Kellett Memories is an initiative spearheaded by founding Head of Senior School, Simon Giddings (OK2007-18), to gather memorabilia ahead of our 50th anniversary into an online archive. We are hoping to unearth some wonderful memories for our wider community, as well as showcase the rich history of the school. 

Since leaving Kellett Simon has taken up residency in Crete where he enjoys spending time outdoors, walking, camping, growing his own food, as well as rennovating his house. We asked Simon what prompted him to generously offer his time to this project.  

‘I like being a part of projects and want to be working with others who are outside of my immediate life here on Crete. Kellett made a big impact on me and my relationships with ex-colleagues and Old Kellettonians remain strong. So I reached out to see how I could help.’  

Simon has some experience in this area having led a similar project for the Oxford University College he attended. ‘I particularly like the handwritten letters or excerpts from personal journals which have been submitted. Archives are a record of the memories of the community - they could be considered as the college or school’s story.’   

Simon is excited to see what winds its way to his slice of Crete for review and acknowledges that deciding what not to include will likely be the greatest challenge.   

We couldn’t resist asking Simon what his favourite memory was as he prepares to sift through everyone else's! ‘I was deeply moved when the Sixth Form Band performed ‘The Scientist’ by Coldplay (my favourite band) at the Whole School Assembly in my last year at Kellett. I was moved to tears,’ he reminisced. Don’t worry, that recording will certainly be in Kellett Memories, which will be available for our community to explore in 2026. Until then, wish Simon luck under his digital avalanche!