One thing that Old Caldicotians seem to have in common is that they have a special fondest for Caldicott, and we are fortunate indeed to have so many Old Caldicotians who go on to live fascinating lives and become experts in their fields. It’s a pleasure to welcome back these old boys whenever we get the chance, either for a visit or to share their experiences with our pupils, and so we were delighted when Adrian Salmon (OC 1972) accepted our invitation to give a talk to the Years 7 and 8 this Monday.

Adrian left the school in 1972, before the Centenary Hall (in which he delivered his talk) was even constructed. On leaving Caldicott, he went on to Stowe School, and from there, he pursued a degree in engineering at Cambridge University, and later served as a Commissioned Officer in the Territorial Army and with the Royal Engineers. He kindly offered to share his knowledge and passion about sustainability and the future of energy, a topic that is especially relevant in today’s world.

With an expert in the field leading the talk, the senior boys learnt about the supply and demand for energy, the pro and cons of nuclear power and energy storage and shift. Adrian shared that he was impressed by how knowledgeable the boys were in these areas, ‘They asked some excellent questions, and are well aware of the need to cease burning fossil fuels as soon as possible. The UK started the industrial revolution, and therefore has a responsibility to lead in reaching carbon zero. The current boys at Caldicott are the generation that is going to have to deal with this issue.’

Clearly passionate in his field, Adrian was delighted to return to Caldicott, in what was a special moment for him. Being an OC means one gets to be a part of a tight knit community of old boys here at Caldicott. Part of the work of the Caldicott Foundation is to develop this community even further, offering lifelong support and fellowship from the moment our boys leave here. This will include invitations to events (sports or otherwise), the ability to reconnect with mates, and even to connect with other OCs for careers advice and mentorship.