Downside Old Gregorians

Class of 2016 — 10 Year Reunion

We had a wonderful weekend welcoming back pupils from the class of 2016, staying in Plunkett House and celebrating ten years since leaving Downside.

The reunion began with lunch in the Ref, followed by tours of the School and boarding houses, bringing back plenty of memories from their time at Downside. In the evening, the OGs and staff gathered for a relaxed BBQ and drinks, with lots of catching up and reminiscing throughout the night.

Sunday morning began with Mass before the inaugural Downside Fun Run, where some took part enthusiastically while others offered moral support from the sidelines as spectators.

A brilliant weekend reconnecting with old friends, staff, and the Downside community a decade on from the Class of 2016.

We are delighted to share Downside’s latest review from the Good Schools Guide, following their recent visit. The report beautifully captures the true essence of our School — the strength of the community at its heart.

To read the full report, please follow the link.
https://shorturl.at/d4mUs

Today is Good Friday. At 3pm, the Liturgy of the Passion of the Lord will be celebrated in the Abbey Church.

With the whole Church we pray:

Almighty ever-living God, who have restored us to life by the blessed Death and Resurrection of your Christ, preserve in us the work of your mercy, that, by partaking of this mystery, we may have a life unceasingly devoted to you. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Picture: A crucifixion scene from the Sacred Heart Chapel of the Basilica of St Gregory the Great.

Yesterday was the Solemnity of St Gregory the Great and the feast day of Downside School.

Pope Saint Gregory the Great was born in Rome around the year 540. He was well educated in his youth, and became prefect of Rome aged 30. When his father died, he became a monk and turned their home into a monastery. Gregory wanted to serve God and help people. As a deacon in Rome he organised food and help for the poor.

Happy Feast Day to all pupils, staff and Old Gregorians

Ken Beedle (R73), President of St Gregory’s Society, invites you to an informal gathering at The Grosvenor Arms, Hindon, SP3 6DJ, from 6.30 pm on Thursday 19th March 2026 to meet local OGs over drinks and supper.

This event is a great opportunity to make new acquaintances and catch up with old friends. Wives, husbands, and partners of OGs are most welcome.

Let us know if you would like to attend by visiting our website
https://www.downside.co.uk/category/old-gregorian-events/

The sport of rugby union has a long and distinguished history at Downside School. As the 6Nations gets underway this year, we are celebrating the success of past and present rugby playing pupils. We are very proud of all these players and their achievements.

Today we celebrate Simon Halliday (S77) and Hugh Vyvyan (S95)

If you would like to know more about the opportunities on offer for talented and aspirational young rugby players, please get in touch with us [email protected] or come to our next Open Morning on Saturday 7th March.

https://www.downside.co.uk/open-morning/

EBC Schools Alumni St Benedict's Day Mass - Tuesday 24th March

All OGs are all invited to attend a special St Benedict's Day Mass at 6.30pm on Tuesday 24th Match at St Mary Moorfields Church, 4-5 Eldon Street, London, EC2M 7LS.

This is a new initiative to bring together alumni of English Benedictine Congregation schools: Worth, Downside, Ampleforth, St Benedict's Ealing, Douai, Belmont & Buckfast. Abbot Christopher Jamison (R69), President of the EBC, will preside and there will be a drinks reception in the crypt following the Mass.

All OGs and friends are welcome. To book your place, please visit our website
https://www.downside.co.uk/category/old-gregorian-events/

We were incredibly fortunate to welcome national cartoonist Jonathan Pugh (B80) to Downside on Friday.

Jonathan (the current pocket cartoonist for the Daily Mail, has worked for The Times, Punch, The Observer, The Guardian, Private Eye and The Tablet), led an inspiring masterclass for our art students, sharing insights into his technique and career, and offering thoughtful, personalised feedback to each pupil.

Later, he delivered an engaging presentation in the Sixth Form Centre to pupils, staff and members of the local community, showcasing 35 cartoons from across his 30-year career. As well as talking fondly about his time at Downside, he spoke about his inspiration, the lengthy submission process and the evolution of his style over time.

It was a fascinating and memorable talk, followed by a lively discussion. We are deeply grateful to Jonathan for his time, expertise and generosity.

Habemus Papam! Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as 276th successor of St Peter and has chosen the name of Leo XIV.

The Downside community unite in prayer as Pope Leo begins his ministry of guiding the Church with faith, hope, and love.

Looking forward to seeing everyone on Saturday for our annual Polish dinner at Pod Aniołami Restaurant, Krakow.