ROYAL VISIT 2016

Founders’ Day High Five with Duchess

Over the years, Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Gloucester has shown great support for the Royal Alexandra and Albert School. As the President of the School, she has made frequent visits to mark significant occasions in the School’s life. This year she joined pupils, staff, governors and past pupils for the annual Founders’ Day service on 6th May 2016. This was the last Founders’ Day service for retiring Headmaster, Paul D Spencer Ellis and the whole day was a celebration of the ongoing success of the school.

The Duchess particularly wanted to meet pupils during her visit, and she met many of them as she handed out prizes to this year’s winners. She joined staff and pupils for a brief reception before greeting Junior pupils who were waiting excitedly to meet her. She even ‘high-fived’ one of the juniors during her walkabout.

During the Founders’ Day service, the Duchess heard how the School continues to support children whose home circumstances make boarding education desirable. There was a particularly moving address from Chloe Rutherfoord, a past pupil who is currently studying Medicine at Bristol University. Chloe explained how the School had helped her to overcome very difficult home circumstances, and enabled her to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor.

Headmaster, Paul Spencer Ellis said “I am delighted the Duchess was able to share this important day with us. Over my 15 years as the Headmaster of this School she has been a wonderful supporter of what we do, and it makes a huge difference to have such a committed and enthusiastic President.”