This year marks a special milestone in Hurst’s history - 20 years since the founding of Crescent House. Opened in 2005 and officially blessed during the Etheldreda Sunday service, Crescent quickly established itself as a house full of energy, ambition, and camaraderie. The very first edition of the Crescent House magazine, featured in the 2006 Hurst Johnian, captured the spirit of that inaugural year with pride and optimism. You can browse our online archives of Hurst Johnian magazines from 1858-2009 here.

The blessing of the new house and its banner was a defining moment, with Anish Mashru, Crescent’s first House Captain, carrying the banner to the altar, symbolically placing Crescent on the map. Under the leadership of founding Housemaster Tim Leeper, Crescent quickly made its mark both on and off the field. Rugby emerged as the house’s early strength, with many of the Fifth Form contributing to an unbeaten U16 team, coached by Mr Leeper himself. Crescent also impressed in athletics, cross country, and cricket, while academically, the house boasted a strong showing in challenge grades and university ambitions, with five out of seven Lower Sixth boys joining the Oxbridge and Best group.

Socially, Crescent thrived with house outings, pool competitions, and a memorable end-of-year BBQ that brought together boys from all year groups. Even in its musical efforts, despite a last-place finish in the House Music competition, the house showed spirit and humour with a bold rendition of Eye of the Tiger. From laser questing to charity fundraising, Crescent’s first year laid the foundation for a house culture built on pride, participation, and unity.

To celebrate this remarkable journey, we are delighted to invite all Crescent Old Johnians, staff, and their families to a special 20th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday 6th September.

Watch the Video
To mark the occasion, we’ve created a special video featuring founding Housemaster Tim Leeper and current Housemaster Nick Chadwell, inviting you to this special event. See gallery below

Join Us for the Celebration - Saturday 6th September
The day will include:

- Guided tours of both the original and current Crescent House, as well as wider school campus to see what's new.

- A chance to watch the 1st XV rugby team play their first match of the season against Brighton College

- A relaxed BBQ on the Crescent lawn to round off the day with friends, family, and fellow Crescent OJs

Register for this event here. This is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate everything that has made Crescent House such a special part of Hurst life over the past 20 years.

We look forward to welcoming you back.