Old Girls' Newsletter - Autumn 2023

SHARED MEMORIES AND CONTINUED SUPPORT

Bolton School OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER

Autumn 2023 Issue Number 39

CONTENTS 20

2

STAY CONNECTED

2

STAY IN TOUCH

2

BOLTON SCHOOL MERCHANDISE

3

WELCOME MESSAGES

4

FOUNDATION NEWS

5

CONTINUING SUPPORT

6

SCHOOL NEWS

Development Team Rebecca Brayshaw Development Manager Lorraine Dewhurst Development Assistant Laura Firth Director of Development and Alumni Relations Frances Johnson Development Officer Rebecca Kendrick Development Assistant Emma Metcalfe Alumni Engagement and Development Officer

10 EVENTS OLD GIRL FEATURES 14 INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION

Stay Connected

STAFF IN THE SPOTLIGHT: 20 MRS HONE, MR BALL, MRS CROWTHER 22 OLD GIRLS GO GLOBAL 24 STORY OF A GOWN 25 ALUMNI OF THE YEAR AWARDS

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26 OLD GIRLS’ NEWS ARCHIVES THE ARCHIVIST: 31 ASK WHO WAS NATHANIEL HULTON? 32 LOOKING BACK 33 SILLY SCHOOL RULES 34 LIVES REMEMBERED 35 IN MEMORIAM

We hope you enjoy being kept up-todate with what is happening at School and within the Old Girl community as much as we value the opportunity to stay connected with you. If your contact details have changed, or if you have not yet let us know your communication preferences and wish to continue hearing from School, then please contact the Development Office as soon as possible, or complete the Alumni Communications Update form found in the ‘Alumni and Giving Back’ section of the School website, www.boltonschool.org.

Stay In Touch 33

www.boltonalumninetwork.com Old Boys and Old Girls (Official) Bolton School Alumni Bolton School Alumni

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bolton_sch boltonschoolmedia boltonschool.me/ bsalumni/albums www.boltonschool.org 16

Bolton School Merchandise A variety of merchandise, including our new style hoodies, priced at £25 each and available in burgundy or black, are available from the store, on the School’s website.

All profits made from the sale of merchandise go directly to the School’s bursary scheme which helps to make a Bolton School education open to all academically gifted pupils, irrespective of their families’ financial situations.

Development Office l Bolton School l Chorley New Road l Bolton BL1 4PA l T. 01204 434718 l E. development@boltonschool.org 2 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

WELCOME From the Old Girls’ Association The Old Girls’ Newsletter has had a facelift!

The new look is designed to give more prominence to the photographs which I know you all love to see. Please rest assured that all the regular features have been retained: I hope you enjoy reading them.

The recent ‘3’ Class Reunion was a resounding success (see page 12) and it was a pleasure to see so many of you catching up with old friends and discovering what has changed in School in the intervening years – and, crucially, what hasn’t! For those of you who left in a year ending in a ‘4’ I would urge you to come along to your reunion in April (see page13) – it really is a heart-warming experience to come back and to reunite and reminisce.

The Old Girls’ Association’s mentoring scheme, Steps to Success, has celebrated its first birthday and in its inaugural year has offered support to a number of younger Old Girls seeking to develop their skills and confidence as they embark on the next stage of their careers. For anyone entering the world of work or considering further steps in education I highly recommend taking a look at how the scheme may benefit you – see page 18.

As Girls’ Division pupils continue to fundraise with energy (see page 6) the Old Girls’ Association is pleased to support them in

their endeavours by contributing to two charities local to School: Urban Outreach’s Christmas Hamper Appeal and Bolton Lions’ Annual Christmas Toy Appeal – please contact the Development Office if you would like to become involved.

Don’t forget that, as well as our regular Alumni events (see page 13), Old Girls are very welcome to attend School events, such as the Ceremony of Carols. I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible over the coming months.

Laura Henthorn (née Carless, Class of 1977) Chairman – Bolton School Old Girls’ Association

From the Head of Girls’ Division Welcome to the Old Girls’ Autumn newsletter.

As you flick through the pages, you will see that, as always, it has been a busy few months in the Girls’ Division, and it is lovely once again to see so many of our Alumni involved in a wide range of School events.

I am quite sure that the article on page 33 about how School rules have evolved over the decades will bring back memories for a lot of Old Girls. Many readers will remember Mrs Spurr’s Three Ds – Dignity, Decorum and Deportment – along with her description of why the wearing of patent shoes was not suitable for young ladies!

I am always amused to hear the tales of School life I hear from Alumni whenever we meet at occasions in and out of School.

The ‘3’ Class Reunion this term provided an opportunity to catch up with a range of former pupils and staff, and it was lovely to welcome back to School a number of people who had not visited since they left. The Prefect gowns are always a popular attraction when Alumni return to visit School, and it is always fun to watch Old Girls trying to find their name badge in the gowns which are now hung up at the entrance to the Great Hall; please see the article on page 24.

In the pages that follow, you will see photographs from some of the events that have taken place this year, including a joint Year 11 Prom. It was a delightful evening and provided an opportunity for Girls’ and Boys’ Division pupils to get to know other before joining The Riley Centre together in September as Sixth Formers. See the pictures on page 8, where you will also be able to read about the Year 13 Leavers’ event.

It would also be remiss of me not to mention the enormously successful ISI Inspection of the Girls’ Division which took place in April this year. I am delighted to report that we achieved the highest possible grading, and this is a tribute to pupils and colleagues alike. You can read more about this on page 9.

Lastly, my heartfelt thanks to all those Old Girls who offer their time and energies to share their stories with our current pupils, who gain so much from these interactions. The insights into different careers that our Alumni can provide are invaluable. There are many such occasions described in this Newsletter and School would not be the same without them.

For those of you who have not been back to School in recent years, please do come and visit us; it would be lovely to see you.

A calendar of events to tempt you with can be found inside.

Lynne Kyle Head of Girls’ Division OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 3

FOUNDATION NEWS A Message from the Head of Foundation As I write we are on the cusp of October half-term: the new Year 7 are settled into the Girls’ and Boys’ Divisions, Year 12 have made themselves comfortable in the Riley Centre and the first steps to School in Reception have been taken. At the same time, a new group of Old Boys and Old Girls have made their way into the world starting university, degree apprenticeships and work. The wheel of School life turns again and it is this freshness within routine that makes working in a school such a joyful thing.

In all that activity the interconnection between Alumni and the School is important and rewarding. This year saw the inaugural Primary Division Hulton Lecture, given by Rob Dobson, who had a tremendous ability to inspire both a young audience and their parents. Old Girls of a certain age may well remember there used to be such a lecture, but it was discontinued. Old Boys may recall the Hulton Scholars board on B Corridor. We decided to reconnect with this important part of our past in the much more recent context of our Primary Division, now two years old.

As pupils leave the School and head off to make a difference in the world, they often bring us back insights into how well Bolton School has prepared them and, also, from time to time, ways in which we could improve. It is now nearly five years since a group of Alumni helped us reshape our approach to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and you may have seen our most recent annual update – see page 10.

It is always nice to have others recognise the success of our School. The Girls’ Division received an excellent inspection report in the early part of Summer term, which was an impressive validation of how we view our School – sometimes we just get used to things we do that are really quite special.

Our newly-registered Infant and Nursery School (linking the co-educational parts of the Foundation in Beech House and the Nursery) had an OFSTED inspection as part of that registration process. I am pleased to say this was also successful, even though being an independent school is all about not always doing what OFSTED think must be done!

I look forward to seeing many of you at Alumni events and in School and keeping in touch with many more on line.

Philip Britton, MBE Head of Foundation

Join the Bolton School Alumni Network

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DID YOU KNOW

This FREE Business Directory offers the self-employed Alumni the opportunity to promote their business and services and presents a networking community which spans the globe.

4 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

3,029

REGISTERED USERS, SPANNING THE UK, THE USA, AUSTRALIA, CANADA, THE FAR EAST AND EUROPE – OFFERING A TRULY GLOBAL COMMUNITY OF OLD BOYS AN OLD GIRLS ACROSS A WIDE VARIETY OF SECTORS

1,619

ARE WILLING TO OFFER ADVICE

1,249

HAVE OFFERED TO HELP REVIEW CVS

62%

ARE OPEN TO OFFERING INTERNSHIPS OR WORK EXPERIENCE TO ALUMNI

1,777

USERS ARE WILLING TO ANSWER INDUSTRY SPECIFIC QUESTIONS

1,484

ARE WILLING TO INTRODUCE OTHER ALUMNI TO THEIR CONNECTIONS

BOLTON ALUMNI BUSINESS DIRECTORY – OVER THE PREVIOUS SIX MONTHS, OF THOSE WHO HAVE VISITED THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY PAGE, 36% HAVE GONE ON TO CLICK ON THE OFFER PAGE, WHILE 20% OF THOSE HAVE GONE ON TO INTERACT WITH THE OFFER.

CONTINUING SUPPORT Bolton School is a special place, and an education here can be life-changing. For generations, the School has striven to be open to all who would thrive here, regardless of background or circumstance. Whether your time at School was made possible by a funded place, or you had friends whose time here was enabled in that way, we hope you agree that our diverse pupil body has always been fundamental to the special atmosphere that endures here on Chorley New Road.

The generous support of Old Girls, Old Boys and other members of the School community has helped make our bursary scheme one of the most comprehensive in the country.

Last year alone, the School was delighted to receive regular donations and one-off gifts from a wide range of Old Girls who wished to ensure that the ladder of social mobility remained in place for those who follow them through the School.

With the continued support of our School community, we are intent upon ensuring that our founding ethos of social mobility is perpetuated throughout the next century and beyond.

“Currently, one in five of our pupils are able to study here thanks to their bursary place” By the end of this decade, we aim to have expanded our bursary scheme to reach one in three pupils in the two Senior Schools, and every gift we receive for our bursary funds will help us to realise that ambition and to drive social mobility across Bolton and beyond.

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THE NUMBER OF BURSARY APPLICATIONS FOR YEAR 7 ENTRY IN SEPTEMBER 2023 Amongst these gifts were several given in memory of The Late Eileen Edwards (née Farnworth, Class of 1947). After Eileen (pictured here in a Girls’ Division production from the 1940s, wearing a shirt and tie and holding a bucket) passed away in May 2023, her family asked all those who wished to donate to a charity in her memory to donate to the Bolton School Bursary Foundation, in recognition of the free place she received here and the impact the education that was afforded her had had upon her life.

During the past 12 months, the School was also honoured to receive legacies from six Old Girls, the collective value of which is enough to fund two full-fee seven-year bursaries in the Girls’ Division. Bequests of all values make a transformational difference to our fundraising efforts, and we are privileged that so many of our Alumnae choose to offer their support to the School in this way.

“A Bolton School education is an honour that should be shared”

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THE NUMBER OF NEW PUPILS WHO JOINED THE SCHOOL ON A BURSARY IN SEPTEMBER 2023 Our bursary scheme is always hugely oversubscribed and the funding we are able to provide, whilst generous, is unable to meet demand.

In 2023 alone, the School disappointed 36 young people whose performance in our entrance processes had earned them a place to study here, but for whom we had insufficient funding to provide them with a bursary.

A bursary place can change the direction of someone’s life forever, as this Class of 2023 Bursary recipient reflected upon this Summer, as she prepared to leave the Girls’ Division: “As the eldest child from a single-parent, low-income family, I feel immensely privileged to have studied at Bolton School. I have had so many opportunities that I would have never envisaged had I not received a bursary. My time here has taught me about the importance of working hard and giving back to others, and about the importance of friendship. I will always be indebted to Bolton School for the opportunities it has given me.”

If you would like to learn more about supporting the School’s bursary scheme, and helping to pave the way for the next generation of Boltonians to join us, simply scan the QR code on the right. Whether you are considering making a one-off donation, establishing a regular gift or remembering the School in your will, your support could make a real difference to our ambitions to expand our bursary scheme.

If you would like to discuss your intentions in more detail, please contact Laura Firth, Director of Development and Alumni Relations, by calling 01204 434718 or by emailing lfirth@boltonschool.org.

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 5

SCHOOL NEWS A sweet sale was held

in aid of the Yemen and

Harvest collection for Urban Outreach

Africa food crisis

Bolton Lions toy appeal

Girls’ Record-Breaking Fundraising This year the Girls’ Division has once again raised thousands of pounds for a wide variety of charities, exceeding last year’s total with a final tally of £22,000!

The charities supported by the girls include local organisations like the Owen McVeigh Foundation and the Blue Skies Hospitals Fund, plus national and international causes. A number of traditional Christmas fundraisers raised over £4,000 for Anastasia Days, a charity set up in memory of pupil Anastasia Costello, who sadly passed away in December 2021 when she was in Year 7.

In addition to raising money, the School continued to support Urban Outreach with food collections at Harvest and by donating selection boxes to the charity’s ‘Christmas Dinner on Jesus’ hampers, gave toys to the Bolton Lions’ Toy Appeal and the Cash for Kids Mission Christmas appeal, and collected Easter Eggs for Homeless Aid. The whole Bolton School Foundation, from Reception to Year 13, also came together to support a campaign to provide essential items for street children in Malawi.

buy Charity book bring and

cer sale in aid of Breast Can

Education Committee Expands Chris Quayle (Class of 2005) has been appointed to Bolton School’s Education Committee. He is currently Deputy Head (Academic) at RGS Newcastle and is looking forward to bringing his expertise to advise with the educational aspects of the Bolton School Foundation.

Welcome to Lorraine!

In September, the Development Office welcomed a new team member, Lorraine Dewhurst, following her appointment as the department’s Development Assistant.

