Welcome Back Class of 2022!

German Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche once stated that "Invisible threads are the strongest ties."

One of the strongest bonds is built on the foundations we share — where we grew up, the schools we attended, our families and the experiences that shaped us.

For generations, RGS has provided those foundations, welcoming students since 1675. It is a place where friendships are formed, values are shaped and connections can last a lifetime.

Our first event of the academic year reinforced these ideas beautifully. The Class of 2022 returned to RGS after four years away from its corridors, reigniting friendships and reconnecting with the place that had played such an important part in their formative years.

Since leaving RGS, their journeys have taken them in many different directions. Some have continued or furthered their studies and remain immersed in academia, while others have embarked on their professional careers. For some, the time since leaving has been spent travelling the world — experiencing new cultures, discovering new places and taking in new sights and sounds.

Despite these different paths, there was a shared sense of connection as they came back together. 

We watched as old friends greeted one another with warm hugs and big smiles, listened to the chatter and storytelling filling the room, and enjoyed the wonderful atmosphere created by more than 70 returning classmates.

Headmaster Shaun Fenton welcomed the Class of 2022 back to RGS, adding some gentle banter and reminding them that they will always have a place here. They are, and always will be, Reigatians for life.

Anne-Luce Guedj, RGS Foundation Officer, spoke to our former students about the importance of staying connected and the role the Reigatian Hub will play in supporting them as they navigate their careers, travels and whatever adventures life may bring.

After raising a toast to old friendships and new adventures, the Class of 2022 headed outside for the famous ‘survivors photo’.

A much-loved tradition, the photograph has formed part of our events for many years. Each returning group gathers together in front of the Harrison Centre, capturing a moment in time and marking their return to the place where their journey began.

For the Class of 2022, this was their final gathering as a year group until their 10-year reunion in 2032. By then, life will undoubtedly have taken them in many different directions, with careers established, new places called home and new chapters written. Perhaps there will be fewer faces in the photograph, but the bond that brings them back to RGS will remain.

After all, the years may pass, but the foundations built at RGS — and the friendships formed along the way — endure.