Bookings are now open for the Tolkien Lecture!
Date: Friday 7th March 2025
Time: Lecture 18.00 – 19.00 followed by a drinks reception from 19.00 – 19.45
Location: The Ruddock Performing Arts Centre
This event continues our esteemed lecture series, named in honour of one of our most distinguished alumni, J.R.R. Tolkien.
This year, we are pleased to welcome Alumnus, Professor Chris Hodges OBE (1972). Professor Hodges is an Emeritus Professor of Justice Systems at Oxford University and a government advisor, he will be joining us to speak about his work – particularly his involvement with the Post Office Horizon Compensation Advisory Board.
“This talk will outline the unusual roles of contrasting Government advisory committees that I chair. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s Regulatory Horizons Council advises HMG on how to regulate new technologies. The Department for Business and Trade’s Post Office Horizon Compensation Advisory Board advises Ministers on the major issues relating to the various compensation schemes for sub-Postmasters and mistresses arising out of the well-known scandal.”
Professor Hodges is Chair of both these unique bodies (and others), and will explain their remits and work, and how he came to be asked to Chair them. He will cover topical issues that are raised by each, and reflect on the values and experience that have proved to be essential. One focus will be on keeping an open mind in relation to planning a career!
The lecture will commence at 18.00 in the Ruddock Hall, followed by drinks in the foyer of the Ruddock Performing Arts Centre at 19.00 until 19.45. As with all Tolkien Lectures, the event is free and open to the whole school community.
You can book your tickets through the Ruddock Performing Arts Centre website here: https://tickets.ruddockpac.co.uk/sales/events/ruddock-hall/tolkien-lectures/professor-chris-hodges-obe-oe-
If you have any questions then please contact a member of the Box Office staff via email or via 0121 472 9585. Please note that the box office is not continuously staffed, so please be patient when waiting for a response and they will get back to you as soon as possible. Please note that should you have accessibility requirements, please email or call the Box Office before booking tickets, as these seats cannot be booked online.
If you have any questions in the meantime, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us at oldeds@keschools.org.uk
