Somersfield Academy is inviting the Bermuda community to join in celebrating its 35th anniversary at a special cocktail party and silent auction on Saturday, November 14 at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club.
The event, under the leadership by Jo-Rena Davis, Chair of the Anniversary Committee, will feature a string quartet and will be hosted by local personality and friend of Somersfield, Mark Anderson. Guests will have the opportunity to take part in the silent auction, with bidding already underway online.
The school opened in 1991 as Montessori Academy at Tivoli in Warwick, welcoming its first 72 students. It moved to its current Devonshire campus in 2001, becoming Somersfield Academy, and has continued to build on its Montessori foundations through the International Baccalaureate programme (IB) Middle Years and Diploma Programme (DP).
Today, the school remains committed to its founding vision of inspiring socially conscious, independent thinkers. Its first graduating class completed the DP in 2021, with former students now returning as parents and enrolling their own children.
Riki Teteina, Head of School at Somersfield Academy, said: ‘Celebrating our 35th anniversary shows that we are an established and trusted learning community in Bermuda. We’re proud of our reputation as a Montessori school, but have built upon that foundation to develop a strong and unique educational continuum, with our graduating students consistantly being accepted into – and attending – their first choice universities worldwide.
‘This celebration also allows us to recognise our staff and parents, both past and present, for their loyalty and commitment to the school’s mission.’
The PTA has aimed to raise $20,000 for the school’s future. Community support enables Somersfield to invest beyond its core operating provision, helping to create new opportunities for students, strengthen teaching and learning, and advance the school’s long-term ambitions.
Funds raised will support key school priorities, including professional development initatives to equip the school’s teachers and students to lead in critical thinking in an increasingly AI-influenced world and the expansion of robotics and math opportunities. It will also help to build financial capacity to support the implementation of Somersfield Academy’s next Strategic Plan, with its priorities and initiatives due to be unveiled in June 2027.
Pamela Fraser, President of the Somersfield Academy Parent Teacher Association, said: ‘Our strength has always lived in our community. Reaching 35 years isn’t just a milestone on a calendar, it’s a celebration of the generations of students, dedicated educators, parents and volunteers who have built and shaped our school culture.
‘While most community interactions take place during the school routines and pick-up lines, an evening like this creates space for parents, teachers, alumni and supporters to connect, rekindle friendships, and build lasting bonds. Celebrating like this is our way of saying thank you to everyone who makes Somersfield feel like family, and ensuring our collective spirit remains strong for the next 35 years – and beyond.’
A dedicated Kids’ Zone will also be available on site in a neighbouring space at the Hamilton Princess, for those who want to take advantage of childcare for the evening. For $35 per child, they can enjoy games, dinner and a movie in a supervised setting, under the care of a licensed childcare professional and assistants. Spaces are limited and early booking is encouraged.
The PTA is encouraging alumni, former parents, local businesses and friends of Somersfield to attend and support the school’s next chapter. Those unable to attend can also contribute through online donations and the silent auction. There are still opportunities for businesses to support elements of the event by reaching out to the Advancement Officer at advancement@somersfield.bm.
The celebration will take place on Saturday, November 14 from 6pm in the Trudeau Ballroom at the Hamilton Princess. General admission tickets are $95 and include two drinks and passed canapés. Additional options include sponsoring a teacher’s attendance or gifting a ticket to a member of the school community.
Tickets and further event information are available at www.somersfieldpta.com/events/35th-anniversary-cocktail-party. The online silent auction, which features great prizes donated by local businesses and artists, is already open at airauctioneer.com/somersfield-academy-35th-anniversary-silent-auction.
