Birmingham
475 years in the making
A year of celebration and community
2027 marks a wonderful milestone: the 475th anniversary of King Edward’s School.
Our school has been shaped by remarkable people, enduring traditions and an unwavering commitment to excellence. This anniversary year will honour that rich heritage while looking confidently to the future.
Join us as we celebrate 475 years of King Edward’s. Discover a vibrant programme of events and projects, and explore the many ways parents, pupils, staff, alumni and friends of the school can be part of this unforgettable community-focused year.
For nearly five centuries, King Edward’s School has been shaped by its people and purpose. We look back with pride and ahead with excitement.
What’s happening in our anniversary year?
Our 475th anniversary will be marked by a programme of flagship events and shared celebrations across our community.
The programme highlights outlined below are just the beginning – more events and opportunities to get involved will be added over the coming months, so please keep visiting this page for updates.
Subscribe to our 'treasures' Book
Work is underway to create a special ‘treasures’ book that brings together the traditions, places, people and everyday moments that make King Edward’s School distinctive.
From co‑curricular life and cherished rituals to iconic spaces, objects and a brief history from 1552, this beautifully-illustrated book due to be published in summer 2027 will capture what makes King Edward’s special, resonating across the school community.
You are invited to become a subscriber of this beautiful volume and be acknowledged as such in its final pages.
Become a subscriber and pre-order your copy (include a link)
475 Symphony Hall Concert
Monday 22 March 2027
An unforgettable evening of music at Birmingham Symphony Hall, featuring exceptional performances from KES and KEHS pupils and alumni. This showcase celebration will be open to all members of the schools’ communities.
475 Careers and Networking
Friday 25 June 2027
Throughout the day, we’ll be hosting a programme of events tailored to each year group – from workshops to talks and interactive activities. This event will bring together alumni, parents, partners and friends of both KES and KEHS to share insights, offer guidance and build meaningful connections across generations.
After school, we will invite Sixth Form pupils and Old Edwardians to come together for a special networking reception.
If you are interested in taking part in this event – either by volunteering to support our pupils or by joining us to connect with fellow OEs – we would be delighted to hear from you.
475 Gala Dinner
Saturday 26 June 2027
A landmark anniversary year deserves a truly memorable evening, and ours will be centred around supporting a cause that is close to all our hears: our Assisted Places Programme.
Join us for the 475 Gala Dinner – a celebration of the people, achievements and stories that have shaped King Edward’s School, and an opportunity to raise vital funds to enable more AP pupils to come through our doors.
Enjoy a spectacular dinner, guest speakers and entertainment as we reflect on our heritage and raise a toast to the many years ahead for KES.
Full details and booking information will be shared shortly.
475 KE Community Day
Sunday 27 June 2027
A summer celebration for the whole KES community.
Enjoy a 475th anniversary cricket match alongside family activities, food, games and entertainment.
Bring friends, family and picnic blankets for a relaxed day of sport and community on South Field
Full details and booking information will be shared shortly.
Old Edwardians can find out about other reunions and events in the 475th Anniversary year by visiting the events page.
Parents can find details of upcoming events and opportunities by visiting the KES website.
