St Edmund's School 275th Anniversary Book

FOUNDED 1749

PrincessMargaret

boys and master_ Gordan Knighton

Chemistry Class 1950’s

OCT Band 1926

1948 School Orchestra

Henry-Wagner

David Gen Inspec ‘64

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275

Happy 275th birthday St Edmund’s School!

In 1749, when we were founded, George II was King of England. At that time, America, Germany and Italy did not exist as unified nation states and the Industrial Revolution hadn’t even started. Our school consisted of one pupil and was located in Thirsk, North Yorkshire. It wasn’t even called St Edmund’s! We began our existence as the Clergy Orphan School.

How times and St Edmund’s have changed. We are now a school of 650 pupils and 200 staff. We are not only integrated closely into the Canterbury and East Kent community, but also an international organisation that is rated as “Excellent” on all measures by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, hailed as Performing Arts School of the Year 2023 and known around the world for delivering an outstanding education based on a nurturing pastoral ethos. I am extremely proud, every day, to be the school’s 24th Headmaster and to work with such a committed group of staff and such an engaging and talented pupil community. It is also a privilege to be Head for this significant anniversary. The school’s journey since 1749 has been long and winding for sure, but it has also been remarkable, unexpected, enriching and, at times, heartbreakingly sad. Our intention with this programme of events for “275” is to celebrate the qualities and key

moments that have defined our school, to remind ourselves of who we are and to look forward to an exciting future.

We were founded as a charity to educate orphans, and that pastoral instinct is interwoven into our institutional DNA. To honour that, we will be using various opportunities through the 275 schedule of events to raise funds for two charitable purposes. Firstly, we hope to fund additional bursaries for pupils to attend St Edmund’s who might otherwise not be able to do so. Secondly, in acknowledgment of our own founding purpose, we will be raising money at a series of pupil-led events to support Kisiizi Hospital Primary School in Uganda, which has a high proportion of orphans amongst its population. You will also see that we will be undertaking some interesting projects relating to sustainability and the school’s aim to become carbon-neutral.

I hope you will agree, after reading this brochure, that we have an action-packed and rewarding anniversary year ahead that will certainly be, if I may, “very St Edmund’s”.

Edward O’Connor Head

1749

Formation of the Clergy Orphan Society

1751

Election of the first boy on 30 May, John Pyrke – sent to a school in Thirsk, Yorkshire

1762 Revd Daniel AddisonHeadmaster

1749

George II becomes King of Great Britain.

1776

Declaration of Independence signed in the United States.

St Edmund’s School joins Let’s Go Zero campaign

Let’s Go Zero is the national campaign uniting teachers, pupils, parents and their schools as they all work together to be zero-carbon by 2030. From Glasgow to Belfast, Liverpool to Cardiff, St Edmund’s will be standing alongside school leaders and students from all over the country and taking action to tackle the climate crisis.

The aim is to spark climate action in communities across the country, reducing emissions, increasing biodiversity and safeguarding our planet for future generations.

‘Antigone’. Michael Lees as Creon & Paul Bates as Antigone - 1954

1783

1789

1809

1812

1813

1804

The old swimming pool area being demolished prior to the building of the New Wing, 1967-68

Indoor swimming pool, 1967

Library, 1908

The Society became a Corporation

School moved to St John’s Wood, at the nursery end of the Lord’s Cricket Ground.

Revd William FarleyHeadmaster

French Revolution begins with the storming of the Bastille

Napoleon Bonaparte crowns himself Emperor of the French

Revd. Daniel AddisonHeadmaster (son of previous)

1798

School moved to Stilton Hall

1804

Revd Thomas CrippsHeadmaster 1805

Revd Evan JonesHeadmaster

275 Gala Concert

Thursday 14 March, 7.30pm

St Edmund’s School, Canterbury presents its 275 Gala Concert in the Nave of Canterbury Cathedral. This year we bring together performers from St Edmund’s Senior and Junior Schools, the Cathedral Boy Choristers, St Edmund’s Choral Society, St Faith’s, Northbourne Park and Spring Grove in a celebratory performance of Mozart’s Requiem to mark the 275th anniversary of the school. The concert will also feature Mars, ‘The Bringer of War’ from The Planets suite by Holst, performances from our sixth form soloists and other orchestral works by Elgar and Mozart.

