Speech Day 2026 brought the Campbell Community together to celebrate a year of achievement, recognise excellence across the College, and look ahead to an ambitious new chapter under the leadership of Headmaster, Mr Jonathan Anderson.

The event opened with a welcome from the Chair of the Board of Governors, Mr Jamie Andrews, who reflected on a year of progress and purpose across the College. Paying tribute to teaching, operational and support staff, he thanked those whose commitment continues to shape the lives of Campbell boys every day.

Mr Andrews highlighted the strong momentum across the College during Mr Anderson’s first year as Headmaster and outlined the new five-year Strategic Vision developed by the Governors and Senior Leadership Team. Built around the mission of educating beyond qualification, the strategy focuses on three pillars: Provision, Place and People. He described it as an ambitious but distinctly Campbell approach, that will strengthen the unique educational experience offered to every boy while ensuring that every pupil is known, valued and cared for.

In his first Speech Day address as Headmaster, Mr Anderson began with a reflection on his first year at Campbell and what makes the College distinctive. While recognising the importance of academic success, he emphasised that education is about far more than qualifications alone. The more important question, he suggested, is not simply what a boy will achieve, but what sort of man he will become.

Mr Anderson outlined the College’s ambitions to strengthen academic excellence, invest further in teaching and learning, expand opportunities across sport, music, leadership and entrepreneurship, and ensure every boy is supported to become the very best version of himself. He celebrated achievements across the classroom, sport and wider co-curricular life, including a historic first Schools’ Cup success for the Under-16 football team, a 25th Schools’ Cup triumph in rugby, continued success in volleyball and cricket, and the many accomplishments of pupils in music, drama and the Combined Cadet Force. One theme emerged more strongly than any other throughout his address: belonging: “If there is one word that has stood out to me throughout this year, it’s belonging.  Every great school creates opportunities. The very best schools create belonging. Campbell does both.”

The Chief Guest’s Address was delivered by Old Campbellian Mr James Boyle (11260), who returned to Campbell ten years after leaving the College. Speaking with warmth, honesty and humour, he reflected on his journey through university, his career with Nike and his work as an entrepreneur. He challenged pupils to embrace opportunity, take responsibility and recognise the influence of those who help shape their lives, paying particular tribute to John McKinney and the wider Campbell staff who invest so much in young people.

Before the closing address, the audience enjoyed one of the most anticipated moments of the day: the presentation of prizes. Recognising achievement across academic subjects, leadership, sport and the wider life of the College, the awards reflected the breadth of talent, commitment and character within the school. Their achievements were a testament not only to individual effort, but to the encouragement of staff, the support of families and the opportunities available across the College.

The final address of the afternoon was delivered by Head Prefect Alfie Parker, who reflected on his fifteen years at Campbell College. Speaking with sincerity and humour, he described the friendships, opportunities and experiences that had shaped his time at the College, particularly through boarding life. Describing community as the College’s greatest strength, he encouraged younger pupils to make the most of every opportunity, build meaningful friendships and contribute fully to the life of the school.

As the College looks ahead, Speech Day 2026 served as both a celebration of achievement and a clear statement of intent. Rooted in strong traditions yet ambitious for the future, Campbell College continues to develop young men of character, purpose and confidence, ready to make a positive contribution to the world around them.

A range of photographs from the day is available in the gallery below.