Bishop Cotton School, Shimla Celebrates 165th Speech Day with Honors and Remembrances

Shimla, November 5, 2024 – On Saturday, October 26, 2024, Bishop Cotton School (BCS) celebrated its 165th anniversary Speech Day, a significant event marked by a vibrant march past featuring the school band and NCC parade, followed by an award ceremony in the historic Irwin Hall.

The ceremony also served as a poignant reminder of two esteemed alumni who passed away shortly before the event: Mr. DC Anand and Mrs. Sunita John. Mrs. John, who led Auckland House for 26 years, was celebrated for her compassion and formidable educational leadership, while Mr. Anand was honored as a legendary figure at BCS, known for founding a multi-billion dollar industry and for his long tenure as Governor. Both were remembered fondly for their contributions to the school community and beyond.

The guest of honor for the occasion was Dr. Verma, the Director General of Police (DGP) for Himachal Pradesh. He presented prizes acknowledging students’ achievements in both academics and co-curricular activities. In his address, Dr. Verma emphasized the importance of character development as a key determinant of future success, encouraging students to cultivate their personal attributes alongside their educational pursuits.

BCS Director Mr. Simon Weale shared his educational philosophy, stating, “The carrot usually works much better than the stick. A smiling child achieves more than a scared one.” He stressed the significance of internal discipline and the necessity for students to engage in diverse experiences that challenge them, enabling personal growth and self-discovery.

The ceremony culminated in the recognition of various prize winners, celebrating not just academic excellence but also the holistic development of students. The main house cups were awarded as follows:

– UCO Bank Junior School (Prep School) Study Cup: Lefroy House
– Chelmsford Senior School Study Cup: Ibbetson House
– Bayliss Shield: Ibbetson House
– The Grindlays Games and Sports Cup: Lefroy House
– Cock House Shield: Lefroy House

The event was a testament to the enduring spirit of Bishop Cotton School, showcasing both its commitment to excellence and its nurturing community. Congratulations to all winners and participants!