The VOICE of Esmond Harris MBE, Class of 1945

What I REALLY Learnt at School - Alfredian Voices

In this episode, Esmond Harris MBE (Class of 1945), recounts his childhood fascination with trees, spurred by Sunday walks with his father in the Chilterns and his early exposure to sapling trees and their labels in the grounds of The King Alfred School. Despite a challenging early education, including evacuations and unsatisfactory prep schools, Esmond found his passion in forestry, guided by influential teachers and experiences. The narrative unfolds his deep-seated love for woodwork, nurtured during his time at KAS, and highlights various school traditions, weekly crafts, and elective afternoons.

His story encapsulates a nostalgic reflection on how his brief yet significant stay at KAS shaped his personal and professional life, emphasizing the importance of progressive education and the community spirit fostered by the school. Post-war, Esmond pursued forestry education, obtained a degree from Bangor, an MSc from Oxford, and joined the Forestry Commission. Highlighting his teaching and mentorship roles, Esmond shares how his formative years at King Alfred School influenced his career and educational philosophy.

Esmond's lifelong passion for forestry was recognized in 2009 with an MBE awarded by Prince Charles for his contributions to forestry and conservation in the South West. He owned woods in Cornwall and a small farm dedicated to educational purposes and is a retired director of the Royal Forestry Society.