HEADTEACHER MESSAGE
It is with enormous pride and excitement that I invite you to join us in celebrating 150 years of Franciscan Catholic education in Forest Gate. In July 2027, our school will mark this remarkable milestone, a century and a half of faith, learning, friendship, service and opportunity at St Bonaventure’s School.
Our story began in 1877, when the Franciscans founded our school on its current site with a belief in the transformative power of education and a commitment to serving the young people and families of our community. Their spirit is beautifully captured in the words attributed to St Francis: “Start by doing what is necessary, then what is possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” Those words continue to inspire us today as we look to the future with the same sense of purpose and possibility.
As we celebrate, we will also pause to remember with gratitude the many thousands of former pupils, Friars, staff and governors who have been part of our school family over the past 150 years. Each has contributed something to the story of our school, and we are privileged to build upon the foundations they laid and the legacy they leave behind.
Our main anniversary celebrations will take place on the Feast of St Bonaventure, 15 July 2027, and we are planning a programme of events and activities to mark this very special occasion. We would love everyone connected with our fantastic school — past and present pupils, clergy, families, former staff, governors and friends — to be part of our celebrations in whatever way they can.
Whether you are able to join us in person, share a memory, reconnect with old friends or mark the occasion with one of our special 150th anniversary mementoes, we hope you will feel part of this extraordinary chapter in our school’s history.
150 years is a remarkable achievement. Together, let us give thanks to God, celebrate our past, cherish our present and look forward with confidence to an exciting future.
Alumni & Friends of the School Celebration Day
Our school will host a special celebration on 15 July 2027 at 15:30 on the school premises.
The afternoon will be a special celebration of the school’s 150th anniversary, bringing our community together for networking, refreshments and shared memories. The event will also include a special blessing of the personalised engraved bricks that form our Commemorative Legacy Wall.
This is a free, ticket-only event, exclusively for former students and friends of the school, with limited spaces available.
To claim your free ticket, please click the link below.
St Bonaventure’s
150th Anniversary Events
150 Years of Community, Education & Shared Memories
Merchandise
Celebrate being part of our school, show your pride and mark the special occasion with our growing range of school merchandise. From clothing and accessories to special 150th anniversary items and keepsakes, there’s something for students, parents, alumni, staff and supporters of our school.
Whether you are looking for something to wear with pride, a gift for a fellow Bon’s family member or a special memento of our 150th anniversary year, explore the collection and find something you’ll love.
All items will be delivered to your address.
Do you have any old photos or memories from your time at the school. Please email 150@stbon.org