Old Girls' Newsletter - Autumn 2020 by Bolton School Development Office

Bolton School OLD GIRLSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER Issue Number 33 Autumn 2020

Shared memories and continued support

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

CONTENTS STAY IN TOUCH 2 STAY CONNECTED 2 BOLTON SCHOOL MERCHANDISE 2 WELCOME MESSAGES Sue Hincks, Headmistress 3 Laura Henthorn, President of the Old Girls’ Association 3 CONTINUING SUPPORT 4 SCHOOL NEWS Students Become Doctors for a Day 6 Katherine Baker Impresses in Classics Competition 6 Artwork Showcased in Virtual Exhibition 6 Rebates Re-Gifted 7 Socially Distant A Level Celebrations 7 Girls Celebrate Top GCSE Results 7 The Bolton Alumni Network 7 Black Lives Matter 8 EVENTS 9 Boltonians Ladies’ FC 9 OLD GIRLS’ FEATURES Old Girls Join the Fight Against Covid-19 10 Inspiring the Next Generation 12 Staff in the Spotlight 14 Donkeys Steal the Show 16 Story of a Gown 17 OLD GIRLS’ NEWS News of Old Girls and Former Staff 18 Matches and Hatches 21 Mini Reunions 21 FROM THE ARCHIVES Ask the Archivist: Mrs Betty Vause 22 Looking Back 23 Playdeck Sandals 24 All Stars Sports Teams 25 Memories of School: A Dark Horse and Flu in the Fifties 26 LIVES REMEMBERED 27 IN MEMORIAM 31

STAY IN TOUCH Connect with Old Girls and Old Boys on the Bolton Alumni Network: www.boltonalumninetwork.com

‘Like’ our Facebook page for event invitations, School news and memories: search Bolton School – Old Boys and Old Girls (Official) Connect with fellow Alumni on LinkedIn: connect with Bolton School Alumni and join the Bolton School Group Follow School and Alumni news via Twitter: @BoltonSchool / @BoltonSchAlumni Watch short films posted on the School’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/ boltonschoolmedia Read regular blogs from pupils and staff from across the campus: boltonschool.me/ Follow bolton_school_foundation and use #BSAlumni to share your memories and photos on Instagram View photos of Alumni events on Flickr at www.flickr.com/photos/bsalumni/albums Visit the ‘Former Pupils’ section of the School website at www.boltonschool.org to see event photos, read Alumni career profiles, find news of Old Girls, view an up-to-date events calendar, update your contact details and more. CONTACT US Development Office, Bolton School Chorley New Road, Bolton BL1 4PA T: 01204 434718 E: development@boltonschool.org THE DEVELOPMENT TEAM Laura Firth Head of Development Hannah Fox Development Assistant Frances Johnson Development Assistant Kathryn O’Brien Development Assistant Laura Rooney Development Manager

Bolton School Merchandise

Stay Connected

School has an online merchandise store, selling a variety of items from Old Girl pin badges to Bolton School pens, iPad cases and photo frames.

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 to 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 Former Pupil Update form found in the ‘Former Pupils’ section of the School website, www.boltonschool.org.

All profits made from the sale of merchandise go directly to the School Bursary Fund, which helps make a Bolton School education open to all academically gifted pupils, irrespective of their families' financial situations. Orders are usually delivered within five working days, and overseas delivery is available. To order your items, please visit www.boltonschoolmerchandise.org or call 08450 504015.

WELCOME FROM THE HEADMISTRESS 2020 feels to me like my annus horribilis. But, just when I begin to be maudlin, I read the contents of this magazine. The remarkable work of Rachelle Sutton as a Nightingale Nurse, which features on page 10, alongside that of other Old Girls working on the frontline during the pandemic. The inspiring obituaries of Old Girls whose lives were full of tremendous professional accomplishments but who are also remembered for their wonderful personal qualities. (Having met many of the Old Girls featured, and welcomed Jenny Clack as a Presentation Evening speaker in 2013, I can attest to these attributes at first hand.) The friendships which shine through, not only in ‘Lives Remembered’ but in all of the items from Old Girls and from staff. I hope that every reader of this newsletter takes heart from the stories it contains of women to whom much was given, giving back in abundance. The article on ‘Playdeck sandals’ caused me to wonder what the current generation of School girls will remember with nostalgia, pleasure and horror in almost equal measure. In these Covid-19 days, it might be marquees along the back wall of the Girls’ Division buildings, external sinks, hand sanitisers at every

doorway, portaloos in the quads, and screens and visors separating teachers from girls in the classrooms. We might feel that the girls’ lives are blighted, but reading Susan Garnett’s account on page 26 and hearing the girls’ laughter in the playground (where we are sending them out every break so that they receive lots of fresh air) reminds us of the resilience of youth and the passing of every dark hour. Finally, a particular reason for my sombre mood this morning. Yesterday, we learned that Margaret Dickinson had passed away in the Nursing Home where she had spent her final years. Margaret was a member of Common Room from 1972 to 2006. Described to me by a colleague as ‘the most emotionally literate’ senior manager anyone could want, Margaret’s gentleness and kindness were apparent to all who met her. I know that many Old Girls and former colleagues will want to pay their personal tributes to her and I hope that you will contribute to her own ‘Life Remembered’ in the next edition of this newsletter.

Sue Hincks Headmistress

WELCOME FROM THE OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION I hope you are all as well as can be in the strange circumstances in which we find ourselves at present! As you know, all Alumni events scheduled for the Summer term were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic and I was one of many Old Girls disappointed that the ‘10’ Class Reunion, the Scottish Dinner, the Cumbria Lunch and the Old Girls’ Lunch were unable to take place. And, with School being closed from March onwards, this year’s May Serenade and countless other traditions unfortunately fell by the wayside, too. However, the Bolton School spirit of determination prevailed, and both Divisions excelled in providing remote teaching to all Senior girls and boys throughout the Summer term. The School’s foresight in providing pupils with iPads several years ago meant that the full timetable of lessons could be ‘zoomed’ into their homes, providing not only continued education, but also some welcome structure to those long lockdown days. I have also been impressed with the preparations for

the safe return of staff and students this term and it is great to hear that the girls are taking the changed arrangements in their stride and that the atmosphere remains calm and happy, despite School life being somewhat restricted. It is a shame that the full programme of Christmas events will not be able to take place this year – I for one will miss the angels in the Great Hall at the Ceremony of Carols – but I look forward to catching up with you when normal service resumes, hopefully in the Spring. In the meantime, I hope that this edition of the Newsletter brings some welcome cheer and diversion during these dark evenings whilst we are confined to barracks once again. And please remember there are many ways in which you can keep in touch with School (see page 2) even if it is physically out of bounds for Old Girls for the time being.

Laura Henthorn (née Carless, 1970-1977) Chairman – Bolton School Old Girls’ Association

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

CONTINUING SUPPORT Thanks to the extraordinary support of our donors, Bolton School offers one of the most generous bursary schemes in the country. One recent beneficiary of the bursary scheme, who left the Sixth Form this summer to take up a place at university to study Medicine, reflected on the impact of her time in the Girls’ Division thus: "My time at Bolton School has allowed me to constantly re-evaluate what truly matters in life. It has taught me the importance of academic success, but also that it is worth nothing without a kind heart. I will continue to develop the work ethic instilled in me here and I am confident that Bolton School has equipped me with all the skills I will need to succeed in the future. Without the generous bursary, I know my high school experiences would have turned out very differently. I am truly grateful for every opportunity the school has given me.” It seems inevitable that demand for bursarial support

A Lasting Legacy During the past academic year, over £190,000 was donated to the Bursary Fund by Old Girls and Old Boys who had left a legacy to the School in their will. We are hugely grateful to all those who have chosen to make such a personal gift to the School, and delighted to be able to thank them in their lifetimes for the support. Here, Headmistress Sue Hincks explains why she has chosen to remember the School in her will. "We have always joked: ‘You can’t take it with you’ in my family. That has been the reason why we have embraced so many opportunities to travel over the years. Possessions are of limited value when it comes to human happiness, but experiences are what make memories. That is a message I share regularly in assemblies with the girls. For them, life still lies ahead, a huge journey on which they are about to embark. "As I face the fact that I am now middle-aged, I realise that my journey is a little bit shorter. And with that realisation, the need to write a will has finally confronted me. Had I had children, I might have

will increase in the coming years, as the effects of the global economic challenges created by the pandemic are felt, particularly by young people from low-income families, and we are determined that the talents and abilities of these children should not be squandered. The School’s ethos - of offering bright children an exceptional education, regardless of their background – has, therefore, never been more crucial. "We are indebted to all of those donors who have continued to support the Bursary Fund despite the events of the past several months. With the loyal and generous support of our Old Girls and Old Boys, we will continue to do all we can to ensure our Bursary Fund enables bright pupils, such as the leaver above, to achieve their full potential and go on to make a difference for good in the world.

thought things through earlier, but there never seemed to be the need to do so. Now, however, I do want to feel that I am leaving some sort of worthwhile legacy. "Since I began at Bolton School, I have been aware of how important bursaries are to everything we do here. It is a key part of Lord Leverhulme’s vision for the School that a Bolton education should be available to anyone who would benefit from it. There are, however, so many intelligent, curious and deserving girls in our locality whose parents could never afford our fees. Their only opportunity comes about because they are able to access our bursary scheme. Every spring, however, there are girls whom I would love to accept into the School, but for whom there is inadequate funding. "For this reason, I have made provision in my will to leave some money to the Bolton School Bursary Fund. I know that I can trust the Governors to invest my money wisely and my successors in this position to spend it on children whose potential would be awakened from coming to the School. What better legacy can I leave than the gift of education to future generations?" If you intend to remember Bolton School in your will, we would love to be able to thank you in your lifetime for your generosity. To find out more about leaving a legacy to the School, or to discuss, in confidence, your intentions in more detail, please contact Laura Firth in the Development Office.

The George Lancashire Fund and the Bursary Foundation Earlier this year, Bolton School began working in partnership with The Bursary Foundation, a charity which works to connect deserving young people in deprived communities in Greater Manchester with the best educational opportunities at independent and grammar schools across the region. The Bursary Foundation was founded by Jenny Hopkinson, a former primary school teacher and wife of Old Boy Max Hopkinson (Class of 2002) who, whilst teaching in inner-city Manchester, mentored a bright, hardworking Year 3 pupil called Sally, who subsequently secured a fully-funded place at an independent girls’ school where she is now thriving. That experience inspired Jenny to found The Bursary Foundation, which partners with primary schools in deprived communities to identify gifted and talented pupils who have the potential to thrive at an academically selective school and matches them with qualified teachers who ensure they are prepared both academically and emotionally for the Year 6 entrance examination. The Foundation works closely with the children’s families to help them to navigate the complex admissions process, and then continues to offer them mentoring support throughout their secondary careers. The Foundation specifically targets primary schools where the percentage of disadvantaged pupils is higher than average, and where the quality of secondary educational provision in the vicinity is poor. An example is a partner school in Little Hulton, where 64% of pupils receive Free School Meals and, of the eight closest secondary schools, five are rated as inadequate or requires improvement. The Foundation’s pilot project was launched in 2018, with 50% of that first intake of pupils securing places (fully-funded, at those which are independent) at schools including the Manchester Grammar School, Manchester High School for Girls, Oldham Hulme and Sale Grammar School. To date, the charity has worked with a further 43 families, with whom they have continued to work online throughout the COVID pandemic.

Bursary Foundation pupils (pre-Covid) working hard in a group tutoring session

The George Lancashire Fund was established in November 2012 to fund bursaries for children living in Eccles to study at Bolton School. Following the School’s partnership with The Bursary Foundation, from September 2020 this allocations criteria will be widened to include children living in all areas of the Metropolitan Borough of Salford. Furthermore, any child from Salford who is awarded a 100% bursary from the George Lancashire Fund after engagement with the Bursary Foundation will also qualify to receive an annual ‘Extras’ allowance for the duration of their 100% bursary, providing funding for uniform, travel costs, equipment, and other associated costs, in order that they can take full advantage of all the opportunities a Bolton School education offers. Jenny Hopkinson, founder of the Bursary Foundation, writes: “There is a frightening inequality of opportunity in our country. Put simply, we are wasting talent and helping disadvantaged pupils to access the best opportunities in education is the right thing to do. We are thrilled to partner with Bolton School to identify children with huge potential in some of the poorest parts of Salford and help them prepare for entrance exams. An upfront commitment to support families with the additional costs of an education at Bolton School goes hand in hand with our ethos of holistic family support. Together, we can ensure that pupils enjoy everything on offer at this fantastic school.”

If you would like to pledge your support to the Bursary Fund, either by making a regular one-off gift or by remembering the School in your will, please contact Laura Firth, Head of Development, by calling 01204 434718 or by emailing development@boltonschool.org.

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

SCHOOL NEWS Students Become Doctors for a Day Back in February 37 Year 12 students from both Divisions visited the Royal Preston Teaching Hospital to take part in the ‘Doctor for a Day’ programme, run by the University of Manchester’s School of Medicine. Girls’ Division students Aaliyah Bax and Roxanne Asumu gained a great deal from the day: ‘This was an extremely stimulating experience in which we were presented with a case of a trauma patient in A&E and we had to work together in a team to understand, diagnose and treat her symptoms and injuries. This included communicating with the patient’s next of kin and consultant, analysing her X-ray scan, phlebotomy and checking blood pressure, as well as coming up with a treatment plan. It allowed us to develop our interpersonal and analytical skills, which are vital both at medical school and as a junior doctor.

Roxanne Asumu, Abigail Hughes and Ellie Wallis practise their medical skills

‘Overall it was an enjoyable experience and we all learnt a lot about what life as a hospital doctor entailed. We would definitely recommend any aspiring doctors to take part in the future.’