Lorraine previously worked as Business Development Manager for Cowgills and will be responsible for the bookings and preparations for many of the Alumni events. She will be the friendly, first point of contact for many Old Girls and Old Boys who contact the Development Office to reconnect with old friends and with School. Lorraine is also a Bolton School parent – her son is currently in Year 10 and her daughter recently left the Girls’ Division.

6 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

Community Action Andrew Jowett OBE (Class of 1980), Chief Executive at Build It International, was the keynote speaker as Year 12 students from both Divisions gathered to celebrate their outstanding volunteering and community action work.

After studying Geography at the University of Oxford, where he became involved with a literacy programme for migrants, Andrew worked for Save the Children before founding Build It International, a charity which helps to reduce unemployment and poverty among young people in Zambia.

Andrew congratulated the Sixth Formers who, between them, had clocked up over 10,000 hours of voluntary work equating to £50,000.

He encouraged them to continue to support their local communities, wherever they end up, noting that it is a privilege to volunteer.

Treasures of Bolton School Bolton School’s Archivist, Eric Fairweather, recently shared some of the historic treasures of the School with a small audienceat an event arranged by the Friends of Bolton School. After refreshments in the Boys’ Division Library Eric guided guests through the Chained Library, and other items of historical interest.

Eric points out significant items around the School

Coronation Assembly Marks Occasion

School Contributes Over £50m to UK GDP

A special assembly to mark the coronation of King Charles III was held in the Girls’ Division Great Hall, decked in Union Flags and bunting, and livestreamed virtually to all form rooms.

Bolton School contributes millions of pounds to the local economy, a report using the ISC/ Oxford Economics model has found.

The assembly began with Zadok the Priest, which was composed for the coronation of King George II in 1727 and has been used in every coronation since.

Mrs Kyle, Head of Girls’ Division, spoke about the traditions of coronation which date back hundreds of years, then looked back at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation 70 years ago. The assembly in fact replicated part of the School’s celebrations back in 1953, when a service was held on the Friday before Elizabeth II’s coronation; there was also a Coronation Concert and the Coronation Lanterns were purchased and put on display at the entrances to the Boys’ and Girls’ Divisions: these now hang under the main arch leading into the Riley Quad.

The whole School stood to sing the National Anthem and the assembly closed with Crown Imperial, composed for the coronation of Edward V and inspired by Shakespeare’s Henry V.

In the last financial year, Bolton School contributed £23.4 million towards the town’s gross domestic product (GDP). Bolton is one of the country’s largest towns and the contribution represents 0.43 per cent of its entire GDP. Further afield, Bolton School contributes £50.7 million to the UK’s GDP, a figure which comprises the School’s own GDP plus that of its UK-based supply chain and the induced GDP which is generated through the spending of staff and the School’s suppliers’ staff.

Philip Britton, Head of the Bolton School Foundation, said: “These are significant figures and the contribution of independent schools should not be underestimated. The sector saves the government £4.4 billion annually by educating pupils who would otherwise take up a place in state-funded schools.”

Correction In the ‘Looking Back’ feature in the Spring 2023 edition we published a photograph of the Sixth Form Common Room – thank you to eagleeyed readers for pointing out that this picture was taken c 1984-85 and not in the 1960s as stated in the original caption.

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 7

Prom Time!

The red carpet saw a dazzling array of beautiful dresses At the end of the Summer term Bolton School hosted its first ever Prom! The Events team collaborated with the Divisions to put on a magical evening for the Year 11 girls and boys to celebrate all their hard work and the end of their GCSE exams.

L-R: Girls’ Division Staff Mrs Winder, Mrs Entwistle, Ms Teichman and Mrs Furey, and Boys’ Division Staff Mr Fairbairn and Mr Costello donned their glad rags to join the celebrations

Farewell and Good Luck!

At the end of term Year 13 leavers and their parents gathered in the Riley Centre to reminisce about their experiences at School and share their plans for the future.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report Bolton School has released its latest Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Report, covering the 2022-23 academic year.

Head of Foundation, Philip Britton, said: “We, like many institutions, were minded to examine our approach to inclusion, diversity and equity after the death of George Floyd in May 2020 and the testimonies published by Everyone’s Invited. We have been determined to ensure that our response is sustained, transformative and proactive and this is our fourth such report summarising our work in this area. As we have acknowledged before, our approach to making sustainable changes has been encouraged by Alumni who have engaged in a constructive examination of the past.”

8 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

School Receives RCO Accreditation The accreditation recognises Bolton School’s work with young organists.

At a special assembly Tom Bell, the Royal College of Organists’ North West Director, presented Head of Foundation Philip Britton with a certificate confirming that Bolton School is a Royal College of Organists’ (RCO) accredited school. The accreditation recognises Bolton School’s work with young organists. A number of full and half organ scholarships are offered across the Girls’ and Boys’ Divisions.

Mr Bell addressed the assembly, explaining about the work of the RCO, and Organ Scholars Marissa Hollinghurst and Emily David showcased their organplaying skills. William Martin and Lucas Ng performed to Mr Bell on the Boys’ Division organ later the same day.

For many former pupils, the sound of the organ is one of their abiding memories of School and recent performances at Alumni reunions have been particularly well received!

L-R: Foundation Organis t and RCO Accredited Teacher Mr Murray, Luca William Martin, Marissa s Ng, Hollinghurst, Emily Dav id, Tom Bell and Philip Britton.

Prominent Visitors to Patterdale Patterdale Hall was delighted to welcome Alexander Scott, King Charles III’s Lord Lieutenant of Cumbria, along with his wife, Samantha, who is the High Sheriff of Cumbria – the couple simultaneously hold two of the most important positions representing the Crown in Cumbria.

They met with Hannah Larn of the Rose Castle Foundation, which works with emerging leaders who are motivated by their faith, Tim Taylor, Manager of Patterdale Hall and Bolton School Governor Tim Taylor (Class of 1979), who is also Chair of the Scott Bolton Trust Management Committee.

h Larn, Samantha and L-R: Patterdale Hall’s Tim Taylor, Hanna Alexander Scott, Governor Tim Taylor

Alexander is a Trustee of the Scott Bolton Trust, which each year offers travel grants to Bolton School students and young alumni. He is also a trustee of a grant-giving body established by his father, Peter Scott, the Francis C Scott Charitable Trust, which targets youth disadvantage in Cumbria and North Lancashire. Alexander’s great-grandfather, Sir James Scott, who founded The Provincial Insurance Company, lived at Beech House in Bolton, which became the Infant School before it was knocked down and Hesketh House, the Girls’ Junior School, erected on the site. Francis Scott, Alexander’s grandfather, went on to buy Patterdale Hall in 1934 before donating large areas of land to the National Trust and selling it in the 1960s, his motivation being to protect the landscape from large scale development.

Girls’ Division Celebrates Inspection Excellence Following an inspection held in April this year, Bolton School’s Girls’ Division and the Girls’ Junior School, Hesketh House, were graded by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) as ‘Excellent’ in each category.

During their three-day visit, ISI inspectors observed a variety of lessons, extra-curricular activities, form meetings and assemblies in both schools, meeting pupils of all ages and examining samples of their work. They also spoke with Governors, canvassed the views of parents, staff and pupils through a questionnaire, and reviewed a host of documentation.

The inspectors used these observations to assess the schools’ compliance with various regulatory standards standards, which were unequivocally met, and the standard of the education provided – the quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements and of their personal development were all deemed to be ‘Excellent’.

I am particularly delighted by the inspectors’ comments regarding the quality of the pupils’ personal and social development, and their recognition of our ‘happy and well-ordered community’.”

Sue Faulkner, Head of Primary Division, added: “I am delighted that the efforts of Mrs Laverick (Head of Hesketh House) and her colleagues have been recognised so fulsomely in the inspectors’ report. The inspectors’ observation that our Junior Girls’ pupils ‘develop a depth of understanding which is often well beyond that expected of their age’ is testament to their collective dedication and commitment.”

Bolton School’s Head of Foundation, Philip Britton MBE, commented: “I am delighted that the inspectors found such an abundance of evidence to document what we already know to be true regarding the excellence of the Foundation’s Girls’ Senior and Junior Schools.

This outstanding inspection report documents the high academic standards and marvellous extra-curricular opportunities the Foundation strives to provide for its pupils, as well as the remarkable strength of community that exists at both schools.”

You can read the full inspection report here.

Lynne Kyle, Head of Girls’ Division, said: “I am extremely proud of this inspection report, which perfectly reflects all of the hard work and achievements of the pupils in the Girls’ Division and of my colleagues.

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 9

EVENTS 3

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Old Boys’ and Old Girls’ Scottish Dinner St Leonard’s Hall, University of Edinburgh, Friday 28th April 2023

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After a prolonged break (for well-documented reasons!) the longstanding Old Boys and Old Girls Scotland Dinner was reinvigorated in Edinburgh.

Old Girls and Old Boys, some of whom are current students in this magnificent city, enjoyed an evening of reminiscing about their time at School.

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John Markland (1966), Manahil Masood (2022), Summer Kay (2022) 2. Summer Kay, Rosalyn Harper (2021), Emilie Fielding (2021), Lynne Kyle, Manahil Masood, Serena Arya (2021) 3. Peter Johnson (2019), Jane SparrowNiang (1972), Carol Haslam (née Bonser, 1966; GD Staff, 1987-2009) 4. Rebecca Whyte (2002), Stuart Brooks (1966) 5. Ruth Glover (1979), Laura Henthorn (née Carless, 1977; Chairman of the OGA)

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Foundation Former Staff Lunch

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Bolton School, Wednesday 7th June 2023 An impressive number of Former Staff from across the Foundation enjoyed a welcome catch-up over a School lunch in the Leverhulme Suite of the Riley Centre.

Lynne Kyle (Head of GD), Philip Britton (Head of Foundation), Gill Richards (Headmistress, 2005-2011) 2. Carol Haslam (née Bonser, 1966; GD Staff, 1987-2009), Ilona Smalley (GD Staff, 1984-2018), Natalie James (née Whittle, 1999; current GD Staff) 3. Val Hanrahan (GD Staff, 1978-2014), Rita Garthwaite (née Shipperbottom, 1964; GD Staff, 1976-2006) 4. Christine Sutcliffe (née Nightingale, 1972; BD Staff, 1986-2019), Jane Fazackerley (1983; GD Staff, 2004-2020), Karen Knowles (GD Staff, 2000-2021), Julie Groves (GD Staff, 1995-2019), Sarah Crowther (GD Staff, 2008-2023), Lynden Graham (GD Staff, 1987-2014), Julie Holland (GD Staff, 2001-2020) 5. Alison Hind (GD Staff, 1984-1993), Ann Tankard (GD Staff, 1972-2006), Chrissy McCann (GD Staff, 1986-2014) 6. Maureen Drinkwater (GD Staff, 1999-2017), Barbara Tatlock (GD Staff, 1998-2017), Julie Stone (GD Staff, 1990-2015), Valerie Birkenhead (GD Staff, 1992-2011) 7. JulieAnne Derbyshire (GD Staff, 2001-2013), Kathleen Baldwin (GD Staff, 1990-2010), Viv Carter (GD Staff, 2002-2014), Celia Tope (GD Staff, 1986-2006)

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10 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

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Old Girls’ Lunch

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Bolton School, Thursday 15th June 2023 Following the Annual General Meeting of the Old Girls’ Association, a delicious Summer lunch was enjoyed in the Riley Centre.

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Abbey Green (née Collins, 1995), Dawn Leonard (1993), Natalie James (née Whittle, 1999) 2. Evelyn Cooper (née Evans, 1956), Jennifer White (née Davis, 1960) 3. Dorothy Laycock (née Ingham, 1960), Lynne Kyle, Margaret Allen (née Brookes, 1957) 4. Lorna Cruice (nee Jackson, 1977), Rosemary Swerdlow (née Pendlebury, 1976) 5. Sheila Fisher (née Platt, 1970), Aileen Valentine (née Warren, 1970), Gillian Beck (née Milius, 1978) 6.

Jean Howarth (née Lever, 1961), Sheila Fisher

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Alumni Cumbria Lunch Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel, Windermere, Friday 16th June 2023 As usual, the annual Cumbrian get-together for Old Boys and Old Girls was generously hosted by Stephen Broughton (Class of 1970) at his beautiful hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere.

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Judith Peel (née Dean, 1979), Anne Galloway (1979), Rosemary Claxton (née Lunn, 1979) 2. Stephen Lewis (1960), Christine Cottam (1968), Rachel Hartley (1993) 3. Rachel Crompton (née Allen, 1983), Valerie Stevens (née Deans, 1958) 4. Ann Magee, Margaret Allen (née Brookes, 1957), Mary Harper (née Monks, 1954) 5. Stephen Lewis (1960), Moira Greenhalgh (née Stevens, 1964) 6. Stephen Parry (1975), Valerie Fisher (née Broughton, 1968), Hilary Fenton (née Thompson, 1975) 7. Georgina Irvine (1989), Debbie Lyon (née Done, 1989), Carol Haslam (née Bonser, 1966; GD Staff, 1987-2009)

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OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 11

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Recent Leavers’ Reunion Bolton School, Tuesday 27th June 2023

3 Amy Doyle, Isha Nunkoo, Eve Gould 2. Aisha Mogradia, Aaliyah Shah, Angela Okeke, Ajwa Mukhtar 3. Feryal Mirza, Josie Varghese, Muryum Binte Fahad, Fizaa Valli, Kaitlyn Paton, Sophie Edwards 4. Freddie Higham, Kaitlyn Paton, Hui Shan Wen 5. Aliza Nirodi, Kath Heatherington

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Following their first year of experiencing either university life or the world of work, the Class of 2022 returned to School to offer advice to current Year 12 students. Afterwards they enjoyed catching up with each other and with their former teachers.

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‘3’ Decade Reunion

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Bolton School, Saturday 30th September 2023 September saw Old Girls and Old Boys from 1953, 1963, 1973, 1983, 1993, 2003 and 2013, and former members of staff, enjoying a wonderful afternoon of catching up and sharing memories of School days.

