Tribute to HM Queen Elizabeth II

Ahead of the College's Cross Country event this afternoon, Friday 9 September, staff and pupils gathered together on Front Field to pay their respects for Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. 

Speaking in front of the entire College, the Headmaster, Mr Howe said, 'The news that we all heard yesterday is one of the most seismic moments in our lives and in both British and world history. Yesterday, and these next ten days, will be etched in your memory for the rest of your life. You will remember where you were when you heard the news that Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, had died. This afternoon we wanted to meet together here on Front Field to honour the memory of our Queen. We will hold a commemoration service next Friday morning but for today we are here to join the grief and deep respect of our nation and Commonwealth at this incredibly sad time.'

'Much more will be said next week about the character, nature, and service of our monarch and we will say thank you. But we also want to pray for and support our new King and the royal family at this difficult time.

'For many people the Queen was like a book that was always on our bedside table – we got so used to seeing the book on the table, we read the chapters – some incredibly happy, some full of drama, and some sad. We loved the book and we hoped it would never end – even though we knew that at some stage we would reach the final page and full stop. And now that the end has come, we will honour and celebrate the life of our Queen, who was the most positive role model to us all.'

Speaking after the Headmaster, the College Chaplain, Revd Briggs, led the school in prayer for Her Majesty before a two-minute silence was observed. Following this, Reverend Briggs prayed for King Charles III, wishing him strength and good health during these sad times. 

Upon conclusion of the service, the pupils moved to gather in front of Skipwith House for the start of the College Cross Country.