Five Year Reunion for the Year of 2017

It was an absolute pleasure to welcome so many of the Year of 2017 back to School on 4 February 2023 for their delayed Five Year Reunion.

The Michael Baker Boathouse was buzzing with anticipation and excitement as the school friends caught up, some seeing each other for the first time in years.

The OVs were delighted to spend time with their ‘old’ teachers as well, sharing their news of the last five years, how their careers are blossoming in so many different fields, and their plans for the future with Hon OVs Katie Beever, Robin Booth, Jim Chalmers, Simon Cuthbertson, Rev’d Mark Dorsett, Elaine Friend, Chris Haywood, Richard James, Annabel Jeffery, Eric Lummas, Jonny Mason, Rosie Shearburn and Chris Wilson.

Katie Beever formally welcomed everyone to the gathering, sharing her own memories of teaching so many of those present across the years, from Lower Fourth to Upper Sixth. Katie then handed over to OV and former Head of School James Smalley (Br 10-17) to say a few words.

James reminisced about their wonderful adventures together, including many school trips, challenges, and sports tours around the world. He noted, though, that while the trips, school plays and events had been amazing and memorable, it was the small things, which they took for granted at the time, that had shaped them: such as chatting in House Rooms before school and break-times spent laughing with friends! He also toasted absent friends, including their Headmaster, the late Matthew Armstrong, whom they had all grown to admire and respect.

After James’s speech, the 2017 cohort enjoyed drinks and canapés, making the most of their time back together. They also welcomed current Headmaster, Gareth Doodes, who added his welcome to the year group, hoping that it is not another five years before the School sees them again!

The sign of a great evening, the Year of 2017 were reluctant to leave the Michael Baker Boathouse, but then made their way into town to continue their long overdue reuniting.

You can see all the photos from the event in the gallery.