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7 Emily Smith, Charlotte Scott, Holly Mahmoud (née Bowden), Grace Hawker-Overend, Stephanie Lems (all 2013) 2. Sam Palmer (née Valentine), Katie Edwards, Craig Robinson, Sonya May, Cathy Malley (née Bullough), Tracy Needle (all 1993) 3. Former GD Staff: Liz Brown, Tricia Hall, Mary Rose Walsh, Tricia Keenan, Jane Fazackerley 4. Charlotte Scott, Aasifah Haque (both 2013) 5. Joanne Close (née Shahzada), Sue Alldred (née Leyland), Jenny Fairwood (née Deane) (all 1993) 6. Caroline Simmons, Margaret Allen (née Brookes, 1957), Gwynneth Nightingale (née Kirk, Class of 1953), Jean Marsh 7. Joan Roberts (née Hetherington, 1963), Elizabeth Eaton (1963), June Mellor (née Allen, 1954), Jane Mellor 8. Rebecca Denney, Elena Dixon (née Najduch), Joanne Cheetham (all 2003)

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12 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

Alumni Events Calendar 2023-24 2023 14th December

Ceremony of Carols

Girls’ Division Great Hall; 7.30pm

16th January

Joint Old Girls’ and Old Boys’ Lunch

Bolton School; 12 noon

27th January

Burns Night Supper and Ceilidh Dance

Bolton School; 6.30pm

2nd February

Alumni Cambridge Dinner

Clare College; 7pm

1st March

Alumni London Dinner

House of Lords; 7pm

25th March

Platt Fisher Lecture

Girls’ Division Great Hall

20th April

‘4’ Class Reunion

Bolton School; 11.30am-4.30pm

2nd May

May Serenade

Girls’ Division Great Hall; 7.30pm

7th May

Primary Division Lecture

Girls’ Division Great Hall; 7pm

9th May

Girls’ Division Founders’ Day Assembly

Girls’ Division Great Hall; TIME TBC

3rd May

Alumni Scottish Dinner

University of Edinburgh; 7pm

5th June

Foundation Former Staff Lunch

Bolton School; 12 noon

13th June

Old Girls’ Lunch and AGM

Bolton School; 12 noon

21st June

Alumni Cumbria Lunch

Lindeth Howe Hotel; 12 noon

24th June

Recent Leavers’ Reunion: Class of 2023

Bolton School; 2.30pm-5pm

2024

To reserve your place for any of our Alumni events, please call the Development Office on 01204 434718, email development@boltonschool.org or visit the ‘Alumni and Giving Back’ section of the School website (www.boltonschool.org) where you can book online.

‘4’ Class Reunion Calling all Old Girls who left in 1954, 1964, 1974, 1984, 1994, 2004 and 2014!

We will be holding a Reunion at Bolton School on Saturday 20th April 2024 for these year groups – Former Staff are also very welcome to attend, as are Alumni from other years.

We hope to see as many of you as possible, so please get in touch with your classmates and make sure you all have this date in your diaries!

Class of 1992!

Can you believe it’s been 30 years since you left School?

As you are all contemplating turning the big FIVE O you now have the opportunity to celebrate this milestone with a blast from the past!

Members of the Class of 1992 are arranging a reunion night to take place

on Saturday 18th May 2024. This will not be a School-organised event, but will take place at a venue in Manchester. It will be a fun night of reliving old memories and creating new ones.

Please register your interest at www.avinitagain.com, request to join ‘Avinit again! 2024 on Facebook or email: avinitagain2024@gmail.com.

We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible!

Burns Night Supper and Ceilidh Dance The Friends of Bolton School, in conjunction with the Parents’ Associations, invite you to celebrate the life of Robert Burns, Scotland’s National Poet, on Saturday 27th January 2024 in the Arts Centre.

Tickets for this ever-popular event are limited – to reserve yours, please email bsbdpa@gmail.com.

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 13

OLD GIRLS’ FEATURES

Inspiring the Next Generation Lisa’s Lifelong Love for Learning Back in March Old Girl Lisa Jacobs (née Griffiths, Class of 2003) delivered the second annual Platt Fisher Lecture, speaking about her career in FinTech and the industry’s role in changing the world.

Following this fascinating lecture and enthusiastic Q&A session, Manahil Masood (Class of 2022) caught up with Lisa to talk about her time at Bolton School and her journey since leaving.

Lisa described her overall Bolton School experience as “wonderfully well-rounded”, speaking fondly of her A Levels in English Literature, Maths and History, and French AS Level, as well as her involvement in extra-curricular activities and sports. She explained that she had never played lacrosse or netball before coming to Bolton School, with her primary school instead favouring a game called ‘skittle-ball’. With this new sporting experience came some of her happiest Bolton School memories. She noted that her height was a particular advantage to her in netball and aided in her attaining the position of Goalkeeper, a position she still plays every week in London. Lisa was also involved in performing in the Upper Sixth production of Grease; an experience she thoroughly valued as she noted that the opportunities she received in School “genuinely left her with a view that she could do anything”.

When asked about the impact of her teachers on her School experience, Lisa thanked all her teachers for their “energy and passion in supporting her”, making special mention of the patience and dedication of her sports coaches. She spoke of a recent trip she had taken with an old School friend to see The Crucible at the theatre – a text she had studied in School and her appreciation of which she attributed to her English teachers. Mrs Kyle also received Lisa’s gratitude for making her Mathematics A Level “especially accessible”.

She mentioned that, along with having children, she has found herself “reflecting upon the impact of great teachers on her lifelong love for learning”.

After leaving Bolton School, Lisa graduated from New College, Oxford, with a first-class degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. For Lisa, the collegiate system and the broad nature of her degree felt like a natural continuation of the environment of variety at Bolton School. She loved that she did not have to “focus too narrowly on anything”, with a college sports team for every conceivable sport and even opportunities to get involved in a couple of musicals. She spoke of the personal changes and challenges that she encountered at university in a high-pressure academic environment and of overcoming her feelings of imposter syndrome through embracing the natural emotions that comes along with “feeling out of your depth and having something to learn”. Whilst she found that throughout her first year there were times she did not feel as smart as some of her peers, her highly successful end of year exam results served as a confidence boost and instilled her with a sense of belonging.

Whilst working at a consulting firm, Lisa took out six months to work for a non-governmental organisation in Tanzania. She spoke of her brother, Max Griffiths, and his good friend, Sam Yates (both Class of 2001), who had set up an education centre in Tanzania which some Bolton School students have since been to visit.

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L-R: Anika Maini (Head Girl), Lynne Kyle, Lisa Jacobs, Sheila Fisher (after whom the Platt Fisher Lectur e is named), Philip Britton and Ananya Ajit (Deputy Head Girl)

Lisa credited her appreciation for volunteer work to her family values, but also to the School values and “the strong sense of giving back” which was emphasised at Bolton School.

She feels that her NGO experiences have given her “a better understanding of diversity of culture” which has influenced the way she manages and operates people by instilling “understanding and tolerance” in her personal life and the workplace.

Lisa is now the CEO of Funding Circle, a commercial lending platform.

In her Platt Fisher lecture she spoke of how FinTech was an evolving industry that emerged later in her time of education.

Lisa advised those exploring emerging career options to “be curious and take opportunities to learn about lots of different industries”.

She spoke of how she believes that many people in School will have similar experiences to her in that their “future careers don’t actually exist right now”, and so highlighted the importance of trial and error in a safe learning environment.

Employing a growth mindset ideology and viewing errors as learning experiences can all help one to understand that whilst “failure sounds very definitive, it is actually quite fluid and common”. Lisa explained the importance of fast paced decision-making in her role as CEO, embracing the ideology that “done is better than perfect” and that “two-way doors can be walked back through” to help her balance her work life and personal life. She spoke of how this balance is “over long term” and how being strict about leaving work on time and designating responsibilities to others ensures that she is on top of her game.

The FinTech sphere is a heavily male-dominated industry, and Lisa discussed the stark change from an all-girls’ school to an environment of “subtle unconscious bias”. She spoke of the importance of strong male allies, but also of the need for female role models in senior positions for women to look to and learn from. Strong female role models are hugely important for all of society, with Lisa concluding by praising the Lionesses for their comradery and for making inspirational change that made her “excited for women’s sport and for the sisterhood and community that women bring to society”.

Sixth Form Entrepreneurship Scheme During the last academic year, Year 12 pupils from both Divisions were invited to take part in the new Sixth Form Entrepreneurship Scheme established by Old Boy Rob Dobson (Class of 1982). The scheme looks to develop the business and entrepreneurial skills of students through mentorship from Alumni, with skills-based and founder experience presentations to shape the trajectory of the pupil’s research, culminating in a Dragon’s Den-style pitching event.

We are immensely grateful for the time that the eight mentors have given to the scheme and students this year, and to Elizabeth and Tony Wadsworth (Class of 1974) for their involvement in the pilot scheme.

Throughout the Autumn Term pupils were invited to hear from three mentors whose subjects aimed to set up the students with an understanding of entrepreneurship and building a business. Charlotte Morley (née Maddrell, Class of 1999) presented on personal values and success metrics; Elizabeth Newton (née Whyatt, Class of 1979) on managing your time and productivity; and Simon West (Class of 1996) with advice on finding a co-founder.

After these sessions, the pupils who wished to progress to 1-2-1 mentoring submitted their applications, before being matched with mentors Charlotte, Rob, Simon, Christine Morrison (Class of 1977), John Craven (Class of 1982), Ingrid Murray (Class of 1984) Juhi Gore (Class of 1993) and Shweta Sharma (Class of 2001).

Once matched, the students worked with their mentor to develop their business plan: building a model and exploring ideas that had been discussed at the group sessions to bring improvement or opportunities to their passions. The exploratory stage of their business modelling was supported by sessions by both Ingrid and Rob focused on building a business around an idea and problem solving.

Junior Careers Carousel The annual Careers Carousel sees Old Girls and Old Boys share the world of work with Junior School pupils.

Alisha Patel (Class of 2011) is the Manager of the Geoffrey Jefferson Brain Research Centre. She shared some fascinating facts about the brain and explained why it is important to conduct research to help people to live longer and have a better quality of life. She conducted a ‘double blind clinical trial’ using different coloured sweets to demonstrate how real-world trials work.

Alisha was joined by Old Boys Mobeen Qureshi (Class of 2009), a trauma and orthopaedic surgeon, and sports journalist Dave Woods (Class of 1985).

With the start of the 2023-24 academic year just behind us, we are looking forward to watching the development of this year’s cohort’s entrepreneurial skills and are delighted that Rik Thwaites (Class of 1977) is joining the panel as John takes a step back from the scheme to focus on his other commitments to School.

Mentors and students from back, L-R: Christine Morrison, Ingrid Murray, Rob Dobson, Jake Partington, Priyesh Fernando, Jayden Luhar, Shweta Sharma, Marcus Fung, Will Littlefair, Fletcher Mellor-Brook, Elizabeth Newton, Kate O’Riordan, Miya Brennan, Ruby Smith, Angelie Chitre, Alexia Hughes and Phoebe Chuck

Perspectives Lecture: Languages The final Perspectives Lecture of the 2022-23 academic year heard from four Alumni who have utilised their passion for languages to forge careers and lives that put their skills into practice.

After hearing Sadie Scorah (Class of 2009) speak earlier in the year about her career at Hilton and the various places across Europe that her job has taken her, the girls were so interested in Sadie’s career that she was invited back to speak at the Perspectives Lecture. Sadie offered further insight into her career in the hospitality sector and how her language skills have allowed her to progress within her role, whilst making human connections along the way.

Monica Sobrero (Class of 1990) moved to the UK from Italy and joined Girls’ Division in Year 8. After studying French and Italian with European Studies at university, Monica worked as a translator at a marketing agency before completing the necessary qualifications and establishing herself as a freelance interpreter working across three sectors: legal, health and corporate.

The audience also heard from Old Boys Benjamin Fletcher (Class of 2020) who is a current student of French and Russian and Kallol Sen (Class of 1994) who works at the European Central Bank whilst living in Germany and gave his perspective on how languages have allowed him to relocate.

The lecture, and others from the series, are available to watch on the School’s YouTube channel. ‘Perspectives’ is a series of free, public lectures hosted by Bolton School on Zoom. They are free to attend and open to pupils, parents, Alumni, and all other members of the School and local community.

L-R: Sue Faulkner (Head of Primary Division, Dave Woods, Mobeen Qureshi, Steven King (Head of Park Road), Alisha Patel

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 15

Presentation Evening with Digital Executive Shweta Shweta Sharma (Class of 2001), guest speaker at this year’s Presentation Evening, gave six ‘life lessons’ as she reflected on her career driving growth and transformation in the technology, entertainment and media sectors.

Shweta’s first life lesson was to embrace the unknown and she advocated that it’s perfectly okay not to have a detailed plan laid out. Instead, she encouraged us to venture out of our comfort zones and say yes to experiences that move us forward. Secondly, setbacks are inevitable, but they are not insurmountable. Her third life lesson was to embrace a path of continuous growth, which when facing overwhelming challenges, reminds us that we can seek help and that there is always room for growth and learning. Lesson four, she said is to seize opportunities, even when we may not feel entirely ready and lesson five was to be brave and challenge the status quo.

Finally, Shweta’s sixth lesson urges us to dive deep into what you are passionate about.

Shweta holds a number of roles including as a non-executive director, advisor and trustee. She has served as a board member on BT Group’s Technology Advisory Board, is a Board Trustee for the Youth Sports Trust, advises a variety of startups and is a mentor for Bolton School’s Sixth Form Entrepreneurship Scheme (see page 15). Year 13 pupil Miya Brennan caught up Shweta to find out how her experiences at Bolton School influenced her professional career, transforming businesses across a variety of sectors.

