30 Y3-Y4 Joining Booklet BEDFORD PREP SCHOOL
The Wider Community The Bedford School Association (BSA) The aim of the BSA is to promote engagement across the widest possible alumni grouping in order to create a sense of attachment and an active network which positively supports Bedford School. The school takes an inclusive approach to make all elements of the community feel most welcome. With a joined up approach, we feel that more can be achieved. The BSA supports the work of the Bedford Prep Guild, Parents’ Guild in the Upper School, Past Parents’ Association, Old Bedfordians Club and Foundation, and helps all of these organisations to flourish. It also aims to build up strong relationships with friends of the school particularly within our local community. We are thrilled that more and more people want to be associated with Bedford School and join us at a variety of events and gatherings. Throughout its history, the school has meant a lot to many people, and, whatever their particular connection, we hope that they are all proud of their association, and that this will continue. As well as The Prep Guild, parents also get involved in specific areas to support the boys and for their own enjoyment. Two examples of this are the Friends of Bedford School Boat Club (FOBSBC) who put on a number of events, and the Eagle Choir, which is a School Community Choir, made up of parents (current and past), Old Bedfordians, staff and friends of the school. We are pleased that most parents find their niche and enjoy the general camaraderie that the school offers.
Eagle Connect Eagle Connect is the BSA’s online business and social networking platform. Membership is open to all constituents of the BSA who have a shared affection for the school and its community. The online platform provides a highly engaged and supportive community made up of those who are willing to help each other, both socially and professionally. From finding accommodation on a gap year trip (possibly a
few years down the line!) to giving advice to someone who wants to change their career, Eagle Connect is a forum for people to support each other. Joining details can be found under the BSA section of the school website.
Bedford Prep Parents’ Guild The Bedford Prep Parents’ Guild (Prep Guild) is made up of parents of current Prep School pupils and members of the wider school community who aim to support the school in a number of ways, including: y
Arranging and promoting social events that bring parents and school staff together.
y
Fundraising with profits going to charities, groups and school projects agreed upon by the Prep Guild committee in conjunction with key members of Bedford Prep School staff.
y
Providing a social network for parents new and old, with representatives in each year group.
y
Supporting school functions, for example serving mulled wine and mince pies at Christmas Carol Concerts.
All work carried out by the Prep Guild Committee is on a voluntary basis, but its work is greatly appreciated by the Prep School staff. Supporting the Prep Guild is not only rewarding and fun but also a great opportunity to meet other parents and staff in a more relaxed way. If you would like further information, please email prepguild@bedfordschool.org.uk.
The Old Bedfordians Club Established in 1891, the Old Bedfordians Club was formed in order to help Old Bedfordians stay in touch with one another and the school. Over the years it has gone from strength to strength and is now a vibrant organisation across the globe. Although the phrase ‘networking’ was not used when the Club was formed, this has always been a key element at the heart of the Club.
