Badminton School were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of its most notable alumni, Sir Brian Urquhart KCMG, MBE, International Servant, who passed away on 2nd  January 2021 aged 101. Born in Dorset in 1919, Sir Brian was enrolled as a member of the kindergarten at Badminton School (as the only boy among 200 girls) during the Second World War by his mother, Mrs Bertha Urquhart, who was Head of the Junior School.

Bertha's sister, Lucy Rendell, was Deputy of the Senior School and was one of Miss Baker's (Headmistress 1911 - 1947) closest friends. 

Sir Brian left Badminton for Westminster and Christ Church, Oxford, gaining scholarships for both. After his distinguished army career, he became a diplomat and in 1945 was engaged in setting up the United Nations in New York, rising to the position of Under Secretary-General from 1971-1985.

Numerous members of the Urquhart family have been connected with Badminton School for many years.  Mrs Bertha Urquhart’s elder son, Andrew, held the post of Governor at Badminton for over 50 years and was Chair of Governors between 1967 and 1976.  Andrew’s daughter, Mrs Alison Bernays, is an Old Badmintonian and was also a Governor for over 30 years; and from 2008 - 2015 she was Chair of the Board. Mrs Bernays remains a very special and significant friend of the School. Collectively, the Urquhart family set up ‘The Urquhart Travel Award’ which funds a Travel Bursary every year to encourage the awareness of international affairs.

The Times has published a fulsome obituary, examining his astonishing life and remarkable career which mentions Badminton as being the foundation of his character and education.

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/sir-brian-urquhart-zkh8hmns5

Badminton School is extremely proud of Sir Brian and his notable achievements and would like to extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to his family and friends.