The Rathbone Scholarships

From London to Sydney, Martin Rathbone’s journey to St Andrew’s College began with a twist of fate and a cancelled naval posting. Arriving as a Fresher in 1959, Martin quickly immersed himself in College life, finding his place through music and drama, and making enduring, life-long friendships.

Over the decades, Martin’s connection to St Andrew’s has remained strong, returning for reunions and events and becoming a proud member of the 1867 Circle. In this interview, Martin reflects on his time at College, his passion for music, and the inspiration behind establishing the Rathbone Scholarship to support rural students and musicians at St Andrew’s.

Can you tell us about how you came to be a student at St Andrew’s and what your experience was like?
It was the politics of National Service in the UK that had me arrive in Sydney in October 1958, preparatory to starting at Sydney Uni in 1959. I was waiting to be called up for two years’ national service in the navy when the government decided to end naval National Service. My place at Andrew’s came courtesy of a business friend of my father’s who was, I believe, the treasurer of the NSW Presbyterian church. Having never had the experience of boarding school, it was something of a surprise for a 20-year-old, given the somewhat oppressive fresher system still in full swing at that time. But coming to Sydney was the best decision of my life, and Sydney has been my home ever since.

Do you have a favourite memory of your time at College as a student (or as an alumnus) that you would like to share?
Having been much involved in music and drama at my school in the UK, I soon became involved in singing and acting, being part of the formation of the Inter-College Gilbert and Sullivan Society, which began by producing Pirates of Penzance and went on from there. Unfortunately, I must have spent too much of my time on such pursuits, and my academic record suffered accordingly! So I moved to work as a reinsurance broker, where I spent the whole of my working career.

What first inspired you to establish the Rathbone Scholarships?
When I was at Andrew’s, the regard for any activity other than study and sport on the part of any Andrewsman (of course, there were no A-women!) was minimal at best. So, when it came to deciding the purpose of my scholarship, I directed it should be to the encouragement of music within the College and particularly for those from country NSW areas. The musical element explains itself. As for the country aspect, through my wife’s family, I have some small understanding of the problems faced by those living far away from the big cities in accessing and affording tertiary education.

The Rathbone Scholarship seeks to support, firstly, students with demonstrated skill in music, as well as those coming from a rural or regional background. Can you tell us why these particular areas resonate with you?
I have in recent times come to realise that the standard of musical performance and appreciation within the College community (see the success of the Palladian Cup), has largely made my original emphasis on music a little redundant. However, I still feel the need for some emphasis on encouraging musical performance ability, which – like riding a bike – is a skill that never leaves you.

What drives your interest in philanthropy, and inspires you to give?
Having already made provision for my children and grandchildren, I decided some years ago to make bequests in my Will to two institutions. Firstly, to my old school in the UK, Whitgift, to which I owe eight years of excellent education, and secondly, to St Andrew’s College, where I enjoyed a wonderful year and a half, 65 years ago. A few years ago, my wife suggested that rather than just leaving money in my Will, why not do something now, while I can still get some satisfaction from it. So I did, and I must admit that there has been great pleasure in being able to assist a couple of students to take advantage of the wonderful facilities which Andrew’s now offers.

What would you say to encourage someone who may be considering setting up a scholarship to support students at St Andrew’s College?
I would say if you can, by all means, do. You will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping one (or more) students to enjoy more fully the experience of life at College and university and to make friends that they will have for the rest of their life.

The Rathbone Scholarships: Kristen Emseis

For Kristen Emseis, the dream of studying veterinary medicine in Sydney once felt out of reach. But thanks to a Rathbone Scholarship and the supportive environment at College, that dream is now her reality.

Kristen has embraced her double-degree in Veterinary Biology and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. From hands-on fieldwork at Taronga Zoo in Sydney, to muddy farm inspections in Camden, she’s found her calling through practical experience. “It’s been everything I expected and more,” Kristen says. “This year has confirmed my passion to be a vet, and has given me the confidence to believe I will achieve it.”

Balancing a demanding degree, community involvement, and performances has its challenges, but Kristen has faced them with determination, developing time management skills and achieving a Distinction average. “The support at College helped me navigate even the toughest weeks,” she adds.

Meeting the Rathbones at various events throughout the year was meaningful for Kristen, giving her the opportunity to express her genuine gratitude in person. It allowed her to share how their generous support has shaped her experience and opened doors during her time at College.

For the Rathbones, it was a powerful reminder of the tangible difference their philanthropy makes, seeing firsthand how their contribution has positively impacted Kristen’s journey. Encounters like these highlight the lasting value of scholarships and the strong sense of community they help foster.