration. Tune in now!

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School

Join us for a deliciously insightful episode as we go behind the scenes of catering at The Grove with Franco Caroleo (st18-25), our passionate and ever-energetic Catering Manager.

What’s on the menu in this episode?
Franco gives us a backstage pass into the many facets of catering across the estate, from daily breakfast, lunch and dinner services, to guest-favourites like Woody's and The Cabin. We even hear about The Grove’s role in hosting beautiful external events, including a recent wedding! Expect some eye-opening food stats fresh from the kitchen.

Franco’s journey & Italian roots
Franco shares stories of his family heritage in Genoa, his love for the sea and what keeps him connected to his Italian roots. You’ll also find out his favourite Italian dish (spoiler: it includes cheese!) and his top tip on how to cook pasta the authentic Italian way - straight from pan to plate.

Cheese, customer service & culinary passion
Eve and Franco talk all things hospitality, with shared reflections on their love for customer service. Franco reveals the best piece of advice he's ever received and what it truly means to deliver great guest experiences at The Grove.

Don't miss this lively, heartfelt, and hunger-inducing episode with one of The Grove’s most spirited team members.

Warning: This episode may cause serious cravings for pasta and cheese.

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry

Contact us: Keep in Touch | Woodhouse Grove School