Lancing Community enjoys Founder’s Day

Founder’s Day presents the entire Lancing College community with the opportunity to reflect and celebrate the successes of the past year, as well as the life and lessons of our founder, Nathaniel Woodard.

We welcomed prize winners and their families back to the College to celebrate with a private Prizewinner’s Assembly with speeches given by the Chair of Governors, Martin Slumbers, Head Master, Dominic Oliver, and keynote speaker Professor Dame Sally Mapstone of St Andrew’s University. Following this, our guests were invited to their respective Houses to enjoy refreshments including a small bite to eat and, for some, a tall glass of Pimm’s too.

The afternoon ushered in glorious sunshine that bathed the campus in a golden glow, presenting the perfect setting for Sports Day, musical masterpieces, delectable delights, and epic races. Showcasing the musical talents of the College, several hours of rock, pop, classical and jazz were performed by our students on top of the Cricket Pavilion. The Ferris wheel, dodgems, and helter-skelter provided their own soundtrack to the day, featuring a melody of students, staff, and families’ laughter. By the racetrack, a feast was presented by our sensational catering team. Hog roast, burrito bar, Willy Wonka-themed afternoon tea, and our very own gelato maestro serving local ice cream comprised the spectacular spread. To round off the day, students took part in races from the 100m sprint to the 1500m relay. Congratulations to all those involved for their intrepid sporting display, especially considering the sublime sunshine.

Our highlight of Founder’s Day was performing on the Cricket Pavilion. This concert was something different to the usual performances we have, as we’re used to playing indoors which is a very different acoustic. Although with the wind fighting against us wanting to blow our sheet music off the stands, being outdoors under the sun in the fabulous weather made this concert special and something to remember, for both performing musicians and the audience. Overall, with the addition of the live music, Founder’s Day was a huge success and we’re proud that we were able to be a part of it.

Julia Kovsca and Audrey Ngan, Lower Sixth

Saturday 27 May saw a return of live music to the Shearwood Pavilion roof in the glorious sunshine as part of the Founder’s Day Sports Day. The afternoon showcased a range of some of Lancing’s top musicians, starting with Concert Band performing Chariots of Fire, the perfect backing for the athletics taking place on the track. They were followed by the Bassoon Quartet, A Cappella Club, Honk!, and Hannah Ward performing her self-composed songs. The afternoon concluded with Big Band performing some of their favourite repertoire from the year, including Madonna’s Papa Don’t Preach. This range of music was a wonderful accompaniment to the festivities of Founder’s Day, and an enjoyable experience for all involved.

Alexander Mason, Director of Music