The Duke of York’s Old Boys Association is reported to have been formed following a visit to the school by King Edward VII, his wife Queen Alexandra, and the Prince and Princess of Wales (who later became King George V and Queen Mary) on the 23rd May 1908. The occasion was seen as an opportunity for a reunion of old boys and a Luncheon at the school to celebrate the event was arranged by a hastily formed committee.

This led to the formation of the Old Boys Association with the then Duke of York, later to become King George VI (the father of Queen Elizabeth II), as Patron, together with the Duke of Connaught.

Today the OBA’s Patron is HRH the Duke of Kent.

This historic Royal patronage at the highest level is considered by many members of the OBA to be one of several reasons for maintaining its existence in addition to honouring the memory of those responsible for its formation and continued existence over the years.

Given the schools military heritage and the number of boys that subsequently joined the British Army it follows that the OBA effectively became the equivalent of a Regimental Association with a similar ethos. Created to serve the interests of its members it does not seek to profit from the events it organises and occasionally subsidises them when circumstances allow. Keeping costs to a minimum helps ensure as many old boys as possible attend reunions, including those of modest means, and is a principle many members believe should be maintained.

Funded by a modest annual subscription, the OBA is administered by a democratically elected Central Committee and holds an Annual General Meeting where members have the opportunity to voice their concerns or suggestions.

Although independent of the school, from its very beginnings the OBA has promoted appeals to fund school projects to which members have generously contributed and which pupils have benefitted from over the years. In addition, many books have been donated to the school library in memory of former members.

Following the First Word War the OBA was also partly responsible for raising the funds required for the erection of the school’s war memorial in memory of the 248 boys who died and successfully attracted contributions from many sources, including a number of regiments.

Since becoming an Academy the original school crest and tie have been replaced. However, subscribing to the OBA entitles members to wear the OBA blazer badge based on the original and also the OBA tie which features the original school colours and is recognised in many parts of the world. Maintaining these links to the school before it became an Academy is an objective many members consider worthy of support and will continue for as long as the OBA exists. Applications for membership or associate membership (see OBA Membership) from those who share this belief are welcomed.