A range of three Bolton School branded umbrellas is now available from the School’s online merchandise store. The clear golf (£25 plus P&P) is perfect for the side-lines, the black auto golf (£20 plus P&P) offers great coverage for two and the black folding (auto open and close) (£18 plus P&P) is a great size for all. Each umbrella has the Bolton School crest, so makes the perfect gift for students, parents, Alumni or Friends.
Please visit www.boltonschool.org/our-community/ commercial-services to see the full range of Bolton School merchandise and details of how to order.
Please use the QR code to see the full range of Bolton School merchandise to order.
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 or by scanning the QR code below.
Stay In Touch
FOUNDATION NEWS
A Message from the Head of Foundation
As we enter Spring there are the first signs of the daffodils pushing their heads above ground. Pupils planted an enormous number of bulbs last year, as part of work to help Primary Division pupils to understand nature better and, in the two Senior Schools, as the beginnings of every pupil planting a bulb to mark their time at School. It is hoped these new plantings will continue the wonderful display the crocuses have made outside School for many years.
At Patterdale, the larch plantation is cleared and we will soon begin planting the area known as the King Charles III Woodland with more native species. Meanwhile, works in the woodlands by Tudor Avenue, renamed the Leverhulme Woodlands to mark the centenary of the life of William Hesketh Lever, have nearly finished, making this an outdoor adventure space for our very youngest pupils from Beech House. More prosaically, but essentially, Spring has brought the news that we have recruited very successfully to the Year 7 that will begin in September: an enormously important moment for the School’s future, following the imposition of VAT in January.
On Friday 2nd May, a Centenary Dinner will be held at School to celebrate the life of Lord Leverhulme, 100 years after his death in 1925, and its impact on the School, on Bolton and more widely. It is entirely appropriate that at that event we will formally launch the ‘Open Futures’ philanthropic campaign, which aims to restore the progress of the growth of the School’s bursary provision. To accommodate the policy of adding VAT to school fees, our plans to move to one in three on bursaries by 2030 have been stalled at the current one in five. We aim to right that wrong through this campaign and hope that all of our Alumni will support us in that mission.
Next time you visit the School, you will see we have partnered with Thomas Franks, an external caterer, for the first time. Catering colleagues familiar to younger Alumni and remembered with fondness will all continue to be employed by the new caterer. Most importantly, I can reassure you that an important part of the tendering process was their ability to cook the well-known dessert ‘tarmac and fairy liquid’!
Philip Britton, MBE Head of Foundation
Join the OGA Committee –Make a Difference!
Are you an Old Girl looking to give back, reconnect and help shape the future of the OGA? We are seeking new Committee members to bring fresh ideas and represent the rich diversity of our Alumni community.
What does it involve?
Flexible Commitment:
Attend three meetings a year – in person or via Zoom – including the AGM in June.
Be an Ambassador:
Inspire fellow Old Girls to get involved, represent the Association at events and encourage new members to join.
Champion Good Causes:
Help promote and support the OGA’s charitable work, making a positive difference in Bolton and beyond.
Connect and Engage:
Boost attendance at Alumni events, including regional dinners and School events, keeping the spirit of Bolton School alive.
We would love to hear from you!
To express your interest or find out more, please contact the Development Office – the Committee would love to welcome you to join them.
Old Girls’ Association Proxy Voting Form
I [insert name] of [address]
a member of the Association
appoint [insert name] ........................................................................ of [address]
or failing her the President of the Association (or in her absence the chair of the meeting)
to be my proxy to vote on my behalf at the Annual General Meeting of the Association to be held on Thursday 12th June 2025 or at any adjournment of that meeting.
I desire my proxy to vote on the resolutions to be submitted as follows:
Annual General Meeting
(1) To elect Rachel Crompton as Chair of the Association from June 2025 to June 2026
*FOR *AGAINST
*Please delete whichever is not required
In the absence of instructions my proxy may vote or abstain from voting as she thinks fit on any matter which may properly come before the meeting
Date
Signed ...............................................................................................
Please return this form to arrive no later than 10.30am on 12th June 2025 to The Secretary, Old Girls’ Association c/o Development Office, Bolton School, Chorley New Road, Bolton BL1 4PA with the envelope clearly marked “OGA AGM”.
Bolton School Old Girls’ Association – Constitution
The Old Girls’ Association – Updates to the Constitution
At the AGM of the Old Girls’ Association held in June 2024, Lynne Kyle, the President of the OGA, proposed a change to the Association’s constitution to limit the term of office for the role of Chair of the Association to one year. This change was proposed to allow the role of Chair (a significant voluntary commitment) to be undertaken alongside individual Old Girls’ work and personal lives, and to enable successive Chairs to represent collectively the diversity of the Alumnae body.
That proposal was approved and the Constitution has now been updated to include that change, as well as to update the processes around the terms of office for committee members, the election and re-election of the Association’s officers and committee members, and the nomenclature relating to the School’s representatives.
The updated version of the Constitution can be found below, and will be proposed for approval at the Association’s next AGM on Thursday 12th June. Any Old Girls who would like to contribute to that discussion, but are unable to attend the AGM, should communicate their views via the Development Office by no later than 10.30am on the day of the AGM. The Development Office will then collate the feedback received and provide it to the President, for discussion at the meeting.
1. The name of the Association shall be the Bolton School Old Girls’ Association (BSOGA), (The Association).
2. The objects of The Association are to encourage and promote the continuing association of Old Girls of Bolton School Girls’Division with one another, with the School and with the community as a whole, and in furtherance of this object The Association may engage in any activities which support, advance and benefit Bolton School Girls’ Division and its present, former and future students; as well as any activities which support, advance and benefit the whole community, particularly the disadvantaged.
3. The Association shall be non-political.
4. Membership of The Association shall be open to all Old Girls and former members of Girls’ Division staff, and shall be free of charge.
5. The Head or acting Head of Bolton School Girls’ Division shall be invited to serve as President of The Association, and if they accept shall be so appointed.
6. The management of the affairs of The Association shall be vested in a Committee consisting of four Officers, namely the President, the Chair, the Secretary, and the Treasurer, together with the Chairman Emerita and with no more than 20 elected members. All such Officers and Members should be members of the Association.
7. All Officers and Members of the Committee shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and shall hold office for a term of no more than three years, unless sooner retiring.
8. The Chair of The Association shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and shall hold office for a term of no more than one year, unless sooner retiring. When elected, the Chair should also be appointed as a Member of the Committee, should they not already be serving as such.
9. All other serving Officers and Members of the Committee shall be eligible for re-election at the Annual General Meeting, following the conclusion of their first term of office. Officers and Members of the Committee are permitted to serve for a maximum of three successive terms of office, and Officers should not be allowed to retire simultaneously.
10. The Head of Foundation for Bolton School, and a member of staff from the Bolton School Development Office, will be exofficio members of the Committee.
11. The Committee shall have the power to co-opt ad hoc Members and to appoint any sub-committee, and shall prescribe the function of any sub-committee.
12. Any Committee Member who fails to attend three successive Committee meetings without providing The Committee with
reasons which The Committee deem to be satisfactory, may, at the discretion of The Committee, be deprived of the office of Committee Member.
13. Seven members of the said Committee shall constitute a quorum for The Committee, and the President shall have a casting vote.
14. The Annual General Meeting of The Association shall be held between 1st April and 30th June in each year. Additional meetings will be held as deemed necessary by The Committee.
15. Twenty members shall constitute a quorum at the Annual General Meeting.
16. The Annual General Meeting shall, as required:
16.1 Determine the number of Committee members;
16.2 Decide on the type of membership and/or representation of year groups for The Committee;
16.3 Elect the Chair;
16.4 Elect the Committee Members, and also the Treasurer, Secretary and other such Officers as the Meeting shall determine.
17. A Special General Meeting shall be convened at the request in writing to the Secretary of TEN members of The Association. Such a Meeting shall be held within SIXTY DAYS of the request. The Agenda and Motions submitted shall be circulated to all members, the cost of such circulation and Special General Meeting being borne by the convening members.
18. No alteration of the Constitution may be made except at the Annual General Meeting or at a Special Meeting called for this purpose.
19. The Treasurer shall keep an account of all income and expenditure and shall submit accounts to the Annual General Meeting. The Banking Accounts shall be made in the name of The Association and withdrawals shall be made in the name of The Association on the signature of such of the following as The Committee may authorise:
19.1 President
19.2 Chairman Emerita
19.3 Treasurer
19.4 Secretary
20. Any assets remaining on dissolution of The Association after satisfying any outstanding debts and liabilities shall not be distributed among the members of The Association but will be given to the School, or in default, used for the general purposes of education in Bolton.
Bolton School Old Girls’ Association – Constitution
CONTINUING SUPPORT
During the 2023-24 academic year, the School community gave donations totalling £2.87 million to support the School and its pupils. Within that astonishing total, an outstanding £2.54 million was given to support the continued growth of the bursary scheme, including £48,000 donated by 188 families of the Class of 2023, who gifted their child’s deposit back to School in order that subsequent generations of pupils might follow in their child’s footsteps; and a transformational £1.03 million which was bequeathed to the School by four Alumni and Friends who chose to remember the bursary scheme in their wills, and whose legacies collectively provided in-year funding for 100 bursary recipients.
The impact of the School community’s generosity was substantial. During the 2023-24 academic year, the School was able to spend £3.59 million on means-tested bursary funding, supporting 374 children – one in five members of the two Senior Schools – to enjoy a Bolton School education which would otherwise have been out of their reach.
In addition to this significant sum, a further £140,000 was gifted to the School to provide hardship funding for fee-paying families experiencing financial difficulties, with a further £186,000 donated to support a host of other projects and activities benefiting the School and its Alumni. These included the continued operation of the Boys’ Division’s Community Cricket Hub, which provides training facilities and coaching for female cricketers from across the borough; the development of the School’s sports and performance facilities; access to adventure opportunities for pupils in the Boys’ and Girls’ Divisions through the Clifford Ingham Fund; the development of the Leverhulme Woodlands at the outer edges of the Levels; the purchase of a RIB boat at Patterdale Hall; the funding of the Girls’ Division’s annual Platt Fisher Lecture; sponsorship of branded kits and playing tours for many of the School’s senior sports teams; and funded travel, uniform and ancillary costs for a number of bursary recipients.
Thanks to that generosity:
• 91 grants were awarded to bursary recipients, from the funds established specifically by donors, in order that every child might take part in the extracurricular trips and activities which make a Bolton School education so special;
• 25 fee-paying pupils received hardship funding, to alleviate the financial burdens upon their families during challenging times;
• 11 recent leavers received Leverhulme Centenary Scholarships, to fund their university careers; and
• 121 Boys’ and Girls’ Division pupils received 148 separate prizes recognising their academic achievements and commitment to the life of the School.
A Bolton School education can be transformational –a bursary-funded place, even more so.
In August 2024, 50 members of the Class of 2024 completed their time at the School, having received a bursary funded thanks to your generosity. They left having learnt – in their own words – the value of ‘resilience’, ‘teamwork’ and ‘giving back’ to help others, and embark upon their adult lives with ‘confidence’ and ‘determination’.
In the A Level results published that Summer, 54% of those bursary recipients achieved grades A*-B 39 of them left to take up places at university – including 25 who secured places at the prestigious Russell Group universities – studying subjects as diverse as Philosophy, Politics and Economics, Aerospace Engineering and Medicine. Others were awarded a Degree Apprenticeship or entered employment.
