On Friday 13 October, the PFA hosted their New Parents Party in the Harrison Centre. For the first time ever, the RGS Foundation supported this event to demonstrate a new era of collaboration and partnership across all segments of the Reigatian community. Having hosted two separate events in 2022, it was decided that, from this academic year, some events could be merged to still have the same impact, especially when new parents already have such a busy calendar in their first year. The decision was well received and over 140 attended the event.  

It was a rainy night and attendees welcomed the warmth and dryness of the Harrison Centre. Upon entering they were welcomed by members of the PFA, Anne-Luce, Shannon, Emma and PFA Chair Louise. Once registered, with a drink in hand and a selection of nibbles around the room, guests found themselves with new parents to chat to, sharing stories of timetables, sports fixtures, uniform and exchanging anecdotes of how their children are settling in. Conversation was well underway when Headmaster, Shaun Fenton, took to the mic and welcomed everyone to the event. Mr Fenton challenged attendees to speak to at least 3 new people this evening, emphasising the importance of making new friendships and having new people to reach out to. This reinforced the joint ownership of such events and Mr Fenton went on to say that both the PFA and the RGS Foundation play an important role in enhancing the students’ time at the school and beyond. Louise Nadal (RGS Parent), PFA chair, followed on from the Headmaster and seconded this sentiment. Louise then challenged everyone to meet at least 7 new people so that they had enough for a quiz team for the PFA quiz night in November! Louise was also keen to emphasise that the PFA are a group of volunteers, who aim to unite parents in their journey through the school and make their time here full of happy memories.  

Wrapping up the speeches, Jonny Hylton (RGS ’99), RGS Foundation Director, went on to say that we have streamlined our planning, with the PFA, RGS Foundation and Marketing, which had previously acted independently over the past few years. It was a time for change. In a new chapter for RGS Foundation, with the launch of the new Changing Lives, Building Futures campaign this week in London, the RGS Foundation have big plans to engage the community, widen our network and build long lasting relationships by encouraging people to ‘find their fit’. With this sentiment still in mind, everyone readily resumed their conversations, over a few more drinks, before it was time to bid farewell to these newfound friends and head off into the Autumnal night, a lovely start to the weekend ahead.  

Thank you to everyone involved in making this event a success. If you would like to speak to the PFA about volunteering please email pfa@www.rgs.foundation or, to contact the RGS Foundation about ‘finding your fit’, please email foundation@www.rgs.foundation.