275 Dance Showcase

Friday 15 March, 7.00pm

Get ready to be dazzled at St Edmund’s School 275 Dance Showcase! The stage will come alive with the electrifying energy of dance, as our talented performers take you on a captivating journey through the world of movement and music. In the first half, be prepared to rock out to spectacular dance pieces set to the iconic tunes of Queen, bringing a modern twist to the legendary classics. The second half features our Senior dancers, who will showcase a diverse range of styles, from contemporary and jazz to hip-hop and lyrical. You’ll be treated to a mesmerising display of solos, duets, trios, and group performances that will leave you in awe of the talent and dedication of our students. But wait, there’s more! We are thrilled to announce that we will also have guest performers from Canterbury Christ Church University joining us for this captivating event, adding an extra layer of excitement and artistry to the showcase. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the magic of movement and dedication in a night of unforgettable performances.

1837 Revd George BewsherHeadmaster

1867 Revd Charles MathesonHeadmaster

1817 Revd Thoms WhartonHeadmaster

1841 Revd Daniel ButlerHeadmaster

The China Club - Hong Kong

Hong Kong:

There is a large and vibrant St Edmund’s alumni community in Hong Kong. Our last reunion was in 2019, so it will be wonderful to reconnect with old friends. The China Club, with its old-world charm and panoramic views of the city, provides an ideal setting for our alumni to reminisce about shared experiences and celebrate their collective achievements.

1880 Formation of The COS Society (Old Boys)

1886

First school magazine (The COS) published

1891 Swimming Bath opened

First gymnasium

1891 Revd Arthur UpcottHeadmaster

International Alumni Reunion event

1895-96

New wing – music & drawing rooms, common room; cricket pavilion

1897

Name changed to St Edmund’s School

Clock presented in memory of Matheson

1879 Edison invents the light bulb

1896

First modern Olympics held in Athens

Green Carbon Zero Month

Kicking off the month is the Low Energy Week, where classrooms and common spaces will buzz with energy-efficient practices. Students will engage in exciting activities and challenges that highlight the importance of reducing energy consumption, from turning off lights and electronics to embracing natural light whenever possible.

Planting of 275 trees on site: sustainability project in association with the Woodland Trust

In association with the Woodland Trust, St Edmund’s School will be planting 275 trees around the school site throughout 2024.

1900

1910

1908

1914 - 1918

1898

Opening Junior School – January

1899

New Gymnasium

Motto Ecclesiae Fili chosen, replacing Fungar Vice Cotis

1902

Revd Edward HoughtonHeadmaster

1908

Revd Walter BurnsideHeadmaster

1902

First nonFoundationers admitted. 1903

First house system – ‘North’, ‘East’, ‘West’for Games only

1905 Science Laboratories built

First Cadet Corps

New wing – replacing 1895 building. Also dining hall, kitchens, servants’ quarters, main entrance

Rifle range 1915

V.C awarded to B.H Geary

In the playground looking towards Giles Lane (1880). The double trees were a gathering place for boys and Old Boys until they were pulled down in 1932, having become unsafe.

275 Public Lecture 1.0

“Queen Elizabeth: Our Longest Serving Monarch”

Professor Kate Williams

25 April 2024, 7.30 - 9.00pm (Theatre)

Kate Williams is a historian and broadcaster. A specialist in modern history, royal and constitutional affairs, she is Professor of Modern History at Reading University.

She was the co-presenter of BBC Two’s RTSnominated Restoration Home and has presented and contributed to many historical shows on TV, including her BBC Two Young Victoria and recent BBC One show on VE Day and travel. She has talked on shows from The Great British Bake Off to the history of TV election coverage. To accompany the major BBC Two drama Versailles, Kate copresented two series of Inside Versailles, delving deeper into the history of the French court. She is currently filming a new series, The Stuarts, for UKTV and Netflix.