All of their futures are bright, thanks to your support.
“As a result of the support I’ve received through this bursary, I’ve gained more abilities and am more determined than ever to make an impact. I am immensely grateful to be a recipient of this bursary and all the opportunities it has opened for me, and I am committed to making the most of every opportunity that comes my way.”
Class of 2024 Bursary Recipient
The Open Futures Campaign for Bursaries
Whatever your political perspective, it is inarguable that Bolton School is a force for good in Bolton and beyond. The School is rooted in the community, acts as a lynchpin of Bolton’s civic society and contributes significantly to the local (and regional) economy. Our bursary scheme is nationally renowned for both its scale and delivery. We are proud of the difference the School and its pupils continue to make, and know that Old Girls and Old Boys share our belief that this fundamental part of the School’s ethos must not be eroded, despite the legislative choices of the current Government.
The essential and unavoidable choices that the Governors have made to manage VAT will significantly delay our ambition to grow the bursary scheme to reach one in three young people by 2030. Prior to this change in policy, the School was entirely on track to achieve this target; instead, now 100 local children will miss out on
a place at the School which they would otherwise have taken as a direct result of these changes.
We know that many Alumni share our drive to ensure this delay must be mitigated as much as possible. In May, the School will launch the Open Futures Campaign for Bursaries, as it endeavours to meet this challenge.
It is the support of Old Girls and Old Boys during the past three decades that has enabled the School’s bursary scheme to grow so significantly. Your collective generosity has changed the lives of thousands of children during that time, and we are determined that that growth must continue.
If you believe, as we do, in the transformative power of a Bolton School education and in the social mobility our bursary scheme enables, then we would be entirely grateful if you would endorse the Open Futures Campaign however you can.
If you would like to learn more about supporting the Open Futures Campaign for Bursaries, 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 the achievement of our ambition to further expand our bursary scheme.
If you would like to discuss your intentions in more detail, please contact Laura Firth, Director of Development, Alumni Relations and Marketing, by calling 01204 434718 or by emailing development@boltonschool.org
SCHOOL NEWS
Burns Night Hits the Right Note
The Burns Night Dinner and Ceilidh organised by the Friends of Bolton School (FoBS) was a huge success. Thank you to the main event sponsor, Destinology, to Cowgills, Scan Computers and Signature Aesthetics for their generous raffle prizes and to everyone else who kindly donated. Over £2,800 was raised, all of which will go towards upgrading pianos across Bolton School.
New School
Dinners on the Menu
Bolton School has embarked on an exciting new partnership with Thomas Franks Ltd, to revitalise catering across the Foundation.
The School’s in-house catering team remains and will play a pivotal role in the provision of a dining experience of the highest quality for pupils, staff and visitors.
A Magical Winter Spectacle: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
The Joint Production of CS Lewis’ beloved children’s classic brought joy and inspiration to the festive season, transporting audiences into magical realms while reminding them of the power of imagination, resilience and moral courage.
The production showcased the extraordinary talent of pupils from Years 8 to 13 – while a stunning Aslan puppet brought Narnia’s mythical creatures to life.
School Stories Awards
Cheerio Karen!
Congratulations to Karen Riley, who celebrated her retirement at the end of March.
Karen served Bolton School for almost 16 years in her role as Catering Manager, playing a key role across the Foundation. She received a heartfelt send-off on her final day, marking the beginning of the next chapter in her life.
Bolton School is thrilled to have been awarded Best Charity/Outreach Story by Interactive Schools, a digital agency specialising in working with the world’s leading independent schools, for its fundraising efforts to support and uplift street children in Malawi.
After completing a whole-School charity walk at the end of the Summer term last year, the School donated £60,000 to Great Minds Bright Futures, a charity which aims to give Malawian children a better future by providing education opportunities, creating safe spaces for vulnerable children to grow, and supporting them as young adults into work.
The School was also Highly Commended for Best Sports/Athletics Story after hosting the launch of the Chicago Bears Greater Manchester Girls’ Flag Football League.
Prefects’ Board Unveiled
Presentation Evening 2024 marked the unveiling of a new set of Girls’ Division boards which will list the names of all Head Girls, Deputy Head Girls and Prefects from the 2021-22 academic year onwards.
boards are a
and were
in a small ceremony before Presentation Evening, which was attended by representatives of the 2021-2024
Padel Collaboration
Bolton School is partnering with Soul Padel to transform disused shale tennis courts at Leverhulme Pavilion into a state-of-the-art padel facility.
A CGI impression of the proposed facility
The planned facility will be accessible to both Bolton School students and the wider community, representing a significant investment in local sports and recreational amenities.
Padel, a rapidly-growing racquet sport, is known for its accessibility and social nature. Mark Hewlett, CEO of Soul Padel, a leader in expanding padel across the UK, emphasises the facility’s potential to promote active lifestyles and community engagement. If approved, the centre will offer opportunities for fitness, social interaction and increased participation in the sport.
Reading for Pleasure Thrives at Bolton School
Counter to the recent National Literacy Trust report, which shows that the number of children who read for pleasure continues to decline, pupils at Bolton School are keen readers.
Reading is encouraged through a wide variety of initiatives. The Sparx reader app helps track student engagement, with top readers earning rewards and 98% completion rates. Weekly reading sessions, book clubs, and Library lessons promote regular reading habits. Year 7 pupils receive Summer reading books, and peer recommendations are
Tenacity of Bolton Sails On
Tenacity of Bolton, the ketch built over a nine-year period by the pupils and staff at Bolton School, was gifted to the Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT) in 2014.
Now, after completing 127 voyages and supporting more than 770 young people, the boat is to be retired from the TSYT’s fleet as she no longer meets the needs of the organisation. It is hoped that Tenacity will continue voyaging with young people around the UK with another group.
encouraged through displays, newsletters, and classroom activities. Author talks, scavenger hunts and clubs like DnD engage students further. The Bolton Children’s Fiction Award allows young readers to vote for their favourite books, while themed Library displays and nonfiction magazines cater to diverse interests, making reading central to School life.
The
new fixture on the landing by the Library, behind the organ,
unveiled
Head Girl and Prefect Teams: those who campaigned for the boards to be installed, and who are the first to have their names listed.
L-R: Ilham Nagi and Aaminah Ali (both 2024, Amerleen Hundle and Feryal Mirza (both 2022), Mrs Kyle, Mr Britton, Ananya Ajit, Ella Worsley and Anika Maini (all 2023), Jemima Stubbs (2024)
Alumni Oxford Dinner
St Peter’s College, Friday 8th November 2024
The intimate setting of St Peter’s College provided a friendly and relaxed atmosphere for Old Boys and Old Girls to catch up and reminisce.
1. Charlotte Rumney, James Hopkinson (2022), Jeremy Newton, Ursula Newton (née Farrell, 1983), Chris Hopkinson, Amanda Valentine (1983), Alexandra Hopkinson (2016), Jack Toner 2. Rishi Narla, Hannah McKee, Laurence Britton, Tom Boardman (all 2023) 3. Khadijah Ali (2019), Millie Wood (2019), Hamzah Mahmood, Jan Huebel 4. Jeremy Taylor (1996), Sian Kilner (1977), Roger Smith (1979) 5. Sam Warburton (2018), James Whalley (2017), Tom Paterson (2018), Tom Underwood (2017), Rohit Bagewadi (2017), Giri Nandakumar, Philip Britton, Krishnan Ajit (2020), Akshay Pal, Ananya Ajit (2023), Amerleen Hundle (2022) 6. Sam Warburton (2018), Tom Paterson (2018), Aaliyah Ascroft 7. Katherine Baker, Sarah Walker (both 2021) 8. Ursula Newton, Alexandra Hopkinson, Amanda Valentine, Laura Henthorn (née Carless, 1977; OGA Chairman Emerita), Judith Hibbert (1979; OGA Chair)
Old Girls’ Lunch
Bolton School, Monday 11th November 2024
A number of Old Girls attended the Girls’ Division Service of Remembrance in the Great Hall, and enjoyed lunch in the Leverhulme Suite Afterwards.
1. Back: Elsie Peel (née Addison, 1956; GD Staff, 1962-1970), Kathleen Zimak (née Smith, 1961; GD Staff, 1969-1979). Front: Sue Seely (née Band, 1964), Jean Howarth (née Lever, 1961), Catherine Bankes (née Chadwick, 1960) 2. Vanessa Barnes (née Pietre, 1970), Janice Drake (1977), Sheila Fisher (née Platt, 1970), Aileen Valentine (née Warren, 1970), Evelyn Cooper (née Evans, 1956), Catherine Brennand (née Barker, 1971) 3. Pat Harrison, Margaret Schofield (née Sykes, 1963) 4. Margaret Smith (née Leather, 1957), Margaret Allen (née Brookes, 1957), Dorothy Gatenby (née Taylor, 1956), Gwynneth Nightingale (née Kirk, 1953) 5. Sue Seely, Jean Howarth, Catherine Bankes, Elsie Peel, Eileen Grimes (née Ackerley, 1961), Kathleen Zimak
Alumni Cambridge Dinner
Trinity Hall, Friday 7th February 2025
Trinity Hall, the fifth oldest College in the University of Cambridge, was the venue for this year’s annual Alumni Dinner.
Joint Old Girls’ and Old Boys’ Lunch Bolton School, Monday 24th February 2025
The recent Joint Lunch saw the presentation of the inaugural awards for Distinguished Service to each of our Alumni Associations.
Head of Foundation, Philip Britton, has instigated these accolades to celebrate individuals who have made an outstanding commitment to their respective Associations over the years. The recipient of the first award for distinguished service to the Old Girls’ Association is Carol Haslam (née Bonser, 1966; GD Staff, 1978-2009). Having been educated at Bolton School and then spending a considerable portion of her teaching career here too, Carol was well-placed to assume the role of Old Girls’ Liaison Officer in 1999. As the ‘link’ between Bolton School and the Alumni, Carol was instrumental in helping the Development Team to expand its range of events and thus enable many Old Girls to reconnect with School.
1. Carol Haslam with her well-deserved trophy 2. Jill Mills (née Dawson, 1966), Ann Rothwell (née Bradshaw, 1972), Philip Rothwell (1971) 3. Jenny Swindlehurst-White (née White, 2007), Katie White (2020) 4. Michelle Slater (née Toudic), Catherine Brennand (née Barker) (both 1971) 5. Anna Herko (1995), Carol Haslam, Rita Garthwaite (née Shipperbottom, 1964; GD Staff, 1976-2006), Gill Richards (Headmistress, 2005-2011), Laura Henthorn (née Carless, 1977; OGA Chairman Emerita), Viv Carter (GD Staff, 2002-2014) 6. Kathleen Zimak (née Smith, 1961), Sue Harding (1965), Catherine Bankes (née Chadwick, 1960) 7. Margaret Smith (née Leather), Margaret Allen (née Brookes) (both 1957) 8. Gillian Beck (née Milius, 1978), Catherine Brennand, Michelle Slater 9. Allan Eaton (1974), Carolyn Radcliff (née Garrett, 1975) 10. Mary Thurston (née Winder, 1984), Mary Winder (GD Staff, 1976-1986), John Winder (1985), Charles Winder (BD Staff, 1964-1999)
1. Ann Bailey (née Fisher, 1981), Sarah Banks-Crang (née Banks, 2008), Melanie Morris 2. Hilary Crawforth (née Berry, 1968), Peter Judd, Judith Judd (née Berry, 1968) 3. Judith Hibbert (1979; OGA Chair), Louise Walter (née Eskins, 1979) 4. Ingrid Murray (1989), Margaret Rawding (née Gregory, 1979) 5. Richard Morris (1986), Harry Sawyer, Sheila Sawyer (née Pollock, 1981) 6. Andrew Gascoyne-Cecil, Winni Lam (2004), Susan Reed (née Berry, 1996)
Alumni Events Calendar
To reserve your place for any of our Alumni events, please call the Development Office on 01204 434718, email development@boltonschool.org or follow the QR code to book online where you can book online.
