Lovedale Tidings - January and February 2026
Batch of 2025 Inducted into the Alumni Community
The induction of the outgoing Batch of 2024–25 into the Old Lawrencians Association (OLA) was held at the Ooty Club on 24 January 2026 in an atmosphere of warmth, enthusiasm, and nostalgia. The occasion marked the formal transition of the graduating students into the alumni fraternity, strengthening their lifelong bond with the school.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by the Secretary, Ms Karishma Shushilkumar (Class of 2025). This was followed by an address by the President of the OLA, Rear Admiral P. G. Philipose George, AVSM, NM (Retd), Class of 1982, who outlined the objectives and vision of the Association. The Treasurer, Mr Shyam Nair (Class of 2002), then explained the functioning of the Association and highlighted its worldwide presence. Other members present included Mr K. P. Philip (Class of 1974) and Mr Reventh Noel (Class of 2013).
In his address, the Headmaster, Mr D. V. S. Rao, thanked the OLA for hosting the luncheon and welcoming the outgoing batch into the alumni community. He spoke briefly of the journey of an Old Lawrencian—from contributing to the school as a student to sustaining a lifelong association with it. Citing the example of Mr Prasanth Menon, whose family represents three generations of Lawrencians, and Rear Admiral P. G. Philipose George, an alumnus who continues to serve and inspire the school, he reminded the students that their bond with Lawrence grows stronger with time. He urged them to work hard, uphold the values of the school, and contribute meaningfully wherever life may take them.
Alumni members shared their experiences of life beyond school, while the Head Girl and Head Boy conveyed their gratitude. The Head Boy recalled a memorable encounter with an Old Lawrencian during a hospital visit with his father, reflecting the enduring spirit of camaraderie among Lawrencians.
The students completed their induction by filling out life membership forms. The event concluded with the singing of the school song and a group photograph, reaffirming the enduring legacy of the alma mater and the lifelong fellowship of Old Lawrencians.
District-Level Quiz Competition – Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026
In accordance with the instructions of the Ministry of Education, a District-Level Quiz Competition titled “Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026” was organised on 23 January 2026 at Kendriya Vidyalaya, Ooty, to commemorate Parakram Diwas. The quiz was conducted on the theme “Operation Sindoor.”
Students from various schools across the district participated enthusiastically, demonstrating commendable knowledge and awareness of contemporary national themes. Our school was represented by ten students from Classes IX and XI.
We are proud to announce that Aarav Deo and Satyam Kumar of Class XI C secured the First and Second positions respectively, competing against participants from other schools.
The competition proved to be a stimulating and enriching experience for all participants and brought laurels to the institution.
A LIVING LINK TO OUR LEGACY – MS HELEN TODD , DECENDANT OF SIR HENRY LAWRENCE, VISITS THE LAWRENCE SCHOOL , LOVEDALE
On 22 January 2026, The Lawrence School was honoured by a truly special visit from Ms Helen Todd, the great-great-great-great-granddaughter of Sir Henry Lawrence, accompanied by her husband, Mr Tom Todd. Their presence on campus was not merely a visit, but a deeply moving moment that bridged the past with the present.
Helen has devoted her life to serving society through her work with charities and NGOs, both in the UK and internationally. Her journey of service includes a significant period as the Director of an arts and social change organisation in Malawi, in southern Africa. She currently works with an environmental charity in the UK. Helen and Tom live in Sheffield, in the north of England, where Tom runs a charity supporting young people in Malawi and Nepal to continue their education.
During their time on campus, the Headmaster, staff, and students had the privilege of interacting with them, listening with rapt attention as they recalled stories passed down through generations about their great uncle, Sir Henry Lawrence — a visionary educationist, a compassionate leader, and a brave soldier whose ideals continue to shape the ethos of the institution he founded.
For the Lawrence fraternity, this visit was a rare and proud moment — a living reminder that the values planted over a century ago still breathe through the lives of those who carry his legacy forward. It was not just a reunion with history, but a reaffirmation of the enduring spirit of service, courage, and education that binds the past to the present and inspires the future.
