Fayrer | Epsom College

Fayrer is known as ‘the house on the hill’ because it stands among the sports fields near the Cricket Pavilion and commands spectacular views towards London. Named in honour of Sir Joseph Fayrer, a leading doctor and reformer at the start of the last century, it is a boys’ day house.

The House is located in what used to be the school Sanatorium (which explains its remote location away from the main school buildings). There is no hint of the building’s history today: Fayrer was refurbished in 2018.

Christopher Telfer-Mason, Housemaster

I have been Fayrer Housemaster since September 2021 and prior to that held the role of Head of Physics.

Along with teaching Physics, I am passionate about the STEM subjects and have recently achieved my Professional Doctorate in Education. One of the highlights of my time so far at Epsom College has been establishing a successful STEM Club, that enters a wide range of national and international competitions that have seen pupils achieve notable honours.

I am married to Charlotte who is a senior product developer for one of the UK’s biggest fashion retailers, and we have a son, Leo. I am a keen sportsman and am actively involved in coaching rugby, football and tennis at the College. I still enjoy playing football and can usually be found cycling or running around the Surrey Hills.

Caroline Stimpson, Matron

I joined Epsom College as Fayrer Matron in 2023, having previously worked in the boarding provision of a special needs school for the past 16 years. Fayrer is so friendly, welcoming and great to be a part of. It’s a pleasure to support the boys day to day, hearing their news and being able to work alongside a great team to bring out the best in all of them.

Apart from spending time with family and friends, in my spare time I also enjoy crafts, cooking and reading.

John, Head of House 2024-25

My name is John and I joined the College in Year 7. I have loved the time spent amongst friends and the community. Fayrer encompasses a very inclusive and friendly environment, which has supported and encouraged me to participate in many co-curricular activities and engage positively within College life.

I am currently studying Geography, Religious Studies and Drama. I have a keen passion for sport and drama, and have been a part of five school productions.

I am looking forward to meeting the new boys coming into Fayrer next year. As well as trying to encourage others to go outside of their comfort zone to see what they can achieve.

House History

Joseph Fayrer

Joseph Fayrer was born in 1824 in Plymouth, the second son of Robert John Fayrer and his wife Agnes. Robert was a Commander in the Royal Navy and a pioneer of ocean steam navigation. He was privately educated at Dalrymple in Ayrshire before attending school in Liverpool.

Fayrer had an extraordinary medical career, beginning as a junior doctor at Charing Cross Hospital in 1844. He was later appointed to the Bengal Medical Service and became a resident surgeon in Lucknow in 1853. He went on to serve as a professor of surgery at Calcutta Medical College and was elected president of the Faculty of Medicine in 1863 and of the Asiatic Society in 1867.

Fayrer took an active role in the running of Epsom College and also delivered lectures to students when time permitted, including one on his area of expertise—poisonous snakes.

In 1896, Fayrer was made a baronet, and the following year, he consented to have his name given to a new day boys’ Lower School House at Epsom College. In time, the House was allowed to “grow up” and became the senior House it is today.

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