On Friday 8 November, we welcomed the Class of 2024 and their families for our annual Awards Evening – a celebration marking their transition as new members of our alumni community, as Old Edwardians.
Held in the Ruddock Performing Arts Centre, the evening was a joyful reunion for our most recent graduates, who enjoyed reconnecting with each other and sharing experiences from their first months at university or exciting gap year activities. It was also an opportunity to reconnect with their former teachers, making it a memorable night shared with friends and family alike.
The evening highlighted the Class of 2024’s remarkable A Level achievements – another record year – and honoured their invaluable contributions to school life. Chief Master & Principal, Kirsty von Malaisé, opened the ceremony with words of congratulations, acknowledging their hard work.
She continued ‘I am encouraging you to find space at regular intervals in your life, to reflect on what your purpose is, and to make sure that you find time to do that thing, on the side, or as the main course. Without it, whatever that is, you will not be the best version of yourself.’ Mrs von Malaisé encouraged the girls to go out and make a difference in whatever sphere they choose and to be reminded that they are bound together by KEHS and will continue to be as leavers.
The programme featured musical a performance from Derwent (Upper Sixth) who captivated the audience with her harp recitals, playing David Watkins’ Fire Dance and Pearl Chertok’s Harpicide at Midnight. This was followed by the presentation of certificates.
We were honoured to welcome Helen Williams (OE 1994) as the keynote speaker. Helen fondly shared memories of her school days, favourite teachers (including Mrs. Hosty, who was in attendance), and amusing stories that she had collated from her closest friends from her time here. Helen went on to reflect on her professional journey, speaking passionately about her love for her work in central government as a civil servant, and the lessons she has learned along the way. She highlighted how the values and skills developed during her time at school have shaped her career and continue to influence her approach to work today.
Offering words of wisdom to the Class of 2024, Helen urged the students to recognise and embrace their strengths, to ask questions, and to bring compassion into everything they do. She also encouraged them to step outside their comfort zones and to view mistakes as valuable learning experiences. In closing, she shared an inspiring quote from Maya Angelou: “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
As a former Creak Memorial Prize winner, Helen was an inspiration to this year’s recipient, Abigail Tan (OE 2024), who presented Helen with a bouquet in thanks for her speech. Abigail also thanks her fellow class of 2024, their families and the schools’ staff and governors.
The evening concluded with a reception in the Dining Hall, where drinks and canapés were served, providing a relaxed environment for students, families, and staff to celebrate together.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024 – stay in touch, and we look forward to seeing you at future events!