Shweta joined the Girls’ Division in the Sixth Form. During her A Levels, she discovered her passion for business, participating in schemes such as Young Enterprise, which led her to pursue a degree in Management Science at the University of Manchester.

After graduation, she joined Deloitte’s Strategy Consulting graduate programme before progressing to an in-house strategy role at Disney.

At Disney, she was introduced to the world of gaming and led the digital games distribution business. Her professional journey then took her to roles at organisations, including Microsoft and Harvey Nichols.

It’s within these roles that she broadened her skills, transitioning from the realm of strategy to creating and running businesses, ultimately culminating in her role as an advisor to various companies and startups.

Shweta attributes her success to being deeply curious, able to think several steps ahead and in seeing opportunities. She emphasises the

Presentation Evening, L-R: Phoebe Chuck (Head Girl), Philip Britton, Amanda Valentine (Vice Chair, GD), Shweta Sharma, Lynne Kyle

importance of understanding the customer while maintaining a desire for continuous learning. Learning from others and challenging barriers are also essential.

Among her career milestones, two stand out: flying a fast jet with the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the launch and management of the Entertainment Division for Xbox in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The latter holds a special place in her heart as it revolutionised the way people used Xbox and consumed media, drawing on her passion for innovation.

Referring to her non-executive roles, Shweta described the initial challenge in shifting her mindset from one of being responsible for the ‘doing’ to ‘advising’, which was particularly challenging when she was passionate about the success of the business. She feels her diverse career experiences have provided her with a unique perspective, offering insights from various industries and types of organizations.

The Entrepreneurship Scheme is a programme offered to Year 12 pupils across the Foundation; providing students with the opportunity to develop a business idea with the aid of a mentor.

Shweta’s commitment to the Scheme is rooted in her belief in the power of exposing individuals to a wide array of careers, professions, and approaches. She wishes she had had such an opportunity during her time at Bolton School.

One of the driving forces behind Shweta’s journey has been the moments when she was told “No” or that something couldn’t be done. These instances ignited a fire within her, causing her to question, “Why not?” and “how can we do that?” It’s this determination that enabled her to succeed even in traditionally male-dominated environments. She embraces a world where almost anything is possible, a mindset nurtured at Bolton School, which fosters the confidence and the courage to explore uncharted territories.

Dandy Delights the Primary Division Stephanie Sorrell (née Artley, Class of 2009) talked to children from across the Primary Division about her debut book, Dandy the Highway Lion.

She spoke about juggling life as a writer with doing her day job.

She revealed that getting Dandy published had taken several attempts, but her perseverance paid off and eventually she was offered a book deal.

Stephanie led a short writing workshop for the children to take part in, followed by a question and answer session. The talk ended with a book signing – the children were thrilled to receive copies of Dandy the Highway Lion signed and personalised by the author herself!

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Dandy the Highway Lion was reviewed in the Spring 2023 edition of the Old Girls’ Newsletter.

Women of Work The Women of Work talks aim to introduce pupils to the variety of career opportunities available to them, and to a range of inspiring Old Girls. These short Zoom sessions take place during form time and incorporate a brief presentation followed by a Q&A session. We asked recent contributors to reflect on who and what had inspired them during their time at School.

Hannah Earp

Charlotte Hopkins

(Class of 2010)

(Class of 2016)

Hannah gained a degree in Marine Biology and Oceanography at Bangor University in Wales, followed by a Masters in Tropical Marine Sciences at Universität Bremen in Germany.

She recently completed a PhD at Aberystwyth University whilst also working at Aberystwyth and Newcastle Universities. Her research focuses on kelp forests in South America and around the UK. Kelp forests cover almost one third of the world’s temperate coastlines and are home to a vast array of marine life, but they are threatened by climate change and by human activities, including harvesting. Hannah’s work investigates marine life within kelp forests, the threats facing kelp forests and kelp restoration.

Hannah explained that her job involves coding and analysing data, and writing scientific papers. However, a career in research is rich in experiences and can involve lots of travel; it has also provided her with wonderful opportunities, such as swimming with sharks, dolphins and whales. She urged anyone keen to get into the sector to take every opportunity to swim, dive and sail, to volunteer at nature reserves and to get involved with citizen science projects.

Charlotte is a researcher for BBC Bitesize, the online study support resource for schoolchildren.

After gaining a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Leeds, Charlotte’s first job was helping to write GCSE guides at BBC Bitesize.

She then worked for the prison service for a year, but realised that she wished to pursue a career in media.

Her role at Bitesize is very varied; she creates images, gifs and videos as well as writing guides and quizzes.

She explained the volunteering and apprenticeship opportunities offered by the BBC and described the key skills necessary for her to do her job. She extolled the BBC’s ‘hot shoes’ policy, which gives employees the opportunity to gain experience in other areas and encourages career progression.

Thank you!

We would like to express our gratitude to all Old Girls who have contributed to the School’s careers and enrichment programmes during the past academic year, especially:

Current university student Celia Logan (Class of 2022) who shared her experiences of her first year at medical school with members of the joint Sixth Form Medsoc; and

Family Practitioner Sue Booth (née Simm, Class of 1976) who spoke with various pupil groups about her career as a GP and Addiction Physician (see feature on page 19);

Toni Pilling (Class of 2012), founder and owner of TeePee Creations, who spoke at a session on Graphic Design in our A-Z of Careers series.

Modern Languages student Lizzie Crowther (Class of 2020) who inspired the Junior girls at Hesketh House’s European Day with a talk about her year abroad and the importance of learning languages;

If you would like to volunteer your time to support our careers and enrichment initiative, please contact the Development Office.

HR specialist Anna Herko (Class of 1995) who hosted a networking seminar for Year 12 boys; OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 17

Engineer Inspires at Inaugural Hulton Lecture Rob Dobson (Class of 1982) returned to School to deliver the first ever Hulton Lecture. This new Primary Division lecture series is aimed at pupils in Year 6 and their families, and will complement the Boys’ Division Tillotson Lecture and Girls’ Division Platt Fisher Lecture.

Rob gained a first-class degree in Electronic Engineering from the University of Southampton and went Rob’s talk focused on engineers and on to found Actix, a tech business how they solve the world’s problems focused on algorithmic optimisation for mobile phone networks, growing the business to over 200 people with offices in eight locations around the world. He is now one of the most active independent angel investors in Scotland and is passionate about empowering young people to start their own businesses.

In a wide-ranging and engaging talk Rob touched on the UK’s wonderful history around engineering, featuring steam engines, ships, bridges and industrial machines, before speaking about some of the challenges that the planet faces, from climate change and plastic pollution to the increasing need for energy and food production and how to achieve these efficiently while causing less damage to the environment.

Rob hoped to cast a little light on what engineers do.

and satisfaction he gained from problem-solving and making electronic and mechanical items could lead him to a career as an engineer.

Rob briefly talked through the history of computers and the engineers behind the advances. He then recalled Bolton School’s first computers. The Boys’ Division got two TRS80 computers around 1978, but the Girls’ Division got the better RML 380Z around the same time. He remembered that the only time he spent in the Girls’ Division was to use those computers!

He then returned to his original premise: the world has a lot of challenges to face, and engineers need to be creative to find solutions to problems such as transportation that does not pollute, food production with lower environmental impact, health solutions for the world’s population, energy availability everywhere at low cost, and many more.

However, engineers use their imagination to come up with new ideas and designs that no one has thought of before. They work with cutting-edge technology and materials to make impossible things into reality. Rob encouraged the young people in the audience to consider becoming engineers and help to fix the broken bits of the world.

Engineers need a curious mind, an interest in solving problems and a desire to keep learning.

The Hulton Lecture is named in recognition of the Hulton Charity Trust – see the feature on page 31.

Rob next took the audience on a whistle-stop tour of just some of the everyday things that owe their existence to engineers: buses, trains and cars are designed by automotive engineers; roads and buildings by civil engineers; and games and apps by software engineers. Robotics engineers automate factories and tackle dangerous jobs, while materials engineers make high-tech clothing and insulation.

Rob loves computers – his interest began at Park Road when he built a cardboard robot with boys who are still his friends today.

He went on to build his first computer in 1977, while still a Bolton School pupil, using an old calculator case. However, it was only during his final year at School that he realised that the enjoyment

Prior to the lecture, Rob spent time with pupils in Park Road and Hesketh House

Steps to Success Proving to be a Success!

One year on from the launch of the Old Girls’ Association’s mentoring scheme, Steps to Success, the results are proving exactly how successful the matches have been so far!

Designed to offer inspiration by example, the 1-2-1 mentoring scheme seeks to support young Old Girls in the development of their professional networks and provide guidance to aid the transition from education into the world of work and through their ongoing career progression.

In just twelve months the scheme has paired 16 matches across sectors including law, project management, property and media as well as Alumnae who, in their own words, “want help figuring out what to do with life, finding a fulfilling job, climbing the career ladder and making a positive difference in the world”.

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We surveyed our mentees and are delighted to report that 100% felt their mentor was a suitable match, were provided with the support they were looking for and would recommend the scheme to other Alumnae.

Whether you are taking your first steps into the world of work or are navigating your next move in your career and would value the support of an Old Girl mentor, please get in touch with the Development Office.

Girls in Health Care Two Old Girls how speak about how their Bolton School backgrounds helped to prepare them for fulfilling careers in health care.

Charlotte Unwin

Sue Booth (née Simm)

(Class of 2013)

(Class of 1976)

“As a Speech and Language Therapist, I work with clients who have a wide range of speech, language and communication difficulties. These difficulties could be acquired, such as through stroke or traumatic brain injury, or could be developmental, such as speech sound disorders in children.

A large percentage of my caseload is working with children and adults with social communication difficulties, such as Autism Spectrum Condition, or with learning disabilities. My role is to assess their speech, language and communication strengths and needs through both formal and informal assessment, establish an appropriate therapy plan and undertake therapy sessions with them. I love my job; it’s complex and busy, but so rewarding. I work with some amazing, inspirational people and feel so proud of the progress they make.

“I was at Bolton School from 1969 to 1976 and from there went on to study medicine at Manchester University.

“During my time at Bolton School, I could almost always be found in the Modern Languages department! I loved my French and Spanish classes with Miss Stephenson (now Mrs Naughton), Miss Slatter and Mrs Morrison, and even had the opportunity to take some Russian classes over on the Dark Side (the Boys’ Division!) before I went off to Sheffield University to study Russian and Slavonic Studies with Italian – I loved my taster Italian lessons with Mr Challinor so much I decided to pursue it further! It was during this degree that I learned more about linguistics and phonetics, and during my final year module of teaching Russian to beginners that I learned of the importance of being able to produce speech sounds correctly in order to communicate clearly. I went to Italy to teach English during the summer of second year, and I realised I’d love to work with children, and language, in some way.

“I then completed an MA in International Tourism and Hospitality Management at Manchester Metropolitan University, and worked for a few years as a Business Travel Consultant, using my languages and communication skills within the travel and tourism industry. However, the Covid pandemic made this difficult, and I decided to go back to university to retrain in something in which I could use my language and communication skills to help other people: Speech and Language Therapy. The combination of Biology, Psychology and Linguistics makes this profession complex and compelling, and no two days are ever the same.

“

“I remember fondly Miss Anne Pugsley, who taught me A Level Physics, and Miss Corkhill who taught me Biology at A Level.

Both of these teachers were very inspiring and I have kept in touch with Miss Pugsley (now Mrs Glendining) until the present day.

“Originally I worked in general practice in Hyde for many years and then was involved in bringing the serial killer Dr Harold Shipman to justice in 1998-99. This caused me to take a break from practice for five years with a diagnosis of depression, but which I now think is PTSD. I really never thought that I would get back to work, but, with the encouragement of friends and family, I managed it.

“After returning to work, I was involved with the teaching department at the University of Manchester: I loved teaching and mentoring students. I remember saying at my interview for Bolton School that I wanted to be a teacher and eventually I achieved that goal!

“In 2009 I relocated to British Columbia Canada and again worked as a GP. Although I was allowed to practice straight away, I also had to take the Canadian medical exams to continue and so, as I say to patients, I am doubly qualified! After a few years I was encouraged to work with addiction patients, and this is my current practice. Although challenging, this work has been the most rewarding time in my career; I also work with an outreach team and go out once or twice a week to give medical aid to the homeless in the town where we now live.

“

I like to think that my time in the Girls’ Division encouraged me to think of others not as fortunate as myself and to try to help in whatever way I can.

”

“Addiction is a lifelong relapsing illness and still has a great deal of stigma attached to it. I like to think that my time in the Girls’ Division encouraged me to think of others not as fortunate as myself and to try to help in whatever way I can.

“For those interested in pursuing a career in medicine I would encourage you, although helping disadvantaged in society is far more rewarding in my mind than working in the leafy suburbs.”

My time at Bolton School has definitely made me the person I am today.

”

“My time at Bolton School has definitely made me the person I am today. The skills I obtained during my years there, alongside the range of interests that I had the opportunity to follow, both in and out of the classroom, has enabled me to find a career that combines the best of them all! Although it’s taken me a while to get here, there isn’t anything I would change. I believe that we learn something from all of our experiences, both good and bad, so my advice would be don’t be worried about making mistakes!

“If anyone would like to know more about Speech and Language Therapy as a profession, I would be happy to help! You can email me: charlotte.unwin50395@yahoo.co.uk.”

UK in the Summer. Sue met with School during their trip around the Sue and her husband, Michael, visited and working as a GP in Canada. ian Physic tion Addic an as career her various subject groups to discuss

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 19

Staff in the Spotlight Julie Hone (Girls’ Division Staff, 2010-2023) “I have worked at Bolton School for 13 years. I worked at Bury Grammar Boys’ School for ten years before that and 11 years at Merchant Taylors’ Boys’ School, Crosby before that.