2025
Monday 28th April
Primary Division Hulton Lecture
Boys’ Division Great Hall, 5.00pm
Tuesday 29th April May Serenade Girl’s Division Great Hall, 7.30pm
Friday 9th May Old Boys’ and Old Girls’ Scottish Dinner St Leonard’s Hall, University of Edinburgh, 7.00pm
Tuesday 10th June Middle East, Northern Africa and Southern Asia Zoom 3.00pm-4.00pm GMT (6.00pm-7.00pm local time)
Thursday 12th June Old Girls’ Lunch and AGM Bolton School, 11.00 (AGM); lunch 12 noon
Sunday 15th June
Monday 23rd June
Friday 27th June Foundation Former Staff Lunch
Saturday 20th September ‘5’ Class Reunion
Old Girls’ Lunch and AGM
All Old Girls are cordially invited to attend the AGM of the Old Girls’ Association at 11am on Thursday 12 June. This will be followed by the Old Girls’ Lunch at 12 noon. Please contact the Development Office if you would like to attend either the meeting, the lunch, or both.
Zoom in for a Chat!
Old Girls and Old Boys based in the Middle East, Northern Africa and Southern Asia are invited to join an informal catch-up via Zoom!
If you would like to chat with fellow Alumni and hear from Philip Britton, Head of Foundation, about life at Bolton School over the last year, please connect with us on Tuesday 10th June (3.00-4.00pm GMT. Contact the Development Office for details.
Bolton School Summer Festival
The Friends of Bolton School are once again hosting a foundation-wide Summer Festival: this year’s event will take place on Sunday 15th June
‘5’ Class Reunion –Save the Date!
Calling all Old Girls who left in 1955, 1965, 1975, 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2015!
New Alumni Event
Next year will see the introduction of an Alumni Northern Dinner! The inaugural event, which will be open to all Old Girls and Old Boys, will take place at a venue in central Manchester in May 2026. Please keep your eyes open for further details which will follow in due course!
All Alumni and their families are welcome to attend. Any Old Girls wishing to get involved, either with the planning or by making a donation, are invited to contact bdfriends@boltonschool.org.uk.
We will be holding a Reunion at Bolton School on Saturday 20th September 2025 for all 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!
Join the Bolton School Alumni Network
DID YOU KNOW
The FREE Business Directory offers self-employed Alumni the opportunity to promote their business and services and presents a networking community which spans the globe.
3,110
Registered users, spanning the UK, the USA, Australia, Canada, the Asia and Europe –offering a truly global community of Old Boys and Old Girls across a wide variety of sectors
1,648
Are willing to offer advice
1,271
Have offered to help review CVs
Alumni Business Directory
68%
Are willing to help
1,806
Are willing to answer industry specific questions
1,512
Are willing to introduce other Alumni to their connections
Bolton Alumni Business Directory – over the previous six months 35% of those who have visited the Business Directory page, have gone on to click on the offer page, while 19% of those have gone on to interact with the offer.
As part of the Bolton Alumni Network, the free online Business Directory offers self-employed Alumni the opportunity to promote their businesses and services to a community that spans the globe.
With over 3,000 registered users in the UK, Europe, Australia, the USA, Canada, the Far East and beyond, the Bolton School Alumni Network offers a diverse spectrum of support for Old Girls, Old Boys and Former Staff in a variety of sectors.
The use of the Bolton Alumni Business Directory as a free tool to showcase services to an active network has proved very popular, as has using the platform to offer benefits directly to members. The network of registered users can also be used as a free recruitment
tool and we actively welcome any members of the Alumni community who work within, or are responsible for, recruitment to make use of the varied and engaged pool of potential candidates.
For advice on how to advertise a vacancy or search for a mentor within the network please see the informative ‘How to’ videos in the Resources tab. We also welcome any Alumni who are keen to post a careers skills video specific to their industry to contact the Development Office.
If you are not yet a member of the Bolton Alumni Network, you can join today and create a profile – follow the QR code above to sign up at www.boltonalumninetwork.com with your LinkedIn, Facebook or Google Account or with an email address.
Travel Counsellor Dan Hyams (Class of 2011), a specialist in luxury tailor-made travel, has taken the opportunity to feature his business on the Bolton Alumni Network (BAN). He says: “I opted to use the Bolton Alumni Network (BAN) to showcase my business and network with fellow Old Boltonians. As a tailor-made travel specialist who creates lots of special occasion travels, building strong, personal relationships is essential for my business to succeed. Therefore having the initial familiarity of our school days is fantastic and makes for a great foundation which wouldn’t have been possible outside the BAN.”
To feature your business here, please contact the Development Office.
Boltonians Ladies Football Spring 2025
The Boltonians Ladies’ season in the Greater Manchester Women’s League Premier Division is drawing to a close. After a promising start, having played well in both the Women’s FA Cup against Morecambe, and against Preston North End in the Lancashire Challenge Trophy, followed by good results in the Autumn league games, the Winter months have been less successful. Weather and rearranged fixtures somewhat disrupted the team’s rhythm and with injuries and a relatively small squad of players compared to the ‘bigger’ clubs in the league, results have not gone well since the Christmas break. They will hold their status in the top division, but the only chance of silverware will be in the League’s Open Cup this season with a semi-final to play at the time of writing.
We are committed to being an amateur side playing at the best level we can, and are proud of the principles which lie behind that. If you have enjoyed playing football and want to continue to do so purely for the pleasure of the game, we’d love you to join us. We’ll offer good facilities, training and coaching, but without the pressures which come with the professional game and which can impact on careers or family lives. Watch out for information on a six a-side tournament to be held at School at the end of the Summer Term to see what we’re all about. We have great plans for next season too; more of that to come …
Training continues through the Summer on Tuesday evenings at Ladybridge FC, with home games on Sunday afternoons in Turton when the new season starts. Any new players or helpers are welcome—contact David Lee at davidjlee@live.co.uk or visit www.oldbolts.co.uk
Inspiring the Next Generation
International Women’s Day
The keynote speaker at this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) assembly was Habibunnisha Patel (Class of 1997)
Habi is currently General Counsel and Company Secretary at Cancer Research UK, and was the recipient of the School’s 2024 Old Girl of the Year Award. She delivered an inspiring speech which highlighted the significance of education, the challenges faced by women and the importance of adaptability, resilience, self-belief and being brave.
Keynote speaker Habibunnisha Patel Habi began her address by reflecting on how her formative years had shaped her experience at Bolton School. As the daughter of migrants from Gujarat, India, she was raised to value education as her passport to opportunity and choice. She thrived academically and participated in extracurricular activities such as lacrosse, gymnastics and drama, nurturing skills and passions which she has carried into her adult life. Becoming fluent or proficient in six languages, Habi believed that language and effective communication were key to conflict resolution and her personal values on equity influenced her career ambitions. She read Law at the University of Cambridge and became a corporate lawyer, her work taking her across the globe. She then moved to the voluntary sector, focusing on international development and human rights. She worked with faith-based and child rights-based organisations for a decade before taking up her current post. Her career path illustrates how education and resilience can empower individuals to transcend barriers. Habi spoke about the women in her family going back two generations who had been positive role models, balancing careers and raising their families, including her grandmother, who had served as a headteacher in India. Habi credits Bolton School for providing a platform for personal growth, highlighting how she found herself challenging stereotypes simply by being herself—a young Muslim woman pursuing a non-conventional path.
Habi then focused on this year’s International Women’s Day theme: ‘Accelerate Action’. She highlighted the significant strides made over the past century, from women gaining the right to vote in 1918 to the growing presence of women in leadership roles today. However, while
progress toward gender equality is being made, it is not happening quickly enough: estimates from the World Economic Forum project that full gender parity will take 134 years to achieve, underlining the unacceptably slow pace of advancement. Unfortunately, political and social challenges make the pursuit of equality even more difficult, highlighting the need for resilience in the face of change.
Habi concluded her speech by sharing five key lessons drawn from her life and career experiences:
• The Power of Yes: Say ‘Yes’ to new opportunities, even if they seem intimidating – be bold, embrace challenges and trust in your own potential.
• The Power of No: Prioritise personal well-being and learn to say ‘No’ when necessary – it is acceptable to set boundaries and protect your time and energy, even when balancing numerous responsibilities.
• Follow Your Own Path: Define your own version of success –embrace your unique identities and values rather than conforming to external expectations.
• Choose Your Circle Wisely: You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with – surround yourself with inspiring, empowering individuals. To quote Michelle Obama: “There’s no room for mean girls.”
• You Don’t Have to Be Perfect: Take risks, embrace failure as a learning opportunity – and enjoy the journey.
Habi’s speech was a powerful call to action, urging the next generation of women to be courageous, resilient and bold in their pursuit of equality. She emphasised the importance of education, of seizing opportunities and of accelerating action toward gender parity. Through her personal journey she demonstrated how perseverance and adaptability can lead to personal and professional growth. Her message resonated with the audience, offering both practical wisdom and inspirational guidance. She urged the girls to “be brave”, to take risks, to embrace change and to forge their own paths, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society.
Habi’s inspirational speech can be watched on the School’s YouTube channel.
Following the assembly a series of activities for pupils from Years 9, 12 and 13 took place led by the following Old Girls: Kate Allen (1996), Vanessa Azavedo (2019), Saamin Cheema (2016), Elizabeth Davies (1997), Elizabeth Foster (née Whyte, 1989), Eleanor Gibbons (2019), Tahera Khan (2003), Kopal Matanhelia (2001), Lucy Nolan (2010), Sophie Patel (2023), Elizabeth Rhodes (née Thomas, 1992), Nicola Rigby (2000), Jasmine Shum (2023), Suzanne Smith (née Dick, 2001), Ella Smyth (2019) and Amanda Valentine (1983) – many thanks to them and to Habi for giving up their time to inspire the next generation!
Thank you to all the Old Girls who supported this year’s International Women’s Day
Jasmine Shum enthusiasticallyspoke to current pupils
Nicola Rigby with Year 12 girls
Kopal Matanhelia with Year 9 girls
Eleanor Gibbons spoke about her career as a midwife
Alumni of the Year
The finalists of the 2024 Alumni of the Year Awards were invited back to Bolton School for a celebratory lunch where they were presented with their awards and certificates.
Overall winners Habibunnisha Patel (Class of 1997), who was named Old Girl of the Year in acknowledgement of her many years as a lawyer in the notfor-profit sector, and Frank Yates (Class of 1952), who was named Old Boy of the Year in recognition of his career as a doctor, were joined by runners-up, Karen Greenhalgh (Class of 2000) and Tom (Class of 2001), Matthew (Class of 2003) and Harry (Class of 2006) Pickup
Following the presentations, the achievements of all the finalists were commended at a special assembly during which Habi gave a passionate, heartfelt speech about the impact Bolton School has had on her life, from lifelong friends made to the wealth of opportunities which supported her studies which then helped her along her chosen career path.
