Wendy and Murray Alston’s association with John Kyrle High School began in 1999 when their eldest son, Duncan became a student there, following the family’s move from South Africa.

Duncan’s brothers, Tim and Mark, joined him at John Kyrle in 2001 and 2006 respectively. During their time at the school, the three boys involved themselves in all aspects of school life: sporting, musical and academic. They were also involved in all the school’s drama productions. Following their successes at John Kyrle Sixth Form, where Duncan became Head Boy, they left for university. Duncan completed his medical studies at Corpus Christi College, Oxford; Tim studied Politics Philosophy and Economics at York, and Mark is currently studying Engineering at Birmingham.

In addition to supporting the boys through school, Murray also joined the governing body in 2001. He became Chair of the school’s Finance Committee. During his time on the governing body, Murray was involved in the school’s development as a Multi-Specialist College and from 2011, as one of the first New Converter Academies in the country. As part of his work on the Finance Committee, Murray was also involved in capital development planning which led to the school’s Sixth Form Centre Astroturf Pitch, and the two recently-built classroom blocks, which between them cost almost £3m.

The Alston family continue to be involved with the school. In 2015, Dr Duncan Alston was the school’s guest of honour at its annual Prize Giving, and in 2016 the school awarded its first Alston Family Award for brass player. This year’s recipient of the prize was Alice Wilson.

Murray and Wendy recently visited the school to meet Alice, Deb Blake, Head of Music and, Nigel Griffiths, Headteacher. They said how delighted they were that Alice has won this award. They have always noted her participation in concerts and her contribution to the orchestra. Wendy and Murray wished Alice all the best in her future studies and hope she keep up her playing at university and throughout her life. Nigel Griffiths echoed their praise of Alice and said how delighted he was to maintain the school’s close relationship with the family.