Class of 1976 Reunion

On Sunday October 4 2026, 26 OEs assembled at noon for a Champagne Reception at The College to begin their Reunion, some having travelled from exotic locations : South Africa, U.S.A. and Hull!

Our thanks go to Ingrid Carling (née Roberts, Nugent 1974-76) for instigating the venture and I put it to her that she trusted the A B C of her contemporaries: Affection, Bonding, Community. These were virtues I felt strongly myself way back then - between students and staff, within and outside the classroom, and amongst staff themselves at a time of change under SJBL.

Over an excellent curry lunch (the grace courtesy of Philip (Jock) Le Brocq my Head of Department back in the day: ‘ For good food, good friends and a good future, thank God!’), wine, conversation and reminiscences flowed, stimulated by a archive slide-show, magazines, old photos and memorabilia.

The subsequent tour of the site staggered us, such was the remarkable array of modern building and state-of-the-art facilities: Science block, pool, fitness centre, dance studio, recording studio, drama studio. What a contrast to our 70’s experience, though we enjoyed, too, the old favourites of Chapel, Library (now the Learning Resource Centre) where James Ballingall (Craig 1971-76 was delighted to find his book 'A Taste of China' on the shelves), the Dell and Big School.

We were led on the day by Emma Garrett (née Le Brocq, Nugent 1984-86) a doyenne of Development Directors, whose care, commitment and charm made for special moments. Thanks, Emma; you embodied our feelings of gratitude for,  and devotion to, our alma mater .

John Hargreaves

(Staff 1973-80)