Steps to Success
Mrs Kyle presents runner-up Karen Greenhalgh with her certificate Frank’s daughter, Jane Hamilton (née Yates, Class of 1977) speaking on his behalf, echoed Habi’s comments, noting the positive contribution Bolton School had made to her father’s life and work. The School is sad to note that Frank has since passed away and sends its condolences to his family.
The Alumni of the Year Awards seek to recognise Old Girls and Old Boys who have made an outstanding contribution to society through their voluntary service, academic achievements or professional success, or whose behaviour and values inspire others. Those nominated are Alumni who embody the School’s ethos of producing people who go out into the world and make a difference for good.
Please use the QR code to nominate a deserving candidate for this year’s awards.
Established in 2022, the Steps to Success scheme has supported over 30 Alumnae to navigate the world of work. Mentees have sought the support of Old Girls from a range of sectors, who have walked the same path and are able to offer impartial guidance on transitioning from education to employment or advice on climbing the career ladder. Each mentee has received tailored assistance, with the mentors drawing on their own network of professional contacts to provide value-added insights.
Marketing Executive Nita Kanji (Class of 2019) says: “The Steps to Success Scheme has been such a great experience. I would like to say a huge thank you to my mentor, Cherie, for all her support and guidance – it really made a difference. The wisdom she shared has been invaluable. The scheme has not only helped enhance my career development, but I’ve also gained a lovely friendship.
“I’m also really thankful to the Development Office for making the initial process so seamless and for their support throughout the scheme.
“Overall, I can honestly say I couldn’t recommend this scheme enough to anyone looking for personal and professional growth.”
Interior designer Jessica Rogers (née Helm, Class of 2011) says: “I highly recommend the Steps to Success mentoring scheme. I contacted the School earlier this year and have never looked back.
“The process is so simple and I was matched with a lovely mentor called Christine. Since meeting with Christine we have discussed ways in which to develop my business and she has been very supportive, putting me in touch with website designers and networking groups.
“I am very grateful for the scheme offered by School and I am excited to see what the future holds for my business.”
The Steps to Success scheme welcomes applications from young Old Girls considering their next steps, who will benefit from the breadth of experience the mentors have to offer. Please email development@boltonschool.org to find out more.
Old Girl of the Year Habi with Mrs Kyle
Careers Carousels
Year 8 pupils in both Divisions had an opportunity to learn about a variety of careers from Old Girls and Old Boys. The carousels involved six speakers who each led a fun-based activity relating to their field of expertise, so there was plenty of food for thought!
Year 8 girls heard from Alumni who work in a wide variety of different sectors. The pupils made the most of the opportunity to hear about such a range of careers and had plenty of questions to ask following each session.
Girls’ Division pupils in Year 8 were inspired by: Megan Bowden (Class of 2011), a commercial pilot who flies Boeing 737s for a living; Eleanor Gorick (Class of 2015) and Amelia Camilleri (Class of 2017), the founders of ME comms, a Manchester-based PR and social media agency specialising in hospitality; Ryan Thakrar (Class of 2018), a commercial finance analyst with Exertis, one of the UK’s largest and fastest-growing tech distribution companies; Eleanor Gibbons (Class of 2019), a Midwife working at the Royal Bolton Hospital’s Princess Anne Maternity Unit, and Faye Clarkson (Class of 2023), a Solicitor Degree Apprentice at Weightmans LLP.
Thank You!
Boys’ Division pupils in Year 8 were given an insight into the world of work through a series of short presentations and activities.
Guest speakers sharing their career journeys were: Rob De Maine (Class of 2002), a Royal Navy helicopter pilot; performer, actress and singer Jessica Ryan (Class of 2014), Waqqas Patel (Class of 2014); a Surgical Trainee; Detective Constable Morgan Skeels-Caldwell (Class of 2018) of Greater Manchester Police; Peter Johnson (Class of 2019), a presenter at 96.5 Bolton FM and Faye Clarkson (Class of 2023)
L-R: Peter, Morgan, Faye, Jessica, Waqqas and Rob
We are very grateful to all of the Old Girls who have given their time to support current pupils through a variety of careers and enrichment events and opportunities.
Anna Herko (Class of 1995) delivered a session on the importance of CVs to Year 12 Girls’ Division students as part of the SCOPE programme.
Hannah Miller (née Bradley, Class of 2006) delivered a mock mediation session to Year 11 pupils in Girls’ Division as part of the THRIVE programme.
Financial advisor Jaiminee Patel (Class of 2011) hosted a session on wealth management as part of the series of lunchtime A-Z Careers talks.
Lucy Parkinson-Baxter (Class of 2017) worked with Park Road’s broadcasting club.
Dentist Fiza Ahmed (Class of 2020) conducted mock interviews with Girls’ Division pupils applying to Medical and Dental Schools.
Megan Bowden (Class of 2011), Grace Brookes (Class of 2014), Christie O’Connell (Class of 2016), Khadijah Ismail (Class of 2017) and Feryal Mirza (Class of 2022) all had one-to-one conversations with current students about their university experience and careers to date.
Alex Hopkinson (Class of 2016), Sophie Hayton (Class of 2017), Millie Wood (Class of 2019) and Katie Schaffel (Class of 2022) all hosted mock interviews for Year 13 students ahead of their university interviews.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week Charlotte Hughes (Class of 2021), Evie Sells (Class of 2023) and Charlotte Duffy (Class of 2024) spoke to Sixth Formers about their experiences as degree apprentices and the benefits of an apprenticeship over the traditional university route.
Timewaif comes to School
Deborah Lyon (née Done, Class of 1989) came in to School to speak to Year 4 pupils from the Junior Girls’ and Junior Boys’ Schools about her new book, The Timewaif and the Roman Road. Set in western Cumbria, the book tells the story of Tim, who falls through a magic cave in the sea cliffs and is transported back to Roman times. Enjoying life and the adventures with his new-found Mediterranean friends, Tim has to decide whether he wants to go back to normality.
After reading the pupils a chapter of her book, Deborah fielded questions from the excited audience about her favourite books, her enjoyment of being an author and the practicalities of writing. She said that the best way to be an author is to read lots of books!
Timewaif, the first in a six-part series, is Deborah’s first fiction novel following her inaugural publication about the Lake District a few years ago.
Francesca is the owner and manager of an award-winning luxury dog grooming salon in Manchester.
“My journey to becoming a professional in the animal industry has been anything but conventional. The idea of working with dogs never crossed my mind during my School days. Yet, as I reflect, I can see how subject choices and encouragement to strive and achieve have shaped my career.
“At Bolton School, I excelled in creative subjects like Music, Drama and Creative Writing. I joined choirs, played percussion in the orchestra, and was a founding member of the first joint girls’ and boys’ choir, Cantores Novi (1998-2000). Becoming Music Prefectwearing the same gown my sister wore 13 years earlier - was a proud achievement. My music teachers - Mrs Whitmore, Mr Davenport and Mrs Tope - encouraged my passion for performing, while Mrs Georghiou nurtured my enthusiasm for English and Drama. I transformed from a shy 11-year-old into a confident class participant.
“Bolton School also helped me move beyond black-and-white thinking.
“The encouragement to engage in debates and question ideas taught me to consider situations from multiple perspectives – an essential skill in my journey as an entrepreneur.
“I gained my Music degree from Durham University and completed my Primary PGCE at the University of Manchester. I became a Music Teacher at an Outstanding special needs school in Salford, where I spent five fulfilling years creating choirs, producing shows at the Lowry Theatre, and eventually becoming Head of Year 11. During this time, I got my first dog: a Samoyed named Leo. We entered the world of dog showing, which led me to Crufts in a tweed jacket, mingling with personalities such as Noel Fitzpatrick and Clare Balding.
“In 2012 I left teaching to become a self-employed mobile dog groomer, a career requiring organisation, expertise, creativity, patience and communication – skills honed at Bolton School. In 2020, I opened DogzBody Spa, offering luxury services for dogs. In 2024, we gained media recognition after winning at the Animal Star Awards and were named one of the ThreeBestRated pet groomers in Salford.
“Since entering the pet industry, I’ve had fantastic opportunities, from working in TV and radio to mentoring young dog groomers and visiting schools and care homes with my therapy dog. I now aim to retrain as a Veterinary Physiotherapist, exploring how pain affects animal behaviour.
“Dog grooming involves more than aesthetics; it requires knowledge of anatomy, handling techniques and welfare. Groomers often identify issues needing veterinary attention. Building strong relationships with veterinarians, hydrotherapists and behaviourists is crucial – it takes a village to raise a dog!
“If you want to work with animals, research thoroughly. The animal industry offers many roles, and events like Crufts provide great insight. With increasing demand for pet services, there’s a role for everyone in this exciting field.”
Sally Griffin (née Birch,
Class of 2002)
Sally is a Veterinary Radiologist at a state-of-the-art veterinary practice in Solihull.
“It’s a cliché, but since the age of 12 I wanted to be a vet. Watching the BBC’s Vet School documentary hooked me. I also learned how competitive the field was, making it an exciting challenge which I felt compelled to go for – someone had to get in, right? Determined, I spent weekends and holidays gaining essential experience at local vets, farms and kennels.
“At A Level I studied Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths, working hard with incredible support from teachers like Mrs McCann and Mrs Hadjigeorgiou. I gained the grades I needed to secure a place at the University of Liverpool to study Veterinary Science.
“After five years, I started my first job as a new graduate in a small animal practice in Wolverhampton, where I found my feet as a general practitioner and enjoyed most aspects of veterinary medicine – except dentistry: there’s a reason for the saying ‘it’s like pulling teeth’!
“In 2011, I started a residency in Diagnostic Imaging at the University of Bristol. Three years of intense training later I passed the diploma exam and became a European Specialist in Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging. Choosing this career path was the best thing I could have done. While general practice has its rewards, it also comes with long and sometimes antisocial working hours, relatively low pay and limited career progression. Dealing with the public can also be both fulfilling and challenging.
“I now work in a large multi-disciplinary referral centre in the Midlands, focusing on interpreting CT, radiographic and MRI studies and performing ultrasounds – without the responsibility of overall case management. My job is varied: alongside common diseases which I see more often, there are always interesting and challenging cases to keep me on my toes. Good communication and an eye for detail are essential skills which I’ve had to develop over time.
“To anyone interested in veterinary medicine, my advice is to speak with as many vets as you can and spend time in practice to get a realistic view of the job and all it entails. Whilst I would not wish to dissuade anyone from a career in veterinary medicine, it is not uncommon for vets to leave general practice due to some of the reasons given above. It’s a lot of hard work only to get to the end and realise it’s not the right job for you.
“I love my current role as a radiologist, and feel incredibly lucky to have been given the opportunity to specialise as residency places are notoriously competitive. I am fortunate to work with some incredibly talented colleagues and I feel very privileged to be doing the job I do now.”
A Supermassive Success
The fourth annual Platt Fisher Lecture at Bolton School welcomed distinguished Old Girl and astrophysicist
Dr Becky Smith (Class of 2008), who delivered a captivating and enlightening talk on black holes.
Becky studied Physics and Astronomy at Durham University before completing a PhD in Astrophysics at the University of Oxford. Alongside her current role as a royal Astronomical Society Research Fellow at Oxford, she is an author and science communicator, with over 750,000 subscribers to her YouTube channel in which she answers big questions about the Universe.
Pupils Mya Crossley (Year 12) and Sofia Macari (Year 11), both keen Physicists, were delighted to have the opportunity to interview ‘Dr Becky’ – as she is known on her YouTube channel – and discovered that Bolton School has played a huge role in her success.
