Ipswich High School proudly launched its first-ever Founders Day, marking the beginning of the school's journey towards its 150th anniversary In 2028. The whole school community came together for a special morning of music, reflection and celebration, honouring the school's past while looking ahead to its future.

A key moment in the celebration was the debut performance of "Ipswich High: Past, Present, Forever" - a new school anthem specially commissioned for this milestone. The lyrics were drawn from words and reflections submitted by pupils across all year groups. capturing what Ipswich High School means to them. These contributions were woven into the final piece by internationally renowned composer Ben Parry.

Special guest Amy Svendsen, Chair of the Ipswich High School Old Girls' Association, attended the event and delivered a reflective speech about her time at the school. Amy was a pupil from 1983 to 1990, when Ipswich High School was based at Westerfield Road, and her words provided a meaningful connection between former and current pupils.

The event concluded with the whole school singing "Happy Birthday" followed by a ceremonial cake cutting. Founders Day offered a moment for the school community to come together in celebration and gratitude for all that Ipswich High School has achieved — and to look ahead to its next chapter.

As Mr Dan Browning, Head, commented: "As a school community. we are very excited about our 150th birthday which is fast approaching in 2028. Pupils from across the school rose to the challenge to write words for our new school song to celebrate this milestone, which has been composed by internationally renowned composer Ben Parry. The whole school sang with pride on Founders Day. The title of the song reminds us of our legacy: 'Ipswich High: Past, Present, Forever'."

About Ben Parry

Ben Parry is one of the UK's most accomplished choral musicians, with a distinguished career as a conductor, composer, arranger and producer. A former Assistant Director of Music at King's College, Cambridge, and former Artistic Director of the National Youth Choir, he is currently Director of the professional vocal ensemble London Voices. His music has been performed by renowned groups such as the BBC Singers and King's College Choir, and features in major productions including "Harry Potter", "The Hobbit", "Glee" and "The Avengers". With over 300 recordings to his name and works published by Oxford University Press and Faber, Parry brings a wealth of musical expertise. Ipswich High School was honoured to collaborate with him to create its new anthem, "Ipswich High: Post, Present, Forever". specially composed for the launch of the school's 150th anniversary celebrations.