Katherine Impresses in National Classics Competition Back in the Spring, Sixth Former Katherine Baker was one of four finalists in the national Lytham St Anne’s Classical Association’s Classics Competition. Entrants aged 11-19 from across the country were required to submit a short presentation answering the question: ‘Which three characters would you invite to a dinner party?’ Katherine receives her prize from Dr Arlene HendersonHolmes of King’s College

Katherine, who aims to study Classics at university, entitled her entry ‘My Dinner Party Guests: The Profane, The Witty and The Sacred’. Her three characters were the emperor Caligula, Roman statesman and orator Cicero, and the goddess Artemis. She delivered her presentation to a 100-strong audience and in front of judge Dr Arlene Henderson-Holmes of King’s College London. Katherine’s entry gained her second place for what the judging panel described as ‘a really interesting and engaging presentation’. Girls’ Division Classics teacher Mrs Ball said: ‘She did incredibly well and her speech was amazing’.

Artwork Showcased in Virtual Exhibition Girls’ Division art students were disappointed not to be able to showcase their GCSE and A Level artwork this year due to the extraordinary circumstances. But as this was to be Miss Fazackerley’s last Art Exhibition as Head of the Art Department (see page 14), she was determined that the girls’ impressive work should nevertheless be seen by fellow pupils and parents and so she put together a Virtual Exhibition.

Under normal circumstances, schools are not allowed to share their examination candidates’ artwork until September, but this year – for one year only – the work could be shown early. The virtual exhibition of work from Year 11, Year 12 and Year 13 art students can be seen at www. boltonschool.org/senior-girls/ virtual-art-exhibition/.

Miss Fazackerley’s virtual art exhibition is well worth a look

Rebates Re-gifted The School’s approach throughout the Covid-19 pandemic has been that it is right and proper that the financial burden it has created should be shared by all of within the School community. In May, the Chairman of Governors wrote to parents to announce a fee rebate on Summer Term fees whilst the

School was operating virtually. The School was delighted that over 30 parents chose to re-gift this rebate back to the School’s Hardship Fund, raising £24,000 in support of pupils whose parents are experiencing severe financial distress as a result of the pandemic, in order that those children will be able to continue their Bolton School education.

Socially Distant A Level Celebrations Bolton School could not hold Results Day as usual this year due to Covid-19 safety restrictions and so, instead of the buzz of students in School delighting in each other’s success, girls received their results via email and portal and were wished a fond farewell from their tutors over the internet. Nonetheless, the girls were encouraged to make the most of their moment, no matter the strange global circumstances surrounding it. Headmistress Sue Hincks was pleased to report that all the girls had passed all their A Levels, with a percentage pass at A* to C of 95.4%. The percentage pass at A* and A was up to 54.4% from 51.9% last year and 18.5% of grades were at A*. Despite the socially distant nature of this year’s celebrations, Bolton School wishes the Class of 2020 well as they head off for University, to complete an apprenticeship, or to begin employment.

Girls Celebrate Top GCSE Results In what has been the strangest of summers for exam results, the girls at Bolton School performed extremely well in their GCSEs. Pupils celebrated remotely as the percentage of papers passed with grades 9-4 was 99.8%, and an impressive 47.3% of exams were graded either 9 or 8, up from 45.9% the previous year.

The Bolton Alumni Network The Bolton Alumni Network, the online platform exclusively for Old Girls, Old Boys and Former Staff of Bolton School, continues to grow with almost 2,500 people now signed up and using the platform in many different ways. We are grateful to the 75% of members who have offered to support their fellow Old Girls and Old Boys with careers assistance, including: • 1,600+ willing to answer industry-specific questions • 1,300+ willing to introduce others to their connections • 1,100+ offering to review CVs • 200+ offering work experience or internships Join today to take advantage of this wealth of experience and goodwill, or to give back by offering your help to younger Alumni just starting out in their careers. You can now watch several instructional videos to help you get the most out of your network, including how

Ms Teichman, Head of Upper School, is the bearer of good news!

Headmistress Sue Hincks said: ‘The Girls’ Division is delighted with another set of splendid results. In particular, the value added figures, which are always very high in the Girls’ Division, were tremendous this year. Obviously, things are very different as the results are largely based on our Centre Assessed Grades and I am very grateful to all the staff for their hard work in producing these. I hope that this is the one and only time we have to do so – examinations are far more empowering for the girls who can show off what they can do.’

to search for a mentor or post a job, in the new Resources area. There you will also find career skills videos filmed by fellow Alumni. If you would like to film a skills video or a short video about your industry, please contact the Development Office. To download the BAN App: iOS: Search for ‘Graduway Community’ in the App Store and download the app. Once installed, type ‘Bolton School’ as the name of your institution and select when it populates. Android: Go to Play Store and search for ‘Bolton Alumni Network’ to download the app. Please note users of the previous version will need to delete the old app before downloading this version. If you are not yet a member of the Bolton Alumni Network, you can join by signing up at www.boltonalumninetwork.com with your LinkedIn, Facebook or Google account, or with an email address.

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

Black Lives Matter The global discussions sparked by the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement in June 2020 brought issues of systemic racism and unconscious bias to the forefront of our collective consciousness. The Bolton School Foundation acknowledges its role in fighting ignorance and inequality. The School was impressed by the number of current pupils, members of staff and Alumni who were vocal in condemning racism in all its forms in the wake of these discussions, most notably through the open letter sent by a group of Alumni and other members of the School community to the Headmistress and Headmaster, which urged the School to make a sustained commitment to anti-racism. The values of diversity and inclusion are integral to the aims of the Bolton School Foundation and we are wholeheartedly committed to reviewing and improving our practices and to contributing to the critical work which will need to take place nationally in this regard. We believe we are in a strong position to do so: thanks in large part to the funding provided by the Bursary Fund, the make-up of the student body across both Divisions in terms of ethnic breakdown is an accurate reflection of that of the local community, and the School endeavours to encourage well-qualified BAME students to join the teaching profession through the Initial Teaching Training schemes which it hosts. During the 2020-21 academic year, with the oversight of an external organisation experienced in such matters the Headmistress and Headmaster will lead a consultation with current students and parents, to which members of the Alumni body will be invited to contribute, in order to evaluate where changes are necessary and to provide a clear framework and timescale for how such changes should be implemented. In advance of this consultation, a number of further positive actions have already been instigated since June. These include: • The sourcing of a potential lead advisor for the consultation and for staff training in related matters.

• The completion of Diversity and Unconscious Bias training by Girls’ Division Senior School staff during their recent INSET session; • A review of the PSHE curriculum in both Divisions, in order to ensure that they meet fully the Independent Schools’ Inspectorate’s regulations on matters of diversity and inclusion; • The completion of a curriculum audit in the Girls’ Division during the Summer Term, outlining areas which embraced issues designed to bring BIPOC, BIWOC and BAME identities to the forefront of girls’ consciousness, with a subsequent analysis and agreement of further actions by the Girls’ Division’s SLT and Heads of Department. The School is determined that its response to the issues raised by the BLM movement should be meaningful and have a long-term impact on the culture of the School. Whilst much positive change has already taken place, there clearly remains further work to be done, not least the completion of the School’s consultation, the commencement of which has, regrettably, been unavoidably delayed by the significant resource and planning which has been required to ensure the School was able to reopen to pupils in a Covid-secure manner in time for the start of the new academic year. Despite this delay, the Foundation’s commitment to improving its approach to diversity and inclusivity remains absolute. We continue to welcome the contribution of Alumni, pupils, parents and all other members of the School community in this work and would encourage anyone who wishes to engage with this process to share their experiences, in confidence, by emailing BLMConsultation@ boltonschool.org.

EVENTS With restrictions on social gatherings continuing to change and evolve so rapidly, no in-person Alumni events are currently planned for the Autumn Term and in the early months of 2021. We remain hopeful that we will be able to resume our usual calendar of events next year, and hope that from the Spring onwards the Alumni Dinners, the Class Reunion and the Old Girls’ Lunches will take place. We will of course ensure that further updates and invitations are sent out as soon as we are able to

confirm that each event is able to go ahead. If you have not previously received an invitation to any of the aforementioned gatherings, but would like to do so, please contact the Development Office. We look forward to seeing Old Girls and Old Boys in person as soon as it is safe (and legal) for us to do so. In the meantime, we plan to hold a number of virtual events for Alumni in the coming months, details of which will be shared by email and through our various social media channels. Please see page 2 for details of how to stay in touch with the Development Office in this way.

New York Dinner – Save the Date! The Alumni New York Dinner, originally scheduled for earlier this year, will now take place on Wednesday 22nd September 2021. All US-based Old Girls and Old Boys (partners and spouses are also welcome) are invited to meet over drinks and dinner at the Harvard Club of New York City. If you would like to receive further details about this event, please contact the Development Office.

Boltonians Ladies' FC Boltonians Ladies was founded in 2018 and is the first ladies’ football team to be associated with the Old Boltonians AFC.

The Ladies play in the Greater Manchester County Women’s League, with games kicking off at 2pm on Sundays. The squad took time to settle down in its first season in Division Two, but nevertheless finished just outside the promotion places. The 2019-20 season was dramatically more successful with the team winning all their league and cup games before the season was declared void because of the Covid-19 situation. However, because of their performance, the League took the decision to promote them to the top division where they are hoping that their success will continue at the higher level. Training is currently at Ladybridge FC on Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm. Matches are played at the Old Boltonians' ground in Turton or at Ladybridge FC. Any Old Girls interested in playing football are welcome to join – please visit boltoniansladiesfc. wixsite.com/bolts, @boltonianladies on Twitter, Boltonian Ladies on Facebook, or email staceybluemoon@hotmail.com for further details.

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

OLD GIRLS’ FEATURES Old Girls Join the Fight Against Covid-19 We are incredibly proud of all of the Old Girls who have worked on the frontline during the pandemic. Here, we hear from three such Alumnae, all of whom have contributed to the NHS’ fight against Covid-19. Rachelle Sutton (Class of 2001) – Nightingale Nurse When the call came from NHS Redeployment in late March asking if I was happy to be placed at the Nightingale North West field hospital, I had no doubts in my mind that I should go. As some members of my family were shielding, I had to move away from my home and into a hotel in Manchester for the three-month duration of my service in order to keep them safe. When I received the list of reading to complete before I started, the initial feelings of adventure and excitement from accepting my call to duty were replaced with reality hitting me like a ton of bricks. Nothing could have prepared me for walking - in scrubs and full PPE, my heart going ten to the dozen - into my first shift in a huge conference centre, previously a train station, that was now a makeshift hospital with rows upon rows of hospital beds – 648 of them. Covid-19 suddenly got very real and very scary. Luckily I wasn’t alone in accepting that call to duty. I stood with several other health professionals with dropped jaws as we were passed a marker pen to identify ourselves on our visors, as the only thing we could see amidst the blue haze of PPE were little pairs of eyes. Nobody had dealt with Covid-19, the situation was changing rapidly each day. Nobody had worked at the Nightingale before either - we were all strangers to one another.

I don’t know how I would have managed without the amazing staff team around me: we worked and lived together and they were my family throughout. It was overwhelming how many professionals volunteered to help out from all different backgrounds: there were NHS redeployed staff, retired nurses and dentists, airline staff who had lost their jobs and student medics whose courses had been cancelled. It was fantastic how everyone rushed to the frontline to become one team within the NHS. On each shift I tried to see things through the eyes of my patients. Being severely ill and unable to breathe properly, laid down under the Nightingale’s 90ft roof, seeing just eyes in masks everywhere must have been terrifying for them. It was my aim to make their patient experience as painless and positive as it could be, whether that be through the small luxuries of a nice wash or hairbrush, to listening to a bit of Elvis on the laptop and singing along - anything that raised a smile. It was incredibly emotional when patients were discharged home, passing lines of staff whose claps echoed loudly due to the acoustics of the building: it made me teary every time. Covid-19 has, sadly, taken far too many lives, but I take some comfort that I was able to provide the patients who passed with love, dignity and compassion to the end and I am very proud to have won a Nightingale Star Award for my services to end of life care. Following a nomination from my Mum, I was also chosen to be part of the Blackpool Illuminations’ Covid Hero display which runs nightly until January 2021. I am proud to have been chosen to have my face in lights but was even more honoured to be one of the seven keyworkers who got to switch on the Illuminations in a socially distanced ceremony at the Empress Ballroom, Winter Gardens. I am still working as a pandemic nurse, including covering swab pod services, contact tracing from home, community and ward work. 2020 has put a lot into perspective for me as I have seen the devastating effects of the virus firsthand. I can truly say that working as a Nightingale Nurse was the most challenging but humbling experience of my life to date.