“It’s not every day you meet someone whose genuine passion for their work is infectious. Then again, it’s not every day you get the pleasure of meeting Dr Becky Smethurst, this year’s Platt Fisher Lecture speaker.
“As a Doctor of Astrophysics at the University of Oxford, she focused her talk on black holes, taking the audience on a cosmic journey to the centres of galaxies, where supermassive black holes lurk – which, as all attendees took home, are ‘More like sofas than hoovers’. However, her lifelong fascination with the cosmos truly took hold much closer to home when she watched the 1999 total solar eclipse: ‘It blew my mind, as a nine-year-old. I then was just hoarding space books and space facts.’
“While it was this event that began her passion to study astrophysics, it was Bolton School that helped her to achieve her goals, with her heralding her attendance there as ‘one of the best things that [she] ever could have done.’ She remembered how:
‘The education that you get here isn’t just the subject knowledge: it’s training you to use your initiative all the time, to think outside the box and to do things differently.’
“Bolton School taught her to be ‘one step ahead all the time’, a skill that has aided her endlessly as a scientist, allowing her to think critically about her results and to think outside the box to answer questions that no one knows the answers to. She explained how, ‘As scientists, we never grow out of that ‘Why?’ child state of being’, and so the problem-solving skills instilled in her by Bolton School constantly aid her in her search for answers. She also mentioned how the communication skills she gained through talking to teachers, other
girls and even reading in assemblies have had a massive impact on her, providing the foundations necessary for her to deliver lectures and communicate her love for science effectively.
“Dr Smethurst remembered the teachers at Bolton School fondly, with her first ever Form Tutor, Mrs Sargent, her Maths teacher, Mrs Kyle, and her Physics teacher, Mrs McCann, being just a few of those who shaped her into the person she is today. Dr Smethurst’s appreciation for the teachers she had whilst at Bolton School is clear: ‘Everything we all do as girls: we are standing on their shoulders.’
“But it isn’t just the academic nuances of Bolton School that have helped her to thrive, as her fondest memories of School include playing ‘The Bench Game’, a break time game from her time at the Junior School, making cheese toasties in the Sixth Form common room and form times spent as clusters of friends chatting about the night before and the day ahead. It’s memories like these that shine through when Dr Smethurst remembers her time at Bolton School, highlighting the value of the lifelong bonds formed there.
“Dr Smethurst’s academic prowess is truly inspirational, and it makes the advice that she would give to her younger self even more comforting. She would advise herself ‘To make mistakes’,: it was making the wrong decision and temporarily ending up in a job that she didn’t enjoy that made her realise what she truly wanted to do as a career, with her telling us that:
‘Sometimes, making mistakes is the most useful thing you can do.’
“A piece of advice which Dr Smethurst seemed to symbolise was “Follow your passions,” with her advising her audience that “Whatever the thing is that you love, pour your energy and your love into it.” It’s this philosophy which has always guided her, leading her through her GCSE and A Level choices, as well as her life after Bolton School, through University, her PhD and her research after this. The results of her simply doing what she loves is truly inspirational and speak for themselves.
“Dr Smethurst always insists that we are all ‘standing on the shoulders of giants’, forever supported by the pioneers who came before us and paved us a path. As aspiring astrophysicists and current Bolton School Girls’ Division Pupils, we, the two students lucky enough to have interviewed Dr Smethurst, would like to thank her for letting her audience stand on her shoulders.”
Becky with Sheila Fisher (née Platt, Class of 1970), after whom the lecture series was established
Philip Britton, Becky, Sheila, Lynne Kyle
A Journey Through the World’s Toughest Deserts
In December 2024 Victoria Connelly (née Bayley, Class of 2000) became the first British woman to win the Racing the Planet 4 Deserts Ultra-Marathon Women’s Champion title. Here she describes the gruelling challenges she faced – along with the splendour of the landscapes she traversed and the transformative power of extreme challenges.
“Widely recognised as the most prestigious footrace series in the world, the 4 Deserts includes the Namib Race (Namibia), the Gobi March (Mongolia), the Atacama Crossing (Chile) and the Last Desert (Antarctica). Each race involves covering 250 kilometres over seven days in some of the world’s most remote and extreme environments. Competitors carry all their food and equipment, with only water and a shared tent provided. To date, only 305 individuals have completed the series and earned entry to the ‘4 Deserts Club’. The Champion title is awarded based on the lowest cumulative ranking across all four races, culminating with the series finale in Antarctica.
“When I signed up for the Atacama Crossing in 2018, I had no plans to complete the full series, let alone compete for the Champion title. I was drawn by the breathtaking beauty of the Atacama Desert, with its otherworldly, Mars-like landscape of deep red sands, rainbowcoloured mountains, volcanoes, and dramatic canyons. Starting at an elevation of 3,300 meters, the race presented highly technical terrain: towering sand dunes, endless salt flats, steep rocky ascents and descents, and icy rivers hidden within the narrow canyons. I wasn’t paying any attention to the results posted in camp each evening. My sole goal was to cross the finish line, so I was shocked to learn I was in fourth place mid-race. This sparked a competitive drive, and over the next three days, I climbed the rankings, finishing as second woman overall.
“My unexpected success in Chile led me to sign up for the Namib Race in 2020 with a new plan to complete the 4 Desert series. However, the pandemic delayed plans and I didn’t arrive in Namibia until 2022, impatient to get back to racing. This time I stood on the start line aiming to compete but nervous about the extra pressure and expectation that comes with this. The Namib is a coastal desert and running along the infamous Skeleton coast dotted with seal colonies, flamingos and shipwrecks was the perfect antidote to my nerves. The landscape throughout the race was awe-inspiring, running through salt mines reflecting a pink hue in the sunlight, and dramatic dunes that dropped like cliffs into the Atlantic Ocean. An unforgettable moment was discovering an abandoned rose quartz mine where I stopped for several minutes to absorb the immense beauty of the stones as they glistened in the sunlight. The heat was a formidable challenge throughout the week with temperatures reaching 55°C and the landscape offering little
shade. Compulsory stops were enforced at checkpoints during the middle of the day and it was a constant battle to manage hydration. I was immensely proud to finish as the first woman, securing my second trophy.
“My next challenge was the Gobi March in 2023. Unlike the previous races, the Gobi Desert—known as the ‘Green Desert’—features vast grasslands or Steppe, home to nomadic families living in yurts who typically herd horses. A highlight was interacting with these families as they waved and cheered, and spending a night sleeping in a yurt ourselves, a welcome relief from cramped tents. I was unfortunately struck down by illness mid-way through the race which reduced me to walking. I was bitterly disappointed, but still finished in fourth place and won my age group, adding a third trophy to my collection. The finish line was an extra special experience situated within the walls of the Erdene Zuu Monastery, the earliest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, where one of the monks placed my medal around my neck.
“The final race in the series was the Last Desert in Antarctica. Last November, we sailed by expedition ship from Argentina, spending three days in the rough waters of Drakes Passage before reaching land. Over the next week, we raced through deep snow and ice using crampons and ski poles to assist us as we battled against the freezing temperatures. Words cannot fully capture the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica. The surreal backdrop of brilliant blue icebergs against the pristine white landscape will stay with me forever. The wildlife was also captivating with albatross, penguins, seals and whales frequently sighted as we ran. It truly is a magical place where you witness Mother Nature in all her finest glory. I finished the Last Desert in third place which secured my win of the Champion title, an unexpected honour at the end of a life-changing journey.
“Many people ask why I take on such extreme challenges. For me, it’s primarily about going beyond comfort zones and testing limits. It’s empowering to realise you possess the resilience, endurance and courage to undertake something that takes you far into the unknown both mentally and physically. I encourage everyone to find that ‘something’ and be brave. The rewards are life-changing!”
We would love to hear from any other Old Girls who have completed demanding or ambitious challenges – please get in touch if you would like to be featured in a future edition.
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 Becky Chapman (Class of 2011) and Sara Patel (Class of 2019) describe wearing their gowns with pride.
What was your favourite moment whilst wearing your gown?
Becky: I think my favourite moment would have been putting it on for the first time in the Gowning Ceremony and taking the baton from the previous Deputy Head Girl. I remember feeling so proud and excited to be wearing my gown. I wore it again ten years later at our reunion and it still felt special.
Sara: Being handed my gown in that first assembly was definitely a stand-out moment for me. I can just remember being so excited to become a Prefect, but being so nervous about falling off the stage or putting the gown on wrongly! Luckily it all went well.
Prefects’ Panto was also another highlight. Getting to plan it as a group was so enjoyable, but deciding which teachers we all wanted to include was actually much more difficult than you’d think. I ended up playing three different teachers by the end of it! It’s something you always look forward to doing when you become a Prefect, so getting to take part in a well-loved tradition at Bolton School was a lot of fun.
What were your hopes and plans for the future as you passed on your gown?
Becky: My hope was to enjoy university as much as I had Bolton School, to keep and grow friendships and to make the most of every opportunity.
Sara: As I passed on my gown, I was hoping to go to university and study something that I had been working so hard towards.
I really wanted to help people and getting to do Medicine was something I was looking forward to doing. What did you do after leaving School?
Becky: After school I went to Leeds to study Food Science and Nutrition; I was inspired and encouraged to do this by Mrs Smalley and I’ll always be so grateful for her support. It’s led me to a successful, interesting career in the food industry.
Sara: I went on to study Medicine at the University of Leeds which I really enjoyed. I had an amazing time in Leeds and, after a long five years, graduated in July 2024.
What are you doing now?
Becky: I’m a Technical Compliance Manager in the Food Safety and Quality Team at Waitrose, and living in Guildford.
Sara: I now work as a doctor in the North West. It’s so nice to be closer to home doing a job that I really love doing. I’m currently in my first year of foundation training, so thankfully I still have a little time to decide on what department I want to specialise in and what kind of doctor I want to be in the future. For now, I get to spend the next year and a half working in different departments for four months at a time. In the two specialties I have worked in so far, I have really enjoyed getting to see the difference we can make.
Are you still in touch with friends from School?
What one piece of advice would you give to this year’s Year 13 pupils?
Becky: Enjoy your last year at Bolton School, you’ll miss it when you leave. Work hard and play hard – that’s been my life motto so far!
Sara: Make sure to enjoy what is left of your final year at Bolton School! It’ll definitely fly by.
Whatever plans you have for after School, remember to enjoy this new chapter of your life and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way.
Becky: Yes, and they’re such an important part of my friendship group! I’m getting married later in the year and I couldn’t imagine that day without my School friends, one of my bridesmaids was in my form 7S all those years ago.
Sara: Yes; I’ve kept in contact with lots of people from School and I like to keep up with everyone on social media. It’s really lovely to see how they are all doing these days.
Becky (second right) in A Level Food Technology with Mrs Smalley (far left) and Mrs Barrow (far right)
Becky exploring the local Surrey vineyards
Rachael Acton (née Ainscough) and Becky reliving their Prefect days at their ‘10’ Class reunion
Becky proudly wearing her prefect gown
Head Girl Team 2018-19: Deputy Head Girl Sara is top right
Sara graduated last year from the University of Leeds
Staff in the Spotlight
This time the spotlight shines on Mr Kyle who is enjoying a well-deserved retirement after more than three decades at Bolton School.
