The history of the Arnold Embellishers
Founded in 1917 as a secret society with membership by invitation only, the Arnold Embellishers is now a thriving 'open' society with 154 members drawn from OEs, parents, staff and friends of the College.

Their subscriptions help to add to the beauty and dignity of the College precincts in such ways as the Governors might not feel essential or affordable.  Members subscribe annually whatever sum they see fit, generally not less than £10.  As a legal component of Eastbourne College Incorporated, the society is able to reclaim the tax paid by donors.

Click here for details of recent embellishments.

The bird motif
In 1924 Mr EC Arnold, former headmaster of the College and a notable ornithologist, published a book, British Waders, which included a watercolour drawing of an American stint (pictured top centre), which was also reproduced on the cover of the book.

As Mr Arnold was our founder, we have commissioned the manufacture of a Society tie (left) and scarf/tie pin (top left) which both carry this motif. The tie is handmade in pure silk and retails from Marlborough House or the School Shop for just £10 (£11 including postage), as does the pin.

If you are already a member, do obtain yours without delay. And if you are not, why not join us and so qualify for this distinctive item of apparel?

Annual General Meeting
This took place at 12.30pm on Saturday 10 September 2011 followed by lunch at 1.45pm. Membership now stands at 154. Jenny Lush was elected to the committee.

We have put aside £6,000 to provide display equipment for art and design work in the Birley Centre foyer. So far £4,055 has been spent on plinths, mannequins and display systems. A further £7,000 will be made available in due course for further embellishment in the building.

We have also put aside £10,000 for a major project to celebrate the College’s 150th anniversary in 2017 and invite suggestions for this project.

Contact the Arnold Embellishers
We very much welcome newcomers to our ranks which are open to OEs, staff and friends of the College. There is no fixed level of subscription and life membership is available. We meet socially once a year for an Annual General Meeting on the day of the OE Reunion and entrust our ongoing management to an elected committee.
Please send membership enquiries to Chris Nicholson OE, Hon Treasurer and Membership Secretary, by email at chrisnicholson2@btinternet.com or by phone on 01789 491236.

Michael Partridge, Chairman
01323 451901   ae@eastbourne-college.co.uk