Papplewick Old Boys
The Old Boys' Secretary is Jo Magrath who will of course be known to many of you (either as Mrs. Magrath or Miss Wallace as she once was!) having taught at Papplewick from 1992 until 2023.
We know that Jo would love to hear from you if you have any Old Boys' news or photos. If you do, please email her directly at j.magrath@papplewick.org.uk
Statement from the Governing Board: Edward Phillips-Smith – additional conviction
The Governing Board of Papplewick School wishes to update the community regarding developments concerning Edward Phillips-Smith, who was Chaplain at Papplewick from 1993 to 2008 (see earlier statement from Chair of Governors below).
On 4th November 2025, Mr. Phillips-Smith pleaded guilty to two further child sexual offences committed in Staffordshire during the early 1980s. We acknowledge that this deeply distressing news may have brought back difficult memories and feelings for some former pupils, parents, and staff. Our thoughts remain first and foremost with all victims and survivors, who have to live with the consequences of such appalling crimes.
Following Mr. Phillips-Smith’s earlier conviction, the Governing Board commissioned an independent review of his time at the school. The review, shared in full with the police and the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO), found that while some concerns about his behaviour were raised during his time at Papplewick, no evidence met the threshold for criminal investigation. Nonetheless, we deeply regret any worry or distress that may have been caused, no matter when, and recognise that we may well not have anything close to a full picture of that period of time.
In light of the recent conviction, we want to reassure all former pupils, parents, and staff that we are here to listen and to provide support. Anyone with concerns about Mr. Phillips-Smith’s time at Papplewick is encouraged to come forward. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) can be contacted in complete confidence via safeguarding@papplewick.org.uk, and we aim to respond sensitively and promptly.
The channels to the Police and LADO remain open for anyone wishing to report concerns formally, and we will continue to cooperate fully with all relevant authorities. We are also signposting further confidential support through NAPAC (0808 801 0331) and the NSPCC (0808 800 5000). We understand how difficult it can be to talk about these experiences and are committed to doing all we can to provide care, understanding, and practical help.
I would like to assure you of both my and the Board’s absolute commitment to the ongoing safety and wellbeing not only of all our current pupils and staff, but also of all former pupils who remain part of the Papplewick community. We are keen to support everyone with openness, compassion and the strongest possible commitment to safeguarding. Please do not hesitate to be in touch if it is helpful to do so.
Andrew Try
Chair, Papplewick School Governing Board
OLD BOYS’ DAY 2026 - Sunday July 5th
All Old Boys are welcome to attend on Sunday 5th July 2026 when the traditional Headmaster's XI vs the Old Boys' XI will take place commencing at 11.00am. Lunch for all will be at 1.00pm with tea around 3.45pm. Old Boys from the vintage of 2016 will be particularly welcome for their ten year reunion!
