This year has been a momentous year in the College’s history as they celebrated their 175th Birthday.
It was the perfect opportunity to remember and commemorate the past and a chance to look ahead. There have been a variety of gatherings, projects, events and opportunities to celebrate Lancing’s founder, Nathaniel Woodard and all those that have made the College what it is today.
One of the first projects in the 175th Anniversary celebrations was the commissioning of a visual timeline, detailing the history of Lancing College, which captures the attention of all visitors as it hangs proudly on display in Reception. The timeline spans the whole history of Lancing College, from its founding in 1848 up to the present day. The timeline also highlights key moments in world history alongside significant events that have changed the course of the school.
The Dining Hall has played host to 28 curated 175th Anniversary portraits throughout the duration of the academic year. Each portrait holder was nominated by members of the Lancing Community who were encouraged to recommend a person who has made – or is making – a positive and major difference to Lancing College and the World. The wide-ranging final selection includes Alumni, current and former members of staff. Each portrait was taken by the acclaimed British portrait photographer Fran Monks and they hang in an ambitious installation alongside the formal portraiture of the Founder and founding benefactors.
Lancing College have been honoured to welcome a series of speakers for the 175th Anniversary Head Master’s Lectures, including Professor Mary Ann Lund, Sir Nigel Bogle OBE and Pat Fry. Each speaker gave informative and inspiring talks about their profession and answered an array of questions from pupils and guests.
Music has played a significant role in celebrations this year. From the Broadcast recording of Choral Evensong from Lancing College Chapel for BBC Radio 3 to Choral Vespers, Britten’s Ceremony of Carols set in the candlelit splendour of the Chapel. Lancing College Chapel played host to community folk opera Beware the Mackerel Sky, where local schools and a variety of performers (400 in total) came together in three separate performances. The project was in collaboration with Sing with Strings and Bernardi Music Group.
A highlight of the musical festivities was the 175th Anniversary Concert at Southwark Cathedral. Current Parents, former parents, alumni, staff and pupils gathered in celebration to the sounds of Lancing College’s musical talent, including the College Choir, Choral Scholars, Chamber Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, String Quartet, Wind Quintet, Pianists, Saxophone Quartet Honk!, visiting musician guests and soloists. All led by Director of Music, Alexander Mason. The programme was devised to demonstrate the richness of music making at Lancing, with 75 pupils in the school taking part. It was truly spectacular and unforgettable.
This exceptional year culminated in a magnificent 175TH Anniversary Ball. An opportunity for the Lancing College community to gather and toast the past, celebrate the present and look forward to the future with great excitement and promise.
What an amazing 175 years!
Categories: Lancing College School News
