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9 Oct 2025 | |
Written by Molly Burgess | |
OKS & King's Association News |
On Friday 26 September 2025, we held a reunion for those who left King’s in 1994, 1995 and 1996. The reunion was inspired by Ben Massingham (GR 1990-95) who suggested a 30-year anniversary celebration for his year group.
The reunion was attended by 120 guests, among them several special guest teachers: Geoff Cocksworth (1990-2019), Marc Dath (1988-2019), Bill Browning (1992-2006), Andrew Dobbin (1978-2000), Tim Hands (1986-93), Hubert Pragnell (1973-2002) and Peter Henderson (1969-). Jervis House was the most represented house, followed by School House and Walpole House, and we welcomed guests from as far as France, USA, Uganda and the Cayman Islands.
The evening started with group tours of the school, which included pit stops at boarding houses, the Shirley Hall and the Green Court before gathering at Memorial Court for drinks. It was heartwarming to witness classmates reuniting for the first time in nearly 30 years - greeting each other with hugs, and there was a sense of amazement at how much, or how little, everyone had changed.
During the drinks reception, Peter Henderson (Archivist) showcased a trove of photographs and drawings from the guests’ time at King’s, with several entertaining photos and humorous sketches proving especially popular.
Guests then enjoyed a two-course dinner in the Main Dining Hall. The atmosphere in the hall was electric – filled with the buzz of conversation and laughter. Geoff Cocksworth delivered a short speech about how special it was to see everyone again. He also spoke about the importance of connections and relationships in the digital age – something that Geoff has learnt during his time working at many schools across the globe. Geoff then read a message from Anthony Phillips (Former Headmaster 1986-96), which was received with much applause.
“It would have been fun to have caught up after nearly 30 years though I am doubtful as to how many of you I would recognise! I think I am still recognizable from my bust in the Shirley Hall. Ducks don’t change their plumage in old age.
Thank you for all you did for Kings in your time at Canterbury. In the end, it is the pupils who determine the quality of a school: you made it very special.”
- A message from Anthony Phillips, Former KSC Headmaster
It was a memorable event from start to finish, with many continuing the party in town afterwards - thank you to everyone who came and made it so special.
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