14 Old Redingensians returned to Reading School on Saturday 4th July to mark the 50th anniversary of their leaving the school in 1976, with attendees travelling from every corner of the UK, and as far as northern Scotland, to be part of the occasion. Many brought partners along to share in the day.

Two former teachers, Brian Turnbull (Former Staff 1969-2003; Teacher of History) and John Oakes (Former Staff 1970-1997; South House Boarding Master & Head of Biology), also joined the celebrations, along with former parent Maureen Fox.

Celebrations began in the refectory, where guests were warmly welcomed by Headmaster Chris Evans (OR 1990–1997), who addressed the group, welcomed them back and reflected on the enduring bond between the School and the Old Redingensians community. Jerry Vive (OR 1969–1976), who, in his role as Alumni Ambassador, opened the afternoon by thanking his peers for attending before reintroducting himself to the group. A short moment of silence was held to commemorate classmates who have passed away since leaving school. 

Each Old Redingensian was then asked to briefly reintroduce themselves, sharing highlights of what they had done in the fifty years since leaving. They reflected on their most cherished memories of their schooldays and shared stories of their journeys from university, work, starting a family and what they enjoy doing, with many retired or approaching retirement. 

The group sat down together for lunch, before the headmaster gave an update on how the School has evolved since they were pupils. This covered physical developments across the school, changes to the curriculum and school values, developments in admissions, and the latest progress on the School's newest capital campaign.

Afterwards, the group visited an archive display of memorabilia from their time at the School, organised by Ken C. Brown (ORA Archivist, OR 1955–1963). Development & Alumni Relations Manager, Jas Chhokar, then led the group on a guided tour of the School to have the chance to see the changes for themselves.

Much has obviously changed in the life of the school since we were there, although many of the buildings are of course still standing, but for a few hours we were transported back to the time when we ourselves ran around kicking tennis balls noisily in the quad in break times, before the bell sounded for the next lesson. Happy days – mostly!

David Frood (OR 1969–1976)

The day concluded with a final tea back in the refectory before the group headed off to continue their celebrations over dinner at a local restaurant. It was a fitting golden jubilee celebration for a group of ORs whose friendships have clearly stood the test of fifty years.

I have had plenty of feedback from my peers expressing their appreciation of your time and goodwill in hosting our attendance at Reading School. We all had a terrific time and we can’t wait for the return to Reading School in 2076 for the 100 Year Anniversary Reunion!

Jerry Vive (OR 1969–1976)

Is your class approaching its own 20th or 50th anniversary in 2026/2027?

We'd love to hear how we can help get your class back to Reading School. Get in touch with Piatrice Hutchinson at alumni@reading-school.co.uk to start planning your celebration.

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