On Sunday 22nd June 2025, we gathered to celebrate the 140 years in which Bow School has nurtured and inspired the lives of many young people. As our time on the Bow site draws to a close, we look ahead to a new era at the historic Chorister School site. This change fosters a sense of togetherness and community, with many exciting opportunities for new memories to be made.
We were delighted to be joined by guests of all ages, from nursery pupils to octogenarians, to celebrate all that Bow has given us. Afternoon tea, cricket on the lawn, tours of the building, and the unearthing of the 1986 time capsule all gave a chance to reflect on the many stories that the Bow site holds.
The time capsule was unearthed by OD John Dylan Walker. In 2013, when John attended Bow School as a Year 3 student, he brought in his own mini-digger to demonstrate his passion for the machinery and skill. Now an OD and the owner of plant and maintenance firm JD Agricultural Ltd, John returned to Bow School on Sunday to unearth the time capsule buried nearly 40 years ago.
The contents of the capsule were slightly water-damaged, but much survived – including a copy of the Northern Echo from 1985, a Bow School cap, rugby socks, and tie. Also remarkably intact were some Panini football stickers from the 1985–86 season and an Edwardian light switch from the site. Unfortunately, many of the photographs were beyond repair.
In her welcome speech, Headmistress Mrs Harrod reminded us: “Bow has never just been walls and classrooms – it has been people, purpose and promise – community and heart.”
Following the event, Mrs Harrod shared this reflection: “A truly bittersweet afternoon as we held our Farewell to Bow event – a celebration of all who have passed through the doors. Sad times as this story closes, but the foundations are there for what comes next at the Chorister School, Cathedral site. Forever the home of my first headship! Thank you, Bow.”
While we are preparing to give up the Bow site, we are retaining its traditions and values in a new era for the Foundation. The Bow motto, Be Valiant and Strong, continues to resonate, now firmly embedded in our Foundation’s guiding MARK values, and our new Foundation motto: Confidence for Life. Respect for All.
To everyone who’s been part of Bow’s incredible journey – thank you. Its spirit lives on, not just through our alumni (the proud Old Bowites), but in the energy and life of the Chorister School community, and in the future we’re continuing to shape together.