Quincentenary Celebrations
Apposition
The day started with the annual Apposition Ceremony for 400 guests in the Wathen Hall. Professor Lord Winston, the Apposer, masterfully pulled together the themes of all four declamations, which were given by members of the U8th. Following the Ceremony, guests were treated to a specially themed Quincentenary lunch; the menu included modern adaptations of 16th century recipes which would typically have been used as part of a celebration meal. Head Chef, Steve Chrisp, visited the British Library to research some of the recipes.
Open Day
At 2.30pm St Paul's opened its doors for visitors to enjoy Open Day. Whilst enjoying afternoon tea from around the world, laid on by the Parents' Group, guests were entertained by Pauline and Old Pauline bands. The 1st XI cricketers put in an excellent performance as they triumphed over RGS Guildford, who also celebrate their 500th birthday this year. It was a trip down memory lane for hundreds of OPs who turned out to meet up with old friends and to re-visit some of their old haunts; they were able to take a tour of the School, which included a special display in the Atrium charting the History and Politics of St Paul's School and departmental exhibitions.
Q Festival
As gates opened onto the School field at 5.30pm, guests literally ran to get the best picnic spot. They weren't disappointed as they soaked up the party atmosphere and the musical extravaganza that included the Colet Court Junior Choir performing a Joseph Medley, introduced by special guest Sir Tim Rice; Katherine Jenkins, Heather Small, Faryl Smith and a number of talented Old Paulines including Simon Mulligan, Will Knox, Alexei Kalveks and Matthew Rowe. The evening ended with the audience on their feet in full voice singing Land of Hope and Glory and a fireworks finale.