Although nearly 30 years ago it is clear that even then the Christian brothers has grasped the mettle of modern education theory in a pragmatic sort of way.

Kieran recalled this discussion and other stories and anecdotes during a speech at a Dinner held in the school last September and attended by 250 Old Boys and members of staff. Supported by professionals: MC Alan Platt, Comedian Dusty Young and BBC scriptwriter and raconteur Peter Voyle Morgan, it was Kieran who topped the night. True, it was a home crowd., And why not? The simple fact was that the stories hit home and generic in nature they raised sentiment and humour from a common shared experience in men whose schooling was up to 40 years apart. What better than have one of your own make you laugh, smile and reflect; delivered in great style and received with an ovation.

At the close of the evening groups stayed on to talk. Forty or so continued on to Vince Scappaticci's house till the early hours and another group onto the nightclub Kells. Testimony to the fact that you're having a good time when you don't know when to go home!

The success of this event defined the validity of the Old Boys as an Association, allowing it to grow and progress. Thanks to all who attended and enjoyed the evening for your support on the night and feedback since. This year will be just as good.

Kieran Charleson

I consider it a great honour and privilege to have been elected Chairman of St. Ambrose Old Boys' Association. With the support of the present Headmaster, Mr. G. E. Hester, out talented and hard-working committee, and the assistance and encouragement of so many Old Boys, I believe that we have made tremendous progress in reviving the Old Boys' Association in the Golden Jubilee year. Our membership has already passed the 300 mark, and with your help and contacts we should be able to expand this considerably in the coming year.

The college continues to prosper academically as well as in sport, music and drama. Although none of the Christian Brothers actually teaches in the College now, every effort is made to maintain the ethos of the Christian Brothers' school and to have the utmost regard for the students' spiritual needs. In 1988 the College was accepted for membership of the prestigious Headmaster's' Conference (H.M.C.). Now, along with most other Brothers' schools and the Loreto Convent, St. Ambrose has applied for Grant-Maintained status.

We were overwhelmed by your enthusiasm and support for the Old Boys' dinner in the College hall last September, when so many old acquaintances were renewed. The Old Boys' Mass in the Holy Angels Church was well attended, and the subsequent buffet and rugby match against the College First XV provided further opportunities for reunion and reminiscence.

Not only has the College been celebrating 50 years in Hale Barns, but it was also able to witness and rejoice in the Beatification of Founder of the Christian Brothers, Edmund Ignatius Rice, by Pope John Paul II in St. Peter's Square, Rome on 6th October 1996.

For those who would like more detailed information of their old school, why not try to obtain a copy of the College's "Jubilee Brochure", a 32 page illustrated history of the College, written by Mr Sean Fleming. There are now only 40 copies available at the College, price £3.

I hope you find our first Newsletter interesting and informative. We are now trying to organise a programme of events at appropriate intervals during the year. We would, of course, be delighted to receive your ideas and suggestions for future events.

May I thank you most sincerely for your generous support.

John Kennedy ( Hon Chairman)