All About Amnesty Group

January 20, 2025

To celebrate the various partnerships in our Norwich School community and with variety evening on the horizon, we sat down with Mr Humphrey Bedford-Payne to discuss his involvement with Amnesty Group.


You can book tickets to Amnesty Variety Evening here!


Can you tell me a little bit about your involvement with Amnesty International?

Currently we invite members of the sixth form to participate as part of their community service and it is also offered as a club/society. We meet every Monday lunchtime but frequently there are ongoing afterschool projects. Not only do we try and raise others’ awareness of human rights crises around the world but locally I think it is absolutely critical to connect, participate and share as much as we can. During the past few years we have focused on dance, food and bicycles, with the aim of involving everyone in the projects. One thing I want to avoid is this narrative of being a provider as I think not only is that belittling but it devalues our partnerships. For example, with the Jerusalema dance, I wanted us all to learn a dance and perform it at five local venues to not only attract attention whilst dancing but also to film and edit these dances into a three-minute celebration of diversity in age, background and heritage. It was one of the highlights of my school career. The idea came about during lockdown when I simply came across other groups doing this dance and I asked a sixth form pupil to teach us, which included members of both the senior and lower school, and we were joined by children of English Plus clients.


Can we access this video?

Yes on youtube! But you will have to bear in mind that as much as I learnt the steps I did not learn the timing! You can watch it here.


So is it just sixth formers that participate in Amnesty?

Yes it is really just sixth formers because there are some very challenging issues that we consider and I want to focus on one particular year group so I thought L6 was the best year to involve on the committee side of things. In the annual events other year groups join in, such as with the International Dumpling Day or the Bicycle Restoration Sessions that we do. People are intrigued and they participate and that’s delightful.


You’ve spoken a little bit about Amnesty and your involvement in the local charityEnglish Plus as well. Can you tell me a little bit about English Plus?

Indeed. I have the highest of respect for this charity and the staff who work there. As their name implies, they offer a lot more than just English language tuition. I and the school support their activities as much as possible: on a Thursday morning, Penny Staufenberg and a couple of Lower 6 students go to their Trinity Church location and on a Wednesday there are three students who go to the Cathedral Hostry to support the class of 60 or more. As well as giving English tuition they offer advice with visa applications, job prospects, transport, accommodation and academic courses. They are absolutely phenomenal.


Back to Amnesty. You have several events throughout the year: can you tell me a little bit about them and which one is your favourite?

Well I suppose our flagship is the Amnesty Variety Evening in February because it is such a festival of creativity, dance, delight and music-making. We even had the staff rock band a year ago which was a particular highlight. It brings in a certain amount of income to fund the projects that we are involved with, be it the bicycle restoration scheme, the Christmas stocking filler project or the Easter egg provision. We also have a lot of support from the school, particularly the catering staff, who have just helped to provide a Christmas lunch to the students of English Plus. It is amazing how caring and supportive they are. It is a continuation of what they did during lockdown. In January, around the time of the Chinese New Year, we have our International Dumpling Day where we invite members of the Amnesty group, the refugee support group but also the international students to come and help us make some Chinese Dumplings. We make about 600 but we of course end up consuming at least 200 of those! Then the following Wednesday the catering team steam them for us and we take them over to the clients of English Plus.


Can you tell me a little bit about the Bicycle Restoration Scheme?

We have occasional donations of bicycles and we give them a service, change the cables for the brakes, provide a new saddle and do bits and pieces like that. Once they are ready, we give them to members of the local refugee community. We provided about a dozen last year. The current plan for this year is to provide a batch of five bicycles to the outlying hotel, where refugees are being housed, in order to provide a means of transport for those who want them. I have enlisted the help of colleagues and pupils who know a lot more about bicycles than I do. The FONS have just granted us some funds to buy more tools and equipment.


So does the money raised from the Variety Evening and other events go towards the Bicycle Restoration Scheme?

Yes and also at Christmas we like to provide some stocking fillers. So one of my favourite tasks is going to the shops and buying 100 chocolate Father Christmases and sundry packs of chocolate coins, then bringing them back in triumph to school. We distribute them to the refugee community on a Wednesday at the same time as the Christmas lunch. We also support the amazing Nandana Werapitiya Community Centre in Sri Lanka.


So you do a lot of work in the local community. Do you do much internationally?

We focus a lot on the immediate and local issues. In the Variety Evening we show extracts from the Amnesty International website. However challenging that it may be, it is important that we face up to the harsh reality of some people’s lives.


How long have you been involved with Amnesty?

I started this 40 years ago and then took a step back when my children were born. Fortunately a succession of members of staff took it over. There was then a bit of a hiatus and I could not let it disappear, so I returned to the Amnesty fold about six years ago.



