Rhubarb December 2025

A brilliant teacher, a very well read and bright man, terrifying at times far beyond his physical stature, the ferocity with which he pursued those of us brave enough to sneak a round- necked jumper under our suits. Who can forget that sight as he opened his Quad office door as we all lined up for lunch! He took us for dinner after we finished our A Levels. I remember feeling adult, validated, like I had something interesting to say. I thank him and remember him well. I shall look forward to attending his memorial and I will be sure to wear a round-necked jumper. D uring the Remove year us scientists had a lesson called the Europe Show which MSO took and which was essentially a discourse on the history of Europe. The lessons were very interesting and my impression of him was that he was a gifted teacher and a very kind man. He was clearly talented and I remember attending his production of Oh! What a Lovely War with memorable songs. t was partly due to his inspirational Tudor history teaching that I achieved an A grade in History A Level and went on to study medicine at Guy's Hospital. Warden Christie and I discussed the A Level courses with the best results: English, History and Economics. I sat those subjects, not Sciences, because I had to achieve straight A grades to get into medical school. At the age of 69, I still work full-time as a psychiatrist medico-legal expert. The essays I wrote for Malcolm Oxley and Simon Taylor prepared me for a long and interesting journey.

I a ttribute much of my life’s curiosity and freedom of thought and activity which propelled me to Oxford (Jesus College) and beyond, with an independence of spirit and creativity which he nurtured in me. journey to him, stimulating in me as he did an intellectual

FEATURE

Truly worthy of the Dead Poets Society, may you rest in peace Malcolm.

I taught at Teddies from 1985. Malcolm was a source of enthusiastic and kind support to me as he was with so many others. A liberal, idealistic, cultured and inspirational man, he played a mighty role as a civilised and civilising force. I well remember his production of Amadeus, and his support for those others of us who also directed dramatic productions. As well, he encouraged literary and other societies, visiting speakers, the publication of scurrilously satirical magazines, exhibitions and many cultural activities. I was impressed also by the way that, though no sportsman, he kept the sports lobby on the staff onside too, valuing as he did the ‘renaissance man and woman’. I am sure that history will reflect upon the modernising of Teddies during the time as owing a huge amount to the influence of this kind and thoughtful man.

From the production of ‘Amadeus’,1986

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