Methody Collegians Quarterly Lunch Brings Generations Together
Methody Collegians enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of friendship, connection and shared Methody spirit at the September Quarterly Lunch, held at Belfast Harlequins, Deramore Park, on Friday 18th September.
A highlight of the afternoon was hearing from Principal Mrs Jenny Lendrum, who joined Collegians as guest speaker and provided an update on the 2026/27 school year and her vision for Methodist College Belfast.
An Afternoon of Connection
Those attending enjoyed a lovely three-course meal, with plenty of opportunity around the tables to catch up with familiar faces, renew old friendships and make new connections.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of the afternoon was the mix of generations represented. Young and old Collegians came together, sharing stories and experiences and discovering that, regardless of when they attended Methody, there remains a strong common bond.
Although the lunch was not being held within the College itself, there was a real sense of being in Methody. The decor, photographs and memorabilia around the clubhouse, along with the significance of being at Deramore Park, the former Collegians Club grounds, created a fitting backdrop for the occasion.
It was an afternoon that combined nostalgia with the opportunity to look ahead. Memories and friendships from the past were celebrated, while new connections were being made between different generations of the Methody community.
Being “All In” for Methody
Principal Mrs Jenny Lendrum then shared her vision for Methodist College and spoke about the theme for the year, “All In.”
At the heart of her message was the commitment being shown by staff and pupils throughout the College. She spoke about the hard work taking place in the classroom as pupils strive to achieve the best possible academic results, supported by staff who continue to give so much of their time, energy and expertise.
However, the Methody experience extends far beyond academic achievement. Jenny also highlighted the importance of pupils embracing the many opportunities available to them and representing the College positively through the wide range of activities in which they are involved. Whether through sport, music, drama or other areas of College life, pupils are encouraged to give their best, make the most of their opportunities and take pride in representing Methody.
The “All In” message reflects that sense of collective commitment. Everyone has a role to play in helping Methody and its pupils flourish, not only current staff and pupils, but also parents, former pupils and the wider Methody community.
The Methody Connection Continues
There was something particularly appropriate about hearing that message surrounded by Collegians of different generations at Deramore Park. The afternoon demonstrated that being part of Methody does not end when you leave the College. The friendships, memories and sense of belonging formed during school days can continue for many years afterwards.
Events such as the Quarterly Lunch provide an important opportunity to maintain those relationships, bring different generations together and strengthen the connection between today’s College and the wider Collegian community.
Jenny’s message of being “All In” was therefore a fitting one for the occasion. It was a reminder that everyone connected with Methody can play their part in supporting the College, celebrating its pupils and staff, and helping ensure that the sense of community which has meant so much to generations continues long into the future.