Thorrun Govind (Class of 2010) – Pharmacist I graduated in Pharmacy from King’s College, London in 2016, and then completed my graduate diploma in law whilst working as a pharmacist. I subsequently studied for my LPC and an MSc in Law, Business and Management, maintaining my registration as a pharmacist throughout. I joined Hempsons as a Trainee Solicitor in September 2019 and had just completed my first seat in the healthcare advisory team when the pandemic began. I wanted to put my pharmacy skills to good use and seize the opportunity to help where I could, and Hempsons were great about offering me the flexibility

Katie Nightingale and Nikita Padmakumar (Class of 2015) – Newly Qualified Junior Doctors We were best friends throughout our time at School and, after completing our A Levels, both went on to study Medicine at the University of Leeds, where it was fantastic to be able to continue such a close friendship in a new city. Thanks to Covid-19, the ending to our journey at Medical School was one we never expected: we were graduated prematurely and both volunteered to start working earlier than predicted as interim Junior Doctors, in order to help with the pressures that the NHS was facing. Since then, Nikita has worked in Old Age Psychiatry and more recently on Elderly Care wards, whilst Katie worked first in Renal Medicine and now in Gastroenterology. Although it was daunting at first, we were so grateful for the opportunity to join the workforce in the fight

Girls’ Division Rallies to Help during Pandemic In addition to Old Girls playing their part in the fight against Covid-19, current pupils and staff have also contributed to the cause. In the Girls’ Division Senior School, 557 visors were produced for local hospitals, GPs and care homes. Several members of staff and pupils in Year 7, Year 10 and the

I needed to do so. With their full support and encouragement, I chose to pause my training contract and answer the call for qualified medical professionals to return to full-time practice, since which time I’ve been working on the frontline in community pharmacies in Bolton and Lancaster. As Pharmacists, the biggest challenges we've faced have been the reduction in the time that can be spent with patients, and issues with masks hindering communication: we’ve had to be mindful of this and instigate extra checks with patients with providing them with medication. Managing social distancing in the pharmacy has been an ongoing challenge - I’ve felt like a bouncer at times! - and we have also had more incidences of abuse from patients. I have since, I returned to my training contract with Hempsons and for now, I am continuing to juggle two professions – with flu season now upon us, I anticipate being busy with both for quite some time.

against the pandemic and our experiences in the past few months have taught us a lot: we feel more experienced medically but also holistically, too. We are both enjoying the careers we have worked towards for so long and have been inspired by both staff and patients. The teachers at Bolton School were a huge part of our support system through the application process to Medicine and we are very grateful to have studied at such a great school. Our renewed appreciation for the NHS will be everlasting and despite the uncertainty of the future, we are excited to continue our careers as Doctors.

Sixth Form were involved with the laser cutting, assembling and delivery of the visors. Miss Rachel Langley, Head of Product Design, said: ‘We made up kits, which had been formed using our laser cutter; students collected them and then assembled the visors before distributing to places of their choice. I am delighted that we been able to help out in some way and we have all felt better for it.’

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION Girls Given Seven Life Lessons When Head of Professional Development at London Business School (LBS) Elizabeth Newton (née Whyatt, 1972-1979) addressed a whole-School assembly as part of the annual International Women’s Day celebrations back in March, she reminded pupils of the privileged position they are in, as 131 million girls around the world do not go to school. She urged them to be curious and stressed the importance of lifelong learning. Elizabeth explained that she had been a Direct Grant pupil who had undoubtedly benefited from a Bolton School education: she had developed a curious mind, a love of sport and volunteering and had found a group of lifelong friends. Reflecting on her own life experiences and schooldays, she gave the audience seven clear pieces of advice. Firstly, continue to build your skills – this could be through academic or vocational qualifications, volunteering or through courses at work. Secondly, know yourself – she advised the girls to follow their passions and to listen to what friends and family value in them. Thirdly, know your worth and stand your ground. She recalled being told when working in the City of London that she did not need to earn as much as her male colleagues because they were the breadwinners and she had a husband to support her … needless to say, she went back the following day with a clear and well-argued case as to why she deserved a pay rise! Her fourth piece of advice was to do things your own way and to have the confidence to ask for what you

Elizabeth (far right) with Sixth Formers

want. Her fifth point was to be prepared to take risks or experiment. Keeping your balance and managing your attention was her sixth recommendation and she spoke of personally using yoga and mindfulness to help her rest and reflect and to find balance – she noted that, if you do not care for yourself, you cannot care for others. Her final piece of advice was to build your own ‘cheerleading group’ of friends and colleagues who support you and who challenge your thinking – 40 years since leaving Bolton School she still has friends from those days and their WhatsApp group had been buzzing with talk of her return! Later in the day, Elizabeth delivered a masterclass to Year 11 GCSE Business Studies pupils before chairing a roundtable question and answer session on employability with Sixth Form girls.

Perspectives on University Over the summer, a number of Old Girls filmed videos to support Year 12 pupils deciding upon their UCAS choices and unable to visit the universities they were considering due to Covid-19. These included films from: • Nadia Barabash (Class of 2014), who is reading Natural Sciences at Durham University; • Lucy Baxter (Class of 2017), who is studying Communication and Media at the University of Liverpool; • Maya Drummond (Class of 2018), who is studying Modern Languages at the University of Nottingham; • Antonia Jameson (Class of 2019), Maya who completed her Art Foundation course at Manchester Metropolitan University and will take up her place to read Fine Art at Oxford this autumn;

• Hannah Shaw (Class of 2017), who is reading Modern Languages and Culture at Durham;

Thea Antonia

• Ciara Mansfield (Class of 2018), who is studying Psychology at the University of Leeds Ciara

• Johanna Mercer (Class of 2017), a student of Applied Clinical Psychology at the University of Reading;

• Thea Simpson Hannah (Class of 2019), who is studying International Business and Accounting on a Water Polo scholarship at St Francis College, Brooklyn, USA.

• Emily Varley (Class of 2012) (and her partner Adrian), who read Geography and Materials Science at Cambridge and Oxford respectively.

Emily and Adrian

Alumni Zoom Talks for Sixth Formers In April, 31 young Old Girls answered our call to support virtual careers activities for Girls’ Division Sixth Formers, leading to a series of Zoom lectures and advice sessions throughout the Summer Term. These included: • Farah Ali (Class of 2017), who gave Year 12 pupils an insight into studying Law at University and career possibilities after graduation;

Asena, Jennie and Neha lead a session on anatomy

Farah introduces herself to pupils

• Asena Akdeniz (Class of 2018), Neha Khimani (Class of 2018), Jennie Maher (Class of 2018) and Alisha Maini (Class of 2017), who delivered a series of five lectures for Year 13 pre-med students;

• Fiona Hazlitt (Class of 2017), who shared her experiences of studying Architecture with Sixth Formers; • Jessica Hindley (Class of 2019), who spoke to Year 12 Fiona shares her pupils about life as a Politics experiences undergraduate; • Alex Hopkinson (Class of 2016), who supported a Year 12 student with her application to read Classics at Oxford; • Emily Kay (Class of 2016), who worked with a group of Year 13 pre-Law students to prepare them for their degree courses; • Subhiksha Loganathan (Class of 2019), who supported a Year 12 student with her application to read Medicine; • Rebecca Lowe (Class of 2013), who offered Year 12 students lots of helpful advice about student life and academic study at collegebased universities; Rebecca talks to pupils

• Cerys Baines (Class of 2017), who spoke to Year 13 Historians about what a degree in the subject entails; • Nadia Barabash (Class of 2014), who shared her insights into Accountancy with two Year 13 girls starting apprenticeships this Autumn and two Year 12 girls interested in a career in Nadia caught ‘mid-flow’ finance; on her Zoom session • Lucy Baxter (Class of 2017), who spoke to Year 12 students about journalism and broadcast media; • Lauren Crowther (Class of 2018), who spoke to Year 12 students about internships, Lucy speaks to pupils sharing with them tips about how to secure links with business to build up practical experience and gain a competitive edge in the labour market’

Amy gives her top tips for personal statements for Medicine

• Amy Lyons (Class of 2016), who offered 24 aspiring Year 12 medics a comprehensive overview of the BMAT and UCAT tests and tips for successful preparation;

• Johanna Mercer (Class of 2017), who spoke to Year 12 pupils about routes into Clinical Psychology; • Radhika Sharma (Class of 2015), who talked to Year 12 pupils about the wide range of opportunities in STEM subjects at HE level;

Year 12 pupils and Mrs Martin enjoy Johanna’s session

• Imogen West (Class of 2019), who spoke to Year 12 pupils about her degree in Fashion Design; • Sam Woods (Class of 2019), who talked to Year 12 about her experiences in studying for a degree in Business Management and Leadership through the EON Degree Apprenticeship scheme.

Year 10 Careers Day On 3 July 2020, six Old Girls spoke at the Year 10 Virtual Careers Day. Khadijah Ali (Class of 2019) gave the keynote speech, offering advice on how to build a strong university application and on resilience, before sessions from Claire Beedham (Class of 1998) on Marketing and Management, Rachael Griffin (Class of 1999) on life as a Coroner, Subhi Loganathan (Class of 2019) on studying Medicine, Rebecca Pukiello-Slack (Class of 1998) on life as a broadcast journalist and Sam Woods (Class of 2019) on Degree Apprenticeships.

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

Staff in the Spotlight The Girls’ Division has bid a fond farewell to three members of the teaching staff. As they were unable to be in School during the Summer term, Alumni Prefects Lizzy Lees and Sara Salim ‘zoomed’ Dr Fielder (Head of Science) and Miss Fazackerley (Head of Art) to find out about their time at Bolton School and their plans for the future.

Dr Fielder

What would you have done if you had not become a teacher? I would have probably stayed in research, which I really loved – I felt like I was playing in the lab and doing experiments. What three qualities do you think are important in a teacher? Firstly, you have got to be really organized. You also need to be really logical because you have to be able to get your ideas clear in your own head so that you can share them. Lastly, I think you have got to be patient. My husband also thinks you need to be a control freak!

Lizzy and Sara zooming with Dr Fielder

How many years have you worked at Bolton School? I have worked at Bolton School for eight years now! Have you always taught girls? No I haven’t – I started off teaching girls at Westholme, then I decided that I didn’t want only to teach girls at an independent school so I moved to King Edward VII and Queen Mary School which was mixed. From there I moved to Clitheroe Royal Grammar School, a co-educational state school. I ended up getting a job at Bolton School – which was back to all girls and independent! Did you always want to be a teacher? No, I didn’t – I liked teaching, but I thought I was too short and looked too young to be a teacher. I thought that if I walked into a classroom, no one would listen to me or believe that I was the teacher! I did research for quite a few years, which I really enjoyed, and I used to do teaching and tutoring on the side. I decided I really liked tutoring so eventually, when I was old enough and tall enough, I got into teaching.

Miss Fazackerley

What have you enjoyed most about working at Bolton School? The students and the staff. Everyone is lovely, which makes it a really nice place to work. Do you have any stand-out memories about your time at Bolton School. Yes, my trip to Tanzania which was an amazing experience. And for entirely different reasons – it was very dramatic and painful! – I also remember falling down the stairs to the dining room and spraining my ankle … What are your plans for after School? I have a new job in China. As soon as I can get my visa and leave the country I will be heading off to teach chemistry in an American International School. I’ve always liked travelling so my husband and I made a plan to travel the world and volunteer as teachers. One of my friends teaches overseas and she convinced me to do it. I hadn’t really thought about it, but she showed me how to apply for the job. Now I have all of China to explore and once the borders are open I’ll be able to pop to Thailand for the weekend!

House pupil! Was it your first teaching post? No, I was teaching in Widnes and Warrington before Bolton School Girls’ Division. Have you always taught girls? No – before I came here I had always taught in mixed state schools. Where did you train to be a teacher? I did my PGCE at Didsbury College of Education in Manchester.

Modern technology helps the Prefects catch up with Miss Fazackerley

How long have you taught at Bolton School? For 16 years – I started in September 2004. But my association with the School started in 1969 as a Beech

Did you always want to be a teacher? Yes and no! I had ideas about it as a youngster, then changed my mind from teaching English to Art instead. I actually ended up training in Art and PE, and taught PE for ten years in my previous school. Why did you want to be a teacher? I’ve always liked the idea of being surrounded by younger people – and I still do!

What would you have done if you had not become a teacher? I would probably have been a sports coach or instructor. I teach group exercise classes outside School anyway – I have done for 34 years.

Do you have any standout memories from your time here? I love the enduring traditions which we still have, like Prefects, assemblies, gowns, angels at Christmas, singing carols, school dinners …

Is the job what you thought it would be? It has changed to be unrecognisable to the one I started in the 1980s, but basically creating great artwork doesn’t change, and that’s why I teach such a fabulous subject. Sadly, the paperwork aspect of the job has become much more onerous, which is the least enjoyable aspect.

What will you miss the most? My art rooms, the girls and some very special colleagues.

What is the best part of the job? Seeing people develop their skills and confidence – and watching them spread their wings and become creative, independent thinkers.

How has School life changed over the years? It is much less strict than it was when I was here as a pupil, and more focused on tailoring to the individual rather than expecting everyone to be an ‘academic’. Our girls have wonderful career opportunities laid open for them compared to when I was a teenager. The uniform is more modern and the introduction of trousers is almost revolutionary for here!

What three qualities do you think are important in a teacher? Flexibility, Creativity, Reliability.

What are your interests outside School? Sport and more sport! I love to sail, ski, cycle, run, swim and I teach fitness classes every week.

What have you enjoyed about working at Bolton School? Great colleagues, lovely kids and a fantastic environment!

What are your plans for after you leave School? I intend to expand my fitness classes and maybe do some consultancy work. I also work for the exam board, so I will be super busy – it’s not a retirement!

Last year’s Alumni Prefects Lauren Whitaker and Cate Lord (both Class of 2020) interviewed Mrs Drinkwater (Teacher of ICT) in School before lockdown.

Mrs Drinkwater

Mrs Drinkwater with Lauren and Cate

How long have you been at Bolton School? I have been involved with Bolton School for 25 years as a parent and 20 years as a teacher. I started on the same day as Mrs Sergeant and Mrs Sanders.

