ONWARD AND UPWARD
The Song of Varndean Grammar School for Boys, Brighton, written and composed by
G.H. Witcomb (Staff 1896-1938)

When school days are past with their pleasures and joys,
And we're scattered on life's many ways,
May we never forget as our course we pursue,
The scenes of our glad boyhood days;
And by mem'ry's sweet aid may we live o'er again
The hours that are now speeding past,
During which we will strive, with might and with main,
To be honest and true to the last.

 
Our school! Our school! May its walls ring again,
Raise your voices, boys, hearty and clear;
Let us try to be men even while we are boys
Of the school we will ever hold dear.

May masters and scholars together be bound
With trusty regard as a tie,
Working all for the best with our duty as guide,
Not halting nor ceasing to try;
For 'tis only by striving in mutual goodwill,
Our objects can best be attained,
And if boys trust their masters, and masters their boys
Half the battle of school life is gained.

 
Our school! Our school! May its walls ring again,
Raise your voices, boys, hearty and clear;
Let us try to be men even while we are boys
Of the school we will ever hold dear.

           

          We know not what fortune for us has in store,
          But no matter whate'er it may be,
          We'll go Onward and Upward upon our life's way,
          Ever striving from wrong to be free;
          And if e'er a companion, by trouble o'ercome,
          Should falter upon his rough road,
          May a friend of his boyhood be ready at hand
          Glad and willing to lighten his load.

          Our school! Our school! May its walls ring again,
          Raise your voices, boys, hearty and clear;
          Let us try to be men even while we are boys
          Of the school we will ever hold dear.

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Page Prepared by Clive Henly December 1998