She is the in-house historical analyst for CNN, providing expert commentary for news and events such as the D-Day anniversary, the commemorations of the Holocaust atrocities, the funeral of Baroness Thatcher and all Royal events. She has worked with BBC Politics and BBC Events

1927

for a lot of exciting events, most recently covering the Referendum in Scotland from Westminster with Andrew Neil for BBC One and travelling to Belgium to cover the anniversary outbreak of World War I with Sophie Raworth, as well as RTS awardwinning 70th anniversary coverage of VE Day in May. She has presented two Inside Out films on Derbyshire’s Belper Mill and how the nation’s transport system resumed after World War II.

1939-1945

1945

Joshua Watson

Henry Wagner Samuel Warneford

William Baker

Housemasters

Completion of Academic Hub Phase 2

This month we are unveiling the Academic Hub Phase 2. This is a brand-new, colourful and state-of-the-art learning environment which will allow our pupils to prosper and our teachers to inspire. Not only will it help to enhance St Edmund’s excellent academic offering, but it will also breathe new life into the learning environment. We will see the creation of a further eight classrooms, with the whole of the Hub centred around a courtyard and reflection area.

The building will be sustainable in its operation, including the use of air source heat pumps, which will be retro-connected to the first phase of the development, helping us towards our ambition towards carbon neutrality in the next decade.

First school photo - 1880

First school photo - 1880

Grandparents’ Day at St Edmund’s

Join us for a heartwarming celebration at St Edmund’s upcoming Grandparents’ Day for Pre-Prep and Lower Junior school pupils! On this special occasion, grandparents are invited to witness the magic of their grandchildren’s school life. Enjoy lively student performances, interactive classroom visits, and a delightful lunch, all designed to create lasting memories. It’s a day to cherish family bonds and share in the joy of learning.

All details will be shared with our families and staff in March. We look forward to a day filled with love, laughter and the warmth of inter-generational connections at St Edmund’s School.

1978

1987

hall opened by Virginia Wade

1975

Opening of new school hall (the Theatre)

The first girls - 1990

1982 Falklands War

St Edmund’s Festival on the Hill 275th Anniversary - highlights

Wednesday 26 June – Tuesday 2 July 2024

Festival Evensong

Join us for a very special 275-themed service in our beautiful Cathedral. Our choristers and Chapel Choir celebrate this year’s Festival, Sing! A celebration of the voice… with Mark De Lisser and Dr David Flood.

David, who was master of the choristers at Canterbury for 32 years, will join our choristers old and new for an unforgettable afternoon.

1998

Curtis Stigers is back!

Curtis was with us in 2019, an event that sold out well in advance, and we’re so excited to be part of his 2024 UK tour. A stellar singer, song writer and saxophonist and a favourite at festivals and jazz clubs world wide, Curtis brings his amazing band and a stunning catalogue of songs!

Sing! with Mark de Lisser

and special guest Dr David Flood

Mark de Lisser is returning to the festival for another truly exceptional day of singing. This is a brilliant opportunity to explore the joy of singing with one of the most sought-after choral directors and vocal coaches in the UK. We are also so excited to announce that Dr David Flood, the master of choristers for over 27 years, will be joining Mark to lead a session for former St Edmund’s choir members, alumni choristers and parents.

275 Alumni Black Tie Dinner

Saturday 29 June

Celebrating a legacy that spans generations, this special event is a time for alumni to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the 275th anniversary of St Edmund’s. With fine dining and a refined atmosphere, the night promises to be a memorable occasion, highlighting the shared history and lasting connections that define our school community.

2000

2001

2004

Special thanks to our Festival Partners

2005

Combined Cadet Force (CCF) inspection with Lieutenant William Clarke

Prepare for an exciting return as the school welcomes back Lieutenant William Clarke! William was recently appointed a Lieutenant serving with the 2nd Battalion Royal Gurkha Rifles, after graduating from Sandhurst with the Cadet Sword of Honour, and will be visiting the school for the biennial CCF inspection. He will be on a mission to ensure our cadet experience is top-notch and our adherence to MoD regulations for cadet forces is nothing short of outstanding. It’s a visit that promises excellence, and a touch of alumni magic – Lieutenant Clarke is here to make sure our cadet programme is firing on all cylinders!

