With a lot of maintenance work going on over the half term, we thought we’d introduce you to a real one-in-a-million man. This week, we had A Conversation With… Tosh Farnborough. Tosh joined the College in 2000, along with his partner Karen who became Matron of Everett House in 2005. Tosh is responsible for the everyday maintenance of the College. He is often heard before he is seen, as he carries so many keys on his chain!
What does your average day entail?
Really, it can involve anything and everything. First thing in the morning, I’ll walk around and unlock all the doors then deal with anything that needs doing. That could be unblocking a toilet, replacing or fixing anything electrical, dealing with a gas leak or a burst pipe. It’s very varied, so that keeps things interesting.
How did you come to be at Shiplake College and what did you do before joining?
I used to work at Eton College, in a similar role to this one, for six years. Before then, I was down on the south coast working as a bouncer. I also worked for the Fire Brigade, where I received two commendations for my nine-year service; I would have finished my time in the Fire Brigade, but I was injured when I fell through a ceiling! I also have an active service medal from my time working in Northern Ireland during The Troubles.
You are instantly recognised by the jangling of your keys; How many keys do you carry and what sorts of things are they for?
I couldn’t tell you how many I’ve got! But believe me when I tell you that I can open every door in the College except the main College safe, and the Exams office.
Where is your favourite place in the world and why?
There’s a really nice lake in Windsor, where I like to relax and go fishing with Karen and my father-in-law. I enjoy the challenge of trying to catch something bigger than the last fish I caught.
What has been your greatest achievement at Shiplake?
I don’t want this to sound big headed, but I think it’s being liked by most people. I think I’m a nice enough man, but I don’t know what other people think of me. I’d like to think I’m popular. Popular enough, at least, to be liked.
What have been your highlights of your time at Shiplake so far?
I’ve met some really nice people, including families who visit the school and my colleagues in various departments. I honestly couldn’t see myself falling out with anyone that I work with because they’re a really lovely bunch.
What does the future hold for Tosh Farnborough?
Not a lot really! I’ll be 69 years old on my next birthday but I don’t know that I’d want to retire any time soon, though I am getting on a bit.
