King Edward VI School, in Bury St Edmunds, marks 475th anniversary with day of celebrations

A secondary school in Bury St Edmunds has celebrated ‘the momentous’ occasion of its 475th anniversary.

King Edward VI School, in Grove Road, marked ‘this incredible milestone’ with a day of celebrations on Friday, June 27.

The day’s celebratory activities included a meal for stakeholders, a free barbecue for students and staff and ice cream vans and a special performance by the school orchestra before the unveiling of the plaque by the Deputy Mayor of Bury St Edmunds Diane Hind.

Visitors were able to step back in time with the school’s ‘stunning’ collection of historical books, including one that’s over 500 years old, and that evening author Dr Francis Young delivered an ‘inspirational’ lecture on ‘Schoolboy King: The Life and Legacy of King Edward VI’.

Headteacher Deri O'Regan said: “As headteacher, I am deeply proud to welcome you to the celebration of King Edward VI CEVC School's 475th anniversary.

“This is a truly momentous occasion, one that speaks to the rich history of our school and the remarkable journey we have taken together.”

Guests on the day included former students and members of staff, school governors, governors of the Foundation, headteachers from primary and secondary schools, guests from Eastern Education Group, parents and other members of the local community.

One of the Governors, Professor Ros King, said: “It was an immensely cheering event; a genuinely ‘perfect day’.”

The school thanked the ‘exceptional’ 475 Team, who organised the event, and every member of staff, students – current and former - and visitors who contributed to the celebrations.

“Today we celebrated this incredible milestone and it was good that we came together as one school community to honour our proud heritage while looking forward to a bright and exciting future,” the school said.

“Here’s to 475 years of excellence, pride, and unwavering community spirit at King Edward VI CEVC School!”