Half Century Club Lunch welcomes Class of 1976 back to The Perse

Old Perseans who left The Perse 50 or more years ago returned to the School for the annual Half Century Club Lunch. This year, members of the Class of 1976 were officially welcomed into the Half Century Club.

The Half Century Club provides an opportunity for former students to return to The Perse each year to reconnect with old friends, revisit memories and maintain connections with the School community. This year’s lunch took place in the Main Hall, where alumni were welcomed with drinks on arrival and had the opportunity to explore a memorial display prepared for the occasion.

Featuring photographs and school magazines from their years at The Perse, the display gave guests the chance to reflect on their time at school and revisit memories from decades ago. One of our students also performed piano music during the reception, helping to create a warm atmosphere as former classmates caught up and shared stories from their school days.

A special moment this year was welcoming the Class of 1976 into the Half Century Club, marking 50 years since they left The Perse and recognising their place within the long-standing community of Old Perseans. Alumni also enjoyed a three-course lunch together, with Head of The Perse, Ed Elliott, welcoming attendees and Melissa Whelan, Head of Development, speaking about the Half Century Club Pledge and the importance of maintaining connections between alumni and the School.

Dessert for the afternoon was “The Perse Mess”, The Perse’s own take on an Eton Mess, providing a memorable and uniquely Perse addition to the event.

The annual Half Century Club Lunch continues to be an important opportunity to celebrate friendships, memories and the lasting connection Old Perseans have with the School. It was wonderful to welcome so many alumni back to The Perse and see different generations come together to reflect on their time here and reconnect with one another.