Duncan Kyle (Foundation Services Staff,
1992-2024)
As a child growing up in Bolton, I had always wondered what that imposing castle-like big red building on Chorley New Road was. My dad jokingly said it was Bolton Prison and that if I didn’t behave, I would end up in there. No doubt he was being kind as, given my lack of academic ability at 12 years of age, I would have little chance of ever attending. Or so I thought.
Fast forward to August 1992 and, as fate would have it, I found myself in that very same building sitting at a large oak table being interviewed for a newly created post of Arts Centre Manager. Opposite me was the then Clerk and Treasurer, Robin Senior, a stately gentleman, impeccably dressed and with a large moustache with twirly ends; a textbook character from a private school I thought. After a lengthy discussion in which I told him of my professional experience as a theatre stage manager, he leaned forward and said: “Well, I don’t know much about all that stuff” –and I thought, “Oh dear, that’s it then” – he continued: “but you seem to, so let’s give it a go” and he duly offered me the job there and then.
So I joined the wonderful family of Bolton School and, in a very small part, I’ve now become part of its history.
It is, of course, for others to decide what contribution I have made; but what I do know is that this was a very important part of my working life and career and offered numerous opportunities that I would not have experienced elsewhere.
My first role was as Arts and Conference Centre Manager in the newly-created conference centre, formerly the old swimming baths. I recall the day HRH Princess Diana arrived to perform the official opening. Sadly, I didn’t get to meet her, but I did get to enjoy a few leftover scraps from the posh lunch with the chauffeur and sniffer dogs. Treasured memories!
I did, however, get to meet the third Viscount Lord Leverhulme, grandson of the School’s founder, William Lever. I had organised a Leverhulme Exhibition in the Arts Centre detailing his grandfather’s achievements in industry along with our School Foundation. We invited His Lordship over to look, never imagining he would accept. Mr Senior was so nervous he forgot my name whilst introducing me, a moment neither he nor I would ever forget. But following his visit, Leverhulme did invite me to his home at Thornton Manor which turned out to be a fascinating experience.
After many changes to the operational style of the Arts Centre, I changed roles and moved over to the Senior School in 2006, adopting a newly-created role as Performing Arts Technician, working primarily for the Music and Drama departments. Having previously worked in professional repertory and touring theatre, I was able to share my skills with the students in an environment in which I felt completely at home.
Unless you knew otherwise, you would imagine Bolton School to be mainly focused on academic achievements. This, of course, forms an integral part of the curriculum, but of course the School has a very rich and vibrant music and drama schedule and offers truly amazing experiences for able students to thrive in well-resourced departments with talented teaching staff. With a purpose-built theatre and two magnificent performances halls, pupils gain lifelong memories in both music and drama and it was a pleasure to be a part of this over the years.
My decision to retire was difficult, but the time was right. Being part of the Bolton School family has been a wonderful experience and I have met some truly lovely people and made lifelong friends over the many years.
In essence, Bolton School became my home: I know every bit of it inside out. I’ve seen people come and go over the years and met some great (and not so great) characters. Having my two sons during my time there was the making of me. I attribute all this to the Bolton School family. I will miss being involved in all the spectacular theatre productions, the magical Christmas concerts and the many unique events that made up my role. More than anything, I will miss the people, the wonderful pupils and colleagues I have been so privileged to work alongside. I am of course, indebted to the late Robin Senior for giving me the opportunity to be here; one of the most intelligent, affable and kindest individuals you could meet.
I wonder what my late dad would think if he saw me standing outside the prison gates as they finally close behind me for the last time after so long? I know for certain I will look back over 30 years on some truly wonderful experiences, and a host of happy memories.
OLD GIRLS’ NEWS
Class of 1970-1979
The Revd Dr Sue Lucas (Class of 1979)
Congratulations to Sue who was appointed as Archdeacon of Southend earlier this year.
Sue, who previously served as Team Rector of East Ham, a large and diverse parish in East London, was installed as Archdeacon of Southend at a service at Chelmsford Cathedral on 16th February.
Before ordination, Sue worked as a religious studies teacher at schools in London and Liverpool as well as Chief Examiner for the GCSE Religious Studies course. Ordained deacon in 2008 and priest in 2009, Sue served in three parishes in Liverpool before moving to East Ham in 2016. She is also a member of the Chelmsford Diocesan Synod and a Chelmsford Diocese representative on the Church of England General Synod.
Louise Walter (née Eskins, Class of 1979)
Proving that lifelong learning really is possible, Louise has recently completed a part-time Educational Doctorate at the University of Cambridge, graduating shortly before her 64th birthday. Having spent the majority of her teaching career working with children with additional literacy needs, her research explored the challenges faced by parents with limited literacy skills when supporting their children with reading homework. Louise has thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to bring theory and practice together and now hopes to publish a research paper before she retires.
Class of 1980-1989
Sue
Stonestreet (née Williams, Class of 1982)
Sue has now been retired for a year, after working for the BBC in Manchester and then Salford for forty (and a half) years. After leaving School she applied for a job as an Audio Assistant in Manchester, starting her training in September 1983, working, at first, in sound on television and radio, studios and outside broadcasts. She was a TV boom operator on dramas and sitcoms: highlights were working with John Mills and Omar Sharif and on the first three series of Red Dwarf. Later she specialised in radio, recording and mixing drama and mixing a variety of live programmes mainly for Radio 4, such as Sunday, You and Yours and Woman’s Hour It was at the BBC that she met her husband of 36 years, Robin, and they have two grown-up children. Sue is involved in the local church and is currently a Churchwarden and is studying to be an Authorised Lay Minister.
Class of 1990-1999
Laura Tunbridge
(Class of 1993)
Congratulations to Laura who has been appointed to the Heather Professorship of Music at the University of Oxford. Laura is currently Professor of Music in the Faculty of Music and Henfrey Fellow and Tutor in Music at St Catherine’s College, University of Oxford. She will take up the Heather Professorship of Music with effect from October this year, when she will become a fellow of Wadham College.
The Heather Professor is the senior academic in the Faculty of Music, taking a leadership role in the research, teaching and administration of the Faculty, as well as working on its strategic development. The appointment is made at an exciting moment for the Faculty when it moves next year from its current site to the purpose-built facilities of the Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities. Laura is the first woman to be elected to the Chair in its 400-year history.
Class of 2010-2019
Jessica
Marie Rogers (née Helm, Class of 2011)
Jessica, the Creative Director and Founder of Elm Interior Design, has recently been accepted onto the King’s Trust Enterprise Programme. She says her flair for Interior Design came from being fortunate enough to study Textiles at Bolton School. Jessica was taught by Miss Stafford and Mrs Tankard. She remembers the teachers’ knowledge and passion for textiles. With over ten years’ experience in the industry across various textiles roles, her tenacity and passion has earned her this exciting opportunity on which she has worked incredibly hard over the past two years. We would like to wish her every success with her business.
Ellen
Bate (Class of 2019)
Ellen graduated with a Masters in Film and Television: Research and Production from the University of Birmingham. She is hoping to start a career in social media content creation and wedding videography. She plans to work for companies in the UK and learn more about the profession with the hopes of one day owning her own business and potentially working all over the world.
Louise, her husband and two of her daughters on graduation day
Destinations of Leavers 2024
Safia Adam
Hannah Adamopoulos Lancaster University
Naima Aden University of Oxford
Fatimah Ahmed University of Huddersfield
Khuzeima Ahmed University of Liverpool
Rehmeen Ahmed University of Central Lancashire
Umayma Ahmed University of Liverpool
Aaminah Ali University of Central Lancashire
Maryam Ali University of Strathclyde
Caisey Arhin University of Warwick
Kashaf Ashraf
Hafsa Bapu
Eve Blackmore University of Nottingham
Shriya Bonda
Miya Brennan Northumbria University
Madeleine Brooks Degree Apprenticeship
Ella Brophy Florida Technical College, USA
Ella Carter University of Liverpool
Angelie Chitre University of Birmingham
Phoebe Chuck University of Edinburgh
Employment
Biomedical Science
Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Science
Dental Surgery
Pharmacy
Dental Therapy
Pharmacy
Politics and International Relations and Economics
Psychology
Gap Year
Gap Year
English
Gap Year
International Business
Human Resources
Sports Science
Business Economics
Economics with Spanish
Geography
Blythe Cordwell Liverpool John Moores University
Jessica Croston University of Sheffield
Harriet Dickens University of Michigan, USA
Charlotte Duffy Degree Apprenticeship
Isabella Fairclough
Royal Holloway, University of London
Felicity Field University of Leeds
Caitrin Flood Northumbria University
Amani Gajra University of Birmingham
Fatima Ghanchi University of Manchester
Fatima Gondal Keele University
Lola Grundy University of Liverpool
Ayesha Hajee
Elise Hardwick University of Bath
Asilah Hasan University of Birmingham
Riya Hasija Aston University
Ruby Hassall
Sara Hatia Degree Apprenticeship
Charlotte Hothersall University of Sheffield
Alexia Hughes University of Liverpool
Ruby Hurt Florida Technical College, USA
Zainab Ibrahim
Iman Javaid Hull York Medical School
Alaina Jiva University of Manchester
Saaima Kachwala University of Birmingham
Safa Karim University of Sunderland
Aamina Khan University of Huddersfield
Shaili Khimani Lancaster University
Lauren Knott University of York
Freya Langtree University of Liverpool
Rianna Latchford Sheffield Hallam University
Isabelle Leach Lancaster University
Nithula Loganathan University of Leeds
Charlotte Lowe University of Nottingham
Biochemistry
Psychology
Sports Science
Law
Film, Television and Digital Production
English, Theatre and Performance
Business Management
Pharmacy
Law
Medicine
Law
Gap Year
Chemical Engineering
Dentistry
Biomedical Science
Employment
Law
Materials Science and Engineering
Law
Psychology
Gap Year
Medicine
Politics and Modern History
Mathematics and Computer Science
Medicine
Science
Mechanical Engineering
Economics
Psychology
Economics
Business Management
Medicine
History
Sai Shruthi Lukalapu
Imogen Masheter University of Sheffield
Lonique Mayoua University of the West of England
Molly McGregor
Anna Medvid Lancaster University
Ummihani Mohmed University of Manchester
Fariha Mulla University of Manchester
Emaan Murtaza Gap Year
Olivia Myall
Ilham Nagi University of Birmingham
Shilpa Nair
Sneha Nair University of Liverpool
Holly Nicholson
Grace Northcott University of Sheffield
Emily Nuttall Loughborough University
Kate O Riordan Loughborough University
Aaminah Patel University of Manchester
Ammaarah Patel Liverpool John Moores University
Krupa Patel Keele University
Mehzebeen Patel University of Manchester
Samia Patel University of Manchester
Sejal Patel University of Leeds
Uma Patel University of Birmingham
Lily Porter Degree Apprenticeship
Adithi Prasad University of Leeds
Charlotte Preston
Isobel Pursey
Cloe Ramirez Manchester Metropolitan University
Nissa Rattoo
Charlotte Reece University of Sheffield
Sameen Riaz University of Salford
Elliot Rigby University of Leeds
Nathalie Rippingale UCEN Manchester
Aminasuweida Roble Cardiff University
Grace Ryder Bristol, UWE
Ruby Schofield Liverpool John Moores University
Monica Sham University of Leeds
Nicola Shaw University of Leeds
Suzanna Simmonite
Ruby Smith Apprenticeship
Jade Sprott Newcastle University
Ila Stephenson University of Leeds
Jemima Stubbs University of Leicester
Gap Year
Law (with Spanish Law)
Computer Science
Employment
Law
Law
Business Accounting
Gap Year
Employment
Pharmacy
Gap Year
Geography
Employment
Physics with Philosophy
Psychology
Finance and Management
Dentistry
Pharmacy
Physics with Renewable Energy
Optometry
Computer Science
Pharmacology
Medicine
Quantity Surveying
Medicine
Employment
Gap Year
Criminology
Gap Year
General Engineering
Diagnostic Radiography
Theatre and Performance
Musical Theatre
Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging
Aerospace Engineering with Pilot Studies
Law
International Business and Marketing
Medicine
Gap Year
Accounting
Economics
English and Philosophy
Medicine
Syeda Batool Tabani Brighton and Sussex Medical School
Maria Tariq King’s College London
Freya Taylor Barcelona University, Spain
Haylie Tsang
Nga Nok Esther Tsui University of Warwick
Odinakachukwa Umeadi Lancaster University
Rabia Warraich University of Central Lancashire
Natasha Williams University of Liverpool
Eimaan Yaqoob
Medicine
Psychology
Dentistry
Gap Year
Computer Science
Business Management
Pharmacology
Business Management
Gap Year
Mini Reunions
Six Decades of Solidarity
Susan Welton (née Higginbotham), Heather Jenkins (née Bentley) and Beverly McNeil (née Percival) (all Class of 1967) have stayed in touch since they left School.
