Wellington is one of the most dynamic institutions you’re ever likely to be part of, and parents are very much a part of it. The WCA is where parents (often accompanied by grandparents, godparents, aunts and uncles) come together with staff, OWs and other friends of the College, to take advantage of the magnificent school facilities – the Wellington experience isn’t just for the pupils!
Our first aim is to make full use of the College’s educational and cultural facilities through a programme of lectures and courses involving outstanding individuals from a range of fields, as well as our own in-house experts. Top guest speakers last year included renowned wildlife artist David Shepherd and Former Assistant Commandant of Joint Services Command General Sir Graeme Lamb, KBE, CMG, DSO.
We also want to help parents meet each other at a number of formal and informal social occasions ranging from reading groups to garden parties, as well as local and overseas trips. Last year we visited St Petersburg, Arnhem and the First World War Battlefields, while at home the highlight of the Michaelmas Term was the spectacular Great Gatsby Ball. As well as these ‘headline’ events we run a number of smaller events including regular golf days, walks and lunches.
Advance notice and details of how to sign up for events and trips can be found in The List, which is distributed by post to parents twice a year. In the meantime and you can always find out what’s going on in ‘The Week Ahead’.
The WCA Committee consists of parents from different year groups and houses, as well as representatives from the College and OWs; they are supported by a larger network of House and year group representatives who new parents meet at the New Parents’ Reception which takes place early in the Michaelmas term and gives everyone a chance to put names to faces and find out more details about the term’s programme of events and activities.
We look forward to seeing you soon at a WCA event. Whatever you decide to get involved in, you can be sure of friendly faces and a very warm welcome.
If you would like to find out more, please contact us on wca@wellingtoncollege.org.uk.
Denise Cook
Head of WCA