Was this your first teaching post? I had previously worked in schools which were linked to education action zones and in Salford as a teacher. Prior to that I worked in industry for multinational companies. My aim was always to be part of a dynamic environment where I could learn with and from the people around me. Did you always want to be a teacher? I enjoy explaining complicated things in a simple way, so teaching seemed to be the calling for me. What is your favourite Bolton School tradition? It isn’t a practice with which students will be familiar, but as soon as I joined Bolton School I felt as though I belonged to a family of teachers. The tradition of working together, the kindness and support we showed each other as a body of staff was, to me, the most important School tradition as it created a happy atmosphere for staff and students. What is the best part about teaching? Having an interest in the subject and helping people to be the best that they can be. I enjoyed working in the pastoral role: I was Head of Year for Years 12 and 13, that was interesting, and helping people get into American

universities was a speciality of mine. I also organised the dynamic enrichment programme for approximately 250 Sixth Form girls. I trained staff in their use of ICT to support their teaching and mentored newly qualified teachers, which led me to have positive, long-lasting relationships with them. What is your favourite year to teach? Some may say that Years 10 and 11 are the most difficult as it is a time of preparation for the first external assessments, but I enjoyed supporting these students through adolescence at the same time as working alongside them to achieve their own successes. What is your favourite Bolton School memory? The memory of laughing most days with my colleagues and students, at simple everyday events, will always stay with me. What are your plans after leaving? A chance encounter has led me to embrace a new challenge. I now have a ‘start up’ in keeping with the times – by the name of Red (as in Read), a literary agency and publicity business, and a dream come true. My first client, Steve Walsh (father of two Old Girls), has published an ingenious novel, Wilson Indeed!, and I want to champion his story. It is first part of a trilogy about a teenager who is able to take night classes in his dreams on any topic and absorb a wealth of knowledge from just a few hours sleep. With my background in Computer Science it is exhilarating to consider a ‘Wi-fi of dreams’ to download data! I have also been working with Old Girl Winni Lam (2002-2004) to produce a GCSE AQA Computer Science Exam Practice workbook. Both books are available through Waterstones. What are your feelings as you leave Bolton School? I am hugely excited to be changing direction and setting my own goals.

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

Donkeys Steal the Show

‘In 2019 Peter developed pancreatic cancer and his treatment was in London at the Royal Marsden Hospital. We were fortunate enough to be able to base ourselves at Westminster Abbey living with an old University chum of mine who is now a Minor Canon at the Abbey. A chance conversation over breakfast one morning with Father Mark about whether the Abbey had ever had donkeys at its crib service set a ball rolling that culminated in me taking my two donkeys down to Westminster to be the star guests on Christmas Eve.

Smokey and Blue in their element, surrounded by children

Viki Edmondson (née Anderson, 1980-1987) always wanted to be a vet, but never imagined that her love of animals would take her to Westminster Abbey! Life has had its ups and downs, but her beloved donkeys taking starring roles in a highprofile nativity service definitely rates as one of her favourite experiences. ‘Despite not getting the required A Level grades the first time round, I resat Chemistry whilst having a year out at Agricultural College in Devon and went on to get a place at Bristol University to study Veterinary Science. I wasn’t the sharpest knife in the drawer and had to resit something every year ... but what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, and never let it be said that we Old Boltonians aren’t made of tough resilient Northern grit! ‘I worked as a vet for many years – my husband, Peter, and I ran a very busy, successful mixed practice, although the majority of my work was with horses. However, having our veterinary business at home meant we were at work 24/7/365 and after 25 years we decided we wanted a life that wasn’t completely centred on my being ‘Viki Smokey and Blue being the Vet’. I developed breast angelic inside Westminster cancer in 2018 and that Abbey during the Crib cemented our decision to head north … so we sold our 32-acre small farm in Surrey and bought 40 acres and two holiday cottages in Scotland. ‘I have always loved donkeys and for my 35th birthday in 2004 Peter gave me two skewbald donkeys, Blue and Smokey, and four sheep. The original sheep have long since been eaten, but we still have some of their offspring. For many years Blue and Smokey took part in Christmas and Easter festivities all around Surrey, raising money for The Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust (GHDT), and in 2017 they became official ambassadors of the Trust.

The boys loving being the centre of attention

‘It was a leap of faith for the Abbey to have us, as they only had my word for how good the donkeys would be, but Blue and Smokey did not put a foot wrong. As Jenny, who led the service, realised how special they were, she invited children up to pat the donkeys and at the end the animals led the procession up the aisle, surrounded by hordes of overjoyed children. It was absolutely magical – every time these boys appear they have the most extraordinary effect on everyone around them and the size of the building they appear neither accentuates nor diminishes the importance of what they do. They somehow bring together everything that is good and kind in the human race, and they spread joy and happiness wherever they tread – the expressions of wonderment in the faces of those who see them is quite something to behold! ‘We also raised a lot of money for the GHDT and raised the profile of the charity, which seeks to reduce rural poverty in The Gambia through improving the health, welfare and productivity of working animals, thus dramatically raising the quality of life for families in a mostly agricultural country. The Gambia is one of the poorest countries in Africa and the difference a healthy animal can make is immense. All in all, it was one of the most incredible experiences I had ever had.’

Viki (in purple) with Father Mark – it’s amazing what plans old chums can hatch over breakfast!

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. Unfortunately this year’s ceremony was unable to take place, but the newly-elected Prefects are nevertheless proudly undertaking their duties now the girls are back in School. Here two Old Girls, Natasha Ison (née Nunkoo, 1990-1997) and Lizzy Dillon (2008-2015), recall wearing their gowns with pride. What was your favourite moment whilst wearing your gown? Natasha: I always enjoyed wearing the gown when coming into assembly behind the Headmistress. It made me feel very proud to be given the honour of being a Prefect and it was a role I really enjoyed. As I was the Geography Prefect I also recall wearing the gown whilst helping out at Open Day, encouraging others to join the School and to have a passion for what we did at School. Lizzy: My favourite moment whilst wearing my gown had to be the May Serenade. It was my first event as a Prefect, and the first time I had been able to wear my gown for a formal occasion. I felt so much pride wearing it and it was the moment I realised that I would be a part of the School’s history forever.

Lizzy at the May Serenade in 2014, as a Prefect

What were your hopes/plans for the future as you passed on your gown? Natasha: When passing over the gown to Pooja I had mixed emotions – sadness because it marked the end of a significant time in my life where I had grown so much and gained the key skills for life Natasha (right) and ahead of me, but also excitement about best friend Rinku the future and the next chapter of going wearing their to university and all the new experiences gowns that would come with it. I don’t think I fully comprehended what university life would be like, but I was excited for the opportunities and challenges which lay ahead. Lizzy: As I passed on my gown I really had no idea what I wanted to do. I had my place at University and I couldn’t wait to start. I also knew that I loved English and Creative Writing, an interest inspired particularly by Mrs Kingsford and her wonderful after-school creative writing classes. However, apart from that I had just decided that I was going to enjoy myself and grab every opportunity that came my way. What did you do after leaving School? Natasha: I studied BSc Mathematics at the University of Manchester. Living away from home, having a part-time job and having to motivate myself to learn and develop whilst enjoying the freedom was difficult to balance, but I managed to put my all into my time at University and graduated with a 2:1 and with some great memories. I then joined BAE Systems on a five-year Finance Leadership Development Programme. I had to adapt quickly to different roles and locations every 3-12 months and had some fabulous experiences in the manufacturing industry, learning about and being involved in management business decisions which would have a direct impact on the businesses’ profitability. I worked on products such as the Hawk Aircraft in Preston, ammunitions production in Crewe, Central Treasury in Farnborough and Commercial Aircraft (A320) in Airbus Bristol. In parallel to working I also studied for my CIMA Accounting exams (Certificate in Management Accounting) and qualified in two years. Lizzy: I read English Literature with Creative Writing at Bangor University. I absolutely loved my time there. I helped to establish the university’s karate team and eventually became the team’s Captain in my final year. Each summer, to fund my studies, I worked as an Activity Leader at an international summer school called Embassy Summer. This sparked my interest in teaching

English as a foreign language, and I also got to travel around London and the South of England, seeing many historical and cultural sites. Since then I have worked as an ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) teacher for Oldham Lifelong Learning, What are you doing now? Lizzy with her cat Natasha: I am currently the Head of Cost Sergi Accounting for Airbus UK and live in Bristol. I’ve stayed in the manufacturing industry as I really enjoy the ability to see physically the product the business builds, such as the A380, A320 and A350 aircraft, and I always feel proud when I see one fly. I love being part of the decision-making team within the Finance function, to drive the business forward and to manage change in the organisation for the strategic long-term benefit of the company. I am also responsible for the development of the early careers talent within Finance (apprentices, interns, graduates) – to motivate, develop and inspire them to be the future leaders of the company and to challenge and drive them to be the best that they can be. On a personal note I’ve been married for 13 years and have two boys, aged 5 and 9, which brings along its own challenges! Lizzy: In June I completed my PGCE at the University of Bolton, and am continuing my studies there as I begin a Masters in Education course. I will continue to teach adults ESOL in Oldham alongside this. What one piece of advice would you give to this year’s Year 13 pupils? Natasha: Believe in yourself and your abilities and take the opportunities to grow as they arise, no matter how challenging they first seem – the most challenging situations are using the most rewarding. Lizzy: I would say don’t panic! If you have no idea what you want to do in the future, or are concerned about the current global situation, you are not alone, even if all your friends seem to have their lives planned out. Just go with your heart, trust your instincts, and seriously consider any opportunities that present themselves to you. I was determined when I left School that I would never be a teacher due to the stereotypes placed on English graduates. However, a few years later the opportunity to teach came my way and I could not be happier that I took it. I adore my job and wouldn’t swap it for anything. Are you still in touch with friends from School? Natasha: Yes, I’m still in contact with School friends via social media and still best friends with Rinku Bhadoria, whom I meet up with a few times a year. Lizzy: Yes, I am in touch with quite a few. I am regularly in touch with Holly Bakker, Polly Hughes and Amy Bannister who were in my form in Years 7-9. Amy Bannister has also recently had son, George, who has been a lovely addition to our group. L-R: Amy Bannister, Holly I am still with my boyfriend Myles Bakker, Lizzy and Swathi Blackwell (Class of 2015) whom I Saravanan, reunited at met in Year 12 on the first day the the Ceremony of Carols Riley Centre was opened. Myles last year – they found and I regularly go on walks with their Prefects’ gowns! our friends Swathi Saravanan and Richard Humphrey (both Class of 2015). Over the years I have also bumped into many other Old Girls and it is always a delight to reminisce with them about our time at Bolton School.

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

NEWS OF OLD GIRLS If you would like to get in touch with any of the Old Girls featured – or any other Alumni – please contact the Development Office.

Class of 1960-1969

Jennifer Nicholson-Morton (née Hampson, 1959-1966) It is nearly a year since Jennifer, her husband, Nik, their daughter and her family all returned to the UK, to Blyth in beautiful Northumberland, after nearly 16 years living in Spain – they actually missed the rain and cool weather!

volunteered to return to nursing and did some shifts in intensive care – her first for 30 years! It was daunting, but she soon realised that things had not changed that much, and by the end of the first shift she knew what she was doing. She relished using her old skills again and to be making a contribution to the front line.

As singing is her main pastime, Jennifer had hoped to join choirs as she had done in Spain and also to start a female choir. In Spain she had become Musical Director of Cantabile, composing and arranging over 400 songs for them from Baroque to Modern classical, traditional and film music. Unfortunately, for the time being, the dreaded Covid-19 bug has put paid to all that.

Lockdown has also brought some of Ann’s Bolton School year group closer together. What began, some time ago, as occasional lunch meetings have become regular Zoom sessions, and it has been very interesting and enlightening to see how much they have in common after all these years and how supportive they can be as a group – perhaps this is due to those Bolton School values they all absorbed many years ago!

However, Jennifer has not been idle and has written another novel. Her first, The Wells are Dry, was published while she lived abroad. The second, Qamira, a tale of a learned woman in Moorish Spain, will hopefully be published shortly. Next will be Amelia and the Witch’s Cat, for children.

Recent events have made Ann think about heroism a great deal. Her definition of heroism is ‘putting oneself out in some way, for the benefit of others’, something which has been demonstrated a great deal lately, and which has reminded her of the School prayer said at the start of every term, which quotes Luke 12:48: ‘And to every one to whom much has been given, much shall be required’. Miss Higginson always reminded her pupils of how much they had to be grateful for and what resources were at their disposal. She made it clear that she expected each girl to make a contribution to others – in these uncertain times the ethos of putting something back is perhaps more relevant than ever.

Gardening, knitting (owls in particular for granddaughter and grand-niece!), playing her wonderful electronic Kawai piano, walking the coastal paths and meeting up with family and friends have been new pleasures for Jennifer. And last, but not least, meeting her birth family. Adopted as a baby, she had no idea who her blood relatives were until the DNA Ancestry revealed a huge clan, including relatives in Bolton, New Zealand and, best of all, a sister nearby in Northumberland – returning home was a great decision! Christine Cottam (1960-1968) Christine is retired now and resumed writing with the go-ahead of Manchester Royal Eye Hospital (in the last year she has had four life-changing operations). In the Covid-19 lockdown she completed an Oxbridge-based murder mystery, inspired by the ‘Me Too’ women’s movement against institutionalised sexual harassment and began typing up her letters and diary from Rajasthan, again with a view to publication. Her next project is reminiscences about travels for work and pleasure in the world’s remoter places with Malik Saleem Khan, her beloved late husband who died in 2016. Her passion for going walkabout perforce is confined now to Wales and Scotland with like-minded fanatics. She is a founding member of Leigh Film Society and volunteers for Pensioners Link in Leigh, assisting their Books and More programme (which replaces the Council’s mobile library service) and running a Friendship Group for frail, older people.

