St. Vincent Grammar School steps up celebrations

by J. Soso-Vincent 19.SEPT.08

The St. Vincent Grammar School (SVGS) is set to host a weekend of celebratory events, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the existence of the school.{{more}}

Speaking to SEARCHLIGHT, Lennox John, member of the 100th anniversary organizing committee and former Headmaster, relayed the events taking place and appealed to all past students, as well as those who have connections with the school, to patronize the activities.

Today, September 19th, is Grammar School Day. Past students and those with ties to the institution will be sporting memorabilia from the SVGS; whether it is school ties, blazers or commemorative pins. There will also be an Open Day at the school where members of the public can view the works of students and see what the school has to offer. Additionally, the anniversary magazine is officially being launched, with copies presented to Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves and Minister of Education Girlyn Miguel.

Past students Sean Sutherland and Addison Stoddard will be hosting a musical concert, “The Hopeless Romantic”, at the Kingstown Methodist Church beginning at

8 p.m. Sutherland will entertain the audience on the piano, with tenor Stoddard giving sung performances. Tickets cost $30 for adults and $20 for children.

Sunday, September 21st, is Centenary Day – the exact day in 1908 when the SVGS opened its doors. Celebrations will begin at 4 p.m. with a Grand Assembly at the school, when the Governor General will unveil a plaque donated by the SVGS Parent Teacher Association. This will be followed by a tree-planting ceremony on the school lawn, which has palm trees that date back to the opening of the school. Government and School officials will do the honour of planting the trees.

At 5 p.m. there will be a March of Solidarity from the school to the Victoria Park, accompanied by the Cadet Band. Past and present students will assemble in their respective houses. That is, Crick House (formerly School House), Lopey House (Orange), Millar House (Green) and Reeves House.

Upon arrival at the Victoria Park, there will be a Thanksgiving Service led by Pastor Wade Carter and Bishop Leopold Friday – both past students of the SVGS. A choir of 100 students will perform, and there will be reminiscences by past students and cultural performances; including a return of the school boy band ‘Suede’.