On Friday 10th July, we held our annual Founder's Day Assembly, celebrating the everlasting legacy and stamp left by Edward Latymer on our school to this day. This year were present the whole Years 7 to 10 students and their form tutors, the school's Senior Leadership Team, as well as some governors, trustees, alumni, representatives of the Edmonton Rotary Club and the All Saints Church's verger. 

This year, the assembly focused on the theme of 'belonging' and the unique characteristic Latymer has of creating a place that lives eternally in the minds of those who step through its gates. 

The assembly started off with a stirring speech from headteacher Mr Gilford on this theme, with the fundamental message that everyone should feel pride to be part of the Latymer community. There was also a potent message about how the eight poor boys who were recipients of the will of Edward Latymer to start this school have helped shaped generations of Latymerians to this day.

'Technically, these eight boys are the founders of our alumni; students who have studied under the Latymer umbrella. Last weekend, we had our alumni day, with Latymerians of all ages, including Doreen who is 96 years old – or in some ways 96 years young. She was a student at Latymer during World War Two and the pride and fondness she speaks with when talking about our wonderful school derives from the fact that during one of the most turbulent times in British history, Latymer provided her with a place of stability and belonging. Many other former students echo this sentiment sharing how the opportunities, the care and kindness, the sense of feeling rooted somewhere has enabled them to thrive and be successful in their own lives. To me, this is truly something to celebrate and I encourage you to think about how Latymer has shaped, and will continue to shape you, both now and like Doreen in your future lives'.

This year, the assembly was centered around a play performed by Year 9 students and staff and written by Dr Bermudez, Biology teacher. 

The play was a multi-act performance, with the idea being the all the background and build up to performing the Founder's Day assembly. The play was brilliantly acted out by the students, who after initially wanting to all do an individual act as part of a talent show for the assembly, realised that they were all better off performing as one together, showcasing the special togetherness and community spirit that is so pertinent within the school.

Midway through the play, we took a break to hear from Jamie Bolden, class of 1999 and Chairman of the Latymer Foundation. Jamie's speech explained the role of the Foundation in supporting the school over the last 400 years, as well as powerfully explaining the 'springboard' for opportunity in life which Latymer offers each student and how each and every person can remain part of Latymer's story during their times at school but also for the rest of their lives. 'That is the opportunity this school gave me. That opportunity is here for you too, and I hope you take it…You are now the ones who carry that story on'.

Throughout the play there was both comedic and poignant moments, but there was still plenty of history littered in, with the performance featuring all six house founders, who explained their life and contribution made to the school. 

The performance fittingly ended with a rendition of 'We're All In This Together', demonstrating the distinct rapport which exists between both students, staff and all members of the Latymer community.

Following the play, we were honoured to hear from former student Major Arun Nunkoosing PARA, Class of 2006. In a powerful and poignant speech, Arun talked us through his career in the army and some of the critical moments in his career, all whilst highlighting that the values instilled at Latymer have remained with him forever. Lessons of perseverance, courage and resilience that are taught at Latymer have stuck with Arun and served him in great stead throughout his storied career. Arun vividly described a traumatic evacuation mission he was part of in Afghanistan, and how the motto of Latymer helped him through. 

'I genuinely thought back to this place. Qui Patitur Vincit. He or she who endures wins. Despite the heat, despite the terror, despite the human suffering around me, the values and things I learned in this place saw me through those tough times'. And after this truly inspirational tale of strength and determination, the words to which Arun ended his speech ran true out to all: 'Once a Latymerian, Always a Latymerian'.

Arun Nunkoosing, Class of 2006, with his former form teacher Mr Phillips

This led us perfectly into what is so often the critical part of Latymer events – the school song. With everyone on their feet, the song was belted out passionately in unison, everyone expressing their love and affection for Latymer, a truly lovely way to conclude a day of celebration. 

Following the assembly, students were allowed to enjoy one of the highlights of the day, the traditional Founder's Day early finish, whilst staff headed onto the field for a barbeque and always enjoyable game of rounders. 

A huge thank you to all students, staff and members of the Latymer community who contributed to making Founder's Day yet again another day to remember, all of whom perfectly captured the essence of 'belonging' at Latymer in such an engaging manner, whilst also touching on the history of Edward Latymer and all those who made the school what it is today.

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