Against the backdrop of Pangbournian Day celebrations, the College proudly unveiled The Lewis Room,  a new space dedicated to preserving its rich maritime heritage and inspiring future generations. 

Named in honour of Captain A. F. P. Lewis CBE, the last Captain Superintendent of the Nautical College Pangbourne, The Lewis Room pays tribute to the College’s esteemed history. Captain Lewis led the institution from 1960 to 1968, guiding it through a pivotal period of change while safeguarding its core values of leadership, discipline and service.

The official opening was conducted by Old Pangbournian and Paralympic rowing gold medallist Frankie Allen MBE, Guest of Honour for the day. Her presence underscored the enduring spirit of achievement that defines the Pangbournian Community, linking past accomplishments with present excellence.

The Lewis Room houses a remarkable collection of artefacts that bring the College’s story to life. Among its treasures are the original College Register dating back to 1917, evocative images of the Devitt and Moore ships after which the College’s divisions are named, and a historic ships chronometer from the Port Jackson. The space also celebrates the achievements of Old Pangbournians in ocean and Olympic rowing, alongside the legacy of Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup-winning crews through the years.

Charlie Shillito - OP HRR Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup winning crew, 2003

Harry Brightmore (Assistant Rowing Director and Olympic Gold Medalist), Ed Green (Director of Rowing) and Mark Hamilton (OP HRR Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup winning crew, 1992) 

A particularly notable highlight is the recognition of The Sovereign’s Gold Medal -  a prestigious and historic award that continues to symbolise the values at the heart of Pangbourne College today. Awarded annually for outstanding leadership and character, the medal’s origins date back to 1926, when a letter from the Keeper of the Privy Purse at Sandringham confirmed that King George V had granted its establishment. The first recipient, Chief Cadet Captain F. H. E. Hopkins, received the medal at Founders’ Day in 1927, presented by the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VIII. 

The College is very proud to display the unique King Edward VIII Gold Medal, kindly on loan from the Old Pangbournian Society. 

Among those attending Pangbournian Day was Jeremy Moger (1962–66, former CCCC), who, following a distinguished Army career, continues to contribute to a number of organisations through charitable work and volunteering. He was photographed, alongside Chief Cadet Captains of the College Faith and Ed, with his own Queen’s Gold Medal, awarded by Queen Elizabeth II in 1967 -  a powerful reminder of the College’s longstanding tradition of nurturing leadership and service.

Ed (CCCC), Jeremy Moger, OP (1962–66, former CCCC), Frankie Allen MBE, OP (2015 -20), Faith (CCCC) 

The opening of The Lewis Room reflects Pangbourne College’s commitment to honouring its past while looking firmly to the future. By creating a space where history is not only preserved but actively shared, the College reinforces its belief that tradition and innovation go hand in hand.

The Lionel Stephens Archive and The Harry Sykes Room 

This commitment is set to deepen further within Devitt House, where a new archive suite -  currently in development -  will expand the College’s ability to curate and share its story. The suite will include The Lionel Stephens Archive and The Harry Sykes Room, each recognising individuals who played a significant role in shaping the College’s character.

Lionel Stephens, a former member of staff, served the College with distinction as House Tutor of Hesperus, Housemaster of Port Jackson and Macquarie and Head of the History Department for 25 years. Alongside this, The Harry Sykes Room will honour a figure widely regarded as ‘a legend in his time’. Arriving at the College in 1919 as Assistant Housemaster in Devitt House following service in the Great War, Harry Sykes devoted 37 years to Pangbourne, leaving an enduring legacy through his commitment and influence.

Together, these developments ensure that Pangbourne College continues not only to preserve its remarkable history, but to bring it meaningfully into the present  -  inspiring future generations with the stories and values that have defined the College for over a century.