Rydal Penrhos is delighted to invite you to join us for our 2023 Founders’ Weekend celebrations, which will take place on Friday 15 September and Saturday 16 September.
Join us for a trip down memory lane as we celebrate Founders’ Weekend once again; one of the most cherished traditions of our school, which has for many years served to reunite Rydal Penrhos alumni young and old. This year taking place from Friday 15 to Saturday 16 September 2023, the weekend promises a delightful blend of fun, camaraderie, and nostalgia.
The festivities will kick off on the Friday afternoon at 2:30pm with the beloved Founders’ Service, something our alumni will have experienced many times as pupils of the school. Led by the School Chaplain, Rev’d Dr Rob Beamish, and held in the historic St John’s Church, the service will provide an ideal opportunity to reflect on the values of our school’s founders, who shape Rydal Penrhos to this day.
Later that evening, we are delighted to announce the return of the Staff vs Leavers football match. This much-loved occasion always produces some fun and competitive encounters that live long in the memory (of the winning team, at least!). There may be some spaces available on either team for older alumni, aside from our Class of 2023, to get involved; further information will be shared in due course.
Saturday will see more sports and also opportunities to see the school, meet up with old friends and speak to long-time teachers and members of staff. We warmly welcome everyone to join us at 10:30am for some coffee, cakes and other sweet treats, after which tours and matches will begin.
Please do consider taking a tour to rediscover the school and all its familiar nooks and crannies that hold a special place in your heart. Don’t forget to visit the captivating archives displays in the Osborn Hall, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and legacy of Rydal Penrhos. If you are interested in booking a tour, then please contact alumni@rydalpenrhos.com to let us know.
11am will see the beginning of the day’s sporting action with the Old Boys Dragons team taking on the 1st XI Hockey side on the Astro turf. If recent years are anything to go by, then this will be a high-energy and high-scoring encounter. Meanwhile, our women’s sports matches for the Natalie Kate Moss Trophy will produce similarly entertaining contests.
After the morning’s sport, we welcome all to gather at 1pm for a delicious buffet lunch, prepared by the school’s outstanding catering team, led by Mr Jonathan Stubbs. This will be an ideal chance to debrief the morning’s games, or just catch up with classmates of yesteryear and reminisce about your memories of Rydal Penrhos.
Finally, for those seeking a touch of friendly competition, Saturday afternoon presents an opportunity to don your gloves and play at our historic Fives Courts once again. Drop in, showcase your skills, and meet other likeminded alumni with a love for this unique sport.
We do hope that you will join us this September, as we celebrate the school and our time spent here. In particular, we extend a heartfelt invitation to our ‘3s’ – the Class of 2013, 2003, 1993, 1983, and so on – this being your special reunion year. Rekindle friendships, reminisce about shared experiences, and celebrate the bonds that have withstood the test of time. If you would like more information about Founders’ Weekend, please do not hesitate to contact alumni@rydalpenrhos.com.
We look forward to seeing you all in September!