“The best part of working at Bolton School has been teaching the girls and generally working with them as they are so hardworking, reliable and cooperative.

Also I appreciated the change from teaching boys for so long. I had always wanted to teach boys when I qualified and decided to make the shift to girls when the position of Head of Classics came up here; I was surprised at how much I embraced the change. In Classics we teach mixed classes as well in the Sixth Form and this is always hugely entertaining and fun.

“I’ve also enjoyed running trips. We have run so many trips in Classics and I find them a great teaching and learning experience – and the learning includes the teachers. It was always a privilege to visit the Lady Lever Art Gallery in Port Sunlight and to have to learn

Ray Ball (Girls’ Division Staff, 2010-2023 “I have spent 13 very enjoyable years at Bolton School. Prior to joining I worked at five other schools, all co-educational state comprehensives. And prior to that I spent six years working as a submarine sonar system Project Manager.

“The best part of working at Bolton School is working on a day-to day basis with such lovely students and working within the amazing Physics and Science Teams. It’s also a pleasure to work in these unique buildings and to enjoy the verdant surroundings of the wider school grounds.

“Back in September 2010, starting as Head of Physics in the Girls’ Division, I had no idea what an amazing time was ahead.

It has been an absolute pleasure working with all the Physics/ Science students over these years. I’m not ashamed to say that I love Physics and sharing my passion for ‘How our Universe Works’ with intelligent, inquisitive, and insatiable students has been the highlight of each day. Thank you to all my classes for making my job so much fun! I also owe a huge debt to all my

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and prepare information about Josiah Wedgwood and his love of all things classical; this led him to make copies of the Portland Vase. We also studied the paintings there which are classically influenced in some way, let alone the building itself which is neo-classical in design. Other trips went very far afield to Rome and Greece and they were always very exotic and full of quirky incidents: it was wonderful to hear the girls singing Jerusalem in the caves in Sicily.

“

I have really enjoyed working with colleagues – they are a very special group of people here.

”

I feel that I have made friendships that will live on outside the School walls (indeed I am still in touch with other members of staff who have already retired). The Bolton School staff seem to specialise in teamwork, and any activity in which you take part strengthens professional and personal bonds.

“One highlight has been giving assembly in our glorious Great Hall: it was especially memorable on Remembrance Day when our bagpiper, Jasmin, came for the first time. It was also great fun to work with Mr Morrison when we did a few musical assemblies. The Enrichment Lectures were another fulfilling part of the job when we had members of the public, local school pupils and our own parents and girls coming together for intellectual evenings.

colleagues (teaching and support staff) who have provided help, encouragement and friendship on a daily basis. And a standout memory? So many to choose from. But memories of the Year 10 Summer 2013 and 2015 trips to Meserani, Tanzania, to support the LivLife Charity (set up by a couple of Old Boys of the School Max Griffiths and Sam Yates) will remain with me.

“

If I close my eyes, I can be in that Jeep travelling back from safari in the Ngoorongoro Crater with Alex, Ruth, Hannah, and Ashna. We’re all tired after a very long, hot day, but amazed by what we’ve seen. As we travel over the severely potholed roads, conversations subside and all that is left is Alex’s travel speaker playing Radiohead’s In Rainbows. As Lou Reed might have said, ‘Perfect Day!’.

”

“Over the years I’ve seen School life evolve as iPads have become a standard tool and smart TVs have taken over from writing on whiteboards. I am really pleased to see an increasing proportion of students head off for Physics, Astrophysics and Engineering

At the end of the Summer term the Girls’ Division bade a fond farewell to Mr Ball (Physics), Mrs Crowther (Art) and Mrs Hone (Classics). Before they left Chorley New Road for pastures new, we caught up with them to find out what it is about Bolton School which kept them here for so long!

“One memory that stands out is the walk up to the tower at Rivington in very hot weather in 2013. The whole School either walked up there or stood along the route providing walkers with liquid to keep them going. I think it was the year before (2012) when Mr Britton was trying to get people in the quad to do a sort of tribal dance while we linked up with a tribe in Africa. That was hilarious! inevitably, the Covid years will be memorable – returning to school when it felt like a war-zone and mask-wearing which seemed to go on for ever here; but it was good to be back in the building and feeling like a part of the working world again.

Sarah Crowther

“During my time here the School has become a little less formal, I think, although we retain many traditional elements, such as walking to assembly in silence: there are some things you think are better and some worse – but life moves on and you have to embrace change.

“I have many fond memories of being in the art room with students. They have never ceased to surprise me with their creativity. Particular lessons also spring to mind, from surprising Year 7 by dressing up as Matisse and asking them questions in a dreadful, hammy French accent to scattering ‘German litter’ all down the corridor so that girls could pick it up and create a collage just like artist Kurt Schwitters did.

“My favourite Bolton School tradition is singing; I hope it will continue with as much noisy conviction as was evident before Covid! I know communal singing has been more difficult since then, but we must cherish our musical traditions.

“One thing that you learn at Bolton School is that ‘buildings matter’; when you first come here you are awestruck by the appearance of the School – it is overwhelming. The very buildings impress and that could be considered as both good and bad: there are those of us who enjoy grand buildings and gownwearing etc and there are those who do not. Overall I would say that it benefits the School and the children’s learning to be in an environment which looks like a place of learning, in the same way that having a good study room encourages study. It’s all about creating an ethos and an ambience and our buildings certainly help us to do that. Lord Leverhulme knew what he was doing!” degrees. Thirteen years ago these degree choices seemed an oddity. It was a privilege to be teaching at the school during the Covid pandemic and to see how the students, parents and staff rose to the occasion to make sure that education continued despite that pesky virus!

“My favourite Bolton School tradition has to be the Senior Girls’ Division Sports Day – I love to cheer the frontrunning athletes through the line, but I have even more respect for those who don’t give up and keep running to come in for the last few places. If we become too scared of losing, then that’s the end of competitive sport. It’s been a privilege to be able to organise the Girls’ Division staff relay as the first event where we show the girls that we’re prepared to put ourselves in their shoes! Thank you to the many staff who have been game enough to take part over the last nine years.

“

I’m going to miss working with my colleagues. It’s been a bit like university, being surrounded by a large group of staff with passions and expertise in such disparate areas.

”

And for any students considering teaching for a career – every day has different challenges – I cannot recall a day when I was bored at work as a teacher!”

(2008-2023) “I’ve worked at Bolton School in the Girls’ Division for 15 happy years.

I have truly felt part of an amazing, dedicated team of teachers who work tirelessly for the students. I admire my colleagues so much.

Before working at Bolton School, I worked at Penketh High School in Warrington.

“Other stand-out memories happened outside the classroom. I led two trips to Tanzania, where students volunteered at Schools in a town and in the Maasai bush. Flying to sub-Saharan Africa to the ominously named campsite ‘Snake Park’ was a trip of a lifetime. Whilst there, we walked out to a Maasai Boma (a Maasai family dwelling led by one male and his wives, consisting of a collection of traditionally constructed wood and mud homes). We led a goat on a lead to the Boma, and the Maasai men slaughtered it, and then it was barbequed for us. This was followed by Maasai dancing under the stars, where first there was a performance, and afterwards, we joined in.

“For six years I have been part of the Writing Retreat at Patterdale Hall, where students have been inspired by successful, published authors and poets. I have been lucky enough to join in with all the workshops. Sometimes I’m curious to know if people realise what a fantastic opportunity this is, to work with such high-calibre, creative people in the beautiful Lake District surroundings. I shall miss the warm welcome from the Patterdale staff.

“My daughters have attended the School whilst I’ve worked here, and I feel privileged to have had an inside view of their education. Very different, they have both taken advantage of the many opportunities that Bolton School has to offer.

“

I will miss Christmas at Bolton School as they celebrate it so well. Of course, the Angels, made in the art department by our fantastic technicians, signal the start of Christmas at Bolton School.

”

The goosebump-inducing Ceremony of Carols, where the Chamber Choir, singing in Latin, lead in by lamplight, remains a favourite evening. I have also always looked forward to watching the Prefects’ Christmas Panto. You know you will be in it when a Prefect asks to borrow your clothing which speaks volumes about the excellent pupil/teacher relationships.

“I am excited about the future as I am going to work on my art teacher website business full-time. I’m looking forward to a worklife balance, but will miss so much about Bolton School.”

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 21

Old Girls Go Global Louise Whittock

Sue McMechan

Kate Taylor

(née Whitelaw, Class of 1992)

(née Waring, Class of 2000)

(née Millard, Class of 2002)

Louise moved to Sydney 22 years ago and has lived there since, apart from a four-year stint in Singapore.

After backpacking around Australia in her early twenties, she struggled to adjust to the cold and grey skies back in the UK. She noticed that people in Australia were more laid back and had a much more positive outlook on life. They also seemed healthier, spending a lot of time outdoors.

Louise decided she wanted that for herself and future family so made the decision to emigrate.

She arrived in Sydney back in 2001 with three bags and knowing only a handful of people. Since then she has grown her career and a family (husband, two kids and two cats) and settled down near the beach.

The biggest difference is definitely the weather. Whilst it does get cold in winter it is typically dry and sunny which allows an all-year-round outdoor lifestyle. Louise swims in the ocean all through winter. It can feel freezing, but there is nothing more invigorating than swimming outdoors as the sun comes up.

Livesey, Louise last December, L-R: Nick Bolton school catch up s of 1992) Dave Bridgford (all Clas and k Croo m Ada , Whitelaw

There isn’t too much she misses about the UK, but she definitely misses the British sense of humour, cold Christmases and Hula Hoops (as in the crisps)! Sue has been lucky that her job has taken her back to Europe a fair bit over the years so she has been able to see old friends and family on regular occasions. She has a few friends from her UK days in Australia, including two from Bolton School Boys’ Division, and last year they had a catch-up with another School friend whom they had not seen for 30 years. After a lot a reminiscing they were prompted to organise a reunion for their year group (Class of 1992) next May back in Manchester – it is the year they are all turning 50, so they are hoping to get as many as possible to meet up for the night (see page 13).

22 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

“

If anyone is considering living and working abroad, do your research and, if it still appeals, go for it!

”

Believing they would ‘try it for a couple of years’, Sue and her family are looking forward to their eighth year in Dubai, where she is working as an Assistant Head in an international school.

In fact, it was a chance meeting with a former classmate who had moved to Abu Dhabi, Syla Asghar (Class of 2000), whilst holidaying there that inspired thoughts of relocating.

It continues to be a rich and rewarding experience for the family. Sue’s children have grown up in genuinely multi-cultural environments and she appreciates the lifestyle and opportunities the move has brought. Work-wise, the culture is intense and fast-paced. But being able to travel easily to places such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand and the Philippines is a huge draw, plus there are the ‘hidden gems’ of the region – she never imagined she would spend a weekend sailing on a dhow with dolphins swimming alongside her in the fjords of Khasab.

Aside from the sunshine, Sue’s particular highlights include: experiencing Emirati culture; benefiting from a four-and-ahalf-day working week; having your car refuelled at home; playing netball at the Dubai Rugby Sevens; and, while expat life in Dubai isn’t all what you see on Netflix, she did see Boris Becker at a polo tournament brunch and once had a surprise visit by Didier Drogba in a library lesson.

Sue misses her family and friends, but feels lucky that it’s an easy flight home to see them. There are other things, too, which she occasionally yearns for: crisp, fresh air; reasonably priced toiletries; and Greenalgh’s pies. However, if anyone is considering living and working abroad, even with a family, she suggests doing your research and if it still appeals, go for it.

Kate lives in Greenwich, Connecticut, with her husband, Rich (an Old Bolt, Class of 2002), and their two sons Roman (4) and Xavier (1). The couple moved out of NYC at the end of 2018 after three great years gallivanting round the city. Prior to that they had a brief stint living in San Francisco and, before living in the US, they spent just under four years in Dubai.

Their initial expat life started in unusual circumstances. They were at a birthday party of a School friend where they met a couple who had just moved back from Dubai. They told them all about it and four weeks later Kate and Rich both had job offers and were off.

“

being open to the unexpected can lead you to the most wonderful places

”

It was never their intention to become expats, but they are now US Citizens, raising a family there and can’t imagine being anywhere else. Rich has his own company and Kate is Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Life is nothing like she imagined it would be, but it’s also why she believes having a plan is great, but being open to the unexpected can lead you to the most wonderful places.

The strangest thing about living in the US was moving there (especially from the Middle East) and thinking it was going to be an easy assimilation as they speak the same language and know the culture ... or so they thought! Such an assumption and very wrong.

What Kate loves about living in the Northeast is having all four seasons, specifically Autumn is the most beautiful time of year. But also, living so close to NYC. They may now be in the suburbs, but it will forever have her heart.

The thing Kate misses most about the UK is how Europe is on the doorstep and you can pop anywhere at a moment’s notice.

Victoria Herrmann

Nicole Pike

(née Southern, Class of 2008)

(Class of 2011)

“

Victoria enjoys hiking and mountain biking in the Taunus Naturpark, and trips to the local vineyards, outdoor swimming lakes and Biergartens in the summer.

”

Victoria lives just outside Frankfurt, but first lived in Munich for a while after she moved to Germany in 2016. She initially moved to Germany to get her MBA and to be with her now husband, who is German. Besides the initial language barrier, the biggest shock was how little trust Germans have in technology (eg cash instead of credit cards, everything via physical letter and not via email, fax machines ...). Luckily this has started to change with the pandemic but there are still some pockets of resistance!

When she’s not working, Victoria enjoys hiking and mountain biking in the Taunus Naturpark, and trips to the local vineyards, outdoor swimming lakes and Biergartens in the summer. She does miss the UK from time to time, in particular English politeness (Germans are extremely direct), good Indian food, and being able to see old friends and family regularly (this was a particular challenge during the pandemic).