 

Youth Advocate and Educator, Daniel Principe, Encourages Boys to Embrace Positive Masculinity

By Eleanor Lewis • January 26, 2026
On 19 and 20 January, we welcomed Australian youth advocate and educator, Daniel Principe, who presented to all Senior School boys from Lower 4 to Upper 6 on topics including toxic influences, limiting stereotypes, objectification, relationships and the challenges young men are facing in a world of social media. Inviting participation in his talks, pupils were encouraged to consider and discuss stereotypically taboo subject matters, to advocate for a more open conversation surrounding these topics. Daniel’s journey to becoming a prominent youth advocate was a result of his own early experiences and challenges. He faced significant bullying during his adolescence, leading him to question social norms and seek a path that aligns with his values. His mission to change the way boys socialise and to promote healthy masculinity had pupils considering the unfair stereotypes boys and men face in our culture, specifically through the media. One conversation had pupils thinking about the challenges young people are facing in a world of smartphones and social media. Themes surrounding dopamine addiction, body dissatisfaction, catfishing, and objectification were raised as Daniel encouraged pupils to participate in a ‘digital detox’, providing an opportunity to learn new skills and do things that make you come alive offline. Daniel’s empathetic and open approach resonated with many of our boys and young men. His mission to ‘Challenge culture, Champion Boys’ was truly seen as he approached the sessions with vulnerability and a clear passion for uplifting young men and boys. His honesty, integrity and warmth truly put the wellbeing of boys at the heart of his approach, and we hope that his message is echoed throughout the school community and into the future. 

'Almodóvar on the edge' - A Level Spanish London Trip

By Eleanor Lewis • January 22, 2026
Our A Level Spanish pupils enjoyed an inspiring study day in London focused on the iconic Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar , a key part of their Paper 2 syllabus. The day offered pupils the opportunity to deepen their understanding of his work through expert-led sessions and engaging discussions with university professors and fellow Spanish students from other schools. Beyond the classroom, they also embraced the cultural side of Spain by sharing a well-deserved tapas dinner , bringing their learning to life through food, conversation and authentic cultural experiences.

Lower 3 Informal Concert – A Delightful Showcase of Talent

By Eleanor Lewis • January 21, 2026
The Lower 3 Informal Concert in the Lower School Hall was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon, celebrating the confidence, musicality and growing skills of our young musicians. The relaxed atmosphere created the perfect setting for pupils to share their hard work and enjoy performing for friends, family and staff. A nice variety of instruments and vocals provided some excellent contrast to the programme including Trumpets' Flutes' Drums, Piano, Guitar, French Horn and Vocals. The music on show was also well chosen including Elegy for the Arctic by Ludovico Einaudi , Naughty by Tim Minchin , Bolero by Ravel, Always With Me from Spirited Away and Breakfast in America by Supertramp on the drums. The concert was a wonderful reminder of the enthusiasm and dedication of our Lower 3 musicians. Every performance was warmly received, and the afternoon was filled with encouragement, applause and pride.  Well done to all involved for a fantastic concert.

Blake Studio Ablaze with Vibrant Colour

By Eleanor Lewis • January 21, 2026
We were delighted to welcome on site the Norfolk Contemporary Art Society (n-cas) on 21 January 2026 for a stunning public lecture, their first talk of the calendar year in our Blake Studio. This visually arresting lecture was given by celebrated German artist Lothar Götz entitled: Colour – Space – Light – Spirit Götz has an international reputation and has exhibited all over the world, showcasing his incredibly distinctive and eye-catching style. He is also Associate Professor of Fine Art at the University of Sunderland. He uses colour in a unique way to create visually arresting public art often on a simply monumental scale, principally using his trademark precise geometric forms. He almost overwhelms his viewers with a riot of colour and shape. His unusual “canvases” for both inside and outside art installations have included underground stations (most recently the Elizabeth Line), huge walls, church chairs, ballrooms, staircases, warehouses, atria to public buildings, flags and have even included the outside of whole buildings, most notably the Towner Art Gallery Eastbourne (which has become a tourist attraction in its own right). An audience of n-cas members, local creative artists and students, parents, staff and alumni were entertained by an astonishing slide show of his mesmerising works, and all enjoyed meeting him over refreshments afterwards. Our nest lecture in the Blake Studio promises to be a real cracker. ON Barney Broom will speak about the wonders of the silver screen in the inaugural Friends of Norwich School sponsored talk on the world of film. Barney is a Member of BAFTA as well as an accomplished film director, screenwriter and published novelist, but first and foremost he is a compelling storyteller, one who lives and breathes his material. This promises to be an entertaining evening for all ages and interests. All are welcome. Tickets on sale: HERE . Finally, we have recently launched our full programme of exciting and cultural events organised by Norwich School taking place in and around Cathedral Close this term. There really is something for everyone to brighten up these dark winter months. Do have a flick through At Close Quarters Lent Term 2026 . Booking for many of the school events can be found on our homepage under “Upcoming Events”: www.norwich-school.org.uk

