As we enter 2025, I want to acknowledge the momentum we’ve built together and share our vision for the year ahead. Our focus remains on community building, with alumni playing a key role in fostering stronger connections and opportunities.
We have introduced a Calendar of Events to help everyone plan ahead and engage in shaping a more connected alumni network. Your involvement is crucial, and these initiatives will support mentorship, career development, and social impact.
There are multiple exciting prospects in sports, including Cricket Week later this year. The upcoming Careers Fair also presents a unique opportunity for alumni involvement.
Our Leaders Forum Dinner is scheduled for Q2 2025, bringing together alumni leaders to exchange ideas that will benefit both the school and our community. Additionally, we aim to strengthen collaboration with Parents and Carers to enhance the alumni experience for current and future generations.
With a renewed commitment to collaboration and growth, 2025 promises to be a transformative year. I encourage you to participate, share ideas, and contribute to strengthening our alumni legacy.
Warm regards,
Raphael de Souza
President, St Lawrence College Alumni
Dear Old Lawrentians,
As we have welcomed 2025, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible support and enthusiasm of our OL community. Our Christmas event was a huge success, bringing together alumni to celebrate, reminisce, and create new memories. It was truly heartwarming to see so many familiar faces, and we can’t wait to do it all again.
Looking ahead, our next event is on 21st March, where OLs will take on current students in Hockey, Netball, and Rifle Shooting. Even though the Hot Match Tea is fully booked, OLs are very welcome to join us on Newlands from 6 pm to cheer on the teams and show their support. It promises to be an exciting evening of sport and school spirit.
We are also excited to be moving forward with a Leaders Forum, a space to explore new ideas and strengthen the Old Lawrentian Society. Our goal is to build a consistent calendar of events throughout the year, creating more opportunities to stay connected and engaged.
It is with a heavy heart that I have decided to leave St Lawrence College. I have loved my time corresponding with so many of you and hearing all of your wonderful memories. St Lawrence College will always hold a special place in my heart, and I know that moving forward, Jo and her team will continue to look after each and every one of you with great dedication and care.
I also want to take this opportunity to highlight our regular giving campaign, which will be launched at our OL Sports Evening. Just as little as £5.00 a month will make a huge difference to the College, ensuring future generations of Lawrentians continue to thrive. Your support, no matter the size, will help shape the future of the school and its students.
If you’re planning your own gathering, we’d love to see your pictures – please share them with us! And if you have any news or updates, we’d be delighted to feature them in the next edition of the Old Lawrentian, which will be published later this year.
Thank you all for your kindness, support, and the many cherished memories from Golf days to Rifle shooting. Though I may be moving on, St Lawrence College and the OL community will always remain close to my heart.
Warm regards,
Claire Tyler
External Relations Officer
Events
Matthew Brown Appointed as New Head of College
The Governors of St Lawrence College, Ramsgate, are thrilled to announce the appointment of Matthew Brown as the new Head of College, succeeding Mr. Barney Durrant, who will take up the Headship of Brighton College, Abu Dhabi, at the end of the Lent term. Matthew will officially join the College on 1 April 2025, bringing with him a wealth of experience, a proven track record in education, and an inspiring vision for the future of the school.
Matthew is currently the Head of Epsom College in Malaysia, where he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in fostering academic excellence and a holistic approach to education. Prior to this, he enjoyed a successful career in state secondary education, culminating in his role as Headteacher of Penglais School, Ceredigion, in West Wales.
Reflecting on his appointment, “I am inspired by the values of St Lawrence College – academic excellence combined with co-curricular success, rooted in a strong Christian foundation and a commitment to inclusion. The close-knit, diverse community, where the welfare and individuality of every student come first, aligns perfectly with my philosophy of education. I am eager to enhance the College’s strengths and provide an inspirational experience for all students.”
Matthew will be accompanied in his new role by his wife, Kate, a French teacher and formerly the Director of Admissions at Epsom College in Malaysia. Together, they are looking forward to joining the St Lawrence College family and contributing to its vibrant community.
Chair of Governors, Graham Carter, commented:
“We are delighted to welcome Matthew and Kate to St Lawrence College. Matthew’s expertise, dedication, and alignment with the College’s ethos make him the ideal person to lead our school into its next chapter. His emphasis on academic rigor, character development, and inclusion will undoubtedly strengthen our community and inspire students to reach their full potential.”
A keen advocate for global-mindedness and intercultural education, Matthew is dedicated to preparing students for life in a rapidly changing world. His leadership approach includes fostering innovation in teaching, cultivating professional development for staff, and prioritising the holistic growth of every student. He is also passionate about co-curricular activities, believing they play a vital role in shaping character and ensuring a well-rounded education.
In his spare time, Matthew enjoys road cycling and is looking forward to exploring the scenic routes Kent has to offer.
The entire St Lawrence College community – Governors, staff, students, and parents – look forward to welcoming Matthew and Kate in the Summer 2025 term. We wish him every success as he begins this exciting new chapter in the school’s history.
Regular Giving
The generous donations from Old Lawrentians play a crucial role in enhancing the educational experience for current students at St Lawrence College. These contributions help fund scholarships, improve/build facilities, and support a wide range of extracurricular activities, ensuring students have access to the resources they need to thrive both academically and personally. From sports pavilions to outstanding classrooms, every donation directly enriches the school environment and provides opportunities that shape the future of each student.
By committing to regular giving, Old Lawrentians ensure the long-term sustainability of these initiatives, creating a lasting legacy that continues to benefit generations of Lawrentians to come.
We encourage you to consider making a regular contribution to support the next wave of St Lawrence College students. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.
St Lawrence College is thrilled to announce its double victory at the prestigious Private Education Awards 2024. This esteemed awards programme honours...