For some years now the trio have had a weekly catch-up via Zoom – and they never run out of things to discuss: their lives past and present, families, health, houses, hobbies, politics, world and domestic news, books, youth hostelling days (they went every holiday to the Lake District, Wales, the Yorkshire Dales from 1963 to 1965, sometimes taking younger girls), schooldays, teachers, pupils …
In 1965 (oh goodness, 60 years ago!) they went on a School skiing trip to Neiderau, Austria, by coach, ferry and train. What a marvellous week it was!
The friends live in Holmfirth, Southport and Banbury, but try to meet up for a few days each year. They attended the 2000 reunion and the ‘7’ Class ones since.
Susan says:
“Our friendship formed at Bolton School 65 years ago is very important to us and we sustain each other through good and bad times.”
Lake District Retreat
Last July Deepa Jagsi (née Thakkar) and Neelam Patel (née Surti) (both Class of 1989) spent the weekend together on a yoga retreat in the Lake District – a chance to reconnect and spend some precious time together after more than 25 years and reminder of those happy times at Cautley House and in Sedburgh. Despite the years that have gone by, being together felt like being back at School again!
Deepa is a retired dentist and Neelam is a Consultant Anaesthetist at Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Teaching Hospitals. Neelam’s connections with Bolton School have continued with all three of her children also now Alumni: Hiren (Class of 2015), Shivam (Class of 2019) and Krupa (Class of 2024).
Calling all Golfers!
Did you play golf whist at School? Have you taken up the sport since leaving or do you enjoy playing a round socially or for networking? However you play, we are keen to share the details of how you can stay connected through School.
The Taylor Trophy will take place this year on Wednesday 2nd July at Bolton Golf Club. Anyone with links to the School – Old Girls and Old Boys, parents and former parents, staff past and present and Friends of Bolton School – are warmly invited to take part in this year’s competition this year. Perhaps you could play as a family, or as a group of old School pals? The tee is reserved from 2.30pm until 4.30pm, with food served on completion of your round. The cost of the golf and meal will be £40 per person and £30 for under 25s. Please contact the Development Office for further details.
Old Girls are welcome to join the Old Boltonians’ Golf Society. If you would like to get involved in the Society, which hosts a number of competitions throughout the year, please contact the Secretary, Old Boy Mark Millhouse (Class of 1994), on either markm@pmdbusinessfinance.co.uk or 07711 594030
Heather, Bev and Sue on a recent trip to London together
L-R: Frances Hodgson, Lydia Parry, Susan, Beverly, Franz the dishy ski instructor and Heather
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Memories of the Original Beech House
All the girls presently in Girls’ Division will only have known the current Beech House. For many Old Girls, however, ‘Beech House’ will conjure up fond memories of the original Beech House which was demolished in 2009 to make way for Hesketh House.
Beech House was built in 1869 for Ralph Haslam, who founded the Provincial Insurance company and managed the family cotton manufacturing business. He lived there until his death in 1883, but did not marry, and when he died the property passed to James Scott and his wife, Ann, the sister of William Haslam, later a distinguished Governor of the School. The Scotts lived at Beech House with their two sons until James died in 1913, having established the Sir James and Lady Scott Trust in 1909, which inter alia now provides valuable travel grants for Bolton School students and Alumni.
in 1928. This had hitherto been the home of the Preparatory Department of Bolton School, which then moved to Beech House.
After Sir James’ death in 1913, the New Lever Trust purchased Beech House and, during the First World War, it was used as a residence for Belgian refugees. For ten years after the War it housed the Boys’ Junior School until they moved to the property known as Broomfield
The former drawing room of the old house became the home of the kindergarten, which was the largest of all the Beech House classrooms, with a big French window bay. It was also used in the early years as the assembly hall, the music room and the gymnasium. This was made possible by the first-year kindergarten children only attending School in the morning. When they left at lunchtime, the chairs and tables were stacked by the wall until after the following morning’s assembly when the furniture was moved back. Transition was housed in the former dining room and art took place in the former kitchen.
The air raid shelters had not been completed on the outbreak of the Second World War and Penelope Hewitt (née Mottershead, Class of 1944) recalled how, for a few weeks, all the children were divided up into groups of eight or ten and were taught instead at the homes of families with large houses.
Janet Taylor (née Monks, Class of 1956) entered School during the war years and she recalls the need to have gas masks and the difficulty of writing with a dip pen and an inkwell, which resulted in much smudged work. Janet also remembers having gardening classes producing vegetables such as carrots and radishes for the war effort. When Mrs Turner (Beech House Staff, 1975-2005) joined the Infant School, Open Day was held at the end of the year. School was open to parents in the morning and in the afternoon there was country dancing on the lawn. This involved the piano being manhandled down the steps by the grounds staff by an improvised ramp. She
remembered how the Beech House children ate in the Girls’ Division Dining Room with wooden benches seating eleven children on each side. Dividing a blancmange into twelve equal portions was quite a challenge!
How many Old Girls remember how, when the weather prevented outdoor activities, exercises were done on the landing – in silence! – or how children had to stand under the clock in the passageway if they misbehaved?
One of the lasting memories of Mrs Crawforth (Beech House Staff, 1976-2010) who was a pupil at Beech House in the 1950s, is of noseblowing being part of the curriculum! The top two forms would line up on the stairs, the lower two forms in the hallway, and nose-blowing was practised.
Mrs Crawforth had begun her School life at Beech House with Miss Finnigan, returning as a teacher 20 years later before becoming Headteacher. When the School moved to the new Beech House in June 2009, Mrs Crawforth said that, whilst it would be sad to see the old building disappear, she had no doubt that the traditions of excellence, happiness and care would continue. Now, sixteen years after the move to the new building, Beech House continues to thrive – Mrs Crawforth’s confidence was indeed well-founded.
Meet the Archivist
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.
Eric Fairweather
The old Beech House
The old Beech House
The move from old to new
The new Beech House
Mrs Crawforth
Happy Memories!
In the previous edition we published a photo of Mendip House, 1948-49, and asked if anyone could identify the girls featured. Thank you to Caroline Lochhead (Class of 1974) who spotted her Mum’s best friend at School, Enid Maxwell (née Arkwright, Class of 1951) in the centre of the third row from the back.
Thank you also to Kathleen Ricketts (née Waddicar, Class of 1958) who has identified the staff on the front row as L-R: Miss Walsh, Miss Pilsbury, Miss Faulkner, Miss Ricketts and Miss Woodhead.
Katherine Goodchild (née Mottershead, Class of 1952) spotted herself in this photo which was published in the Autumn 2024 edition – she is sitting directly in front of Miss Drury! Kate remembers Miss Drury as being strict, fair, kind and a really great Head. Also in the photograph are Alison Dykes, Catherine Barnes, Alison Kippax, Cynthia Bradshaw and Barbara Tong. 2
Jean Gerrard (née Shepherd, Class of 1957) has been in touch to say she is in the centre on the back row of the photo of the 1952-53 Tennis Team featured in the Autumn 2024 edition. Back, L-R: June Allen, Jean Shepherd, Kathleen Johnson. Front, L-R: XXXX, Yvonne Conroy, Audrey Ashworth. If anyone can name the final team member we would love to hear from you!
3 Ambleside, 2014 (the Class of 2019) 4 Lacrosse, 2006 5 Prefects, 1986-87
6 Assembly, Grand Reunion, 2015
From Cookery to Food Tech: A Tasty Trip Down Memory Lane!
Cookery, Home Economics, Domestic Science, Food Technology … the subject may have had a variety of names over the years, but it has always been very popular in Girls’ Division as this selection of photos shows.
If you recognise yourself or your friends in any of the pictures, please get in touch!
Memories
‘Knees’ – A Joint Revue
At the start of the School Year in 1966, Miss Higginson (Headmistress, 1954-1979) announced a Joint Revue with the Boys’ Division, to be staged in Spring, and a meeting for prospective participants from the Girls’ Division. Amazing! It was the era of groundbreaking satire on radio and television. The two Divisions had been kept strictly apart, till then ...
We found that a new appointee was in Cambridge Footlights Revue! And now the letdown: we’d be an all-female writing group, co-ordinating with counterparts later. By then, as Jen says, most of the script, sketches etc had been written by the boys so their input was greater. Only my Queen’s Speech and her Yellow Rose of Texas were not.
‘Hig’ had a surprise appearance as a suffragette.
Hands up! I take full responsibility for the tortuous pun Knees: A Joint Revue. (Miniskirts made female knees topical and School kit subject to the ‘knee-rule.’) My idea, too, to start with ‘The Queen’, ie the National Anthem, cueing-in ER rehearsing a speech in her bath, as if at home, post-show. A few opening bars, then jazzed-up as Janet and Jean Holden danced down the aisles (in minidresses and white boots, of course) to go-go dance on stage.
The Queen’s Speech spoofed her squeaky-voiced, wellloved clichés, eg ‘My husband and I.’ Someone at First Night complained to School about it. Next night, Janet hid under the fake foam, her obviously female legs surfacing at the tap end as a heavily-spectacled boy, just torso visible, sang Oh What a Beautiful Morning at the other. More complaints; Hig’s sole, known comment: ‘I don’t know who that girl is, but I hate to think what position she is in!’
Worse, apparently, was dissing The Archers. Jennifer Archer had revealed her pregnancy, but wouldn’t name the father. A boy ad-libbed Walter Gabriel’s line to ‘I see there’s been another immaculate conception in Ambridge.’ Cut! Hig allegedly said she did not want to get into trouble with the Lord Chamberlain.
The Theatre Act censoring performances was abolished in 1968, a year later.
Recollections vary. The revue’s review in The Boltonian, July 1967, appraises ‘of the more visual items “The Queen”, the bath sketches and mock Greek Tragedy succeeded most.’ Janet and I can’t remember the latter, but Jen says we were Chorus, in white bedsheets, and the line was “Owa ta nas lam”. They don’t recall the ‘Brief Encounter’ of Lunar Cold Warriors. (Unreviewed; just as well, in view of the accents.) And like a 19th century Officers’ Mess in a remote outpost of Empire, it doesn’t name girls, at all!