Class of 1970-1979

Ann Ingham (née Twyford, 1965-1977) During the first few months of the Covid-19 pandemic Ann has been working full time as a psychotherapist helping people with anxiety and depression. She also

Class of 1980-1989

Amanda Rigby (1966-1980) Manda is please to announce that she is now The Right Worshipful Mayor of Bath, Councillor Manda Rigby, first citizen of the City! It is quite a mouthful! She is 793rd in an unbroken list, and it goes back further than that. Nicola Alderson (née Thornhill, 1974-1981) Nicki loved her time at Bolton School, having begged her parents to let her go to ‘the fairy castle school’ from a tender age. There is no doubt that the School gave this quite shy 11-year-old a huge confidence boost, not least in encouraging her interest in Drama: indeed, she became a Drama and English teacher! Nicki has very fond memories of several teachers, including Miss Windle who often indulged her by letting her take the big roles in class play-reading, Miss Dickinson who managed to get her through Maths O Level – making the girls do star jumps in the aisles if they looked a bit sleepy!, Mrs Nulty and Mrs Garthwaite of the French department (the former seeming so chic and cool with her denim skirts and red lipstick and the latter who did not suffer fools gladly) – thanks to them Nicki is a Francophile still. Miss Morley, Miss Mott in that tiny music room – the list is not exhaustive … Nicki’s recent news is that she has recently qualified as a Humanist celebrant for weddings and funerals and so has

shifted to part-time teaching. Coincidentally, just as she is stepping down from being Head of Department, she finds herself in idea-sharing email exchanges with the daughter of classmate Celia Gibb (née Harris) who is moving up north to become a Head of Drama herself. Anyone seeking to book Nicki for their wedding ceremony – perhaps back in the wonderful setting of Bolton School? – can find her on the Humanists UK website.

Class of 1990-1999

Naomi Lord (1991-1998) Congratulations to Naomi, Creative Learning Director in Bolton School Boys’ Division, who joined the Royal Opera House Bridge National Leaders for Impact course in September. Royal Opera House Bridge works to ‘connect children and young people with great art and culture’ and its Leaders for Impact course is a ‘leadership development programme for head teachers and senior school leaders in a position to influence whole school approaches to arts and cultural learning’.

Class of 2000-2009

Alexandra Payne (1999-2005) Good luck to Alexandra, Partner at BLM, who has been nominated and shortlisted for Litigator of the Year at the Women in Law Awards. A virtual awards ceremony will take place on 11th November to announce the winners. Stephanie Reed (née Grimes, 1998-2005) Stephanie is a primary school teacher and private tutor and when the schools closed due to Covid-19 she produced weekly home packs to help those families doing home teaching and also gave ‘live’ maths lessons via Facebook for children in Key Stage 2. She was interviewed on BBC Radio Lancashire as part of their Making A Difference series, featuring individuals who have helped others during lockdown.

Class of 2010-2019

Elizabeth Maloney (2004-2011) Elizabeth has recently qualified as a solicitor in the Media and Entertainment Team at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors. Natasha Lomas (Class of 2014) Congratulations to Natasha who has completed her Masters degree at the Royal Academy of Music, London, gaining a merit in the final results. Sarah Ibberson (2002-2016) and Rachel Ibberson (2004-2018) Sisters Sarah and Rachel both study History at university. During lockdown the pair set up their own start-up, StudentBooks, as throughout their time at university they have been surprised by the cost of buying academic books and by the lack of a platform for peer-to-peer second hand re-sales. StudentBooks is the only site (that they are aware of!) that allows students to buy and sell books directly to other students, ensuring the best price for the seller and the buyer. Other thirdparty platforms offer students very little money for expensive Sarah (left) and Rachel academic books, which they then sell on at a considerable margin; the StudentBooks platform puts the students in control.

Having returned to their home in Bolton for the national lockdown, Sarah and Rachel began building their website whilst completing their university studies for the year. They have now launched their fully functional site and are beginning the marketing process, building up their social media base on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Alongside their online marketplace, they run a website for blog posts and promotion. Read more about their innovative business at: studentbooks.sharetribe.com. Riya Kalhan (2009-2016) During her gap year Riya taught herself how to write and produce music in her home studio, drawing upon Bollywood influences both in her music and image as an artist. She utilises rhythmic tabla percussion and sampled synth sitar drones to create a truly unique sound – particularly in her follow up-single, Give Into You. Her music video for Look My Way (which can been viewed at youtu.be/Ss0eku3zumI) has done extremely well, attracting the attention of prominent figures, including the world-famous boxer Amir Khan, after amassing close to half a million views within the first two weeks of release. Riya is lucky to have had the opportunity to perform at prestigious venues with huge capacities such as The Reebok Stadium, XOYO London, Troxy London and the Tate Modern Museum, which has led her being scouted to perform live for the infamous SOFAR SOUNDS – to be posted on their global platform in the coming months. Read more about Riya’s music at riyaofficial.com. Caitlin McGuffie (Class of 2016) After A Levels, Caitlin completed a foundation year at the University of Liverpool, then spent last summer as an intern with BAE Systems as a Software Management Undergraduate Engineer, working as part of the configuration team managing changes for the typhoon aircraft. She received an exceptional performance rating and was consequently invited back this summer. Unfortunately the pandemic meant that BAE cancelled this, but Caitlin hopes to be able to take up her position again next summer, and if she maintains her exceptional performance she will be automatically accepted onto the BAE graduate scheme for the following year when she has completed her Masters in Aerospace Engineering. In the meantime, she is busy mentoring some students as part of the University of Liverpool’s headstart course which is being run virtually. Caitlin is Treasurer for the University’s AeroSoc, as well as an ambassador for both the School of Engineering and for the University as a whole. She will also be taking up a role within the school as a course representative for MEng Aerospace Engineering. Emma Parkes (2014-2016) Congratulations to Emma, who has graduated this year with a 2:1 in Management and Marketing from the University of Leeds and will be starting a graduate role at Manchester City Football Club in the autumn. Cerys Baines (2010-2017) Congratulations to Cerys who has graduated from the University of Oxford with a 2.1 in BA History and Politics. She also received a First for her thesis: ‘Unsuitable for Females’: The Rise and Fall of Women’s Football, 18951921, which used original research to propose a new

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020 explanation for the 1921 FA Ban on women’s football. She is now looking forward to working for Oxford University Sport as the Officer for Football. Lucy Baxter (2015-2017) Congratulations to Lucy who has graduated from the University of Liverpool with a First Class Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Communication and Media. She is now studying for a Masters in Broadcast Journalism at the University of Salford. Unfortunately Lucy at her ‘DIY’ there was no graduation ceremony graduation! due to Covid-19, but Lucy nevertheless managed to celebrate in style and is looking forward to the official graduation ceremony next year. Johanna Mercer (1998-2017) Johanna is currently studying Applied Clinical Psychology at the University of Reading. She has been working as a trainee PWP (Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner) during lockdown and has helped many individuals who are suffering mentally due to coronavirus. She has also provided additional support on the MeeTwo app, where anonymised individuals may post any difficulties they are experiencing and people like Johanna help support them in any way they can. In addition, Johanna has been a student support worker for the Covid-19 response at her university, supporting those with virus-related issues and helping them to adapt to new university circumstances. Melissa Rose (2015-2017) Congratulations to Melissa who has completed her BSc (Hons) at the Royal Agricultural University with a First. She is now studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Liverpool. Zoe Stirzaker (2003-2017) Zoe is thrilled to have graduated from the University of Nottingham with a First Class Joint Honours Degree in English and History. She is also extremely grateful and pleased to have been awarded the School of English Prize for Best Joint Honours Student. Looking ahead, she intends to apply for a position on a graduate training scheme to begin her career in the working world. Francesca Wright (Class of 2017) Congratulations to Francesca who has graduated from Lancaster University with First Class Honours in International Relations and Religious Diversity. She has also been awarded the Paul Fletcher Memorial Prize for

the submission of the best undergraduate dissertation in Religious Studies and she is hoping to publish her Independent Research Project on Shari’a councils in Britain. Francesca has now accepted a place to study the Graduate Diploma in Law at the University of Central Lancashire. Carla Law (2013-2020) Carla replied to a tweet from Miss Vogue asking to hear from people receiving their A Level results this year and the editor of the magazine emailed a few questions for her to answer after she received her grades. When the article appeared in print Carla was amazed to see her positive comments were featured! Carla is now studying Filmmaking at Leeds Beckett University (The Northern Film School).

News of Former Staff

Barbara Morley (Girls’ Division Staff, 1954-1983) Miss Morley celebrated her 97th birthday in May – despite it being in lockdown, her neighbours, including Old Girls Jill Leatherbarrow (1972-1979), Carole Collins (née Stones, 1959-1966) and Elsie Peel (née Addison, 1949-1956 and Girls’ Division Staff 1962-1970) and Old Boy Mark Bradley (1972-1979), were determined to make her special day extra special by serenading her on her doorstep! Barbara Windle (Girls’ Division Staff, 1971-1986) It is now over 30 years since Barbara left Bolton School to take on the headship of The Mount School York. She and Meg Chignell (dearly loved by many Boltonians) spent happy years there: Meg involved in Quaker activities regionally and further afield and writing some books, while leading the school kept Barbara more than occupied. Meg’s final years were overshadowed by the cruelty of dementia. It is hard to realise that it is almost 20 years since her death and Barbara’s retirement. Since then Barbara has been Trustee and Associate Tutor of Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre, involved in various national committees, also taking her into Europe and elsewhere. Her love of editing keeps her busy locally and regionally – and of course there are always local poetry and literature activities. She also leads courses in Glenthorne, Grasmere, on Wordsworth and TS Eliot (and has delighted in having Old Bolt participants!). Although by her own admission not a good correspondent, Barbara loves hearing from former pupils and is happy for the Development Office to pass on her contact details should anyone reading this wish to get in touch.

The Bolton School Wine Collection The Bolton School Wine Collection, launched by the Girls’ Division Parents’ Association to mark the 100/500 anniversaries, is an exclusive wine assortment carefully selected in partnership with T Wright Wine of Horwich. There are six wines in the collection, all priced at £9.95 per bottle: a Pinot Grigio, a Sauvignon Blanc, a Chardonnay, a Shiraz, a Merlot and a White Zinfandel. Wines are available by the case (six bottles) at a discounted price of £56.75 in any bottle combination you would like. Delivery is free (minimum order one case) throughout the Bolton area, and all profits will be donated to the School’s Bursary Fund. For more information please e-mail bsfwines2015@gmail.com or to place your order, please visit www.twrightwine.co.uk/13030.

MATCHES AND HATCHES Jayne King (née Hartley, 1994-2001) Jayne and her husband Chris (Class of 2001) knew each other at Bolton School, but met up again many years later. They were engaged and married in 2018 and welcomed their first child, Isla, in July 2019. The couple are expecting another baby in November this year. Chris and Jayne married on 27th September 2018 in Sorrento

Lucy Bosworth (née Riley, 2001-2008) Lucy married Rich Bosworth on 27th July 2019 in Lancashire. Her Maid of Honour was Chloe Milne (2001-2008) and Emma Pasquill (1999-2008) was one of her Bridesmaids. There were many other Old Girls and Old Boys of different generations in attendance.

Rich and Lucy Lucy and Rich live in Surrey. They were delighted to welcome their baby daughter, Elodie, on 14th August this year.

Elizabeth Finley (1992-2000) Congratulations to Liz and her husband, David Ross, who welcomed Harriet Elodie Ross on 17th August 2020, a little sister to Jack, aged 12. Liz and baby Hattie

Deanne Cunningham (1994-2001) Deanne’s first child, Innes Elliot Cunningham Foster, arrived on 20th June last year. Deanne and son Innes

MINI REUNIONS Lockdown Links During lockdown Lesley Ainsworth (1968-1975) has been in touch with a group of Old Girls – Gillian Braddock, Rachel Gillian, Jennie, Lesley, Rachel Earnshaw, Chris Taylor, and Margaret Helen MacKinnon (née Winnard), Jennie Abelman (née Bergwerk) and Elizabeth Ainscoe (née Collier) (all 1968-1975) – in a weekly Zoom call linking Australia, France, Scotland and various parts of England. In addition to catching up with each other’s news they enjoyed special ‘guest appearances’ from Top right: Special guests Miss Margaret Hughes (Girls’ Harvatt (left) and Miss Winfield Division Staff, 1966-1972) who taught them Maths, Julien Harvatt (Girls’ Division Staff, 1970-1977) who taught them German and Margaret Winfield (former Girls’ Division Staff) who taught them History. They all enjoyed catching up with each other. Lesley notes that although over 45 years on they have all aged, their teachers look now as they did back then!

Helen Davies (née Edge, 1996-2003) Helen met her husband, Noel, at the University of York and they married in 2011. On 8th December 2019 they welcomed their much longed-for baby boy, William Noah. Ruth Syddall Helen, Noel (née Morley, and baby 1993-2003) William Ruth and Adam (19841998) are thrilled to announce the arrival of their ‘quaranteenie’ lockdown baby George Jude Syddall, who entered the world at the Royal Bolton Hospital on The Syddall family Wednesday 8th July. Big brother Arthur, who is now two and a half, is counting down the days until George can play football and cricket with him! Ruth and Adam remain ever hopeful that they can finally introduce baby George to family and friends in the not too distant future! Janine Routledge (née Eastham, 1996-2005) Congratulations to Janine and her husband Matthew who welcomed their second child, Hector, a little brother for Penelope, on 10th April 2020 during lockdown. Elizabeth Novak (née Carley, 1994-2001) Congratulations to Liz and her husband Gary on the arrival of Jack on 2nd January 2020, a little brother for Florence. Liz, Gary and baby Jack

Janine, Matthew, Penelope and baby Hector celebrating VE Day in May at their home at the Royal Hospital School where Janine is currently Head of French

Happy Hikers An intrepid bunch of 1977 leavers, four of whom walked the Pennine Way back in the long hot summer of 1976, had their annual holiday in the not so L-R: Maggie, Judith, hot autumn of 2019 in a really Janice, Sue and Jackie interesting house near Criccieth brave the Welsh which had excellent views and weather which had belonged to the daughter of David Lloyd George, still having a library room devoted to his memory. Maggie Wardle (née Watson), Judith Cadley (née Lee), Janice Pillar (née Drake), Sue McCann (née Hampson) and Jackie Bateson (née Sloane) enjoyed their usual walking adventures. Sadly, their planned trip L-R: Sue, Jackie and to Dorset for autumn 2020 has had to Maggie be put on hold. However, Maggie and Janice managed to meet up (during their otherwise separate holidays) in Wellington, New Zealand, in early March, also with Susan Searle (née Ratcliffe) who lives in Christchurch. The group really feels for those students who got their A Levels this year – their key piece of advice for all school leavers is this: stay in touch with your pals from school and it will pay dividends in your future life, because they are some of the best friends you will ever have.