Chicago - 2019 Theatre production - 1960

2019 COVID-19 pandemic declared by the World Health Organization

2021 Inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States

2018 Edward O’ConnorHeadmaster

2017 St Edmund’s Festival

2018 Academic Hub Phase 1

2024 School reached 650 pupils First “Excellent” on all measures - from Independent Schools Inspectorate

2023

St Edmund’s won Performing Arts School of the Year Award

275th Anniversary Theatre Performance

Step into a mesmerising journey through time as we present a unique and enchanting performance to celebrate the rich history of our school’s 275 years. Join us for an extraordinary time-travelling experience that transcends eras, weaving together the threads of our school’s remarkable legacy.

Official opening of the Academic Hub and Speech Day

St Edmund’s Canterbury secured the largest single donation in the history of the school in 2022. This enabled us to build Phase 2 of our Academic Hub; building works will be complete in April 2024. We are tremendously excited and so grateful to Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India and Old Boy of St Edmund’s, who has supported us with such a generous donation.

Speech Day- 1947

St Edmund’s Festival presents:

Emma Smith: She Sings Sinatra with Big Band

Friday 20 September

In musical collaboration with trombonist Callum Au (arranger for Michael Buble, Jamie Cullum, Gregory Porter and Quincy Jones), and an 18-piece big band, comprising the crème de la crème of the UK jazz and big band scene, Emma Smith presents a new take on Sinatra material for She Sings Sinatra. Emma will perform a contemporary update of a previously maledominated lyrical repertoire from the Ratpack era, reframing this through the female lens.

Emma grew up immersed in Sinatra’s songs - her own grandfather played in his band for over 20 years - and now she sings the same songs with her own big band. Fast-forward 25 years, off the back of the success of her five-star album ‘Meshuga Baby’ and a tour with Hollywood icon Jeff Goldblum, Emma has decided to take on this passion project.

Emma Smith’s diverse and extensive experience includes performing and collaborating with the likes of Michael Buble, Quincy Jones Orchestra, Postmodern Jukebox, Bobby McFerrin and Seal.

275 Public Lecture 2.0

“Creativity”:

Kevin Dalton-Johnson:

Kevin is a highly successful artist who is engaging and inspiring. He will set up a workspace during his residency in the Art department, so that students across the age groups can see him working. He will show them new skills and present different perspectives. He will also talk about his travels and time in West Africa and how these life experiences have changed his work and shaped him as a person and artist.

If you want a name for the future, then agents should not wait too long to beat a path to the door of Emma Smith — Daily Telegraph

Kisiizi Primary School, Uganda

St Edmund’s School Fundraising Quiz

Get ready for a night of fun and philanthropy at the St Edmund’s Fundraising Quiz! Join us as we come together to raise money for Kisiizi Primary School. Test your knowledge, enjoy friendly competition, and support a great cause. Every correct answer brings us one step closer to making a difference in the lives of students at Kisiizi. Mark your calendar and be part of this meaningful event – where a little trivia goes a long way!

Concert at St Mary’s Church, Thirsk

1749 has always been taken by St Edmund’s School and its governors as being the date of the foundation of the school. The society formed in that year did not have the funds to build or buy its own school, and unfortunately there is no documentation of Society meetings that show how the decision was made to send the first elected clergy orphans to a school in Thirsk, North Yorkshire. The first boy elected was John Pyrke on 30 May, 1751 in Thirsk.

To celebrate this connection, St Edmund’s Music department with be performing a concert at St Mary’s Church in Thirsk. Date and details will be confirmed in the Summer term.

International Alumni Reunion event: Munich and Hamburg

Connecting our past pupils and agents in a global celebration of our school’s rich history and promising future. Join us for two wonderful evenings that will unite us all in celebrating 275 years of St Edmund’s School.

