Old Arnoldian Reunion Dinner 2025 at AKS Lytham

The OAKS Hall at AKS Lytham was transformed on Saturday 20th September for the annual Old Arnoldian Reunion Dinner, bringing together 100 alumni, former staff and friends of the school for an unforgettable evening of history, connection and celebration.

With a heritage spanning nearly 300 years across Arnold School, King Edward VII School, Queen Mary School and KEQMS, the event was a vibrant reminder of the enduring bonds that unite our alumni community. Among the distinguished guests was Suzanne Mayer Pennington, accompanied by her husband Jonathan Sawyer. Suzanne is the great niece of Arnold School’s founder, Frank Truswell Pennington, and it was an honour to welcome her back to AKS.

The evening also marked the appointment of Dr Steven Mannion (Arnold School 1968–82) as President of the Old Arnoldian Association. Dr Mannion, recognised earlier this year with the Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St.George (CMG), shared inspiring reflections on his time at Arnold and how a direct grant place transformed the trajectory of his life. His extraordinary career has combined NHS consultancy with decades of humanitarian surgical missions worldwide.

We were also delighted to welcome Sandro Monetti (Arnold School 1979–84) as the new Vice President of the Association. An acclaimed journalist, broadcaster and Royal commentator for CNN, Sandro has interviewed some of the world’s most recognisable figures while dedicating much of his career to mentoring and inspiring young talent. He reflected on his fond memories of Arnold School and noted that his recent visits to AKS, where he shared insights into the entertainment industry with current students, showed that the spirit of Arnold School continues to shine brightly at AKS today.

Guests also enjoyed an exclusive preview of the AKS Lytham Foundation’s GameChanger Campaign, the Foundation’s first regular giving programme. This initiative will fund fully supported, means-tested sports scholarships for exceptional young athletes facing financial barriers. On the night, alumni and friends generously contributed £2,000 towards the campaign’s launch.

Reflecting on the evening, David Harrow, Headmaster, said:
“It was extraordinary to spend an evening with so many Arnoldians from across the generations. As always with such events, there was an intangible magic in the room, as the history of the school was made real in the OAKS Hall once again.”

The Development Office at AKS Lytham works closely with the Old Arnoldian Committee and is always seeking new members to join and support. To find out more, please contact alumni@akslytham.com