Foundation Day 2023

A celebration of 100 years of Foundationers here in Long Sutton.

On Monday 27th March, we hosted our annual Foundation Day celebration in the Gavin Hall. Guests included Trusts and Charities who support The Foundation, donors, Foundation parents, and other loyal supporters of the College.

This year there was an even greater emphasis on celebration as it is our Centenary year. The Foundation has been supporting children who have suffered the loss of a parent for over 100 years. Before the College opened its doors in 1922, Foundation pupils were educated and cared for at Gosden House in Bramley, Surrey. Just over 2,500 pupils have passed through the College since that time.

Foundation Prefects, Ellie Smith (U6) and Millie Playford (U6) hosted proceedings and Millie and her mother, Mrs Joanna Playford told their story of how they came to LWC and the impact it has had on their lives. We were also delighted to hear from Sternian Foundationer Chris Bray (A573, School, 1962-69) who returned to LWC to express his gratitude for a wonderful upbringing at LWC.

We were most proud to reveal our new Foundation film, commissioned for our Centenary year, which cleverly recounts the story of how Lord Wandsworth’s bequest ignited the spirit of philanthropy here in Long Sutton. To watch the film please scan the QR code below.

Thank you to all those who attended, performed or spoke. It is always a lovely, and extremely moving, afternoon. Our thanks also to the Catering Team who provided us with the most delicious afternoon tea!