City reaffirms links at Speech Day
Some of the most senior figures from the City of London attended King Edward's Speech Day on Friday to reaffirm its ancient links with the School
In what was a day of great pomp and ceremony, the Representative Lord Mayor, Sir John Stuttard, visited the School along with various Aldermen, School governors and other senior City of London figures. He gave a speech in which he spoke proudly of the City's bond with and affection for King Edward's.
The Lord Mayor himself was unfortunately unable to attend due to a last minute requirement to meet a Russian trade delegation in the City. However, this and the poor weather did nothing to dampen the spirits on a day that captured the great history, spirit and endeavour that permeates the School. The day began with a procession into Chapel by the Representative Lord Mayor along with various local dignitaries, including the Mayors of Godalming, Haslemere and Waverley. A rousing service, that included a wonderful rendition of Zadoc The Priest, began a memorable Speech Day.
The Lord Mayor himself was unfortunately unable to attend due to a last minute requirement to meet a Russian trade delegation in the City. However, this and the poor weather did nothing to dampen the spirits on a day that captured the great history, spirit and endeavour that permeates the School. The day began with a procession into Chapel by the Representative Lord Mayor along with various local dignitaries, including the Mayors of Godalming, Haslemere and Waverley. A rousing service, that included a wonderful rendition of Zadoc The Priest, began a memorable Speech Day.
The sermon was made by the Venerable David Meara, Archdeacon of London. In it he referred to a passage in the Bible by the Prophet Isaiah and spoke of how splendid it is to have memorable days such as this in one's life; however, he stressed that it is how we tackle the routine of day to day life that truly defines one's character.
Following the service, there was a brief reception in Charter Hall, before speeches and prize giving took place in the marquee in front of pupils, staff and parents. Perhaps the highlight was the traditional address from the Head Girl, which recalled all the achievements of the School and its pupils over the past twelve months. This is recited by memory in the form of a poem and this year's Head Girl, Harriet Willis, delivered it perfectly and with a great deal of humour.
The Representative Lord Mayor spoke of the City's strong links with the School and reminded everyone that despite its recent bad press, the City is also a force for good, with a great tradition of philanthropy, King Edward's being a prime example of that generosity. He requested that this year's Sixth Form leavers remember that generosity and remember the millions of people around the world who will need their help as they embark on their careers.
The Headmaster's speech recalled some of the many achievements of the School over the last academic year, including another improvement in IB results, Olympiad success, the development of Girls' football and links with the FA, amongst others. He also spoke about the success of Annual Giving in being able to fund a new Music Technology suite and the introduction of a new music bursary scheme for those wishing to play instruments.
Following the Speeches, there was a three course lunch for the Representative Lord Mayor and guests, which was followed by the releasing of charity balloons in aid of a Nepalese school, Shree Path Pradarsak Nimna Mahhyamik Vidhyalaya.
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