Founder's Day 2024

RMS Trustees and Members, along with Year 7 students and staff, were joined by students and staff from Mayhill to commemorate our Founder Robert May, whose act of generosity in 1694, paved the way for our school.  We came together to celebrate Robert May’s legacy and connect the past, present and future of Robert May’s School.

Wreaths were laid to commemorate the two French Prisoners of war, who lived in Odiham in cottages near the chalk pits during the Napoleonic Wars. Pierre Feron, Captain of the Sixty-Six Line Regiment, Knight of the French Empire, born in Rheims, died in Odiham, 8th May 1810. Piere Julien Junot, an officer in the administration of the French Navy, died 4th September 1809.

The men laid to rest at All Saints Church came as prisoners of war but thanks to the hospitality and generosity of the people of Odiham, were embraced by the community and, as a result, we ourselves came together and were reminded of the importance of our community.

As well as the laying of wreaths, students were also treated to a Church service led by Youth Pastor, Helen Chatfield. Music came from the RMS Singers and a number of solo musicians, in addition to speeches from Year 7 students who reflected on their journey since starting at RMS.

All in all, it was a wonderful day and one we hope to still be holding in the next 300 years.