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In Memoriam
Diana Raine Eothen School Headmistress 1973–1992
Miss Raine sadly passed away on 26 May 2020 and will be missed and remembered by many Eothens.
D
iana Raine became Headmistress of Eothen School in 1973, three years after the takeover of the school by the Church Schools Company which offered so much promise for its progress. Four years passed, however, before she was informed that the Company was willing to undertake the erection of an Assembly – cum – Sports Hall, the building of a new Dining Room, and the modernisation of the Kitchens. The opening of these amenities in 1980 crowned Miss Raine's first period at Eothen and has, in a way, characterised the whole of her era, since she worked tirelessly for the school, always wishing it to be at the forefront of modern development; thus it was a pleasure that she was still in office when a later new building, the Arts & Science Centre, was opened in 1989. All who knew Miss Raine, however, would agree that her concern for the personal, spiritual and educational welfare of the individual was far greater than for material benefits. Access was always readily available to her room, where both staff and girls know that they would find an understanding ear. Disputes were heard sympathetically and judged with fairness to each side. Girls were always encouraged to give of their best, whatever that best might be. The academically inclined received strong backing to aim high and do full justice to their ability. The less intellectual were urged to develop the talents they may have in other directions, and under Miss Raine, creative subjects flourished: the highest standards were reached in cookery, needlework, art and music. She was an avid supporter of physical activities, to the extent of participating in netball and rounders matches played annually against the Sixth Form. Indeed, Miss Raine was known for being a hard-hitter, and many a girl must have felt relief that no rounders bat was to hand when she was being told off in the Head’s room!