Norfolk Schools’ Cross Country Championships

By Eleanor Lewis • January 20, 2026
On Tuesday morning, ten of our runners took part in the Norfolk Schools’ Cross Country Championships at Wymondham College against the strongest runners in the county who had all qualified to compete. The course consisted of flat and fast laps around the playing fields and through the woods with plenty of mud making for challenging conditions. The target for each runner was to finish in the top 12 to qualify to represent Norfolk and six of our athletes achieved this. In the Minor Boys race, Joshua Bevan finished in 17th place, while in the Junior Girls Nona Griffiths came 24th. Our solo Intermediate Boy, Noah Buchan, was up against some very strong competition and did well to finish in the middle of the field in 45th position. Our best placed finisher on the day was Emi Muntingh who came 4th in her Junior Girls race. Ruby Ivie also qualified for a county vest by coming 5th in the Inter Girls.  In the Senior Girls race we had 4 athletes all vying for a top 12 place. The girls paced it perfectly and all qualified, with Minnie Andrews coming 6th, Bea Green 8th, Izzy Last 10th and Olivia Allen 12th. Congratulations to all who took part and good luck to those who will be racing for Norfolk in the Anglian Schools Championships in Northampton this weekend.

Lower 2 Discover the Magnificence of Ancient Egypt

By Eleanor Lewis • January 19, 2026
Lower Two had a fantastic Egyptian Day on Monday 19th January. The children learned about the importance of black kohl eye make-up in ancient Egypt, explored why mummification was so significant, and discovered how hieroglyphs were used to communicate stories and messages. One of the highlights of the day was reenacting an Egyptian burial, which really brought their learning to life. Everyone looked amazing in their Egyptian costumes, and the children had the best day immersing themselves in ancient Egyptian history.

Upper 3 Lent Term Informal Concert

By Eleanor Lewis • January 19, 2026
Lent Term Informal concerts kicked off in style showcasing talent with a wide mix of instruments, styles, and moods that kept the audience engaged from start to finish. Each performer brought something different to the programme, making the afternoon feel varied, exciting, and full of personality. Music included Cinarosa's Sonata in G for Piano, Gossec's fun Gavotte on the Cello and a hoe down on the Violin followed by a beautiful rendition of The Skye Boat song on the Harp. A touch of Rock n Roll on the electric guitar with Been There by A Lambert and rounded off with a gentle interpretation of Chopin's Waltz in A Minor .  Overall, the concert was a great success and highlighted the hard work and musical ability of all the performers. It was an enjoyable and memorable event that showed the impressive range of talent within the school.

Grace Murray (14-21) Publishes Debut Novel

By Sonja Mitchell • January 19, 2026
Selected for Penguin's Random House programme for emerging talent, 'Blank Canvas' is already out in book shops.

Norwich School Pupils Past and Present Lead Representation at Local Music Competition

By Eleanor Lewis • January 18, 2026
On 18 January, the 32nd Norfolk Young Musician Competition took place showcasing an array of young talent across a variety of musical disciplines. Founded in 1993 by Music at St George’s (later the Norfolk Youth Music Trust), the competition offers a variety of prestigious prizes, including the Michael Badminton String Prize, Mrs E. Sturgeon Piano Prize and Jane Roberson Prize. Promoted by the Michael Badminton Young Musicians Trust, this year’s adjudicator was Martin Outram, Lionel Tertis Professor of Viola at the Royal Academy of Music, who was supported by Jonathan Wortley, Chairman of the Michael Badminton Young Musicians Trust. This year, of the 18 competitors, ten were current or former pupils of Norwich, with another participant who will be joining the Sixth Form as a Music Scholar in September 2026 - something we are immensely proud of. Each competitor, who is required to have gained Grade 8 with Merit (or higher), is invited to play a 15-minute programme in front of an audience. Of the 18 competitors this year, 3 of our performers received honourable awards for their performances. Min Ying Deng (M5) was awarded 2nd overall prize for her renditions of Prelude in C# minor Op.3 No. 2, Trois Etudes de Concert ‘Un Sospiro’ in Db major and Fantasie-Impromptu in C# minor. Isaac Schaad (M5) received the Michael Badminton String Prize for Most Promising Young String Player for the third consecutive year, for his performances of Adagio in E major KV 261 and Zigeunerweisen by Sarasate and Ben Griffiths (U6) was awarded the Jane Roberson Prize for voice, performing Aufenhalt by Schubert, Caro mio ben by Giordani, Clair de Lune by Faure, Silent Noon by Vaughan Williams and Oliver Cromwell by Britten. Other notable performances came from pupils as young as Jessic Li on the piano and Jacey Ng on the euphonium, who are both in Middle 5; Upper 6 pupil Caio Boyero on the cello; and ONs Finnian Smith on the French horn and Colette Maxwell-Preston on the cello. Congratulations to all that participated! The competition proved to be a memorable celebration of commitment, musicianship and talent, and the high standard of performances across all disciplines reflected the centre of excellence that is the Norwich School Music Department.

Camera Kidz - That's A Rap!

By Sonja Mitchell • January 16, 2026
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