The last three years have been pretty crazy for Nicole. After completing her medical degree at the University of Glasgow in 2020, she began working as a junior doctor at the height of the Covid pandemic. After her fiancé (now husband), George, secured his dream job in the US, Nicole decided to make the move to America to join him and pursue her goal of a career in Paediatrics. After living together in NYC for a year, she successfully secured a job as a paediatric resident at UMMC in Jackson, Mississippi (George’s hometown).

Jackson, the ‘City with Soul’, has great food and even better music; the civil rights movement is deeply rooted in the culture there, from the legacy of Medgar Evers to the modern and powerful MS Civil Rights Museum. Jackson is additionally only a three-hour drive from New Orleans where Nicole and her husband were married in 2021.

Nicole does, however, miss the Scottish Highlands and climbing the many Munros across the country; there’s nothing quite like standing at the top of a snow-capped mountain as the sun is rising below. Of course, most of all she misses the family and friends she left behind; she has not yet been able to plan a holiday back to the UK since emigrating in late 2020, but is hoping to make it back across the pond later this year. Finally, as someone who is used to a true Scottish summer of clouds and rain, the heat and humidity are a huge change …30°C from April to September is something that’s going to take a lot of getting used to!

The Old Girls’ Association has over 5,000 members living and working not just in the UK, but across the globe. Here we catch up with five Old Girls who have relocated overseas, find out what motivated them to move abroad, what they enjoy about their lives there … and what they still miss about the UK!

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 23

Story of a Gown The Prefects’ gowns are one of the enduring symbols of the Girls’ Division, and the Gowning of the Prefects, held in the Great Hall each May, has become one of its most special traditions.

Here Alliya Ghanchi (Class of 2015) describes wearing her gown with pride.

What was your favourite moment whilst wearing your gown?

I would say the Prefects’ Panto was the funniest moment of being a Prefect.

I always loved watching it every year and being able to perform in it was such fun!

(I played Mrs Dalzel-Job, w Prefects one of my favourite Biology Alliya (centre) with fello rea Lim Kinza Asim (left) and And teachers!). I also really enjoyed walking down the Great Hall wearing my gown at the start of assemblies. It always felt like such an honour to be part of this School tradition.

What were your hopes and plans for the future, as you passed on your gown?

When I passed on my gown I had received an offer to study Medicine and was working on revising for my A Levels to ensure I achieved the grades I needed to secure my place.

What did you do after leaving School?

I studied medicine at the University of Leicester and graduated in 2021 (during Covid; my graduation ceremony was delayed!).

I also completed an intercalated degree in Medical Research with Distinction and presented my research at an international conference last summer.

24 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

What are you doing now?

I’ve just completed two years working as a foundation year doctor in various specialties, including emergency medicine, general surgery and acute medicine. I’m now taking a year out to take a much-needed break, sit some exams and apply for specialty training.

What one piece of advice would you give to this year’s Year 13 pupils?

Work smart, plan carefully and try not to be too anxious about the future. Everything always falls into place at the right time!

Are you still in touch with friends from School?

I actually work with an Old Boy and my first rotation as a doctor was with him; having a face I already knew really helped make transitioning into work a lot easier!

Alumni of the Year Awards The contributions made to society by Bolton School’s Old Girls and Old Boys are a source of continued pride and inspiration to pupils currently studying here on Chorley New Road. In celebration of these many and varied achievements, last year the School launched its Alumni of the Year Awards. The Awards seek to honour Alumni who embody the School’s ethos of producing people who go out into the world and make a difference for good.

And the winner is …

Pupils from across the Divisions were invited to vote from a shortlist for the Old Girl and Old Boy they felt deserving of this year’s awards. We are pleased to announce that the winner of the Old Girl of the Year 2023 is Lauren Mee (Class of 2006).

Lauren is the Co-Founder and CEO of Animal Advocacy Careers (AAC), an internationally recognised notfor-profit organisation whose mission is to address the career and talent bottlenecks in the animal advocacy movement, especially the farmed animal movement.

Lauren’s professional and voluntary activities exemplify the Bolton School ethos of giving back by going out into the world to make a difference for good. Prior to AAC, Lauren worked as a consultant at a global data intelligence organisation whilst volunteering for the Good Food Institute and the Humane League. In 2019, she founded AAC, since when she has grown the charity to a team of six people, all of whom are dedicated to providing resources and support for animal advocacy organisations and job seekers. During the last four years, the charity has offered career advice to over 200 people, over 50 of whom been enabled to change careers as a result of the charity’s support, while over 55,000 people have visited the charity’s website and used the resources provided there.

Lauren works at the forefront of educating charities on equitable hiring practices, and has spoken about effective careers and giving at six conferences globally. She is a member of Giving What We Can, and has pledged 10% of her income for life to causes focused on making the world a better place. In her spare time Lauren mentors people at Magnify Mentoring, as well as serving as a strategic advisor to Tälist, the Animal and Vegan Advocacy Summit and the Effective Altruism Consulting Network; her work has helped at least two other women to launch their own non-profit organisations.

The other shortlisted candidates were Angela Rowley (née Hadcroft, Class of 1969), a committed volunteer who has given countless hours of her time to support communities in Kenya and in her hometown of Bramhall, and Jane Boland (née Connell, Class of 1983), Head and Clinical Lead of James’ Place Liverpool, a centre offering free, life-saving treatment to suicidal men.

Adam Crook (Class of 1992) was voted Old Boy of the Year 2023 Adam is a Partner in the Global Markets Division at Goldman Sachs, having previously served as a Captain in the British Army. He is a dedicated supporter of fellow veterans, particularly those who leave the Army, or who have been physically or mentally affected by their service to their country, and serves as regional head of the Goldman Sachs Veterans Network.

He is also a passionate believer

in the power of education to enable social mobility, and a committed and generous supporter of the Bolton School bursary scheme.

The other shortlisted candidates were Norman Longworth (Class of 1953), who has spent his entire professional career dedicated to improving education, both in the UK and across the world, and David Seddon (Class of 1971), who, following a professional career in property management, co-founded the Old Boltonians’ Association’s Find Your Path Mentoring Scheme, volunteering countless hours of his time during the past six years to establish and manage the scheme with dedication and rigour, and to great success.

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 25

OLD GIRLS’ NEWS Class of 1960-1969

Marilyn Foufouti (née Taylor, Class of 1967)

carries many substantive rights and remains largely for ceremonial purposes, Elizabeth is looking forward to enjoying the benefits of no longer being a peasant, such as exercising her right to drive her sheep over London Bridge!

Suzanne Senior (Class of 1979)

Marylin lives in Greece, as do her two daughters, while her son lives in London, but they often get together for a holiday. The family is quite international.

Her grandchildren are, in age order: Eleanora and Alexandra from Marylin’s son, Panagiotis, and his wife Nefeli who, though she has a Greek passport, has never really lived in Greece; her parents were diplomats and lived in many countries. Eleftheria, Dimitris, and Marilyn are from Marylin’s daughter, Nicola. She and her ex-husband followed the Greek custom and named their children after grandparents – Marylin’s husband was Dimitris. Helena and Susanna are from daughter Katie and her Spanish husband, Angel. They chose names which are suitable for both Spain and Greece. As can be seen from the photo, Marylin is very proud of everyone!

Class of 1970-1979

Elizabeth Newton (née Whyatt, Class of 1979) Elizabeth has spent her career in human resources management and people development.

She is a member of the Company of HR Professionals, which is part of the City of London livery movement, where she organises members to give HR support pro bono to small charities to help them to manage their people more effectively.

Through this she was admitted recently as a Freeman of the City of London in a ceremony in the Guildhall dating back to the 13th century. Whilst this no longer

26 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

In the 2017 edition, Suzanne described her experience of acting as an amateur in a professional touring production at the King’s Theatre, Edinburgh.

Since then, she has obtained a diploma in acting, and, although she hasn’t managed to ditch the day job just yet, has been busy performing in many good amateur productions. This year, she was fortunate enough to be cast as ‘Miss Prism’ in her all-time favourite play – The Importance of Being Earnest – for a six-night run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. She says she has the Middle School Drama Group to thank for her love of this play!

They cast her as ‘Jack’ when she was in the Upper Fourths and it made a huge impression on her – so much so that she learned everyone else’s lines, as well as her own, relishing in the perfection of Wilde’s language and wit, even at the age of thirteen!

Twenty-three years later, she was cast as Cecily, (the eighteen-year-old), at the grand old age of 36, and this year, now that younger parts are only a distant memory, she was delighted to be cast again, and to be reunited with this wonderful play, for a third time. She loved the whole experience, especially the thrill of performing at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, as part of the Edinburgh Festivals.

They played to sold-out audiences throughout the run, and received very good feedback. Next stop - Lady Bracknell?

Class of 1980-1989

Rachel McHattie (née Robinson, Class of 1989) Rachel is pleased to announce that she has recently taken up a new role as Bursar of St Columba’s College (co-ed 4-18) in St Albans having spent almost two years as Director of Finance at St Albans High School for Girls.

Class of 1990-1999

Cathy Malley (née Bullough, Class of 1993)

History repeated itself when Cathy’s daughter, Katy (Class of 2023), said farewell to Bolton School after a very happy seven years just as Cathy herself did in 1993! Cathy has been pleased to see that so many traditions have continued, like the Christmas angels, the Christmas Post and the Prefects’ Pantomime. Happy days!

Alexandra Skevington (née Ola Sarsby, Class of 1994) Alexandra left her job as a primary school teacher, specialising in Maths, in 2018 to compose, teach, accompany and perform music.

In the last 12 months, two of her piano pieces have been selected for publication by Trinity College London and will feature on their new exam syllabus from September2023.

Additionally, her scoring of a short film was selected for live performance in Minnesota as part of Film Score Fest and she also took third prize in FFM’s international film scoring competition.

Coming to this rather later than she should have done (and trying to catch up as fast as she can), she asks any filmmaking or musical Alumni reading this who may be in need of a composer to consider collaborating with her!

Katie Leaver (née Ogle) and Zeenat Mughal

Amy Kadodwala

(both Class of 1998)

In September Amy moved to New York to continue her work at Jane Street, a quantitative trading firm.

As a liquidity provider and market maker, Jane Street helps to form the backbone of global markets and make it easier and more efficient for others to trade on the markets. Their approach is rooted in technology and rigorous analysis, passions that were ignited in Amy from a young age in her Physics classes at Bolton School. The environment and excellent teachers instilled a confidence in her to pursue aspirations in traditionally male-dominated industries, first in her Physics degree and now in quantitative trading. The self-doubt that some of her female counterparts had that they would be intellectually disadvantaged due to gender never crossed Amy’s mind as Bolton School taught her that she could do anything she set my mind to. When she got the opportunity to move to New York she was extremely excited; her travels at School from Patterdale in the Junior School through to Tanzania and India in Senior school made the prospect of moving less daunting. Amy believes that without Bolton School she would not be in the fortunate position she is in today as she looks forward to the next adventure.

Katie and Zee joined in all the coronation fun down in London back in May. They had a great day together and even the rain didn’t dampen their spirits!

Class of 2000-2009

Natasha Hodgson (Class of 2005) Congratulations to Natasha who recently opened a West End Musical in London.

Operation Mincemeat was not only written by Natasha, she also performs multiple roles in it. The show has received widespread critical acclaim and numerous five-star reviews.

Natasha owes her inspiration to her English teacher, Mrs Hadjigeogiou (Girls’ Division Staff, 1995-2014), and to Music teacher Mr Martin (Boys’ Division Staff, 1998-2014) – she thinks of them both often, with much gratitude and affection.

(Class of 2016)

Class of 2020 onwards Class of 2010-2019

Summer Kay

Francesca Fernside

(Class of 2022)

Summer, Head Girl 2021-22, has continued to develop her entrepreneurial flair after taking part in the Young Enterprise Challenge and the Sixth Form Entrepreneurship Scheme at School where she was matched with mentor Old Girl Juhi Gore (Class of 1993). Currently in her second year at the University of St Andrews, studying Economics and Management, Summer dedicated her summer to creating her own tutoring business. Drawing from three years of part-time tutoring experience, she established MaxYourGrades (www. maxyourgrades.com) in order to bring together quality tutors (all students at leading UK universities) with eager GCSE and A Level learners. Offering dynamic 40- or 90-minute online lessons, the business aims not only to maximise grades, but also to maximise confidence and potential.

Additionally, Summer has created a free revision guide, How To Revise, featuring 35 stepby-step revision techniques, each written and explained simply.

This resource, available in PDF format, is accessible for free on the MaxYourGrades website, exemplifying Summer’s commitment to supporting and empowering fellow learners.

Aliza Nirodi (Class of 2022) Congratulations to Aliza who has achieved a Distinction in her Grade 8 ABRSM piano practical exam – this marks the realisation of a lifelong ambition during her gap year! Aliza is now studying Medicine at the University of Liverpool.

(Class of 2014) Francesca is very proud to have been finalised for the Equestrian Business Awards – Equine Therapist of the Year with her business, Elite Animal Therapy.

This is a national award that is recognised via nominations from clients and then chosen through an interview panel of specialists in the subject area.

The winners will be announced at the awards night in November, but in the meantime Francesca is thrilled to have made it down to the final four during her first year as an Animal Musculoskeletal specialist.

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 27

Luci Fish

Matches and Hatches

Annabel (centre), with Rachel (fourth from left) , Caroline (fifth from right), Lucy (third from right) and Claire (far righ t)

(Class of 2010) Congratulations to Luci who married Danny Baldwin in May this year, with a number of Old Girls joined their wedding celebrations in the Cotswolds.

