About Us
Connecting Generations of Old Carolians
About the Old Carolians Association
The Old Carolians Association exists to keep former pupils, staff, members and friends of King Charles I School connected with one another, with the School, and with the Association’s long and proud history.
Founded in 1912 by former pupils of King Charles I Grammar School for Boys, Kidderminster, the Association has grown into a welcoming community that celebrates shared memories, supports current pupils, and helps preserve the traditions and legacy of the School and its predecessor institutions.
This website has been created to keep members, prospective members and visitors informed about the past, present and future activities of the Association. Here you will find news, upcoming events, historical articles, photo galleries, membership information, committee details, links to associated organisations, and updates from the wider Old Carolian community.
The site also complements The Old Carolian Magazine, the official annual record of the Association’s business and activities, published each September and distributed to paid-up members.
Our Purpose
The Association aims to maintain strong links between Old Carolians, the School and the wider community. We do this by organising events, sharing news, recording our history, supporting educational opportunities, and helping fund worthwhile causes connected with King Charles I School and its pupils.
Through membership subscriptions and fundraising, the Association is able to support projects that benefit the School, its students, and the Old Carolian community.
Our History
The name “Old Carolian” comes from Carolus, the Latin form of Charles. Before the Association was formally established, former pupils were sometimes known as “Old Kidderminsterians” or OK’s for short.
The Association’s roots go back to informal gatherings of former pupils, including a dinner held in the School Hall at Woodfield in December 1899. In 1912, the Old Carolians Association was formally created, with Mr G. W. Grosvenor becoming its first President.
Over the years, the Association became well known across the Midlands, particularly for its sporting links through rugby and cricket. Although the original sports sections no longer exist in their former form, those connections remain an important part of our story.
Following the 1977 merger of King Charles I Grammar School, Kidderminster High School for Girls and Queen Elizabeth I Grammar School, Hartlebury, the King Charles I name was retained, and the Association continues to recognise and welcome those connected with these schools.
What We Do
- News and updates from the Association and School
- Social events, dinners and reunions
- The annual Old Carolian Magazine
- Historical records and articles
Why Join Us?
- Friendly and welcoming community
- Preserving achievements and traditions
- Meeting old friends and new connections
- Supporting King Charles I School projects
Membership & Committee
Membership is open to former pupils, present and former staff, and others who have given exceptional service. The annual subscription is £10, payable on 1st January each year.
Staying Connected
This website is the main source for official Association news. We also maintain a vibrant Facebook group for social networking among members.
Whether you are a long-standing member, a former pupil reconnecting after many years, or someone simply interested in the School’s heritage, you are very welcome.