GWC remembers Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
It is with regret and fondness that we reflect on the sad passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at her beloved Balmoral yesterday afternoon.
Her Majesty visited Watson’s in June 1982 to mark the 50th anniversary of the school's move to Colinton Road. Former Principal, Sir Roger Young escorted The Queen around campus while pupils lined the footpaths, waving flags. Many presented Her Majesty with flowers and other gifts, curtseying and bowing whilst engaging in jovial conversation. Former pupils and staff will remember the day well as it remains an iconic moment in Watson’s history.
The Queen’s late husband, Prince Philip also paid a visit to our school 16 years earlier on 6 May 1966, when he was a Master of the Merchant Company and patron of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. Other Royal Visits followed in 2020 by HRH the Princess Royal, who officially opened the John Martin Building, marking 88 years to the day that her Great Uncle, Prince George, opened buildings at Colinton Road.
As a mark of respect, and in recognition of our relationship with The Queen, the flags of our Senior School will fly at half-mast for the ten days of official mourning.
Our heartfelt condolences are with the Royal Family at this sad time and we thank Her Majesty for her unwavering service to the Commonwealth over the past 70 years as Sovereign of our Nation.
“I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service.”