Silton Hall School - 1798

St Edmund’s Day Service in Canterbury Cathedral

18th November

Special guest: Freddy Kempf

We are honoured to be welcoming back Freddy Kempf to celebrate the 275th anniversary on St Edmund’s Day. Freddy is a former St Edmund’s pupil and a renowned British pianist, known for his exceptional artistry and technical prowess on the piano. With a career marked by international acclaim, Freddy has captivated audiences around the world with his emotive interpretations and masterful performances. A prodigious talent, he achieved widespread recognition at a young age, winning the BBC Young Musician of the Year competition in 1992. Since then, Freddy has collaborated with major orchestras and conductors, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. His repertoire spans a diverse range, showcasing his versatility and deep musical insight. Whether interpreting classical masterpieces or engaging in contemporary works, Freddy Kempf continues to enchant and inspire music enthusiasts globally. Family and alumni are warmly invited to join the school community at these wonderful events.

Details:

10.00am

Freddy Kempf will be performing a solo piece at the St Edmund’s Day Service in Canterbury Cathedral 7.30pm

Gala recital with Freddy Kempf St Edmund’s Theatre (ticketed event)

Above (left): 1992 BBC Young Musician of the Year competition winner, Freddie Kempf. Centre: Former St Edmund’s pupil Freddie Kempf today.

275 Public Lecture 3.0

“Leadership & Personal Courage”

Hari Budha Magar

Hari Budha Magar stands as a symbol of indomitable spirit and resilience, defying all odds to conquer the world’s highest peak. As a Gurkha double amputee, Magar’s extraordinary journey to the summit of Mount Everest is a testament to his unwavering determination and courage. Overcoming physical challenges that would daunt many, he has become an inspiration for individuals facing adversity worldwide. Magar’s historic ascent not only showcases his personal triumph but also honours the enduring legacy of the Gurkha community. His story resonates as a beacon of strength, motivating others to reach for their aspirations with unwavering resolve. Hari Budha Magar’s Everest achievement transcends the realm of mountaineering, standing as a symbol of human triumph against all odds.

Kisiizi Primary School, Uganda fundraising event

St Edmund’s 275 Treasure Hunt

CCF Field Day - 1993

The 275 Treasure Hunt is a fun and exciting fundraising activity to support our cause! Gather friends, family, and colleagues for a day of excitement and camaraderie as you follow clues, solve puzzles, and uncover hidden treasures. Every step brings us closer to our fundraising goals.

Harry Budha Magar

275 Winter Celebration and Art Auction

Join us for a enchanting evening of festivity and creativity at the 275 Winter Celebration and Art Auction. As we mark this significant milestone in our school’s history, parents and guardians are invited to indulge in the magic of winter elegance.

The night promises a delightful blend of sophisticated festivities, live entertainment, and a captivating art auction, featuring works by talented local artists and our very own students.

Dress in your winter finery and be part of this memorable event, where we celebrate community, culture, and the boundless creativity within our school.

Your presence and support will contribute to the success of our 275 fundraising, making this Winter Celebration and Art Auction an evening to remember.

The Band - 1925

St Edmund’s 275 Carol Service – Canterbury Cathedral

A heartwarming conclusion to a year of celebration at St Edmund's School special Carol Service commemorates our remarkable 275th anniversary. The air will be filled with festive melodies, joy and a sense of community, as students, staff and families gather to mark the end of a memorable year.

Art by: Oseka Akande-Alasoka, 2023

Fundraising details

Located in rural south Uganda, Kisiizi Hospital Primary School plays a crucial role in providing education to 350 pupils, including boarders. In 2012, Mr. John Kahanda retired as the Headmaster, passing the baton to Mr. Spencer Tweteise.

Originally established with support from the Spencer Trust, the school aimed to retain hospital staff by offering education for their children. Now, we’re embarking on a fundraising mission to build a much-needed dining hall and kitchen. This facility will ensure safe and eco-friendly cooking and eating, offering shelter during both the rainy season and hot weather. Currently, children eat outdoors on the grass or inside classrooms, highlighting the urgency of this project.

Your support will contribute to creating a more conducive and comfortable environment for learning at Kisiizi Hospital Primary School. Visit www.kisiizihospital.org.ug to learn more and be part of this transformative initiative.

Choristers-1983

Princess Alexandra1955

Revd. A.W. Upcott -headmaster1891-1902

First Cos MagazineMay,1886

Cricket XI 19thcentury

Dining Hall 1880