The late Sixties was a different era, and social revolution was in the air. Some of the ancient customs, notably fagging and beatings, were being phased out. Wearing caps, whose brims boys had to touch in salute to passing schoolmasters, were replaced by house ties to mark the 400th year of the school and the Queen's visit in 1967. The music of the Swinging Sixties was an essential element in school life; and Rob played guitar in school concerts. In those days all boys slept in dormitories, and there were no locks on doors, very different to the reconstructed Whitelaw and School House today. Nick and Rob became friends in their A level years, studying Latin under James Hunt and History with David James, of whom they have fond memories. Both are married, each with three children, Nick with a career in corporate communications and Rob as a professor of constitutional law.

By Rob Blackburn

If you are inspired by Rob's story and would also like to visit Rugby School then please email rugbeiancommunity@rugbyschool.net