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

FROM THE ARCHIVES Ask the Archivist Mrs Betty Vause MBE – Pupil, Teacher and Governor Betty Diana Vickers was born in Bolton on 21st August 1922, the only child of Mr and Mrs Herbert Vickers. The family lived at the bottom of Chorley New Road. Betty’s father was the official physiotherapist for Bolton Wanderers which led to her developing a life-long support for the team.

Speech Day 1980: Mrs Spurr, Mrs Whelan, Prof Whelan, Jenny Shaw, the Third Viscount Leverhulme, Mrs Vause

Betty entered the Girls’ Division in September 1927 and became a member of Arkwright House. Thus began a remarkable relationship with Bolton School, as pupil, teacher and Governor, that continued until she died in 1998. Clearly gifted, she was the regular recipient of prizes for Mathematics, Geography and History and obtained a Distinction in History in her School Certificate examinations in 1939. She was appointed Vice Captain of her House in 1939 and was a Prefect in both 1938-39 and 1939-40. She also enjoyed drama, playing a badger in a production of Toad of Toad Hall in 1935 and then taking the lead role of St Joan in a production of Shaw’s Saint Joan in 1939. Betty left School in 1940 and went to Bedford Training College. After post-qualification teaching experience she returned to Bolton in September 1945 to be appointed a teacher at Beech House under Miss Boston and remained there until 1949 when she left to marry Dr John Vause, having first met him on the steps of the old Beech House at the age of four. She was soon back at School after becoming Hon Secretary of the Old Girls’ Association in 1952, a position she held for 20 years. One of the Association’s staunchest supporters, she was heavily involved in the production of the Learning and Living survey in 1960. This fascinating investigation of Old Girls’ experiences was repeated in 1977 for the Centenary Year and again last year on the initiative of the Headmistress, Miss Hincks. In 1976 Betty became Chairman of the Girls’ Committee in succession to Mrs Rosamund Taylor and when Marcus Tillotson retired as Vice Chairman of Governors in 1983 (albeit remaining a Governor until 1990) Betty replaced him as Vice Chairman and also as Chairman of the New Lever Trustees. This was the first time that a woman had held either position and so these were notable appointments for an Old Girl of the School. Her husband lived to witness these events, but had been in failing health for some time and died in 1985. Betty stood down as Chairman of the Girls’ Committee in 1990, but she remained Vice Chairman of the Governors until her retirement in 1998 when she was appointed Emeritus Governor in recognition of her outstanding service

to the School. One of her last acts was to perform the official opening of the new entrance to the Junior Department, then based on A Corridor in the main School (Hesketh House was opened in 2010).

Mrs Vause opens the new entrance

Betty made a huge to the Junior Department with contribution to the Mrs Trueman (far left), Miss Panton School, but was equally and Sir Alan Cockshaw generous with her time in the broader community. She was a founder member of the Bolton Hospice fundraising committee and was actively involved in the life of the Hospice, from organising committees to helping in the shop. Paying tribute to her after she died, Raymond Speakman, Hospice Chairman, said: ‘She was with the Hospice from the beginning and was truly devoted – always prepared to do anything.’ Betty was also one of Bolton’s most distinguished magistrates, serving on the Bolton Bench for over 30 years, and was Chairman of the Magistrates for the final six years before her retirement in 1993. Peter Dawson, the Clerk to the Justices, said: ‘In all my experience I have never met her equal as Justice of the Peace ... she is a truly remarkable woman.’ Betty had been a stalwart of the community and it was fitting that she should be awarded the MBE in the Queen’s Honours List in 1981 in recognition of her service. Her medal and citation are now held in the School archives. It would be fair to say, however, that Bolton School was always her priority. She made a number of gifts to the School over the years, including Prefects' gowns for the Head Girl and two Deputies in 1980. Her final gift showed just how much the School meant to her: she bequeathed a substantial sum to the School which the Governors added to the bursary funds. Hers was indeed a life of total dedication, service and support to Bolton School.

Speech Day 1985: Mrs Vause, the Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton, Councillor Mrs Barbara Hurst (also Governor), Mrs Spurr and the Third Viscount Leverhulme

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

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

Sixth Form Girls, 1966

The School under snow, January

Susan Garnett (née Parry, 1952-1958) sent in these photos of her on the Rheinland trip (with Miss Bond and Miss Faulkner) and as Canon Chasuble in the Girls’ Division production of The Importance of being Earnest

1955

Senior Badminton Squad, 2000-01

Orienteering Squad, 199

7-98

Third Form tri p to Cautley, March 1988

Swimming success, 1996

ice (née Jackson, Thank you to Lorna Cru to of the Joint pho this for 7) Class of 197 trip to Brittany, d fiel Divisions geography rrick Shaw De Mr by led 6, Easter 197 Staff 1961-1989) n isio Div (1935-1943, Boys’

-80 Physics Having seen the picture of the 1979 Girls’ Old the of on editi g group in the Sprin May, 1973-1980) Newletter, Jane Wintermeyer (née all) of the girls has identified most (but not quite o. phot the in is featured – she herself Metcalf, Gail , onds Sym stine Chri L-R: , Back Hibbert(?), Vivianne Addy, Linda Astbury, Katy Susan Kenyon dy?), Middle, L-R: ?, Catherine Cox, (Man el Lewis Meri , Platt ela Ang Elizabeth Matthews, Fiona Cowney, rya, acha Batt i sum Mou L-R: t, Fron Jane Wintermeyer, Jane May as physics Jane recalls: ‘We had Miss Pugsley er for eath Fairw Dr and s Lewi Dr and teacher inson Dick Miss nal iratio insp Chemistry, then the HRH The Duchess of Gloucester It was a good . Falla Miss with g alon s, meets Math for Prefe cts, 2000 .’ ories mem y happ era with many

Don’t forget to take a look at the ‘Scenes from the Past’ page on the School website, which we update regularly with new archive photos: www.boltonschool.org. You can also share your own archive photos on the Bolton Alumni Network: www.boltonalumninetwork.com.

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

Playdeck Sandals A recent post on Facebook and Twitter about a one-time staple of the Girls’ Division uniform prompted an outpouring of memories from Old Girls of a certain age who were obliged to wear Clarks Playdeck Sandals (aka ‘Jesus sandals’) as their ‘indoor’ shoes at School. Here is a selection of their comments: ‘I remember two girls in my class inserting drawing pins into the soles of their ‘Jesus boots’ and tap dancing at the front of the classroom till the teacher arrived. Always kept the class enraptured!’ Helen Bishop (Class of 1994)

the ‘lip’ under the toe would catch on the overhang of the stair.’ Ruth Davies (née Harrison 1977-1984)

‘We had to wear them to protect the floor, but when I revisited School with the next generation, our contributions had been in vain as they had carpeted over it!’ Joanne Close (née Shahzada, 1986-1993)

‘I remember being about 15, and heading over to the Boys’ Division quad at the end of the School day to get the coach home ... only to get there and realise I hadn’t changed back in to my outdoor shoes. I was mortified!’ Lindsy Slamon (née O'Reilly, 1987-1994)

‘I remember being told it was for the floors. Meanwhile teachers wore heels. I wasn't convinced …’ Julie Scott (née Heaton, 1985-1992) ‘For Third Form my mother bought me some ghastly brown Start Rite shoes that looked like relics from the 1940s. I am pretty sure that I was the only girl in class wearing such monstrosities, and I longed for some navy Jesus sandals so that I might be like the other girls. Oh the happy day when that became a reality! I loved those sandals, they were very comfy.’ Ceri Williams (Class of 1986) ‘Back in the day, I remember running downstairs in these hideous things to get changed into our outdoors Clarks shoes so we could go to the Boys’ Division. Only in the rush to get there I Jane Fazackerley (Class of forgot, met the rest of 1983 and Girls’ Division Staff the girls and ran over to 2004-2020) sent in these the Boys’ Division only photographs of her and her to look down at my feet friends wearing their Playdeck and remember that I sandals – you may also spot one of the Girls’ Division’s was still wearing these. famous deportment girdles! The horror. And then of course there was the fact we had to put drawing pins in the soles so we could tap down the wooden floors.’ Sarah Knight (1984-1991) ‘The utter horror of realising I’d forgotten to change into my outdoor shoes to walk home … A mistake you only make once!’ Esther Chambers (1986-1993) ‘I think they were specifically designed by nuns (or Miss Higginson) to make you look as unattractive as possible. They were also lethal when going upstairs as

‘I did the same thing – so embarrassing! Especially as my coach dropped me in Chorley town centre and I had to walk through town with my knee-high socks and Jesus sandals – street cred ruined.’ Madeleine Woo (1987-1994) ‘They were susceptible to heat. I wore them to go to Budleigh Salterton beach in the hot summer of 1976. Took them off to go swimming and when I tried putting them on later I found the crepe soles had melted!’ Vera Baldwin (née Dickinson, Class of 1963) ‘Ours were navy blue and had to be specially ordered because the shops no longer sold them. You ordered a size larger in case buy the time they arrived, they no longer fit. The wearer of a new pair of Playdecks could be easily identified because they squeaked loudly along the parquet corridors until they had been worn in.’ Tamar Wisemon (née Woolf, 1983-1988) ‘Hig banned them, describing them as ‘heelless, toeless things’ which prompted Liza Dobson (Class of 1979) to write a piece which was published in the 1975 Girls’ Division School Magazine.’ Judith Hibbert (1969-1979) ‘We used to bend the front ends over and walk with a bounce, until I snapped mine and Mum went mad!’ Ruth Whitehead (née Tonge, 1987-1994) ‘They lasted forever – you simply couldn’t kill them, however hard you tried. I spent most of the Lower Fifth trying to destroy them so my mum would say she wouldn’t buy another pair for Upper Fifth. It didn't work – they just survived and I had to wear sort of half flappy soled broken things for the best part of a year.’ Clare Fordham (née Westhead, 1985-1992) ‘OMG had forgotten about those hideous things.’ Sarah Buckingham (née Greenhalgh, 1977-1991) ‘Who on earth wears open-toe sandals with woolly tights – truly embarrassing for us girls! They did protect our beautiful floors and they were comfortable (apart from the fact that wearing them in winter meant I got chilblains!).’ Dawn Gratton (1982-1989) ‘Don’t forget the woolly tights and Playdecks were paired with blue A-line skirts which had to touch the floor when one was kneeling!’ RJM

All Star Sports Teams During lockdown Girls’ Division sports teachers were asked to compile their ‘all star’ teams featuring girls who had stood out in their particular disciplines while at School – these generated great interest on social media!

Miss Donaghy’s All Star Lacrosse

Team, 2004-2020

Miss Donaghy’s All Star Lacrosse Team , 1995-2003

Mrs Heath erington’s All Star Ne tball Team , 2008-202 0

ass of 2008

es – Cl Netball Invincibl

U15-U16 Netball Squad,

1996

The Class of 2008 Netba ll Team really was invincible !

Netball Tournament at City of Manchester Stadium, 2004

Senior Netball Team 200

0-2001

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020

A Dark Horse With so much spare time during lockdown, Valerie Stevens (née Deans, 1951-1958) had a clear out of her study. ‘Going through old boxes of documents brought back memories of School in the 1950s. ‘One box was labelled ‘Mementos’, and I dreaded looking into it … there were all the letters to me from 54 years ago when our son was born and I was so very ill. But there was plenty of material that made me laugh, including all my School reports which my parents must have kept for many decades. ‘Right through to Sixth Form the remarks from teachers are the 1952 - Valerie (left) same: “Valerie could do better if with Ruth Carter (née she applied herself a bit more” … Garstang, 1948-1958) “She has considerable ability, but her heart does not seem to be in academic work”… The funniest report, which my Father always quoted was, “Valerie plays netball as well as a tight skirt will allow”. And that was in the Upper Sixth – I don’t think we had to be involved in games then! ‘There are some rather mean remarks from Miss Higginson: “Her own pleasant personality is often hidden by affected mannerisms” … “We should like to see her a little less self-centred and more ready to think of, and to help, other people” … “It would be a pity if she were to value the kind of admiration which is not worth having and to forfeit that which is” – I think that was after I had a glamorous role in the School play. ‘The reports do get more positive during my last term at School and in the event I performed better than anyone expected, winning a State Scholarship, and nine prizes at the subsequent Speech Day (which I did not go to because I was at Nottingham University, getting starring roles in the Dramatic Society productions in my first term!). ‘I wonder if Miss Higginson ever realised the extent to which I had had to overcome a background of genteel poverty? Cultured parents, but a house with no bathroom, a tippler lavatory at the bottom of the garden, and mould blooming on the bedroom walls. My friends

at School had fathers in managerial positions and – to my eyes – very grand houses. In my early years at School I was so weedy and dreamy, and hopeless at gym and games – always in the last two to be picked by team captains, and generally overlooked. ‘Somehow I learned that I had to get myself noticed for something. I forced myself to be confident – more assertive, we would say now – and eventually I shone at acting, reciting Shakespeare soliloquies, singing, guitarplaying, drawing. These are very lonely skills, so I don’t know what Miss H meant by ‘helping others’; I didn’t imagine anyone needed my help and I had no ideas of altruism then, only a wish to succeed and to be admired for my abilities. Maybe she had a point, though, but it took a good few more years and increasing political involvement before I learned to combine self-assurance with a concern for others. ‘Eventually, after many more stage roles in Nottingham and then Edinburgh, I put what talents and expertise I had to conservation of the natural environment, raising awareness of the disastrous impacts that humans were having on wild species and landscapes – to our own long-term detriment. My Geography degree was an excellent grounding for that, 1957 - Valerie as and my thespian talents certainly Gwendoline in The Importance of Being helped when speaking at big public meetings – including twice Earnest with Janet Mathieson (née Holt, in Trafalgar Square – without any 1951-1959) feelings of nervousness. I had no proper career, and no salary over several decades, but I became greatly respected for my leadership (a quality I never demonstrated at School) in the environmental arena. ‘I think our revered Headmistress recognised that I was turning out to be socially useful: when I was in my early thirties she invited me to address the Sixth Forms of both Divisions on the subject of the great surge in human population and the effects this would have – was having – on the natural environment. That was 50 years ago, and here we are with nearly everything relating to the Earth worse than ever. Still, I tried my best. And it was Bolton School which taught me to make something of myself and never to be afraid of standing out from the crowd.’

