Over the weekend, Rygaards School was buzzing with life and joyful reunions as we celebrated our traditional School Reunion. The atmosphere was warm and festive, with both the school buildings and park decorated with flags and the school’s iconic purple and white colours.
The day began in the school’s Annex, where jubilarians and former staff were welcomed to a cosy dinner. Laughter filled the room as stories were shared and fond memories of ‘the good old days’ were brought back to life. Later, the group made their way together through the school’s green park to the old gym hall, where the air was filled with happy reunions and lively conversations.
A Time Capsule from the Past
In the Old Gym, the school’s principal, Elsebeth Trap, welcomed between 150 and 200 former students as well as current and former staff. The atmosphere was immediately filled with laughter and smiles as one of the day’s highlights was presented: 25 years ago, a time capsule was buried in the school’s park. In the centre of the hall — during the school reunion — its contents were opened and displayed on a big screen. This caused great excitement among everyone present, especially the former students and teachers who had been there when the capsule was originally buried.
The contents of the time capsule were like a little treasure chest from the early 2000s. Among other things, there was a Spice Girls poster, a Harry Potter book, CDs with photos from a ski trip, toys, colourful drawings, pictures of students, and amusing letters.
A Very Special Jubilarian
After this nostalgic journey through time, Mrs Trap invited everyone to raise their hands when she mentioned their jubilee year. The 10-, 20-, 30-, and 40-year jubilarians were met with applause and smiles. When she reached a single 70-year jubilarian, many thought the hand-raising would end there — but to everyone’s great surprise, an 80-year jubilarian raised her hand. This was Rena, who had travelled all the way from England to be there, accompanied by her son and daughter.
Later in the day, Rena shared her memories with all who were interested, in the library. Guests quickly gathered in a circle around her, eager to hear her stories. As a boarding school student at Rygaards during the war, from 1940 to 1945, she vividly described life at the school during those uncertain times. Her stories were both moving and enlightening — a genuine bridge to the school’s past.
Exhibition, Guided Tours, and Raffle
After the official programme concluded, guests were guided out into the school’s park, where light refreshments and sweet treats were available for purchase. The Assumptions Fund, also present on the day, held a raffle with lovely prizes. At the same time, everyone had the opportunity to join guided tours of the school, visit the archive, and explore the library, which had a special exhibition on Rygaards School’s history — from its founding right up to the present day.
We are deeply grateful that so many former students and staff — including Rena — chose to celebrate this special day with us. The 2025 School Reunion became a truly unique and unforgettable Saturday in September.