Grey clouds hung overhead on 26 October, promising rain, but the weather held, allowing the Form 6 boys to make the journey from Pennefather House to the Coach House. The atmosphere was festive as the boys made the walk, with the school singing the school song before cheering them on their way. This year was particularly special, with the Form 1 boys and members of the Old Boys’ Association joining the event.
Many photographs were taken to capture this significant milestone. Our outgoing Head Boy and Deputies handed ties to the Form 1 boys who will join the Middle School in 2027, and the Form 6s then helped the Form 1 boys put on their ties. It was especially moving to watch brothers helping one another during this new tradition. The ceremony highlighted the strong through-school culture and sense of brotherhood that we continue to foster at St Charles College.
Our 2026 Head Boy, James Dickason, then delivered a speech in which he thanked everyone who had played a role in the boys’ journey through the College, as well as the parents for their continued love and support. He also presented a gift to the school that will contribute to the further development of the Form 6 area.
Ryan Lawler (Chairman of the Old Boys’ Association) then gave a heartfelt speech and thanked Gill Sheppard for her many years of service to the Association. The Old Boys then formally welcomed the Form 6s into the Association and presented them with their Old Boys’ ties. Andrew Dickason and Justin Griffin had the honour of presenting ties to their sons, adding a particularly personal touch to the occasion.
The Class of 2026 then donned their Old Boys’ ties and gathered for a photograph on the steps of the Coach House. It is hoped that this tradition will become an annual occasion for the group, as maintaining these friendships and connections will remain an important part of their journey long after they leave St Charles College. - Mrs Claire Beckedahl (Head of Form 6)
