The Ways of Wellington

It’s safe to say that Wellington is truly one of a kind. From the productions to the pitches, Wellington is a living-breathing hub of energy, innovation and prosperity. There is not a single day in which the College falls silent; a constant buzz, fizz, or quiet hum of activity is always present. Our community thrives on the hustle and bustle of anything and everything both inside and outside of the gates. But in what way is Wellington so distinct, so unique and so revered? If Wellington has one thing, it’s spirit. No matter where you find yourself around college, spirit seeps out of every aspect of Wellington life. This is particularly felt when we all come together as a whole in house, for assemblies or in Chapel at the beginning of the day. Standing together with hundreds of voices singing in unison is a feeling like no other. Yes, I know, more often than not most of us would rather be somewhere else, but it is these small, intimate moments where the energy is palpable. This is also true beyond the hymn books: the sports fields are a hive of another kind of energy. On or off the pitch, sport is a powerful device which drives the most unexpected people together to create new friendships. Whether on the team sheet or spectating, we all add to the essence of our community. Service further deepens and strengthens our connection to the wider community, from initiatives in our local village of Crowthorne to those far further afield. Wellington is all about going the extra mile with every single student involved in giving back in one form or another.

Every day, whether we realise it or not, we are surrounded by and contributing to the rich heritage and traditions of Wellington. Our brains are full, and our days are packed, so it is all too easy to become immune to the wealth of artefacts, architecture and history that we are immersed in. Every year, we congregate in front quad to remember and pay tribute to those who have fallen in battle. As we stand together, where generations stood before us and many more will follow, we honour the unique contribution of our Old Wellingtonians. This recognition is continued through CCF, with all students participating in every military discipline. Although enjoyment comes in varying degrees, this involvement enables us to be part of something greater than ourselves and therein another

dimension to Wellington life.

Sprinkled throughout the year are events which showcase Wellington at its best. Speech Day is the pinnacle of the year; a celebration of every element of College life. This, together with other landmark occasions such as the Jimmy Higham run, House singing, and College Carnival, capture the epitome of what makes Wellington unique in the traditional sense. But it’s the brilliantly quirky and even unconventional events such as Welly Wanging, Be the Duke and Maniacs, as well as the more progressive initiatives including the recent Mental Health Day, Fireside lectures and EdFest which makes Wellington, Wellington. It goes without saying that we are fortunate to attend such an incredible school - that’s evident! So, embrace every opportunity, take from the wealth of knowledge in the classroom and cherish every second. But we must also ensure that we, as students and individuals, give back to it as much as we possibly can, so that we too, become an elemental part of the wonderful Ways of Wellington.

Colette Staadecker, L6 th

, W