The Old Tridents Society’s Annual Dinner took place this year in one of Britain’s most iconic settings, the Tower of London!  It was a truly memorable evening that brought together nearly 200 members of our school community for an occasion that perfectly blended history and friendship.

As the late summer sun began to dip behind the Thames, guests arrived at the Wharf to a picture-perfect scene. Guests were warmly welcomed at the West Gate Drawbridge by Yeoman Warders and invited to enjoy a drink before setting off in groups for guided tours of the Tower.

Led by the charismatic 'Beefeaters', guests explored the Tower’s history, from the ancient White Tower to an exclusive viewing of the Crown Jewels as they enjoyed free roam in the Jewel House. The experience offered time to pause, reflect, and take in the significance of this remarkable setting.

Walking past the Fusiliers building, guests made their way towards the White Tower, where musicians from Trent College Music School performed beautifully against a backdrop of glowing poppies and the modern silhouette of The Shard. Inside, guests enjoyed pre-dinner drinks among historic artefacts before being called to dine in the New Armouries, where Yeoman Warders stood on ceremony.

Dinner was accompanied by performances from the school’s musicians, whose talent and poise added a special note to the evening.  Dominic Kalantary, President of the Old Tridents Society spoke about the energy and momentum behind the Society, thanking fellow Trustees and celebrating the enduring connections between generations of former pupils, spanning decades from the 1960s to Class of 2025, and including guests who had travelled from Europe and USA to be there.

The Head, Bill Penty, in his speech reflected on his 12 years of leadership and on how far alumni engagement has come in that time; from his first OT event being a small gathering above a London pub to this remarkable occasion at the Tower of London. His words on his forthcoming retirement were heartfelt, and his standing ovation a fitting tribute.

Reflecting on the event, Dominic said: “It was fantastic to welcome nearly 200 Old Tridents, and guests, to the Tower of London for a fantastic evening. From our event held at Chatsworth House two years ago, to the bright lights of London hosting at the Houses of Parliament last year and the Tower this, it is fair to say that we have a fantastic recent history of OT Society events. I'm really looking forward to welcoming OTs back to the East Midlands, to where it all began, at Trent College, for our 2026 Dinner. Rest assured it will be spectacular!

On behalf of my fellow Trustees, I want to thank everyone who joined us at this year’s Dinner. To see so many people, from the wide age span to the miles travelled, coming together on this occasion is very special indeed and is a memory that will be long lasting”.

One young Old Trident, Philipp Lisch who had travelled from Germany especially for the event, summed up his experience of attending his first OT event beautifully: “It was such a special event for me. I was at Trent in 2021 and even though I always wanted to stay in contact with my friends, it was often hard over the long distance and different holidays. It was all the more of an amazing surprise to see how many remembered me and to finally see so many familiar faces in person again.”

He continued: “I also enjoyed the opportunity to meet alumni from different professions and parts of the world, all brought together by our shared Trent College experience.  The seating plan and openness of Old Tridents made it possible to have very interesting conversations with people completely new to me.”

“The Annual Dinner showed me how important it is to preserve this school family
and all the friendships created by it through gatherings like this,
especially after your time as a student.”

The evening concluded in unforgettable style, as guests were treated to a Yeoman Warder’s entertaining tale of the 700-year-old tradition of the Ceremony of the Keys, and explaining the ‘lock-in’ guests were about to experience and marking the closing of the Tower. It was a joyous and lively finale, with guests laughing, chatting, and soaking up every moment. 

Guests departed the Palace grounds with Tower Bridge illuminated in the school’s red and blue, setting a striking backdrop as they walked back along the Wharf. A perfect way to end such a memorable evening.

Warm thanks go to the Trustees of the Society for making this event possible; for sponsoring significantly reduced tickets for everyone, complimentary return transport from Trent, and ensuring this unique occasion remained accessible to all. Their generosity and continued commitment to strengthening connections within our community is deeply appreciated.

Details for next year’s event are already in the planning, and we can’t wait to share more soon …. Watch this space!

 

To view more of the amazing photos from this and other events, visit our GALLERY