Former students from around the world returned to King William’s College for celebrations to mark the 15th anniversary of it adopting the International Baccalaureate.

More than 180 alumni, teaching staff and former staff attended a dinner at the College on Saturday evening, 8th September, with former students travelling from as far afield as Germany, Estonia, Czech Republic, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain.

Since first adopting the IB to replace A-levels in 2002, 735 students have taken the course at King William’s College, drawn from 35 different countries, including China, Vietnam, Russia, Italy and Hong Kong.

Prior to the dinner, a chapel service was held on Saturday morning before guests gathered in a marquee on the playing fields for the anniversary dinner.

King William’s College Principal Joss Buchanan said: ‘It was a wonderful occasion, and we were thrilled to see so many former students and their families, many of whom had travelled from afar to celebrate the landmark with us. Our thanks go to everyone who made the effort, and to our superb team within College for organising what was a fantastic day.’

Guest of honour for the day was Anton Maree, a former teacher, housemaster and Head of Boarding at King William’s College, and now Head of Ackworth School in West Yorkshire.

Mr Maree said: ‘During my time at King William’s College I saw how much the adoption of the International Baccalaureate benefitted the College itself and its students, overseas and locals alike. You only have to look at the list of countries from which students have attended College during the last 15 years to understand the reputation the IB has within academic circles. It was an honour to be invited back to the Island to mark this occasion and I wish the students and teaching staff all the very best for the future.’

One former student said: ‘King William’s College is an amazing community, where those within its midst and those who have been a part of it, give so generously of themselves. The School gave me the opportunity and education that was instrumental in my other achievements, along with friendships that will last a lifetime.

‘The boarding house welcomed me like family and, despite only living here for two years and leaving five years ago, it still feels like my home. It is the only school I have gone to that I am proud to be called alumni of!”

Photo - Alumni and teachers (past and present) gathered at King William’s College to mark the 15th anniversary of it adopting the International Baccalaureate.