Saturday 8th November saw 126 former students, current and former staff attend the 91st Commemoration and Reunion Dinner, which was held in the Main Hall at King Edward VI Aston School. The event commemorates those Old Boys of KE Aston who died in the two World Wars; 123 Old Boys in World War 1 and 71 Old Boys in World War 2.
Mrs Lally, Assistant Headteacher at King Edward VI Aston School reflects on the event:
The feedback from the event was that it was a most enjoyable and successful occasion. There was a stellar line up of speakers and guests that included alumni Derrick Anderson, who is the Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, propose the Loyal Toast and Mark Smith, who is High Sheriff of the West Midlands, saying Act of Remembrance.
This was followed by guest speaker Vincent Darby, former Deputy Head of the school, giving a well-received speech to “Toast to the School, the Foundation and the Association”. The response speech was given by KE Aston Headteacher Matt Brady.
Please find a couple of the comments about the event from both KE Aston Old Eds and staff:
"It’s been another relatively difficult year in the world of Recruitment, but I enter the final few months of the year with renewed vigour after spending another magical evening back home at the 91st Commemoration Dinner at King Edward VI Aston School, after my appearance as guest speaker in 2023. What an enjoyable address by Vincent Darby, the great man himself, who wrote a letter home to my parents expressing his disappointment that I had begun to shave my head (prematurely and unnecessarily) at the age of 15.
Honouring the 71 Aston Men who made the ultimate sacrifice fighting for their Country in World War 2 puts things into perspective, and as I get older I cherish the friendships that I made and the education and guidance of the teachers who sent us into the world with the combination of intelligence, Birmingham grit and a bit of a swagger in our stride.
Through the laughter, the years and the tears I’ll die an Aston Man, God Save the King and long live the Brave Old School."
- Robert Lycett (Alumni 1992 – 1999)
"It was an absolute joy to attend the 91st Commemoration Dinner at King Edward VI Aston yesterday evening: filled with warmth, laughter and wonderful memories. Seeing our ex-pupils doing so well and above all, happy, is always a proud moment. It was heartwarming to reconnect with our former pupils and colleagues and to fondly remember those who are no longer with us, but whose presence continues to be deeply felt.
A particular highlight of the evening was Mr Darby’s fantastic speech, which so vividly transported us back to Aston in 1978 - a true time capsule moment. Although it was many years before I joined Aston, I could still relate to so much of what Vincent shared, especially that enduring sense of friendship and community that continues to define the school today.
And of course, the House updates never fail to bring energy and excitement! As lovely (and rather touching) as it was to see the Houses cheering proudly for their achievements, Mr Smith (Head of Hawley) and I couldn’t help but notice the absence of the Hawley team. Hopefully next time we will have all five Houses joining in the cheering and yes, the glorious booing too!
A huge thank you and well done to the planning committee and everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this beautiful event happen. It was also a real treat to catch up with some lovely students from two former form groups too, what a special evening all round!"
- Mrs Lally (Assistant Headteacher)