Flu in the Fifties

missing and ends: “Hope you recover soon – I keep forgetting to go to lessons.”

Recent events reminded Susan Garnett (née Parry 1952-1958) of her own encounter with a past flu epidemic at Bolton School.

‘On a more practical side, we surviving Sixth Formers were sent out to help in the community. I spent time at a local children’s home and thoroughly enjoyed looking after and playing with the babies and taking groups of toddlers on the bus to the local park – as long as I counted them all out and counted them back again that didn’t seem to be a problem! At an elderly persons’ retirement home we chatted, read letters and drank lots of tea, and I have vivid memories of hearing of first-hand experiences living with the horrors of the First World War. Most had lost close family members to the conflict and to the Spanish flu epidemic which raged throughout Europe afterwards.

‘A School friend recently sent me a photocopy of a letter I had written to her in 1957 with a parcel of set work to be completed on her sick bed. No online home schooling then, but there must have been a massive postal bill. I believe there were several volunteer drivers delivering packages to stricken Sixth Formers. I quote from my letter: “Dear V…. Please forgive me for depressing you by sending you work to do. We’re in a sorry state here. 125 away in the whole School (total roll c 350?) and only two in for Geography, Eileen and I” (dig correct English!). ‘The letter goes on to describe the rather overactive – and probably greatly exaggerated – social life that poor V…. is

‘Not a hint of PPE, or any disclosure and barring, but we all seemed to be back in class to take our A Levels the following year.’

LIVES REMEMBERED Joan Blenkinship (née Entwistle, Class of 1958) Joan always wanted to work as a Physiotherapist, and did so until she retired. She and Alan met in early 1963 and were married in June of the same year. They had no children. They enjoyed many holidays and trips in the US and Australia throughout their lives. Alan Blenkinship Jennifer Alice Clack (née Agnew, 1959-1966) Jenny, who died of cancer aged 72, was a world-renowned expert on the evolution of land vertebrates from fish, a transition which took place around 360 million years ago. Born in Manchester, she attended Bolton School before studying Zoology at Newcastle University under the supervision of Dr Alec Panchen. When she graduated, Panchen was unable to take on another post graduate, so Jenny took a Museum Studies course at Leicester University. She got a job at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and it was then she met her future husband, Rob, also interested in fossils, at a local motorcycle club.

In 2006 Jenny was awarded a personal chair at the University of Cambridge, and in 2009 was elected Fellow of the Royal Society, singular honours, as well as receiving many awards, medals and honorary degrees. Turning back to the Carboniferous in 2012, she headed up the multi-institutional TW:eed (Tetrapod World: early evolution and diversity) Project, studying an apparent dearth of fossils in the earliest Carboniferous, called Romer’s Gap. The project yielded six new taxa of tetrapod, two new sharks, seven new lungfish and many other fishes, showing Romer’s Gap to have been a collecting anomaly. 2012 was also the year Jenny was the subject of a BBC TV programme called Beautiful Minds, which can still be seen on YouTube. The impact of Jenny’s research for understanding early tetrapod evolution cannot be overstated. She took a moribund, poorly-understood field of study and transformed it into one of the most informative, best understood evolutionary transitions in the fossil record. Her work revolutionised our understanding of the evolution of the tetrapod body form and sensory systems across one of the greatest evolutionary transformations in Earth history. Jenny’s body was conveyed in a motorcycle sidecar hearse to a local woodland cemetery, fitting transport for a life-long motorcyclist!

Panchen at this time was reviewing Carboniferous tetrapods found during the 19th century, but there was one specimen he was unable to study, as the museum that held it refused to lend it to him. Jenny managed to persuade them to release it, and took three weeks’ study leave to examine it. What she found was sufficiently exciting to persuade Panchen to get her a grant to study for a PhD.

(Cynthia) Carolyn Clough (née Stafford, Class of 1953) Carolyn was born in 1935 and was raised with her sister Gill in Bolton. She enjoyed her time at Bolton School, winning a School prize – although not for her favourite subject, Art – and later enjoyed many Alumni events.

One bone she found was a stapes (ear bone) which was so different from what had been expected that it changed the ideas about how hearing had evolved in early tetrapods and was the beginning of a stellar career in which she overturned many conventional ideas about early tetrapods.

Carolyn had a great love of nature and, even as a child, would draw flowers, trees and the countryside around her. After School she attended Bolton School of Art and Manchester College of Art (1951-1955) and then went on to the Slade School of Fine Art in London (1955-1957), studying etching with Anthony Gross. She excelled, winning first prizes in figure painting and drawing, landscape, plant and still life drawing. She also won several scholarships including the Esmond Scholarship of the British Institute in Paris, studying for a year with SW Hayter at Atelier 17.

In 1981 she took up a post as Assistant Curator in the Univerisity Museum of Zoology, Cambridge, where she stayed for the rest of her career. In the mid-1980s a chance discovery resulted in Jenny completely changing our views of how tetrapods evolved from fish. Conventionally, it was thought that fish flopped from one drying pool to another, a bit like a mud-skipper, and those whose proto-legs functioned better were more successful. Jenny stumbled upon a few blocks of rock containing skull material that had been collected by a geology expedition to East Greenland in the 1960s and had lain unrecognised ever since. They were from a tetrapod called Acanthostega and stimulated a couple of expeditions back to Greenland to collect more. Preparation of the extensive material she collected revealed the startling discovery that the animal had eight digits on each limb, functional internal gills and a fish-like tail. There was little doubt this was a more-or-less fully aquatic animal.

Carolyn in 2014

Carolyn met Gordon Clough (Boys’ Division, 1944-1953) at Bolton Tennis Club. They married in 1959, setting up home in London where Gordon joined the BBC World Service. As well as raising four Lomax’s Wife’s plantation by children, Carolyn worked as Carolyn Clough a lecturer in Art and Design in South London and at Surrey University. She went beyond the call of duty for her students, organising many exhibitions to show off their talents. She herself exhibited widely in major exhibitions in the UK and overseas (including Germany, Israel and

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020 the Ukraine), and her work is held in several important collections including the Government Art Collection, The Slade School, University College, V&A, Bolton Art Gallery, Scarborough Print Archive, Lvov Ukraine and Landau Germany. Some of her work is owned by Bolton School. Prints of some of her paintings can be found in the luxury cabins of the Greek cruise ship, Musica. An active member of the National Society of Painters, Sculptors and Printmakers and of the Printmakers Council, Carolyn organised and exhibited in many NS and PMC exhibitions – including Paris, the Contemporary Art Fair Olympia and the Royal Festival Hall. Her highly successful retrospective exhibition, From North to South, at the Menier Gallery, London (2014) included over a hundred of her works, many reflecting her Northern roots. Born on the edge of the Pennines at Moorside Avenue, Bolton, she was influenced particularly by the Lancashire moors and fascinated by the view from her house of Lomax’s Wife’s Plantation which she painted many times. Carolyn loved music and sang in choirs. She knew many folk songs which she would teach her family, knowing an appropriate refrain for any given moment! Carolyn ensured her family’s life was interesting and exciting. She encouraged her children and grandchildren to love learning and to do things that would make them happy and fulfilled. She loved family gatherings, often at her house. She loved big family holidays, and more recently enjoyed some cruises. On all occasions, she was never without her sketchbook, continuing to paint throughout her life. Carolyn’s life was very much a life well-lived. She gave so much love and was much loved in return. Elizabeth Atkins (née Clough) Professor Lady Patricia Cohen (née Wade, 1949-1963) Patricia Townsend Wade was born in Worsley, the daughter of Dr Charles Henry Townsend Wade, later the Chief Medical Officer of Lancashire, and Elfrida (Bobbie) Robertson Wade, a physiotherapist. She lived in Worsley and then Greenmount, near Bury, attending Bolton School from the age of five, where she was awarded several prizes for her academic prowess and was appointed Head Girl in 1962-63. Tricia enjoyed all sports, playing in many teams, and she also played the violin in the joint school orchestra. These activities continued at university, where she played lacrosse for University College London (UCL), winning a Purple (the equivalent of an Oxford or Cambridge ‘Blue’). She was also a violinist in the UCL Orchestra. After graduating with a BSc in Biochemistry from UCL in 1966, Tricia obtained her PhD in Physical Anthropology in 1969. After two years postdoctoral research at the University of Washington, Seattle, USA, where she studied variation in human brain proteins, she joined the Biochemistry Department at the University of Dundee in October 1971 Tricia met her future husband Philip, later Sir Philip, Cohen at UCL where they were undergraduates in the same Biochemistry class. They were married in February 1969 in Guildhall in London. Their daughter Suzanne was born 1974 and their son Simon in 1977. A chance encounter in 1981 with another scientist

sparked an interest in gene cloning. Her research went on to uncover two distinct gene families of enzymes called protein phosphatases and she also identified many novel phosphatases previously missed by biochemists. These discoveries established her international reputation and led to many invitations to lecture across the globe. In 1990, the Medical Research Council decided to establish a Protein Phosphorylation Unit in Dundee under Philip’s Direction with Tricia as its Head of Molecular Biology and they became the two founding principal investigators. On joining the Medical Research Council Tricia became a full time employee for the first time, receiving a pensionable salary for the first time ever! She trained more than 50 PhD students and postdoctoral researchers over a 25-year period from 1985 to 2010, many of whom subsequently became leaders in both academia and the pharmaceutical industry. In 2001 the University of Dundee awarded Tricia an honorary Professorship in recognition of her achievements. Tricia had many other talents, including cake-making and golf which she took up in her fifties. She was a member of Downfield Golf Club, Dundee, and the Duke’s course at St Andrews. Tricia died peacefully at her beloved home from the lymphoma that had been diagnosed two and a half years earlier. Fellow academics from the across the world paid tribute to her breakthroughs in the field of gene cloning – and to her kindness and modesty. She is survived by her husband, two children, six grandchildren and her elder sister Jennifer, also an Old Girl. Adapted from a tribute in The Dundee Courier, with contributions from Jennifer Lisle (née Wade, 1946-1960) Tricia’s friends from Bolton School remember her fondly. Here three of them share their memories of her. 'I first met Tricia 70 years ago when I started at Beech House, and although after School our paths diverged, we remained firm friends ever since, meeting infrequently, but keeping upto-date with one another’s life stories by letter. At School Tricia was good at most things and always near the top of the class, but it was clear that Maths and Science were predominantly where her skills and interests lay. It’s odd the things you remember, but I do recall working through a puzzle book on a holiday staying with her and Lesley Hussein (née Halliwell, 1955-1962) in her aunt’s static caravan near Shrewsbury when she, patiently but vainly, tried to show a very frustrated me how to tackle those problems with a mathematical content! I can picture her even now in various scenarios – flying down the wing on the lacrosse pitch, playing her violin in the School orchestra, as a Prefect helping to organise an inter-form quiz (and apologising to unmusical me for posing a question she knew I couldn’t answer, ie which was the only opera Beethoven composed?). 'It’s sometimes the case that very clever students are not overly popular with their school fellows, but everyone liked Tricia and in turn I never heard her say a bad word about anyone else. My abiding impressions of her are not so much of her skills or achievements – many though

