Many of our Old Novocastrians went on to serve in the military following school. Some would have fought as soldiers in various 19th century conflicts for the British Empire. One of our most distinguished alumni – Admiral Cuthbert Collingwood – was instrumental in winning the Battle of Trafalgar. 

The first half of the 20th century was dominated by global conflict. The First World War had a particularly disproportionate impact on Britain’s public schools. Former students of RGS Newcastle, like those at many other schools, signed up in their droves to fight. They often joined as officers, leading men into battle. They were frequently the first to climb the ladders of the trenches and face enemy fire. These young men were twice as likely as other soldiers to be killed in action.

The experience of evacuation during the Second World War shaped a whole generation of Old Novos. The evacuation of the whole school body to Penrith, Cumbria for five years had an enduring impact.  

From the Penrith Library in the Junior School, to the Roll of Honour carved into the panels of the organ, the memory of war lives on in our school today.