The ceremony began with the stirring notes of the National Anthem, setting a dignified and celebratory tone. This was followed by the reading of The Founder’s Prayer by our Chief Master and Principal, Mr Kirsty Von Malaise, a poignant reminder of the principles upon which our school was founded.
The Founder’s Prayer
We give thee most humble and hearty thanks, O most merciful Father, for our pious Founder, King Edward the Sixth, and for all our governors and benefactors, by whose benefit this whole School is brought up to godliness and good learning; and we beseech thee to give us grace to use these thy blessings to the glory of thy holy name, that we may answer the good intent of our religious Founder, and become profitable members of the Church and Commonwealth and at last be partakers of thy heavenly Kingdom: Amen
Musical Interlude
William (Sixth) performed on the cello, captivating the audience. His performance of Prelude and Allemande from Cello Suite No. 1, BWV1007 by J.S. Bach, showcased his extraordinary talent.
Inspiring Words
We were honoured to welcome Ashvir Sangha (OE 2007) as our guest speaker. Ashvir shared invaluable insights and inspiring reflections from his journey since leaving King Edward’s School, encouraging current students to embrace ambition and resilience.
Vote of Thanks
A heartfelt Vote of Thanks was given by our School Captain, Aaryan (Sixth), who eloquently expressed gratitude to all involved in making the day so special.
King Edward’s School Song
Concluding with the spirited rendition of the King Edward’s School Song, a fitting end to a truly memorable occasion.
Words by Alfred Hayes (1857-1936), 0E
Music by Sir Arthur Somervell (1863- 1937)
Where the iron heart of England throbs beneath its sombre robe,
Stands a school whose sons have made her great and famous round the globe,
These have plucked the bays of battle, those have won the scholar’s crown;
Old Edwardians, young Edwardians, forward for the School’s renown.
Chorus
Forward where the knocks are hardest, some to failure, some to fame;
Never mind the cheers or hooting, keep your head and play the game.
Here’s no place for fop or idler; they who made our city great
Feared no hardship, shirked no labour, smiled at death and conquered fate;
They who gave our School its laurels laid on us a sacred trust;
Forward therefore, live your hardest, die of service, not of rust.
Here no classic grove secludes us, here abides no cloistered calm;
Not the titled, nor the stranger, wrestles here to gain the palm;
Round our smoke-encrusted precincts labour’s turbid river runs;
Builders of this burly city temper here their strenuous sons.
Forward where the scrimmage thickens; never stop to rub your shin;
Cowards count the kicks and ha pence, only care to save their skin.
Oftentimes defeat is splendid, victory may still be shame;
Luck is good, the prize is pleasant but the glory’s in the game.