they were – but of what she was like as a person. She was always kind and thoughtful – I was so touched when she flew down to Leicestershire from Dundee for the day for my husband’s funeral, Tricia (right) and Philip with and was also delighted Lesley Birtwistle when she and Philip made the long journey for my 70th birthday party, along with Elizabeth Carr (née Sawtell, 1956-1962), Dinah Hill (née Haslam, Class of 1962) and Elaine Lashford (née Parker, 1955-1962). What also stood out was Tricia’s modesty: there was no side to her at all, and her academic prowess and social status changed her not a whit – intrinsically she remained the Tricia I had been drawn to as a young child and the mutual warmth and affection lasted down the years. I shall miss her greatly – she really was quite special! Lesley Birtwistle (née Parker, 1950-1962) I remember with love Tricia and our long friendship dating from our School days. We first met when we were 11, in the Third Form at Bolton School, and were close friends both at School and at home … and stayed in touch ever since, over the last 65 years! I remember her with great affection as a very kind and gentle person, and a wonderful friend. I can still recall the many shared experiences we had in our youth: the exchanged confidences; interesting discussions; holidays ranging from an official school trip to see the Passion Play in Oberammergau, in 1960 (we had bars on our hotel bedroom window?!) to those holidays taken later just by the two of us, the most memorable being pony-trekking in the Isle of Man; and, of course, the innumerable games of tennis. I have very many happy memories of the wonderful person Tricia was. Lesley Hussein (née Halliwell, 1955-1962) Wade and Walmsley aged eight on that first day at Bolton Junior School: the two ‘W’s were sat together. Little did we know that this quirk of fate would be the start of a 68-year special and enduring friendship. Tricia was a loyal friend, always interested in our diverging lives, and we kept in contact during my ten years overseas and latterly with letters, visits and emails. Aged 14 we went on a week’s holiday together, on our own, camping in a caravan on a relation’s farm near Pontesbury in Shropshire. A big adventure! In glorious weather we walked and cycled through the beautiful rolling countryside. Then the lure of the blackberry set in and we had a morning of competitive picking. However, what could we do with such a mountain of fruit? Bizarrely, we made jam in the caravan! Tricia, of course, was famous for rustling up perfect Victoria sponges so she made good use of her bounty. We never again picked so many blackberries, but we ate a lot of cake! Tricia loved sport and excelled – at School I remember the early morning reserving of our space to play tennis in the underground playground and playing in the lacrosse team when we especially enjoyed our hosts’ teas and admired their floaty cloaks. I also recall playing netball in the threesided quad. We enjoyed a special holiday in the Lake District

organised and run by Prefects They introduced us to map-reading, walking, a love of the outdoors and Youth Hostelling with its hearty sing-songs. I remember nervously waiting to go on stage and deliver our speeches at the Lower School Meeting – little did Tricia know how helpful this would be when years later she gave presentations to illustrious scientific audiences. Anne Angood (née Walmsley, Class of 1962) Sheilagh Hill (née Parkes, 1937-1943) Sheilagh was born in Bolton on 29th September 1925, the second daughter of James Parkes MBE and Norah. Her father was the Mayor of Bolton, attending the Queen’s coronation on behalf of Bolton in 1953, and Sheilagh, Geoff, Sarah and President of the Chamber of Andy Commerce 1963. Sheilagh loved her visits to Burnden Park with her father and was extremely fortunate to be able to stand with him in the Royal Box at the FA Cup Final of 1953 (Bolton unfortunately lost 4-3 to close rivals Blackpool). Sheilagh joined Bolton School Girls’ Division in 1937. She had to work hard at her academic skills, but flourished in the practical subjects and in 1943 accepted a place at The Edinburgh College of Art, studying domestic science. On leaving college, she worked initially for Bolton Council before taking up a post in neighbouring Wigan. She then landed a position as Assistant School Meals organiser for Leicestershire where she was responsible for travelling around all the schools in her area advising on diet and nutrition. She was provided with a company car, a very rare occurrence in those days, and went on to drive for many years – despite never taking a test due to the relaxation of rules during the Second World War. The move to Thurmaston on the outskirts of Leicester was a big step – but one that went on to define Sheilagh’s future. Through a blind dinner date she met Geoffrey Hill who, following demob from the RAF, had moved from North London to work as a paper merchant in the Leicester area. The couple went on to marry at Heaton Church on 30th November 1951. Mavis Farnworth (née Binks, 1937-1943), one of Sheilagh’s School friends, was maid of honour. Sheilagh and Geoff set up home in Melton Mowbray and in 1954 the first of their two children, Sarah Jane, was born. In 1956 they were able to get a mortgage for a detached property in Melton, which became their home for over 50 years. Two years after their move, their son, Andrew Michael, was born.

Form IIIa 1938 – Sheilagh is on the front row, fourth from right, next to Miss Walsh

Sheilagh was an active member of the Business and Professional Women’s Association and was

Old Girls’ Association Newsletter Autumn 2020 also a swimming instructor and qualified swimming time keeper. She enjoyed playing the piano as well as taking a keen interest in painting. Her main passion, however, was her love of gardening and much of her home-grown fruit and veg were turned in delightful dishes utilising her exceptional cooking talents. She also developed her embroidery and knitting skills – several school photos of Andy wearing unrefined ‘home knits’ bear testament to this! Sarah also remembers well the less-than-stylish grey woollen balaclava knitted for those cold winter walks to school! But perseverance paid off and Sheilagh produced a lovely embroidered lid for her sewing stool and some classy knitwear, some of which is still in use today. Her other passion, which she shared with Geoff, was her love of travel. In 1953 they travelled 1,000 miles along the Rhine which at the time was a real adventure. Holidays with Sarah and Andrew were initially spent in Cromer and Guernsey, but later the family ventured on early package tours to the Balearic Islands and Tenerife. Sheilagh and Geoff took numerous holidays to the Greek Islands, which were by far their favourite destination. Latterly they also enjoyed trips to Spain and Mexico and twice, as part of a world tour, flew out to New Zealand to visit Sheilagh’s sister Andre who had built her home there. Family was very important to Sheilagh and Geoff and they loved spending time with their four grandchildren: Ruth, Sarah’s daughter, and Charlotte, Pippa and Tom from Andrew’s marriage to Jane in 1986. In her later life Sheilagh devoted herself to the care of Geoff, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. After he passed away in April 2009 she continued to travel to Hertfordshire to see Andy and Jane, but the onset of Alzheimer’s disease a couple of years later led to her moving into Arden House, a care home close to her children and grandchildren. Whilst latterly she was unable to communicate, she enjoyed the view of the garden from her room, and the arrival of the Old Girls’ Association Newsletter was always greeted with excitement and nostalgia. The staff and residents at Arden became friends of the family and ensured that Sheilagh’s last few years were happy and fulfilled, for which the family are extremely grateful. Sheilagh passed away peacefully on 29th April, aged 94, after a long battle with Alzheimer's. Andy and Sarah Hill Kathleen Johnston (née Marsden, 1927-1942, Girls’ Division Staff, 1962-1984) Kathleen, who died on 10th March 2020, just short of her 96th birthday, was a pupil at Bolton School and returned there to teach English. She and her younger sister, Nancy, used to cycle to School from their home in Dunscar where they lived with their parents, Marion and Samson Marsden. Samson was the manager of Eagley cotton mill. Kathleen went on to gain a scholarship to read English at Oxford University in 1942, but had to defer her place until after the war. She spent the intervening years in the WRENS taking apart, cleaning and reassembling guns – not a job she relished! She went up to Oxford in the Autumn of 1945 (as did Nancy), not long after having met an RAF pilot, Tommy Johnston (Boys’ Division, 1929-1938), who was about to

resume his training as a doctor in Belfast. The separation was not easy, but it did not prevent Kathleen from also falling in love with Oxford and its golden spires. Her tutor, Hugo Dyson, of whom she talked with great fondness, was one of the Inklings, a literary discussion group which included JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis, both of whose lectures Kathleen attended. After Kathleen and Tommy married in 1949 they moved to Farnworth where Tommy joined his father’s general practice. Kathleen was busy throughout the 1950s bringing up five children. She filled the home and her children’s lives with books, instilling in all of them a lifelong love of reading. The children all went to Bolton School. At a parents’ meeting in 1962 Miss Higginson, the formidable Headmistress of the Girls’ Division at the time, said to Kathleen, ‘You read English at Oxford, why don’t you come and teach the Sixth Form?’ And so, with some trepidation, she did. During the 22 happy years she taught there Kathleen blossomed, earning the respect and affection of her pupils and making many lifelong friendships. With Kathleen’s natural warmth and passion for her subject, she vividly brought to life the words of Shakespeare, Milton, Arthur Miller, Gerard Manley Hopkins and many others. She retired in 1984 so that she and Tommy would have more time to spend together walking and travelling, pursuits they both enjoyed. In the early 2000s Kathleen began to show signs of Alzheimer’s, but Tommy’s care of her into his 90s meant that she was able to lead a relatively normal life. She moved into a care home in 2013 when Tommy’s health deteriorated. He died in 2015. Kathleen never lost her dignity or her ability to speak eloquently. She continued to recognise her family and show her love for them. They, in turn, enjoyed precious time with her, reciting poetry to her that she had once known by heart and singing her favourite songs, including hymns and carols from her Bolton School days. She is much missed. Kathleen is survived by her five children, Tim, Gillian, Bridget, Karen and Claire, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Claire Johnston Barbara Murison (née Cresswell, 1952-1959) Barbara passed away at University Hospital, Ontario, on 23rd December 2019. After leaving School, Barbara read History at Newnham College, Cambridge – she was the first member of her family to attend university. She met her future husband, Leslie, on both of their first days in Cambridge, and they married in 1963. The couple emigrated to Canada a few months later, taking a transatlantic ship to Montreal and then a train on to London, a city in southwestern Ontario. Barbara completed her PhD in History in 1978 and her passion for the subject led to her career as a teacher. She taught at Alma College, a girls’ private school in St Thomas, Ontario, was Head of History at St Margaret’s School in Edinburgh and was a History Professor

at Western University in London. Barbara was extremely dedicated to her work, but will be remembered by those who loved her for her intelligence, warmth of personality and always present sense of humour. Tribute taken from Canada Obituaries Bernard Nolan (Central Services Staff, 1965-1981) Bernard Nolan was born 250 yards from Bolton School, attending Devonshire Road County Primary School and the County Grammar School before beginning his career in the Bolton Education Office. During the early stages of the Second World War, after his day job, he was often found fire-watching on the roof of the offices at night. Following Army service in Algiers, Caserta and Venice, he returned to the Education Office resuming his administrative work. Promotion was not forthcoming locally, so, with his young wife, Doreen, he went to the north-east to develop his career. Three colleges and a school later, it was Bernard’s delight to move back to Bolton to become Clerk and Treasurer to Bolton School where his two children were now able to attend. Driving forward innovations such as a new heating system alongside other cost-saving measures (he pointedly demonstrated the art of turning lights off in front of the cleaning staff), he eliminated the School debt. He was involved in raising substantial funds for the Assisted Places bursary scheme after the Direct Grant grammar schools was abolished. At ease with people of all backgrounds, he enjoyed his working relationships and was often seen wandering around the kitchens talking to staff, as well as supervising work around the School estate – and, literally, in the air. Bernard was unafraid of heights and could be spotted with surveyors and workmen on the rooftops four storeys up, discussing Bernard embraced an building projects, pointing at tiles ‘open door and checking on quality. His working policy’ style embraced an ‘open door policy’ which enabled a friendly discourse about financial matters amongst staff and department heads. Some of the female members of staff called him ‘Uncle Bernard’ because of his avuncular manner and his

willingness to offer financial advice to colleagues. They felt they could go and talk to him easily and that he was approachable and sympathetic. He was always a welcome visitor to both common rooms. His social and leisure activities were extensive. He was a keen follower of Bolton Wanderers and also played cricket for the staff school team. Usually, on a Friday evening, after an extra stint in his office, he would end the evening playing snooker or bridge at Smithills Conservative Club. In addition to these pursuits, he undertook the demanding and important role of volunteer telephone counsellor with Bolton Samaritans, the first man to clock up 30 years’ service. In his early retirement, taken because of acute glaucoma, he enjoyed gardening, was a governor of two schools, became the keeper of the bowling green at Heaton Village Bowls Club and attended St Margaret’s Church. He helped on the Fair Trade stall at St Margaret’s Church where friends there say he was ‘much respected and a lovely man’. With Doreen, he also enjoyed plenty of Mediterranean sunshine holidays. In the second phase of his retirement, after his beloved Doreen died, he moved to the Merseyside coast and, at 78, became an active member of the Southport retirement scene, taking up horse riding, bereavement visiting, archery, and later staffing ‘Sightline’, a medical advice helpline. Bernard was glad to attend the 2014 class reunion festivities at Bolton School together with Marcus and Claire. In the course of this visit, to his great delight, the entire dining room sang Happy 90th Birthday to Bernard was thrilled to him. He did not forget his celebrate his 90th birthday early education and on that at the 2014 Class Reunion same day he spoke about at School his wartime experiences to a history research class at Devonshire Road School and presented them with a series of mathematical games he developed – examples of how easily he connected with people of all ages. Bernard was a man of unfailing kindness and had charm reserved for everyone. This, together with a relentless attention to detail, is how many will remember him. Marcus Nolan (1966-1974) and Claire Esberger (née Nolan, 1966-1976)

IN MEMORIAM

Margaret Tamar Ashcroft (nee Kitchen, Class of 1947) - Died September 2020 Pamela Cross (née Ashcroft, 1956-1968) - Died 13th July 2020 E Samantha J Davies (née Fairhurst, 1971-1985) - Died 30th June 2020 J Margaret Dickinson (Girls’ Division Staff, 1972-2006) - Died 19th October 2020 Marjorie Dymock (1940-1950) - Died 4th August 2019 (Iris) Anne Edwards (née Settle, Class of 1962) - Died 5th April 2020 Janet Farnsworth (née Claydon, 1946-1953) - Died 14th December 2019 Barbara Gahagan (née Savage, 1956-1963) - Died 12th February 2020 Marjorie Johnson (née Thornley, Class of 1939) - Died 6th May 2020 Hilda Longworth (née Alldred, 1938-1945) - Died March 2020 Joan McCaslin (née Dunton, 1937-1943) - Died 17th June 2020 Dr Margaret Oldham (née Hough, 1945-1950) - Died September 2019 Jean Mavis Poller (née Dier, 1942-1950) - Died 29th September 2020

Lydia Riding (Class of 2014), Nadia Barabash (Class of 2014), Rachel Langley (Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Division Staff) and Elizabeth Moore (Class of 2014) at the Alumni London Dinner on 6th March 2020

Designed and printed by BHW Print Group, Farsley Park, Wingates Industrial Estate, Westhoughton BL5 3XH T. 01942 850050 E. sales@bhwprintgroup.com