L-R: Melissa Sephto n, Robyn Worsley, Charlotte Thoma Chidi Onwudike, s, Luci, Jenny Moore, Sen ay Ayirgan (all Cla ss of 2010)

Lucy Parkinson-Baxter (née Baxter, Class of 2017)

Annabel Jobbins (née Gratton, Class of 2001)

Congratulations to Lucy who married Phil Parkinson on 9th June 2023 at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool. The weather was glorious and it was great to celebrate with Old Girl Megan Preedy and Old Boy Mark Turner (both Class of 2017) who were among the guests.

It’s been a busy 12 months in the Jobbins household as Theodore Robert (Teddy) arrived in July 2022 and in June 2023 Annabel married Rob (Jobbins). The couple had a very small wedding at Yorebridge House in North Yorkshire, but Annabel was delighted that friends were able to attend her hen party and Teddy’s christening which was held days after the wedding. These included Old Girls Lucy Welch (née Beech, Class of 2000) and Claire Keat, Rachel Groves and Caroline Bennison (née Goodwin) (all Class of 2001).

Katy Newall (née Winstanley, Class of 2006) Congratulations to Katy who married Adam Newall at Dirleton Kirk, Scotland on 2nd April 2023 to. Adam did not attend Bolton School, but his best man, brother Simon Newall (Class of 2001), is an Old Boy. Katy’s brothers Rob (Robert) Winstanley (Class of 2004) and Ian Winstanley (Class of 2015) were ‘Brosmen’.

Also in attendance were lifelong friends Lauren (née Parker) and Matt Fray and Sally (née Ince) and Andy Livesey (all Class of 2006).

Katy and Adam were set up on a blind date by Simon and Lauren at a book launch for Lauren’s brother, Rob Parker (Class of 2001), in 2017!

28 l SPRING 2023, ISSUE 38

Natasha Lomas (Class of 2014) Congratulations to Natasha and her partner, David Martindale (Class of 2014), who welcomed their daughter, Lily Rose Martindale, on 19th May 2023, weighing 5lbs 5oz and arriving three and a half weeks early!

70th Birthday Celebrations A group of friends from the Class of 1971 turn 70 this year and arranged a special celebratory afternoon tea to mark this milestone. On Tuesday 13th June considerable quantities of tea, coffee, sandwiches, scones, cakes (and a little Prosecco) were consumed at The Last Drop Village Hotel in Bolton and absent friends were toasted.

L-R: Julia Head (née Holt), Daphne Ingham, Heather Worthington (née Roscoe), Felicia Laycock (née Muston), Barbara Hulse (née Wolstenholme), Liz O’Donnell (née Spencer), Sue Lancaster (née Ramsdale), Pat Martin (née Haslam), Valerie Caplin (née West), Michelle Slater (née Toudic), Janet Armstrong (née Nutter)

Mini Reunions A Capital Get-Together Members of the Class of 1974 enjoyed a two-day trip to London to celebrate several decades of friendship. Valerie Marshall (née Oddie) writes: “We all met in 1967 and have remained friends for 66 years. We all lived in the Bolton area during our School years, but are now more scattered. The aim was to meet up with our friend Janice, who now lives in Surrey, but regularly comes up to visit us in Bolton for our annual Christmas

reunion. Sadly, she was poorly last year and could not make the long journey.

“We tried to arrange this trip last year to celebrate receiving our state pensions, but that did not happen due to covid sensitivity. So this time we had a super whirlwind trip visiting postCoronation London. We saw most of the sights on the ground or via the London Eye, visited an exhibition at Kensington Palace and saw a show, of course!”

L-R: Susan Brooks (née Earnshaw), Patricia Tickle (née Callaghan), Valerie Marshall, Susan Ashworth (née Hulme), Janice Dunckley (née McNaughton) and Elizabeth Beamish (née Livesey)

Cumbria Connections Janet Hathaway (Class of 1966) recently drove up to south Cumbria to stay with Claire Winnick (née Warburton, Class of 1962) and her husband, Chris. Claire’s younger sister, Margaret, is also an Old Girl, Class of 1963.

Whilst they were together, Janet and Claire were able to visit Blackwell, the Heaton Cooper studio and the new Wordsworth exhibition in Grasmere.

Claire and Janet share a love of art and of the Lake District; they have had a number of walking holidays in the past.

Both of them were also in Guiding – rather a long time ago!

Janet was able to meet up with another Old Girl, Susan Forbes (née Saul, Class of 1966). Susan drove down with her husband from Gretna for a day.

Claire and Janet enjoyed catching up in the beautiful Lake District

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 29

Graduations Galore

“

Congratulations to all Old Girls who have graduated this Summer!

Good luck and best wishes to you all as you take the next steps in your careers.

Umme Akberali (Class of 2017) Umme has graduated from the University of Liverpool with an MBChb – Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degree.

She also completed an MSc in Translational Cardiovascular Surgery.

During her MSc programme, Umme had the incredible opportunity to contribute to a research project, which resulted in a published paper in the International Journal of Cardiology; she was honoured to be listed as the second author for this publication.

Umme has now begun her foundation training as a junior doctor at Salford Royal.

Eleanor Winter (Class of 2017) Eleanor has graduated from the University of St Andrews – she studied for MA (Hons) French and German (with integrated Year Abroad) and achieved a First Class degree.

Eleanor is very grateful for the support she received at School, especially from Mrs Woodward, Mrs Warburton and Mr Fico.

Rosemary Dandy (Class of 2019) Rosemary recently graduated with First Class Honours in Digital and Technology Solutions (specialising in IT Consultancy) from Manchester Metropolitan University, winning awards for Best Overall Mark, Best Performing Student, and Outstanding Project. Her fully-funded degree by AstraZeneca was completed alongside full-time work in various IT roles.

Boltonians Ladies Football As reported in the last edition, the Ladies’ team have been preparing for their return to the Greater Manchester Women’s League Premier Division following their promotion as runners-up in Division One (and their narrow defeat in the cup final at the end of the season).

Those involved with the team have been hard at work during the preseason and there have been a number of new recruits to help adapt to the new level of competition. The summer games saw the squad developing well and, although it’s early days, there has been a solid start to the challenge of the higher standard. The Ladies have also entered the Lancashire FA’s Women’s Challenge Cup for the first time and progressed to the second round. This will bring games against sides playing across Lancashire, some at higher levels, and will be another opportunity to build on the experience. We are hoping for a successful season, but, more importantly, for everyone, players and supporters, to enjoy their time with the club and participation in the game.

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Rosie plans to work as a Business Analyst at AstraZeneca while pursuing her master’s degree.

Antonia Jameson (Class of 2019) Antonia graduated this Summer from the University of Oxford with a BFA Fine Art (First Class). As an Oxford student, she was fortunate to have access to Crankstart’s internship bursary which she has used to fund an internship at the Rebecca Camhi gallery in Athens. Since September she has been supporting the gallery in its ongoing Alexandros Giorgiou exhibition. Having taken Greek classes during her BFA Antonia is enjoying the challenge of putting this into practice.

Athens has an amazing art scene, and Antonia is looking forward to getting involved more with artist-led projects and exhibitions.

Elizabeth Glover (Class of 2020) After a hasty goodbye to 14 years at Bolton School due to Covid-19, Lizzy headed to Nottingham Trent University to study Fashion Marketing and Branding.

During her second year she worked alongside industry experts such as Aspinal of London and Facegym. In her third year she looked into the effects of portable technologies upon GenZ and produced a business plan to combat the issues found. After graduating with a 2:1 BA Honours Degree.

Lizzy is excited for what the future holds; whatever the challenges, she will strive to create with intention and to make a difference where possible.

As always thanks are due to Tony Berry and Stacey Saunders, who give of their time to coach and manage the team, and all the players and regular supporters. Training continues this season on Tuesday evenings under the floodlights at Ladybridge FC, and matches are played at the Old Boltonians AFC ground in Turton on Sunday afternoons. New players or helpers are always welcome. Please contact Stacey on staceybluemoon@hotmail.com or look for information on the Old Boltonians AFC website www.oldbolts.co.uk.

Boltonian Ladies, 2023

FROM THE ARCHIVES Who was Nathaniel Hulton?

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The inaugural Primary Division Lecture – The Hulton Lecture – was delivered by Old Boy Rob Dobson (Class of 1982) in May of this year, but Alumni will not necessarily appreciate the significance and depth of the Hulton links with School. Who, therefore, was Nathaniel Hulton?

Nathaniel Hulton was born in Breightmet, Bolton, in 1623. His later life, following the death of his wife, was spent in London where he was a member of the Salters’ Company and it was there that, in 1681, he first devised the scheme for the Charity Trust, which officially came into being ten years later. He was a staunch Presbyterian and his Non-Conformist background and his desire to promote religion, learning and charity were the inspiration for the Trust. When first formed in 1691, the Trust’s income arose from property in Whitworth, Lancashire, that was generating £32 per annum, of which £15 was to fund 30 weekly sermons or lectures to be delivered in Bolton by a Protestant minister, £6 for the purchase of Catechisms or Bibles for children of the poor and any residue, after an allowance of 50 shillings annually for a dinner for the Trustees, to be distributed in ‘Deeds or Works of Charity’ as decided by the Trustees.

The lectures, in their early days, were frequently given at the Presbyterian Meeting Place at the corner of Deansgate and Mealhouse Lane. Later, in 1696, a replacement chapel was built – Bank Street Chapel – and, from its earliest days, the Nathaniel Hulton Charity retained very close links with the Bank Street Chapel, with some of its members always acting as Trustees of the Charity.

Over the years, as the property income increased, the Trustees had much more money available to expend on charitable works, after having discharged its duties to provide lectures and Bibles. In 1696, for example, it donated funds to help build the Bank Street Chapel, of which Nathaniel was a member. Then, in the early 19th century, the Trustees established a charity school in Moor Lane, for about 30 children of all denominations, a very liberal act in the rigid denominational atmosphere of the time. The Education Act 1870 placed an elementary education within the reach of the poorest and this removed the rationale for a non-denominational Charity School and the Moor Lane school was handed over to the Bolton School Board in 1880, ‘subject to a moderate rent and a reasonable notice’.

After a few years the school was closed by the School Board and the premises were used for a time as a recreation club for working girls.

Finally, the buildings were sold to the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company and the proceeds invested by the Trustees.

Thereafter the Charity began to devote a great part of its income to the provision of scholarships for pupils at the Bolton Grammar School and the Bolton High School for Girls. This led to a new scheme in

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1892 whereby half the Trust’s net income was ‘appropriated to the development of the Bolton Grammar School’, a quarter to the High School for Girls and the remaining quarter allocated at the discretion of the Trustees.

It is clear, however, that the Hulton Charity was helping the School before 1892. In the book written by Veronica Millington (Girls’ Division Staff, 1988-2006) about Fanny Eliza Johnson (Headmistress, 1888-1893) it is stated that at the opening of the new High School at Park Road in 1891, Miss Johnson thanked the Hulton Trustees not only for providing a scholarship each year to an Elementary School pupil, but also for a newly-established Leaving Scholarship of £35 for two or three years to a pupil of 17 or more who wished to go on to University.

The Hulton Scholars board in Boys’ Division records the names of boys who benefited from the scholarships and this begins in 1891, again before the 1892 scheme was introduced, and continues until 1942. In his School history Bill Brown states that the Trust endowed “not more than three scholarships of £50 each tenable at any university by boys not eligible for Popplewell awards.”

In 1986 the Girls’ Division began a series of Nathaniel Hulton Lectures funded by the Trustees and these continued until 2000. These included a lecture by Thomas Pitfield, composer of the School Song, in 1988 and one by former Headmistress, Margaret Spurr, in 1994.

There was also a Nathaniel Hulton Essay Prize for a number of years in Girls’ Division with a Senior Prize of £350 and a Junior Prize of £25.

The last recorded Nathaniel Hulton Essay Prize was awarded in 1992.

There have thus been links between the Hulton Charity and the School since 1691 and it is therefore highly appropriate that the new Primary Division lectures should bear the Hulton name.

Meet the Archivist Eric Fairweather If you have a question about the School’s history or would like to donate to the Archive any photographs or artefacts from your time at School, Eric would love to hear from you.

E: development@boltonschool.org.

Calling All Sports Champs!

Bolton School is keen to recognise and celebrate the successes of Old Girls who have competed in high level sporting events since leaving School and who are able to include ‘Olympic’, ‘Paralympic’ or ‘World’ in their event title.

A new honours board is to be created for the Girls’ Division with achievements at this level (irrespective of how long ago they took place), so if you fulfil these criteria please contact the Development Office.

A permanent display of photographs and sport-specific memorabilia is also planned – please get in touch if you have anything to donate which will help to inspire current pupils.

Winners of ESSA Junior Girls Medley Relay at the National Championships, 1991; L-R: Vanessa Holt, Katherine Winstanley, Nicole Thornley, Victoria Thomson-Skipworth

Amy Spencer, BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year, 2000

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Looking Back A nostalgic trip down Chorley New Road – photographs from across the decades.

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If you have any photos of your time at School which you would like to share please email them to development@boltonschool.org.

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Many thanks to Candida Millard (née Monk, Class of 1980) for this photo of Miss Falla – Candida does not recall much higher maths, but Miss Falla’s observation “I don’t know why they call it common sense because in my experience it isn’t very common at all” has remained with her throughout her working life!

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Following a request in the Spring Newsletter for a copy of Candida magazine, a joint production between the staff and girls, Jennifer Kennedy (née Ainsworth, Class of 1967) was pleased to oblige with a copy of the 1967 edition

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Alumni London Dinner, 2007

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Lacrosse Team, 1976

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L-R: Junior School staff Helen Holt, Carol Laverick and Christine Brown running a Summer School of Creative Crafts in the early to mid 1990s

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Thank you to Enid Ashton (GD Staff, 1982-1994) for these pictures of Beech House in the early 1990s

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Many thanks to Ilona Smalley (Girls’ Division Staff, 1984-2018) for these super photos of an ‘International Evening’ held in the 1980s

A recent Facebook post asked Old Girls to recall the craziest rules they remembered from their time at School – thank you to everyone who responded with their memories of some hilarious, and often baffling, regulations in the Girls’ Division in years gone by!

