A Student's Profile of Tony Vintcent

Walking into Mr. Vintcent’s office is like entering a history archive; the walls covered in papers and mementos, shelves packed with boxes and envelopes. His time here has clearly been eventful.

In the middle of the office sits Mr. Vintcent himself, pecking away on his keyboard. It feels almost as though I am witnessing a king in his own realm. This impression is not that far away from the actual truth – Mr. Vintcent has spent 28 years of his life at Sedbergh, which enabled him the opportunity to view the school from many perspectives. He has the insight of a Student, a Teacher, a Deputy Headmaster, and an Alumni Director, each holding a special place in his memory.

Tony first came to Sedbergh as an eleven-year-old boy in 1949, not knowing what was in store for him in the many years to come. He soon learned that Sedbergh truly was “his cup of tea”. He loved the hands-on opportunities he was given here. He was able to grow as a person, and found himself with a new sense of confidence that encouraged him to feel as though there was nothing he couldn’t accomplish in life.

When asked who he felt the most influential person he met while here he was quite quick to respond, “Old Man Wood” or “Mr. Wood.” Tony Vintcent has lots of memories of Mr. TJ Wood, but one above all others stands out clearly in his memory. One day when a forest fire had erupted near by, the boys took the afternoon off in an attempt to extinguish the flames. Each boy had branches in his hand that they were using to hit the flames. Vintcent found himself beside Mr. Wood, although he was not sure why he was chosen to stand beside the Headmaster of the school during a time of crisis. That evening at supper Mr. Wood stood up in front of the school and simply said, “if I was ever in trouble, I would want young Tony by my side.” Mr. Vintcent said it was a very embarrasing moment certainly, but one which gave him huge confidence.

After all these years of experiencing the Sedbergh lifestyle, he rightfully likes to refer to certain places on the campus as places of refuge. He refers to Panther hut as his “castle”, for he spent countless hours there. Tony has a strong passion for huts, so it was only natural he be the Hut Master for many years to come. He believes that huts helps students learn great skills that wouldn’t be learned otherwise. Now reflecting on his time spent as a young boy, he believes that Sedbergh helped him evolve into the person he is today. “It’s the extraordinary staff and fellow students that make this place what it is.”

He has seen generations of student’s come and go and only hopes that each and every one of them has enjoyed their time here as much as he did. Sedbergh is an exciting place to be a student, but not always an easy place. He hopes that the experiences had here will be the engine to drive us in many directions.

For all he has contributed to the Sedbergh community Tony was awarded with the Fred Mills Trophy at the end of last year. This trophy recognizes a member of the Sedbergh family who demonstrates the highest quality of loyalty and school spirit. His comment on the accomplishment was, “Sedbergh has truly been my life, I am very grateful to be acknowledged by the adult community.” It was the final piece of the puzzle.

What is he to do after the valley? Well, he called upon a quote from Robert Frost to perfectly convey his answer. “I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep.” Tony Vintcent predicts once he leaves he will somehow find himself much busier than he ever did here.

Farewell Mr. Vintcent, your presence will be greatly missed. Good luck, the world is your oyster.

~ Ted Simha-Webster