New for 2026! We're excited to introduce The Midsummer Mingle, our refreshed replacement for the annual ASA Summer Lunch. We’ve reimagined the traditional formal seating for a free-flowing garden social on Somerville Lawn - the perfect family-friendly get-together for our whole community - Ashford School and Friars School alumni, staff, parents and families alike. 

What to expect

• Refreshments: seasonal canapés and a welcome glass of bubbles.
• The Garden Bar: additional summery refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon.
• Entertainment: a line-up of live music from students, alumni and our wider community (Get involved! See below).
• Activities: our popular photobooth, school tours, lawn games and more!

Tickets & giving

• Standard Ticket (£20): Includes entry, welcome bubbles, and seasonal canapés. Proceeds support the Ashford School Association (ASA) in funding future community events and activities.
• Former Staff Recognition Ticket (£15): A reduced rate in appreciation of your service to the Ashford School community.
• Young Alumni Ticket (£15): Special rate for leavers from the last 5 years (Classes of 2021–2025).
• Child Ticket (Ages 5–16) (£5): Includes entry, a "Mingle Picnic Box", soft drinks, and lawn games.
• Under 5s: FREE!
• Optional Donation: Add a suggested gift of £10, £25, or £50 to the Ashford School Foundation (ASF). Your generosity will directly support bursaries at the school, helping to open doors for talented pupils who might not otherwise have the opportunity to join our Ashford community.

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Get involved!

Join our entertainment line-up! We are looking for musicians and performers from across our community to take part in our entertainment programme while guests mingle. Alongside our talented current students, we want to showcase "Music Through the Ages," featuring singers and musicians from every era of Ashford School’s history. Whether you are a soloist, part of a band, or a classical performer, all genres are welcome to join our outdoor bill. Please get in touch.

We look forward to a wonderful afternoon with you all!

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Important Information for Guests

Weather Contingency
While we hope for a beautiful summer afternoon on the lawn, we have a contingency plan in place. In the event of inclement 'British Summer' weather, the Mingle will move indoors to our beloved Brake Hall.

Parental Responsibility & Supervision
The Midsummer Mingle is a family-friendly community event. However, please note that children remain the sole responsibility of their parent or guardian at all times. We kindly ask that children are supervised to ensure they stay within the designated event boundaries and do not enter restricted school buildings.

The Garden Bar & Refreshments
Your ticket includes a welcome drink and a selection of seasonal canapés provided by our wonderful Refectory Team. For those wishing to enjoy additional beverages, a Garden Bar will be available throughout the afternoon for card and mobile payments.

Nostalgia Tours
Informal "Nostalgia Tours" of the school grounds will be led by our current Student Prefects. These tours will depart from a designated meeting point at regular intervals. Please note access to some areas of the school grounds may be restricted on the day.

Dress Code
To match the casual and summery atmosphere of the afternoon, the dress code is "Summer Smart" or "Garden Party" attire. As the event is held primarily on the lawn, we recommend wearing appropriate footwear.

Photography Notice
Please be aware that photography and filming may take place during the event for use in Ashford School Association (ASA) publications and social media. If you do not wish to be photographed, please notify a member of the event team upon arrival.

Accessibility & Dietary Needs
We aim to make the Mingle accessible to all members of our community. If you have specific access requirements or dietary needs that were not captured during your ticket purchase, please contact us at least 7 days before the event.