Silly School Rules Girls were not allowed to be closer than three feet to a boy from the Boys’ Division. Staff would monitor!

Miss Falla herself used to parade the Centre Quad with her yardstick in hand!

And Prefects, too – I was given a ruler with which to patrol the Levels!

I remember one of the older girls giving an interview in a magazine and she was asked about the three feet rule and whether it was true – her response? “Oh no we’re much more modern than that … it’s a metre now!”

Fraternisation areas and the Prefects’ wooden measurement sticks to check you were an appropriate distance from the boy you were fraternising with!

Having to walk on one side of the corridor depending on direction.

41 years on I still march down corridors on the left grumbling to myself if people coming the other way are on ‘the wrong side’!

Having to stand for ages at the staff room as we weren’t allowed to knock.

short, she’d make you kneel on the ground and use the card to measure how far the hem was from the ground. More than ten cm and you were in trouble!

Not being allowed to knock on the staff room door. We had to wait outside it until a teacher was going in or out to ask what we wanted.

Kneeling in the gym to measure the length of our tennis skirts.

Berets were not allowed to be worn at a jaunty angle.

Jesus sandals for inside and strict rules about outside shoes as well … those sandals!

The rule that made least sense to me was that we couldn’t bring our school bags into School. We had to leave them in the cloakroom and carry a precarious tower of books and pencil cases etc upstairs, which inevitably tilted and fell.

Not a rule as such, but a Headmistress told us ‘wearing red and black together is frowned upon’ – as it is linked to a certain type of lady …

Along with no patent shoes in case they reflected your knickers.

Still feel like I’m breaking the rules when I wear red and black!

Not being allowed to roll up your sleeves – generally enforced by the legendary Miss Falla – except of course when oranges were on the lunch menu.

Mrs Spurr’s 3 Ds – dignity, decorum and deportment. Plus KD: keep your dignity.

I was pulled up by Miss Higginson on my first day for walking out of School eating an apple. What a welcome to your first day in high school!

I was accosted by Mrs Bailey (school secretary) in the Market Hall after I’d bought a bag of crisps on my way to a ballet lesson after School. “I hope you won’t be eating those in your school uniform?”

Not allowed to have chips and bread at the same time to avoid making a ‘chip butty’ as it’s not ladylike. But soup of the day which came with bread for starters and then chips as part of the main meal was allowed …

Having to eat something of everything even if it made you violently sick.

If you had a kind Head of Table you were allowed to request just the blob of jam which sat atop the meringue which sat atop the ghastly semolina.

Don’t wear red and black together (Sixth Form) – it’s provocative!

We used to roll our skirts up to make them shorter.

One teacher would patrol at lunchtime with a piece of card ten cm in width. If she thought your skirt was too

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 33

LIVES REMEMBERED Marian Corkill (Girls’ Division Staff, 1970-2003) Students and staff of the Science Department will remember Marian as a quiet, very hardworking and dedicated person with a ready smile who expected and achieved high standards. She had a great love for her subject which showed up particularly in the many Sixth Form field trips that she organised.

Her handwritten notes were always beautifully presented.

Marian was born on 9th July 1948, the elder of two daughters of Albert and Dorothy Corkill in Liverpool.

Albert’s career as a Maths teacher saw them move to Morecambe when Marian was four; she attended Lancaster Road Primary and Lancaster Girls’ Grammar schools.

Marian was always a quiet and reflective person, even as a young girl. She graduated from Birmingham University and came to teach Biology at Bolton School Girls’ Division in 1970. In 1988, with Miss Higginson’s encouragement, she paused her teaching career and went to Durham University where she completed an MSc. She went on to work for ICI for six months, but decided that teaching was the path for her and she went on to become Head of Department.

Mary Appleyard writes: “When I moved to BSGD as Head of Chemistry in 2000, Marian, with her friendly smile, was a welcoming presence in the Science Department. She was generous with her advice and provision of teaching materials, enabling this chemist to feel confident in the delivery of the Biology aspects of Double Award Science up to GCSE level.”

Marian had a keen interest in Guiding.

From being a childhood Brownie and then a Guide, Ranger Guide and Guider, she went on to become a District and Division Commissioner. Marian’s passion was her love of the outdoors and nature. Walking, picnics and bird watching played a large part in her life. She was an active member of the RSPB and the British Trust for Ornithology – the binoculars were never far away. In her retirement in Garstang she enjoyed collecting vital data for the BTO in the local environment.

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Marian also enjoyed playing the piano and, after returning to Garstang to be near her parents, she developed a love of calligraphy and lace-making, Marian attended a calligraphy class in Garstang and her craftsmanship was beautiful.

In 2012 Marian received the devasting news that she had Parkinson’s Disease which would go on to impact many of the things she loved. She passed away very peacefully on 5th February with her sister, Janet, and her friends at her side. Marian touched and shaped so many lives through her teaching career and volunteering with the Guiding Association. She will be sadly missed.

Janet Corkill (Marian’s sister); Pauline Oldershaw (Girls’ Division Staff 1984-2003); Marilou Scott (Girls’ Division Staff 19801997); Mary Appleyard (Girls’ Division Staff 2000-2009)

Katy Hibbert (Class of 1980) Katy, who died unexpectedly in February, joined the Girls’ Division in 1973. Her considerable talent for modern languages was nurtured by Miss Harvatt and Mrs Garthwaite.

After A Levels in French, German, English and General Studies, she took Russian A Level privately with Roy Waterhouse, the Russian teacher from the Boys’ Division, who was a neighbour. Katy was the second Bolton School Girl to win a scholarship to a former men’s college and went up to Selwyn in 1981 to study German and Russian.

She developed a particular interest in Linguistics and Philology and was awarded the second best First in Modern Languages in her year.

Katy went on to complete an MPhil supervised by Geoff Cubbin, a native of Westhoughton where both her parents came from.

She then changed tack and qualified as a Chartered Accountant.

The experience of counting lightbulbs on remote industrial estates led her to conclude that auditing was not for her, and she joined what is now BPP Professional Qualifications as a technical writer of accountancy training materials. In addition to her professional skills, she was in great demand for writing witty and occasionally smutty poems to mark colleagues’ leaving or promotion.

Outside work, Katy enjoyed the theatre, opera, eating out and wine tasting with her wide circle of friends. She had sung Handel’s Messiah, both with School and with the Bolton Choral Union, and she and her sister went to a performance in London every year – the most recent was The Sixteen at St Martin in the Fields.

Katy’s other interest was travel, which took her to Georgia and Armenia, Venezuela, Peru, Vietnam and Cambodia, and North Korea.

Katy was also a splendid aunt to her two nephews. She taught them rude words, and on Christmas Eve, when by tradition she would cook, she packed them off to her bedroom after supper with a tub of Celebrations and a DVD of Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Katy’s funeral in Bolton was standing room only, with family, colleagues and friends, including her two best friends from school, Katie Logan (née Westwood) and Susan Kenyon (both Class of 1980). The wake afterwards in the Victoria Inn, known locally as Fanny’s (the pub at which generations of Bolton School girls did their under-age drinking), was surprisingly jolly – as she would have wished.

Judith Hibbert (Class of 1979)

Ruth Mary Rooze (née Lansdale, 1957-1964) Ruth was not expected to die so soon, at 77 years old, although she had a long-term lung condition.

At her Farewell Ceremony she was described as someone still vitally alive: ‘A remarkable woman. Her petite frame belied a woman of great substance, stance and character – even in her eighth decade. She was a highly intelligent, hard-working entrepreneur, a fiercely protective matriarch and a loyal friend … with an extraordinary, selfless sense of duty and responsibility.’

Ruth Mary and identical twin sister, Janet Howard, started Senior School in 1957 and sister, Patricia Margaret, in 1959.

Between the years 1946 and 1967 there were seven cousins at the School: Ruth, Janet and Patricia (father, William Lansdale, mother Helen Howard); Catherine, Helen and Susan (father, Leslie Howard, my mother’s brother); and Margaret (father Arthur Lansdale, my father’s brother).

William Lansdale (father and local solicitor) was involved in setting up the Parents’ Association, becoming its first Chair in 1956. He also commissioned the School Song If God build not the house from the composer, Thomas Pitfield for the School’s 80th birthday.

It was a strength of Bolton School that academic lessons were not the only part of Back, L-R: M West, M Stevens, J Mitchell, school S Yates, J Tyler, J Scott, K Hargreaves Front, L-R: A Percival, J Rawlinson, R Lansdale life, and (Capt), E Woods, J Agnew for Ruth, a high level of skill in games, particularly Lacrosse, where she became Captain of the Lacrosse team (1963-64), and engagement in Music were highly valued.

We inherited a family musical background.

Ruth played the piano, but the clarinet more intensively. We sang in small and large choirs and played in the School orchestra.

The first opera the joint Divisions gave was a spectacular occasion: The Magic Flute, in which Ruth and I were two of the three ‘boys’ singing a lovely trio.

GCE A Level subjects encompass many more subjects now than in 1964, and Ruth was unusual to apply for law, a route dominated by men. She was offered a place at Newcastle University if she got two As and a B at A Level only to find that boys were admitted with C and D grades.

She lived up to the challenge, got a 2i and passed all the solicitor exams immediately afterwards, the law college invited her to join their team!

After working in our father’s legal practice, Ruth moved away for a short time. Then

she and her husband bought a legal practice in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, where she made a highly successful career as a conveyancing and probate lawyer, while also managing and developing the business itself.

an internship at the UN, all places Ruth visited.

Life is never plain sailing; it is probably true for all of us that there have been hurdles to overcome, which Ruth accepted stoically in both professional and personal fields.

By then two children had arrived, Richard (b 1972) and Nicola (b 1975) and life was very busy, providing and supervising a plethora of activities, working full time and bringing up two collie dogs.

Ruth’s commitment to music was demonstrated by extensive practical support for many music lessons and other activities for both, with Richard’s Choral Scholarship at Clare College, Cambridge a major achievement. Nicola, on the other hand, chose to travel, venturing to Ecuador and Mexico teaching and to New York for

Towards retirement Ruth moved to Grassington in North Yorkshire. She found peace outside in the Dales, with Pip, the last collie, every day, regardless of weather.

Finally, she moved to Harrogate, helping Nicola with her now adolescent children, Nathan and Ewan, acquiring a son-inlaw, Colin, and stepson, Sam. She was welcomed into their family life, and further supported by the return of Richard to England from 20 years of British Council work abroad, with Netty, and three children, Isabella, Skye and Edward. A modern family, extended, well-travelled and finally reunited.

Janet Howard Lansdale (Class of 1964)

In Memoriam H Patricia Bellis (née Topping, 1937-1945) - Died 23rd August 2023 Christine Bielawska (née Longley, Class of 1973) - Died 20th February 2021 Nina-Jayne Birley (Class of 2001) - Died 10th September 2023 Eileen Edwards (née Farnworth, 1939-1947) - Died 18th May 2023 Sir David Harrison (Former Governor) - Died 27th March 2023 Penelope Hewitt, CBE (née Mottershead, 1937-1944) - Died 7th September 2023 Margaret Hopkins (née Iken, 1941-1947) - Died 1st June 2023 Jean Alexandra Mary Izza (née McCartney, 1941-1949) - Died 2nd March 2023 Barbara Peacock JP (Former Governor) - Died 30th May 2023 Gillian Heather Robinson (Class of 1984) - Died 27 July 2023 Natalie Seymour (1979-1993) - Died 28th April 2023 Andrea Simpkin (née Lee, 1960-1965) - Died 29th December 2022 Marion Smith (née Grundy, Class of 1945) - Died March 2023 (Constance) Barbara Wilkinson (Class of 1947) - Died August 2022

Memories of School Anglesey Adventure Again

Coronation Recollections

Memories of the Geography field trip to Anglesey as written about

by Susan Hurst (née Hogg, Class of 1967) in the Spring edition of this I jogged the memory of Jennifer Kennedy (née Ainsworth, Class of 1967) – she recalls:

Jennifer Kennedy also shares her memories of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II back in 1953 after the coronation of King Charles III in May prompted us to ask if any Old Girls remembered that momentous occasion.

“I also have memories of the Geography field trip to Anglesey as written about by Susan who I remember very well. I am a friend of Christine Cottam (Class of 1968) and we speak of our memories of this trip quite often. I remember the plant viper’s bugloss on the sand dunes, measuring the height of the sand dunes with our clinometers, sharing a room with Janet Nesbitt (née Kenyon, Class of 1967) and visiting the quarry at Amlywch where copper was mined and where Dr Who episodes where filmed. Visitors are still welcome there.

“My father bought a television for the occasion and we invited our neighbours to come and watch – I was three at the time. My father had to switch on the TV a few minutes beforehand to allow the set to warm up and we had to close the curtains to see the transmission. From the ceremony itself I only remember when the canopy was placed over the Queen, hidden from our view, and I was very concerned as to what was happening behind the screen. I also remember Queen Salote smiling and waving as she rode in her open carriage ignoring the pouring rain.”

“I noted Susan’s comment about learning Welsh (we are at opposite ends of Wales as I live in the Vale of Glamorgan) so I shall sign off by saying ‘Atgofion hapus’ – happy memories.

OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER l 35

Old Girls Association Autumn Newsletter 2023

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L-R: Rebecca Denney, Lucy Cort, Claire Connor (née Halliwell), Amy Sullivan, Tahera Khan, Elena Najduch Dixon, Laura McGuinness, Helena Moore (née Carley), Charlotte Michailidis (née Jepps) (all Class of 2003) at the ‘3’ Reunion in September 2023

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