Pangbourne College is honoured to receive The Sovereign’s Gold Medal – a prestigious, historic award that reflects values that endure at Pangbourne College to this day. Awarded annually to those who demonstrate outstanding leadership and character, its fascinating history is a tale of
persistence, royal recognition, and a commitment to upholding the highest standards.
Securing Royal Approval
“His Majesty’s wish in the establishment of this prize is to encourage the cadets to acquire and maintain the qualities which will make them the finest sailor. These consist of cheerful submission to superiors, self-respect and independence of character, kindness and protection of the weak, readiness to forgive offence, desire to conciliate the differences of others, and, above all, fearless devotion to duty, and unflinching truthfulness.”
A two-year effort saw Sir Richard Chadwick and Sir Phillip Devitt of Devitt & Moore Ltd finally obtain a King’s Gold Medal for The Nautical College Pangbourne in October 1926. The initial request by Admiral Sir Wilmot Fawkes in 1924 to King George V had been denied as the College was deemed too new. Sir Richard and Sir Philip successfully argued that as Merchant Navy training schools Worcester and Conway had received this honour early in their history, it was appropriate that Pangbourne should too.
In October 1926, a letter from The Keeper of the Privy Purse at Sandringham confirmed the good news that His Majesty had agreed to the request and confirming that King George V had granted the medal. The first Gold Medal was awarded to Chief Cadet Captain F.H.E. Hopkins during Founders’ Day in 1927, presented by the Prince of Wales, who would later become King Edward VIII.
Breaks from tradition
King Edward VIII insisted that his profile on the medal face the same direction as his father, King George V, to show the parting in his hair. After his abdication, when King George VI took the throne, the tradition of alternating profile directions resumed. During World War II, with gold in short supply, recipients received certificates instead of medals. They eventually got their medals in 1947 when restrictions were lifted.
Transition with the times
In 1969, when Pangbourne College evolved from being a purely naval institution, Queen Elizabeth II approved a change to the Gold Medal. It was now open to all students, not just those pursuing a naval career. The wording on the medal was updated from “which will make the finest sailor” to “which will make the finest citizen.”
An enduring symbol
Today, the Gold Medal remains a significant honour, representing the College’s commitment to fostering leadership, character, and service. It stands as a reminder that the values of excellence and integrity are timeless, inspiring generations of Pangbourne students to strive for greatness.
Will and Jemimah, Chief Cadet Captains, receiving the King's Medal in July 2024.
