St Cedd’s School opened their doors last Saturday for the first ever alumni event, welcoming former staff members and ex-pupils with the opportunity to see the growth of the school over the past 84 years.

The occasion celebrated the high standards of the school from the past to the present day, with one guest having attended the school in the 1930s.

Dr Pamela Edmonds, Head of St Cedd’s School, said: “It was a great pleasure to meet such an array of people connected with the school – one even representing the first cohort and others who are more recent ex-pupils, current and recent parents who are Old St Ceddians, and former school staff.  It was evident that returning to St Cedd’s School engendered feelings of familiarity with the traditions and ethos that are still apparent, as we cherish our motto of ‘Hold Fast that which is Good’.  The event illustrated our rich history and strong ties with the local community, and how important it is to keep in touch with those who have contributed to the school since it opened, whether as a pupil, a member of staff or a parent.”

Along with the opportunity to meet old friends, the event featured a variety of musical performances for piano, violin, oboe, flute and voice.  The musicians included current pupils as well as Murray Lawson, 17, who previously attended St Cedd’s School and has recently accepted a prestigious place at the British and Irish Modern Music Institute in Brighton to study music.

In addition to the performances, the visitors enjoyed an informative speech from the Head, Dr Pamela Edmonds, and from Mr David Thompson, Chair of Governors, as well as a tour around the new site on New London Road.  On display were old archived photographs, school books and children’s work – and some even spotted their own writing and drawings.

One guest, Miss Jane Ashley, who was one of the very first pupils to attend St Cedd’s School in the 1930s, as well as returning later as a teacher, said: “It was lovely to return to St Cedd’s School and see the new site.”

Mr Matthew Clarke, Deputy Head and main organiser of the event, said: “We would like to thank all those who came along, including our sponsors Edmund Carr, Birkett Long and Savills. We hope they enjoyed themselves, learnt something new about the school and maybe even met some old friends. It is our aim to continue similar events for the Old St Ceddians Association in the future.”