The United Grand Lodge of England’s Universities Scheme, established in 2005, connects students aged 18 and over with university-affiliated Lodges across England and Wales, fostering the values of Freemasonry among the student community. Until now, the Scheme has principally consisted of Craft Lodges, but with the Royal Arch overseeing the important fourth step of Freemasonry, it is vital that Chapters consider their essential role in a student’s Masonic journey.
Universities Chapter No. 2352 has done just that, recognising the benefits of joining the Universities Scheme. To celebrate becoming part of the Scheme, a special meeting was held in October 2025 in the city of Durham. To mark the occasion, the Grand Superintendent, John Watts, his Deputy, Clinton Leeks, and the Second Provincial Grand Principal, Stephen Ranson, attended, accompanied by a retinue of officers from the Province of Durham. As celebrations of this kind are noteworthy, they were also joined not only by Stephen Wyer, Grand Superintendent of the Province of Worcestershire and national Chairman of the Universities Scheme, but also by the Second Grand Principal of the Supreme Grand Chapter of England, Sir David Wootton.
Congratulating the Chapter, Stephen Wyer spoke passionately about how the Universities Scheme had proven the sceptics wrong and, in its twentieth year, was demonstrating the strengthening effect it was having on Freemasonry. He emphasised how it continued to promote the Masonic principles of friendship, integrity, respect and service among university students and staff alike. Importantly, he explained, the Scheme can provide extensive support to those Lodges and Chapters already involved, as well as to those considering involvement, to help them grow and enhance the Masonic experience for all.
Sir David Wootton, as former President of the Scheme, also offered his congratulations, highlighting the importance of Royal Arch Chapters and their role within Freemasonry. He noted that some Freemasons had, in the past, struggled to articulate what the Royal Arch is and how vital it is to fully understand the Masonic message. Likewise, he stressed the importance of ensuring that Chapter ceremonies are impactful and dramatic in order to communicate that message effectively - something that Chapters in the Province of Durham are being asked to consider by the Grand Superintendent.
In conclusion, Grand Superintendent John Watts echoed the congratulations and best wishes of his colleagues, expressing his hope that other Chapters associated with Universities Scheme-affiliated Lodges in the Province of Durham would consider following Universities Chapter’s example in joining the Scheme. Reiterating that Durham Lodges and Chapters were ‘Building Together’ and were ‘Stronger Together’, he underlined how the significance of the four steps of Freemasonry was being amply demonstrated by their example.
At the request of Amir Atapour Arbaghouei, from the First Principal’s Chair, John then had the unexpected pleasure of presenting a Supreme Grand Chapter Certificate to Companion Endy Osaivbie Idahosa, the newest member of Universities Chapter.
Following the meeting, as Sir David observed, “the party started”, with a fine festive board meal in the sumptuous surroundings of Durham Masonic Hall, where friendship and camaraderie were strengthened.
On behalf of the Province of Durham, we offer our congratulations as they embark on the next chapter of their Chapter’s story.
Are you a student at Durham University or the University of Sunderland and would like to know more about Freemasonry or the Universities Scheme? Follow this link for more information and to express your interest.
