King Edward's Witley welcomes 151 new pupils 

Fur-trimmed robes and feathered hats, a beadle, gold mace and huge silver ceremonial sword are all part of the Admissions Day ceremony

Posted by Julian Owen | November 19, 2017 | Events

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Admissions Day at King Edward’s Witley is an annual ceremony where pupils joining the Surrey school are formally admitted to the 464-year-old foundation,in the presence of the Lord Mayor of the City of London, amidst much pomp and pageantry. 

“It was great, but a bit nerve-wracking”, said one new pupil, Alex. “We are all in the Chapel, which is completely full with our families, friends and guests.  During the service we have to stand to take a promise to be good students, and then are sworn-in to become members of the school.  When your name is called by the Headmaster, you come forward individually, stand on a mat with the School’s shield and shake hands with the Treasurer over the school’s ceremonial Mace.  It does make you feel proud to be joining a school with such a great history and important people, and it’s a day I’ll never forget.” 

Admissions Day provides new pupils to King Edward’s with a first taste of the historical links the School enjoys with the City of London dating back to 1553. The tradition of each pupil placing their foot on the mat showing the School’s shield symbolises the first step on their journey at King Edward’s Witley, and their promise to strive for excellence and uphold the traditions of the School. Shaking hands over the Mace, which is blessed at an annual service at St Bride’s Church, represents the support and strength that will accompany the pupil as they progress through the School.