The review in The Boltonian referred to above also makes reference to the controversial nature of Knees, remarking that: “There have been some raised eyebrows and controversy over the type of material produced, and it must be recognised that this is almost inevitable if certain subjects are to be satirised. Unfortunately, the subjects which lend themselves to satire are most sacred to the hearts of many people. I am sure it is wrong, however, to say that such subjects are taboo. Any institution which is great enough should be able to withstand the criticism implicit in any satire on it. The cause of controversy in this case
Yet, in a single lunch hour, Jen cleverly used The Yellow Rose of Texas to confront President Lyndon B Johnson’s hesitation to withdraw from Vietnam: a word-play on ‘yellow’. She avers we both thought up new lyrics to it. A line of hers was ‘My name is Gloria and I come from Georgia.’ Anthony Taylor was ‘The Gee-tar Man’, I devised line dance moves for it and we sang in lamé and lurex (her dress red, shot with gold), parodying Texan showbands.
The item ended with the chilling noise of distant carpet bombing, mocked-up in the Boys’ Division Music Room on two old-fashioned tape recorders: a misinformation masterclass, if ever there were one.
The boys’ team could visit the Upper Sixth (Year 13) Girl’s Common Room (another innovation) on Friday lunchtimes, to plan Saturday rehearsals.
James McEvoy, Duncan Nightingale and chums did. Rather brave of them; it scandalised young fogeys. I’m indebted forever to Jen’s parents’ hospitality, circumventing much weekend toing and froing for me.
The revue’s review assigns its success to ‘a well-balanced cast of boys and girls who worked well together – the main purpose of holding a joint revue’. It led to the first Joint Geography Field Trip. (They made me lead an all-male field group: Boys’ Division Head’s idea, seemingly.) The Great Outdoors, once for niche clubs, became routine for girls at Cautley House and Patterdale Hall. Fuss-free team-work augured Sixth Form sharing the Riley Centre.
Last word must go to Jen. As we reflected on how many of the male cast had careers as actors, she quipped we’d be the equivalents of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Rose was a play on words, not wholly new lyrics and music. But many a true word’s spoken in jest and girls did have a glass ceiling, then.
Knees allowed us to be stars and we knew it, proud to be pioneers, campaigning for good causes through innocent fun.
(And that’s caught on, too.)
Christine M Cottam, with contributions from Jennifer Kennedy (née Ainsworth) and Janet Perring (née Donnison), all Class of 1967
may be in looking at the issues too seriously. The main purpose was not bitter invective nor to scandalise, but to make the audience laugh at situations which it is believed were basically ludicrous or just simply funny.”
Nevertheless, the reviewer also noted that “it had a wellbalanced cast of boys and girls who worked well together –the main purpose of holding a joint revue” – a quality which is inherent in all of Bolton School’s joint productions, past and present!
LIVES REMEMBERED
Gillian Barrow (née Wilkinson, Class of 1973)
Gill was born and brought up in Bolton and maintained links with the town throughout her life after moving away. She started at Bolton School in September 1966.
Following A Levels she began nursing training, and whilst at Manchester Royal Infirmary she decided to specialise in orthopaedic rather than general nursing.
A post at the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, Gobowen, saw Gill relocating to Shropshire, where she lived for the rest of her life.
A great enthusiast for choral music, and sacred music in particular, Gill was for a number of years the librarian of Shrewsbury Choral Society. A thankless task, she said, both when locating sets of scores for performances and chasing them up from choir members afterwards! She joined the Royal Schools of Church Music as an individual and also sang with RSCM Voices West for many years. This involved visiting cathedrals and churches all over the midlands, south and west of England, as well as Wales, to take part in singing services.
My first encounter with Gill was on the train travelling back from one of these events. We soon discovered that not only were we both from the same town, but we had both been at Bolton School, and our parents had friends in common.
After this, we travelled together to RSCM venues whenever possible, whether by train or car. Gill always said that we could write a book about our experiences; frustrating hours spent stranded on cold, dark railway platforms when trying to reach our homes from distant places. She drove to Hereford to take part in ‘Come and Sing’ days with Hereford Choral Society, and persuaded the conductor at Shrewsbury to run similar events. A special pleasure was hearing Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius at the 2022 Three Choirs Festival in Hereford Cathedral, a concert where I was privileged to sing in the chorus. Gill visited my house on these occasions and we sometimes met for lunch part way, at the Ludlow Food Centre in Bromfield.
Gill was deeply committed to her local church, St John the Baptist, Whittington. Her activities and interests included voluntary work with a local charity helping people with hearing loss, active membership of a historical society and supporting the work of Dogs Trust; she gave a home to two successive rescue dogs. She loved travel, both here and abroad, and at the time of her sudden death was planning another cruise to celebrate her forthcoming 70th birthday. Although in some ways Gill was a very private person, she was a great travelling companion, as I discovered on our numerous train and car journeys, and we quickly became friends. I am sure that she will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Pauline Powell
(née Fletcher, Class of 1965)
Joan Bellis
(née Healey, Class of 1948)
My wife, Joan, died in Cambridge on 18th May 2024, a couple of weeks short of her 94th birthday. Joan was immensely proud of having attended the School on a scholarship from 1940 to 1948, and it became a family adage that no other school in the country could surpass, or even equal, the educational experience provided by Bolton School (Girls Division) –always said in full. In her final year she was appointed Head Girl, apparently much to the dismay of one parent, who thought a manual worker’s daughter should not have been considered for the position.
On leaving School, Joan did teacher training at Homerton College, Cambridge. It was in Cambridge that we first met. We married in 1952 and had two sons, and although Joan had spells teaching and as a careers officer, she was very much first and foremost a homemaker as mother and wife. She was immensely supportive of my career, and took seriously and performed superbly the pastoral role of Housemaster’s and Headmaster’s wife at Highgate School, London, Stewarts Melville College, Edinburgh and, lastly, The Leys School, Cambridge. She made lifelong friendships with the pupils at these schools and inspired great loyalty. Right up to the time of her passing she received phone calls from those that had first met her more than 70 years ago.
A wonderful legacy.
Bertie Bellis
Barbara Blackwood (née Spencer, Class of 1960)
Barbara left school in 1960 and went to Goldsmiths in London to qualify as an English teacher in 1963.
She taught for some years in London before coming back to Bolton to marry me in 1967. After bringing up two children, who both attended Bolton School, she taught English at Turton High School. She later went into the Teaching Advisory Service, retiring in 2000.
Geoff Blackwood
Tony Oldershaw (Governor, 2003-2013)
The School should be grateful that Tony responded to the call of Sir Alan Cockshaw to his former colleague when there was a need for expertise to join the Governing Body to oversee the estate. They had met on many major infrastructure projects, not least the Kielder Dam in Northumberland. It helped that Tony’s wife, Pauline, was a long-standing (1984-2003) Physics teacher in the Girls’ Division.
Tony led the School estates at an enormously important time: one of new building from Beech House, Hesketh House to the Riley Centre, but also one where the Governing Body had to address many decades of underinvestment in the upkeep of the buildings and estate. He was tenacious in this respect: stone work and roofing is never a glamorous discussion topic, but it is central to good governance, and many years after his retirement we still ask ‘what would Tony say?’ when adjusting the estate spend. Our current planned preventative maintenance approach is his, but his legacy is without question the 20-year restoration project, aimed at bringing the whole estate up to a state where it can be maintained annually. Phase One, on the Boys’ Division East Wing, took place a few years ago.
Phase Two, on the south face, as well as phase one of the boiler replacements, begin this Summer, starting a cycle of stonework and boiler replacement that will last until the middle of the next decade.
Tony was expert, diligent, insistent and tenacious and he has, without question, a visible and lasting impact on the school he enjoyed so much, not least revelling in attendance at the musical events he loved so much.
Philip Britton, MBE
Rosemary Lambourne-Reid
(née Taylor, Class of 1957)
It is with great sadness to announce the loss of our wonderful Mum, Rosemary Faulkner LambourneReid, much loved by her six children and her 14 grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Rosemary had such a love for Bolton School and talked about her days there with much love and gratitude. She went on to enjoy a career as a physiotherapist, retiring in her sixties to enjoy her family and some travel.
Lindsay May Rodriguez
(née Brown, Class of 1974)
Lindsay May Rodriguez, affectionately known as Lins, passed away at the age of 69 on 27th December 2024 in San Antonio, Texas, following cardiac issues.
Born on 25th October 1955 in Bolton, Lins was a beacon of knowledge and a pillar of strength to all who knew her. Her journey began as she cultivated a love for history, classics, and English literature at Southampton University. After galivanting around the world traveling in her twenties, she settled down in Mexico City as a high
school teacher. Her fervent passion for education eventually led her to earn a Master’s in Education from the University of Incarnate Word in San Antonio, where she would lay her roots.
Lins dedicated herself to the advancement of deaf education through her work at the University Health System of San Antonio, Texas, where she not only launched pivotal studies for teaching speech and language to bilingual children, but also trained countless teachers and family members to support the deaf community. For the last 24 years Lindsay worked at Sunshine Cottage School for Deaf Children Parent Infant Program as a Parent Infant Advisor and eventually as the Director of the Parent Infant Program.
Lins’ husband of over 43 years, Francisco Rodriguez, stood by her side as a testament to enduring love and partnership. Together, they raised a family that includes their daughter, Jennifer Judith Wexler, son-in-law Logan Wexler, and grandson Lyle Rodrigo Wexler, as well as their son Francisco “Paco” Rodriguez. Each family member reflects a facet of Lindsay’s indomitable spirit and generosity. Lins was a woman of many interests, from immersing herself in the world of
books to nurturing her garden of flowers and plants. She adored her cats, relished the opportunity to travel and had an appreciation for fine dining. These simple pleasures were the backdrop to a life lived fully and with gusto.
Colleagues and friends knew Lins as a towering intellect, with an analytical mind that could dissect complex problems and yield solutions that seemed to elude others. Her courage was not the loud and boisterous kind but a quiet, steadfast resolve that allowed her to face challenges head-on. These attributes made her an invaluable asset in her professional field and an unforgettable presence in her personal life. In the words of Helen Keller, “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” Lins embodied this sentiment, touching the hearts of many through her work, her nurturing presence, and her boundless curiosity about the world.
Lindsay May Rodriguez leaves behind a legacy of knowledge, love, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. Her story is not one of an end, but of a continuing narrative of inspiration that will be carried on through the lives of those she touched. She will be deeply missed, but her light will continue to shine brightly in the memories of her loved ones and the many lives she enriched.
Rose Seddon
In Memoriam
Enid Ashton (Girls’ Division Staff, 1982-1994) - Died 4th November 2024
Kathleen (Kate) Boulter (née Wood, 1952-1966) - Died 9th March 2022
Amy Connor (née Hewitt, Class of 1997) - Died January 2025
Valerie Coward (née Woods, Class of 1959) - Died 4th September 2024
Deanna Greenhalgh (née Ainscough, Class of 1959) - Died 21st May 2024
Linda Kenyon (née Nuttall, Class of 1945) - Died 15th August 2024
Patricia Milner (Class of 1949) - Died 16th October 2024
Kathryn Occleshaw (Class of 1990) - Died 8th September 2024
Diana Pennington (née Brown, Class of 1951) - Died 1st November 2024
Margaret Schellenberg (née Hughes-Smith, Class of 1949) - Died 9 January 2024
Janet Wall (née Ward, 1954-1961) - Died 1st October 2024
Anne Walton (Class of 1973) - Died 25th November 2024
