A warm welcome awaited the 1,200+ visitors on Visitation Day - the highlight of the entire school year. It was lots of sunshine and smiling faces all the way, starting with an early morning chapel service where it was a delight to welcome back Rev Wealands Bell as the guest preacher, and also to remember the many School benefactors who through their generosity have helped to make Aldenham the thriving community that it is today.

The speeches and distribution of prizes which followed were punctuated by musical interludes from Bob He on piano and Toby Freeman on electric guitar. The Headmaster, James Fowler, spoke of the healthy increase in the numbers of families wanting to join the School and focused on the value of good preparation. This theme was also taken up by the Guest of Honour, Mr Stephen Spencer-Jones, Master of the Worshipful Company of Brewers, as he encouraged students who are leaving to take up every opportunity and prepare for all eventualities. Chair of Governors, Mr Trevor Barton, highlighted the determination to consolidate the School’s strong reputation. He recalled a visit that he and his wife had made to Malawi earlier in the year – “a long way removed from our privileged position within the M25”.

Visitors then moved to Top Field for leisurely picnics and to catch up with friends whilst watching the 1stXI vs OA Select XI cricket match, won by the School this year. The addition of live music by our young musicians added greatly to the festive spirit. Along with art and photography exhibitions, drama and sports displays, there was certainly lots for everyone to enjoy. The House Tug of War finals followed by an excitable staff versus parents Tug of War competition were the perfect conclusion to a splendid day.