To mark Remembrance Day, we are reflecting on a recent project to honour those Old Blues who have served their country. Reading Blue Coat recently welcomed members of our community to a special rededication of the School’s War Memorial, followed by Afternoon Tea in the Buttery.

The rededication marked the completion of a meaningful project to restore and update the Memorial, preserving its role as a place of remembrance for generations to come. Positioned beside the Memorial Garden at the School’s entrance, it has long been central to our annual Remembrance Service and stands as a lasting tribute to those from our community who gave their lives in conflict. First dedicated in 1921 at our former site on Bath Road, the Memorial was moved to Holme Park in 1947 and reconsecrated in 1950 to include those who died in the Second World War. Since 2001, it has stood proudly at the heart of our Sonning campus, continuing to bring our community together in reflection and respect.

This important restoration was made possible thanks to the generosity of our community. We are especially grateful to The Aldworth Lodge of Freemasons for their significant contribution, and to all those who gave their time, expertise or financial support. Together, we raised over £7,000, which fully covered the cost of the works.

The rededication ceremony, led by Headmaster, Mr Pete Thomas, was a moving tribute to the former students (Old Blues) and staff of Reading Blue Coat who lost their lives in conflict. Guests gathered in front of the Memorial for a short service, during which the newly restored marble panels, now featuring corrected and additional names, were unveiled.

Following the service, guests were invited to afternoon tea in the Buttery, the Headmaster personally thanked supporters and shared reflections on the importance of remembrance in the life of the School. The History Department and Foundation Office, including Rhian Thomas and School Archivist (and former Head of History), Mr Peter van Went, played a key role in the event by conducting detailed research into the individuals named on the Memorial. Their findings were displayed in Stone Hall, offering guests the opportunity to engage with the stories behind the names.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to honouring the legacy of our founder, Richard Aldworth, whose vision of service and education continues to shape our values today. The rededication of the War Memorial was a moment for our community to come together, honour the past, and ensure that the stories of those who came before us are never forgotten.