Toby Ruanne Smith (OE) tragically passed away last year. He was deeply loved by family and friends alike and was well-respected and admired by his peers and younger students across the College. Toby genuinely loved his time at Epsom, immersing himself in his studies, CCF, rugby, football and LAMDA. In the words of his Housemaster, “Toby made the most of every day. In his house, he always had time for others, regardless of what year they were in. He always made sure everyone was happy.”
When Toby’s funeral service was held at the College last August, 140 of his year group attended, along with friends, family, and teachers, demonstrating just how many lives he had touched, and what a difference he had made to his community.
His parents, Neil Smith and Julie Ruane, wanted to remember his time at the College as Epsom had such a profound impact on his life. They kindly presented Fayrer House with a trophy in his honour, named the Fayrovian of the Year Award in memory of Tobias Ruane Smith. This award will be given annually to the student in the Fayrer House who most embodies the qualities exhibited by Toby: the desire to make the most of each day, to get involved in all they can, and above all, to be kind, caring, and to look out for others.
The first worthy recipient of the award is Reuben, in Year 11, who was named Fayrovian of the Year for 2025. As Dr Telfer-Mason, Fayrer Housemaster, said: “Like Toby, Reuben demonstrates a can-do attitude, keen involvement in College life and is kind to all those around him. Whether in lessons, playing guitar, enjoying sports, and above all, looking out for others in Fayrer.”
