Edwardians

It is often said that friendships formed at KES last a lifetime and just one example of this is the Class of 1994. Many members of the cohort are still in touch with each other and, as part of their collective 50th birthday celebrations, all reconvened in Southampton for a weekend catch up. As part of the weekend, it was lovely to be able to welcome some of them back for a visit to KES for some further reminiscing and a chance to see the changes.

14 OE golfers took to the fairways of The New Forest Golf Club for the first OE golfing competition of the season - The Inter House Shield. Local knowledge proved to be the key ingredient to success with Lake's sole entrant, Dave Holt, coming second in the individual contest with 32 points. He was narrowly beaten by Tony Lees, who navigated the bumps, hollows and road for a winning score of 33. Tony's total, combined with that of another New Forest member, Keith Sinclair, who scored 30, was enough to secure a win for Sylvester who just pipped last year's winners Lawrence. Congratulations Sylvester!

What a fabulous morning it has been welcoming back so many of our OEs to our annual KES Futures Fair. They joined over 40 organisations and more than 70 professionals, giving students the chance to explore a wide range of career pathways and build meaningful connections.

The day began with a small group of early career professionals (including 4 OEs) who spoke to our Year 11 students about entry into their chosen profession and their pathways from school to work. Sixth Form and Upper School students then had the chance to visit the Fair to speak to delegates and gain further insight into the world of work in a large number of industries.

Thank you to all our alumni who volunteered their time and expertise today - it was great to see you all.

We are sad to announce the death of one of our longstanding, former members of staff; Mrs Viv Ferris. Viv was a much loved colleague and teacher and passed away after a long battle with illness.

Her funeral will be held at Wi******er Cathedral at 2pm on Monday, May 18. Members of the OE community are welcome to attend. Viv's family are hoping for a riot of colour to match her spirit and her wardrobe, so it will not be necessary for those attending to wear black.

We are sad to share with our OE community news of the sudden and tragic death of John Claughton (KES 90-97), former Head of School, at the age of 47.

A Memorial Service for John will be held on 5th May in Wilmslow, Cheshire. Further details of the funeral arrangements can be found at https://www.cheshirefunerals.co.uk/notice?id=000011202604100908358401

Members of the OE community are welcome to join with John's family in remembering and celebrating his life.

Sam Routledge (KES 08-15) currently works for the UK Export and Finance Department as a Business Manager in their Aerospace and Defence division. Last month, he shared his journey from school to a career within the civil service with our Sixth Formers.

Sam followed a non-traditional route into the public sector following what, he readily admits, were a set of disappointing A Level results. Beginning his career in an administrative role in the Cabinet Office, he explained the role of the civil service in carrying out the day-to-day work of government and the need for adaptability, working for a permanent executive that needs to respond quickly to change in a rapidly moving political landscape. Sam gave a fascinating insight into the role he played after Brexit, the various positions he has held whilst working in the civil service, his attendance at various events and in countries representing HM Government, and people he has met, in the course of his work.

He underlined that life is rarely linear and that, despite setbacks, success can be forged by hard work, self-motivation and determination.

The original 1553 School Charter with letters patent from King Edward VI is now on display in our 1553 Room along with a modern day English translation.