The Year 7 Founder’s Service, which took place on Monday the 18th of March 2024, was an enjoyable experience for me, as I am sure it was too for my classmates and friends.

We came straight back to our form rooms at 2 pm and packed our bags to go straight home after the service. We then walked out of the school gates and began our walk to St Michael and All Angels Church, which is quite close by to the school. Upon arriving, we put our bags and coats down before entering the church and sitting down.

The Headmaster, Mr Cole, welcomed us with the story of Edward Wilson, the founder of our school, before we stood up to sing the school hymn, beginning with the words known to so many Wilsonians: “Our Father, by whose servant / Our house was built of old.”

An extract from the Bible (Matthew 16:24-27) was read to us after the school hymn, containing the powerful sentiment: “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” The Reverend Mother Berni Excell addressed us with words of wisdom and inspiration and told us that anybody of any faith or none was welcome to come to the church to pray, to seek advice, or simply to have a look around.

The school’s Chamber Choir sang Ave Verum Corpus by W. A. Mozart before the CCF banner was presented to Lieutenant Colonel Burton, after which all students and staff present sang the hymn Jerusalem.

As a fitting ending to the service, the Rev. Mo. Berni Excell gave us the final blessing:

Almighty God, you have gathered us together as members of this School, founded by your servant Edward Wilson as a place of peace and understanding. Grant that those who teach herein may inspire their students, not dull their minds, and those who learn may be dedicated to their studies and considerate to all. Let truth, honour, and kindness guide our actions and may Your blessing rest upon us all. Amen.

Aarnay, 7C