Westminster Begins 125thYear

Westminster School opened its 125th school year Sept. 7 with a number of school traditions.  In an assembly in the Armour Academic Center Headmaster Bill Philip described the traditions of the Lawn Ceremony, the Pin Ceremony and the Signing-In Ceremony.  “Traditions are a part of the fabric of our school,” he explained.  He then introduced Head Prefect Gage Kennie ’13, who welcomed everyone to the new school year and offered some advice to new and returning students. 

 

“I remember these first few days so well,” he said.  “I was in the same school since kindergarten, so going to a new school was a big deal for me.  I felt lost in the sea of new faces like many of you probably feel now.  But I promise you: do not worry. You are about to go to school with some of the best people I know and some who I will soon meet.  I encourage everyone to go out of their way to meet new people so that the transition from ‘the new kid’ to a Martlet is as smooth as possible.” 

 

He then offered special advice for each form and a concluding suggestion for all students.  “Community is key, and in the small school setting that we are part of, it is vital that everyone participates.” He then talked more about the morning’s ceremonies and their longtime significance at Westminster.  Before closing, he said, “I now speak for the entire Sixth Form when I say that we are all very excited to make the 2012-2013 school year a great one.”

 

Following assembly, Sixth Formers gathered on the Sixth Form Lawn where they were presented with their Sixth Form pins as a symbol of their leadership roles at school in the coming year. New students then entered the chapel and wrote their names in a book signifying their formal entrance into the Westminster community. At the conclusion of these ceremonies, the Sixth Form flag that signals Hill Holidays throughout the year was lowered from the flagpole.