The Old Brutonian Association Annual General Meeting took place on 18th November 2025 at King’s Bruton. Old Brutonians and Honorary OBs were joined by Matt Radley, Headmaster of King’s Bruton, who delivered an engaging summary of his first ten weeks in post. Matt has spent time with every member of staff, learning what they value most about the School and what they feel could be improved. Unsurprisingly, the strength of their colleagues, the pupils, and the School’s distinctive sense of community emerged as the most important themes—sentiments with which I wholeheartedly agree as a member of staff myself.

Following Matt’s ‘state of the nation’ address, the meeting moved on to a review of the year’s successful events, including the Bruton Drinks and the Wessex Lunch, and an outline of the Association’s charitable objectives for the coming year.

This year marks the end of Michael West’s tenure as Treasurer of the OBA. Dom Haigh, President of the OBA, expressed heartfelt thanks to Michael for his years of tireless and selfless service. Michael has consistently managed the Association’s finances with diligence, has been a staunch supporter of Hazlegrove, King’s, and the OBA, and has proved invaluable to the Association over many years. Although he will be greatly missed in the role, we are pleased that he has kindly agreed to remain on the Committee.

We are delighted to welcome John Slingo, former teacher of Economics and Business at King’s, who was elected as Michael’s successor and also appointed an Honorary Old Brutonian. Although John taught at King’s for seventeen years—slightly short of the twenty typically required for Hon OB status—the Committee and members present agreed that his long service and willingness to take on the Treasurer role more than justified the honour.

We also welcome Hugh Edgar (L10/15) to the Committee. Following a career in the military, Hugh has returned to Bruton with his wife and is keen to reconnect with the School community. He brings great enthusiasm and is particularly interested in exploring how the wider OBA network can best support one another, as well as contributing to the organisation of future social events.

If you would like to find out more about the OBA, or indeed share some thoughts on future social events, please do not hesitate to get in touch - oba@kingsbruton.com