London Summer Reunion at East India Club a resounding success!

Headmaster, Simon Morris, greets His Honour Judge Peter Wright and daughter Eleanor - both former KS pupils!

On Friday 11th June over eighty 'Old Kingswoodians', plus a number of partners and guests, gathered for a summer reception in the elegant surroundings of the East India Club in St. James's Square, London.

This was an important night for the Association as, simultaneously, another event, the quarterly MJSD dinner, was taking place in Bath in the school dining hall. Two venues, more than a hundred former Kingswoodians and much talk of friendships and happy times shared.

Some present had not been in contact for more than 30 years and, with an age range of 24 up to 94, it was wonderful to witness the buzz of warmth and excitement in the East India Club that night. The common bond felt by all present made for a most friendly and convivial gathering.

The Headmaster, Simon Morris, gave an informative and inspirational address. He spoke passionately about his 'vision for Kingswood'. He described the way in which he aims to widen access to a truly exceptional education through the introduction of Wesley Bursaries. He expressed his gratitude to the late Mr John Tregurtha Bone [KS 1940-47] who recently made a generous bequest that will enable the school to launch this new endowment fund. There will also be funds available to make a further contribution to the new sports pavilion on the Upper which it is hoped will be taking shape over the next 18 months.

The new Kingswood Foundation brochure was alsopresented to all those attending.This details the progressive and exciting plans being proposed by the school. Members of the Association and Kingswood community are very much encouraged to participate fully in these moves and to feel very much a part of school life today.

The speeches were perfectly 'top and tailed' with the President's welcome and the Chairman's thanks. Robert Sandry gave an interesting introduction about the history of the East India Club and made reference to a number of cricketing legends .. some of whom were in the room. Jeremy Wimpress congratulated Alan Mason on scoring his own half-century, although it seemed he was not actually referring to his skills on the cricket pitch!

Finally, thanks to all who attended not forgetting Richard Mainwaring (Head of Music) and the Kingswood musicians who travelled to London especially to provide exceptional musical entertainment throughout an unforgettable evening. Click here for the musicians review.

Angela Dudley-Warde - Development Director (Alumni Relations)

Click on gallery pictures below for an even better view!