SWPS Annual Alumnae Afternoon Tea Reunion 2024 - 300th Year Celebration Edition

We were thrilled to welcome our alumnae community for the Annual Afternoon Tea Reunion, a special event marking the 300th Anniversary of SWPS. This celebration honoured the legacy of Sir William Perkins, who founded the school in 1725, with a vision of giving back to the local community by providing education to the young people of Chertsey.

The afternoon featured a sumptuous buffet prepared by our in-house Chef and a school tour led by one of our student ambassadors. Alumnae had the opportunity to browse past yearbooks, photographs, and memorabilia from our archives. To commemorate the Tercentenary, Perkonians kindly brought in memorabilia and uniforms from their time at the school, for inclusion in our Tricentenary exhibition at Chertsey Museum, taking place next spring. From pre-1974 school blazers and old prefect badges, there was a sense of nostalgia to the afternoon.

Among the guests were members of the Class of 1994, celebrating their 30 years on reunion, and the Class of 1974, celebrating their 50 years on reunion. Holding these special occasions during the school's Tercentenary year, was particularly poignant and appreciated by all.  Christabel, from the Class of 1994, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the SWPS alumnae team for organising the afternoon, stating that a fabulous time was had by everyone.

With over 70 guests attending the event, including 40 alumnae from the Class of 1994 and over 10 teachers in attendance, the excitement was palpable. The sound levels alone were evidence of everyone's excitement to reconnect. So many photos, memories, and lovely comments were shared, testifying to the strong friendships and wonderful experiences that our alumnae community cherished from their time at SWPS.  

One Alumna remarked, "It was wonderful. It struck me how everyone had become the best version of themselves from 30 years ago. You were all so genuine, warm, and generous."  These qualities epitomise the SWPS community, and the endearing bond which students have years after finishing their education.

Sue, a former English teacher said ‘It was a delight to see so many former students and very touching to see that the school holds such a special place in their memories.’

Our current SWPS students did a fantastic job interacting with guests and leading the tours. Isabelle in Year 9 remarked that she really enjoyed giving the tour, as the alumnae were recalling fond memories and reminiscing as they walked around the school.

A huge thank you goes out to all the staff who helped make the event so special and to the SWPS chefs who provided the delicious afternoon tea. From the glowing comments about the food, their efforts were very much appreciated by everyone.

Thank you to everyone who made this event memorable. We look forward to many more celebrations and milestones in the future.