1646 – Issue 3

A MESSAGE FROM THE READING OLD BLUES A SSOCIATION PRESIDENT “It was in a recent Old Blues meeting that I was reminded of the spirit of the ReadingOld Blues Association (ROBA) and Reading Blue Coat School itself – and the prevailing nature of this spirit in the face of the many challenges the world has faced these past two years. We were sat in the Cricket Pavilion, a building supported in its development by the ROBA, surrounded on all sides by the buzz and energy of students, parents and staff engaging in the outstanding extra-curricular opportunities that are available at Blue Coat. There was this amazing feeling of unity and progression, a feeling that had been dampened somewhat over the previous two years – for obvious reasons. And progress is the word. I was thrilled to hear the news of the School welcoming girls in Year 7 from 2023, a positive decision that will only add further to the school’s reputation of inclusivity, community and opportunity. We too are making progress in the ROBA, with new members joining the committee, new contributions to the school community and a return to exciting events such as the Old Blues Annual Dinner and Daniel’s Cup Festival. Also in the Association’s future is a new leadership as I step down after three years. It has been my absolute honour to serve as President – to be able to contribute to a school and community that helped shape me into who I am today. Here’s to our next steps. James Boyce (2009) ROBA President I am delighted to be writing to you as the new editor of 1646. Having joined the Foundation Office at Reading Blue Coat at the start of this year I am very excited to be involved with the Old Blue Community and to be engaging with and getting to know many of you in the year ahead. This issue comes at a particularly pertinent time for the Foundation Office, having recently launched our very first Fundraising Campaign, Defined by Vision, United by Ambition . Inside you will find a write up of the Campaign Launch which marked a monumental moment in the School’s history. We are excited to share with you the mission of the Campaign, to increase the bursary provision in the School and keep Aldworth’s vision alive; by making a Blue Coat education accessible for deserving young people. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this issue. I hope you enjoy reading the many articles which are truly reflective of the diversity of the Old Blue Community and the many different pathways, taken by Old Blues, both professionally and personally. As ever, if you would like to contribute to the magazine next year or include an achievement you are proud of; please do not hesitate to get in touch at lms@rbcs.org.uk I would love to hear from you. In the meantime, I very much hope you enjoy reading this edition of 1646! Louise Smith Foundation Manager Welcome to the third edition of 1646 . A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR