DHSA Magazine 2024

We are delighted that so many of you have contributed your news to this 2024 magazine edition. From our most senior of Seniors, who left School 80 or so years ago, to those of you who left more recently, thank you for taking time to stay in touch.

As the DHSA moves through its eighth decade, we are all aware that the world is constantly changing in positive and demanding ways. New laws governing data transfer (GDPR) and the pace at which technology is developing, increasingly introducing new communication channels to keep in touch with one another, provide challenges to all alumnae organisations. Schools are also changing, including offering fantastic opportunities to leavers with the growing provision of full alumnae programmes delivered by very professional development and foundation offices. Downe House is no exception.

Priority and resources are now dedicated to introducing girls to the value of a school’s professional network, which transcends generations and develops a wider sense of the school community. It also underlines the importance of alumnae as role models. Without doubt, this can be both inspirational and engender aspiration as girls launch forth from school.

On behalf of DHSA members, your Committee has been reviewing its role as part of that overall alumnae programme provision for our existing and new members. We have reviewed, in detail, the DHSA’s operational effectiveness and the resource it is able to offer to its 21st-century members. Over recent years, as most Committee members work full time, the School has increasingly provided more in-house organisational manpower for the DHSA and particularly since all alumnae data is held centrally at School, this needed to be the case.

Over the last year, the Committee has been looking at the potential benefits to members of streamlining activities, moving towards a single alumnae/members’ management system. A more centralised approach would enable the Committee to focus on one of its core-value elements, DHSA Grants. Discussions have been held with the School to evaluate the implications and advantages to members from all angles, including legal, financial and operational and, most importantly, the benefits to members.

As the aim of both the DHSA and the School is a single one – to provide alumnae with a highly professional service that enables girls to connect both professionally and personally, as well as maintaining contact with the School – it has been agreed that the School will undertake full organisational responsibility for continuing to organise alumnae activity, including reunions, events and communications (e.g. an alumnae-focused magazine). This work will be done with the ongoing support and involvement from the DHSA’s alumnae body. The School will continue to be responsible for collecting the subscriptions, and going forward will set the fee level which will fund these obligations. The School will also work to update and regularly cleanse alumnae records for the above purpose, and has committed to keeping the School website up to date with alumnae news and achievements. In addition, the School will embrace the system of creating honorary members, particularly for long or distinguished service to the School, and endeavour to continue to have a Senior representative on the DH Board of Governors.

The DHSA Reserve Fund is being invested to maximise its potential, and the income will continue to fund Grants and ongoing benefits for members. It will be kept separate from School assets.

Most importantly, members/alumnae will only notice a positive impact in terms of operational efficiency. Member/alumnae benefits will continue to include class reunions, alumnae-focused communications and invitations to events, etc. Hopefully, in return, alumnae/ members will offer to support the younger alumnae through DH Links, which does such an excellent job of introducing mentors and hosting talks, opening younger minds to potential career paths and opportunities.

If you have any questions about the steps the DHSA is taking to align itself with modern values and the progress of alumnae relations at DH, please do get in contact at dhsa@downehouse.net.

With all good wishes

Jennifer Kingsland DHSA Chair

FROM THE HEADMISTRESS

We were privileged to conclude the Lent term with a visit from Jennifer Murray (Mather, 1957) who came to School to collect her Alumnae of the Year Award for 2023. She spoke to the whole School about her achievements in being the first woman to circumnavigate the globe in a helicopter, and inspired girls and staff alike. It was a wonderful reminder to us all of the richness and talent of Downe House’s former pupils and how important they can be in inspiring and shaping the future of the next generation.

Just as I believe Olive Willis intended, Downe remains focused on preparing young women to grasp the opportunities that the world will present. We continue to adapt and change what we offer in our curriculum, in our global programme and in our enrichment programme to ensure this is the case. We have been delighted this year to offer a tremendous programme of global internships to add to our Global Schools’ Exchange programme, offering girls real-world experience in a range of countries. Our Sixth Form now offers a mini MBA, an industry leadership programme, TEFL qualifications and much more to enhance the girls’ skills in addition to their A-levels. Leadership throughout the School is encouraged at every age. We want future Downe House alumnae to feel that they have the same confidence, skills and experience as their predecessors to fulfil their ambitions and play a part in making the world a more just and better place for everyone.

Our sense of purpose remains strong and we believe that these are exciting times to be in education, even if the prospect of a change in Government and the possible levy of VAT on school fees make it challenging. We are nevertheless committed to Downe House continuing to offer excellence to every member of our wider community. This applies to our alumnae too and I have been delighted to work with the DHSA Committee to develop a programme of even greater collaboration where the School will manage and support the development of alumnae relations both professionally and socially, in year groups, in interest groups and regionally. With so many alumnae achieving and contributing in such a variety of spheres, it feels right that the School and DHSA should come together to provide the most professional and forward-looking service which celebrates the past whilst looking to the future.

Emma McKendrick Headmistress

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GENERAL GRANT REPORTS

Awarding grants is central to the DHSA’s core principles. Members are eligible to receive a grant for a whole host of personal development opportunities, from further education to new training projects, whether developing an existing career or venturing into new ground.

The Mather Travel Award is also an opportunity to receive support for adventures with a philanthropic or community benefit.

Each application is reviewed on its own merits and, as you will see from the following reports, all are completely individual, diverse and fascinating.

Annabel Gonifas (Taylor, 1997)

Annabel applied for a grant for a Diploma in Professional Coaching and Mentoring to assist her in setting up a Kitchen Club and Coaching Practice

In April 2019, I founded DizzleSky Limited, a Kitchen Club Membership and Coaching Practice to support people to achieve their healthy cooking and eating goals.

I realised that it was not more knowledge that people needed. Instead, people needed to know how to make easy, manageable changes to their already busy lifestyles so that their new healthy habits stuck and became a way of life, rather than (more often than not) returning to their old unhelpful habits.

My Diploma in Professional Coaching and Mentoring with The OCM gave me the framework of scientific research, tools and theory that I now base my business on. I can genuinely say that I love my job and it is thanks to the DHSA grant that gave me the financial boost I needed to fund my Diploma. Thank you!

Working as a professional chef with over 20 years’ experience, and now as a professional coach, I specialise in helping people to effectively and effortlessly cook tasty and nutritious meals so that they can feel confident cooking fresh food from scratch and ultimately lead a healthier life.

The combination of being a chef and coach enables me to support clients to make the behavioural changes they need to create a positive and healthy relationship with cooking and food, as well as give practical advice on planning, shopping, kitchen management and recipe inspiration.

I am so grateful that I can play a positive part in developing people’s lives for the better, and I feel very fortunate that I get to see how these tiny tweaks build success, which increases confidence and heightens motivation, and so the cycle continues.

If you would like to find out more about DizzleSky and my work, you can head to my website www.dizzlesky.co.uk or follow me on Instagram @dizzleskykitchencoach.

Alice Cahill (2012)

Alice received a grant for a Master’s in Development Economics to further a career in International Development

After leaving Downe House, I went to Edinburgh to study Economics and then spent a couple of years teaching Maths with the Teach First Programme. In my final term at Edinburgh, I took a module in Development Economics which got me extremely excited about the field. Whilst I loved teaching, I wanted a career relating to international development and the generous DHSA grant has helped me to spend a wonderful year in Oxford completing a Master’s in Development Economics.

The course took us through economic theory as it relates to developing countries and taught us the quantitative skills needed to analyse large datasets. We were then able to choose from an array of modules and specialise in a few. I was fascinated by the role of gender and education in shaping people’s choices in developing countries. I wrote my dissertation about the impact of street safety on women’s decisions to enter the workforce, using data from India and Indonesia. I had a fantastic year in Oxford, living in Cowley with four other postgrads and my cat. I was attached to Worcester College and spent lots of time strolling around the lake. Our academic department, ODID, was the hub for our course and full of interesting academics, hosted constant lunchtime talks and you could normally weasel a delicious, free sandwich! My course mates came from around the world, which made for a thankfully varied range of perspectives.

We were lucky as Covid hit at the very end of Hilary term, when teaching had already finished. We sat open-book exams at home, which was a blessing for me as my memory remains dodgy. I was thrilled to graduate in June with a distinction. I was due to complete a fellowship with the Overseas Development Institute (ODI): ODI places Economics graduates in government departments in small developing countries. I had been selected to work in an education department, promoting education technology. The pandemic has delayed ODI by a year, so, since graduating, I have worked as a research assistant on a FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) project relating to Covid in six developing countries and another FCDO project about extreme poverty. Working from home is not really for me so I have momentarily returned to teaching. In January, I took up a position as Head of Economics at West London Free School. I am very excited about the imminent end of zoom teaching and being back in the classroom!

My plan now is to complete the ODI fellowship next year and then return to Oxford for a DPhil in Economics, specifically relating to education in developing countries.

Marigold Short (Lewis, 1979)

Marigold received a grant towards a relief press and printing materials needed to provide a valuable resource in her practice

My most recent work has been a working out of my memories, shrouded in the mists of time, that stem from the womb. I am a bereaved-atbirth twin. This state of being has driven a life-long interest in the nebulous; those thoughts and feelings that are so hard to pin down and explain to others.

John Donne wrote, “No man is an island, Entire of itself.” We are relational beings and the idea of relationship manifests in my work.

Most recently I have been working with sheer fabrics to speak of the difficulty in grasping an idea or thought or memory or feeling that is just out of reach. The Ties that Bind: Life before Birth: A Homage to Robert (2023) was the culmination of two years of study and experimentation into how to visualise my memories of the time my twin brother and I spent together.

I have just been awarded an MA with Merit in Fine Art from the University of Northampton. The grant from the DHSA has enabled me to buy a relief press and other printing materials that will continue to be a valuable resource in my practice. These will allow me to investigate processes and materials further.

I am very interested in where paint and print overlap. The grant also financed the purchase of fabric for the textile installation I made for the final module.

The installations I make are all about relationships. Mostly about the loss of a relationship; the expression of deeply felt hurt. Whilst doing the course I was awarded a commission with English Heritage to create an installation in Rushton Triangular Lodge. It is a fascinating building. Designed by Sir Thomas Tresham, whilst in prison for his faith, the exterior is rich with symbolism. The exhibition will be open to the public in the summer of 2024.

As well as working in textiles, I use paint, print, sound, video and collage. I have been fortunate to be able to study Fine Art at the University of Northampton for both the BA and the MA. I found having the space to explore different media enriching and exciting. Some of my happiest times at Downe between 1974 and 1979 were spent in the art room. The teaching I received has been a good foundation for my subsequent work. I am grateful to the DHSA for the grant.

Grant-recipient Emily decided to develop her career by becoming a bookkeeper whilst working as an art gallery assistant. She has recently qualified in Bookkeeping and Accounts through the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers

Thanks to the DHSA Grant, I have recently completed a qualification in Bookkeeping and Accounts through the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers, achieving Distinction with Honours. This has given me the ability to complete all the bookkeeping requirements of a business – including the dayto-day tasks as well as VAT Returns and Self-Assessment Tax Returns, for a variety of company structures.

The decision to begin a course to become a bookkeeper came while I was working as a gallery assistant in a small London gallery, where, having been deemed vaguely ‘numerate’ I was asked to take on the bookkeeping of the business. My interest was piqued and I later began to look into official qualifications. I have also always dreamt of working for myself, so I chose the ICB qualification which seemed the perfect one as it is specifically designed for those who wish to become self-employed.

I am now a bookkeeper for small businesses in a variety of sectors and I am certainly aiming to have a few galleries as clients – my love for art remains! This qualification has provided me with the best possible way to work for myself in a profession that I enjoy and the ability to do it at all is thanks to the DHSA Grant, for which I will be eternally grateful.

Carrie Mallows (2002)

Ellie Rumbold (2013)

Ellie’s DHSA grant supported her Master’s at the European School of Management and Technology (ESMT), Berlin

After leaving Downe House in 2013, I completed a one-year apprenticeship in Music Business with a record label called ‘Mute Records’. From there, I continued working, eventually moving to another record label called ‘Partisan Records’ in 2017, where I have remained for the last six years working as a product manager. As a result, I never found the right moment to do an undergraduate degree. As I continued to develop through my career however, I found myself needing certain business skills and grew interested in exploring executive education degrees, which is what led me to applying for an MBA. The only school I applied to was ESMT, a business school based in Berlin and founded by 25 global companies including McKinsey, KPMG, The Boston Consulting Group, Siemens and T-Mobile. The programme I was accepted onto was the part-time Master of Business Administration course which was delivered in a blended format: 75% online and 25% in-person, thus allowing me to work full-time and study simultaneously.

Carrie moved to New Zealand after three years of teaching in Hong Kong and applied to The University of Auckland as a mature student for further teaching qualifications

When the first Covid lockdown hit in 2020, I had just moved to New Zealand with my partner. I was at a bit of a crossroads, career-wise, as I had spent the previous three years teaching in Hong Kong but did not have the correct qualifications to teach here in New Zealand. After a lot of soul searching, I realised the option that made sense to me was to apply to a university over here in order to qualify as a primary school teacher.

I now know that the process of applying as an international student is not entirely straightforward but the support of the DHSA really helped smooth things and set me up for life as a mature student.

The course at the University of Auckland was fantastic, and the year flew by. Despite some lockdownrelated hiccups, my cohort made it through! I have now spent four happy months teaching a combined Years Five and Six class at a wonderful school in central Auckland.

The duration of the programme was two years and comprised 14 modules, each lasting approximately eight weeks and each containing three courses. Whilst eager to dive in when I started the course in September 2021, I quickly learned that working fulltime and juggling a course that demanded an additional 20 hours of my life each week was no easy feat. I also felt like I was certainly thrown in at the deep end with some of the early courses too: Microeconomics, Data Science, Finance Management, Business Ethics and Accounting to name a few. We covered all sorts, everything from data regression models to capital asset pricing, from discounted cashflow systems to organisational change theories, from entrepreneurial strategies to queuing theory, why Benihana and Disneyland are such successful business models, and how Netflix eventually conquered Blockbuster in the classic battle between disruptor and incumbent. I also learned that I have absolutely no desire to ever become an accountant!

As I progressed through the Master’s, I soon found my balance. A highlight was during our ‘Entrepreneurship’ course and being given the opportunity to create a product and pitch it to a board of investors. I was part of a small team, and we went through the entire start-up process: idea generation, forming an entrepreneurial business model, articulating and testing assumptions, marketing, financing, and eventually pitching for fundraising to turn the idea into reality. One of my other favourite courses was ‘Operations Management’. While challenging, we learned about strategies to better optimise processes, including ways to predict future supply needs based on historical demand. This is a skill which I now use all the time in my everyday job, predicting the quantities of vinyl and CD stock for future releases based on historical sales data and balancing this with the label’s incoming and outgoing cash flows. We also learned how to build prediction tools, such as Excel’s ‘SOLVER’, which has since allowed me to better forecast budgets and more effectively predict the effect on projected profit amounts.

One year into the two-year course, I was offered a place on an exchange programme at Yale University. The course was ‘Behavioural Science of Management’ and was taught out of Yale’s School of Management (fondly known as SOM). I flew to New York in March 2023 and travelled up to New Haven CT, where I spent a week in various lectures and seminars. It was an incredible experience to be walking the same corridors as Nobel Prize winning professors such as Robert J. Shiller who was awarded a Nobel Prize in Economic Science in 2013 for his research at the School of Management that has improved the forecasting of asset prices and helped the emergence of index funds in stock markets. Some of the lectures I attended throughout my week at Yale included ‘Understanding Consumer Experiences’, ‘Making Better Decisions Using Behavioural Science’, ‘The Profound Power of Culture’, ‘Negotiation Mindsets’ and ‘Behavioural Finance’. I also had the pleasure of meeting and spending time with other MBA students

from Yale, some of whom took me to the famous post-grad bar ‘The Gryphon’ and to the iconic ‘Louis’ Lunch’, a tiny rustic lunch spot dating back to 1895, with claims of having invented the first hamburger which it still serves on toast. The remainder of my MBA at ESMT was spent working on my thesis, which, for the part-time course, is designed to solve a real-life business problem that exists in your organisation. In my case, this was an in-depth analysis of Partisan Records’ global digital distribution solution, exploring ways to better optimise the way the company distributes music to digital streaming platforms around the world, such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon and YouTube Music. The idea of trying to solve a real-life business problem was daunting at first, but I am so grateful for all the support of everyone at my company as I ventured through it, not to mention their patience while I pestered them with endless questions and requests for data. After a wonderful week away in Athens with 30 of my classmates to celebrate the end of the course in August, I officially graduated at the start of October 2023. I was over the moon to graduate with a first-class Master’s Degree, coming 12th in class overall from my cohort of 50 classmates.

Doing this MBA has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my entire life and I owe a huge debt of gratitude to the Downe House Seniors Association for their extremely generous contribution towards the fees of my degree. None of this would have been possible without their help and I really am forever grateful for that. As I write this, I am still living and working in Berlin full-time, and I am transitioning into a ‘Director of International’ role at Partisan Records in January 2024. This role will essentially involve overseeing the marketing, operations and business development of the label in Europe, Asia, South America, Australia and New Zealand. I am beyond excited for what the future holds and I’d like to say a final thank you to the DHSA and everyone who has supported me in getting to this point.

Here’s to future, fearless enjoyment.

Katherine Hames (2009)

From injury to instruction, Katherine received a grant towards training to be a Pilates teacher

Three years ago an old back injury came back to bite me. With the help of the NHS, we worked out what was going on and I was introduced to Pilates. Prior to that, the only people I knew who did Pilates were my 75-yearold grandmother and her elderly friends; shouldn’t I be doing HIIT?! Nonetheless, I duly went along to NHS classes – and yes, I was the youngest there by a long shot! When these came to an end, I went on the hunt for classes where the instructor would cater to my injuries yet didn’t cost an arm and a leg.

Through a friend’s recommendation I discovered just that. To my surprise, all the instructors at this Wimbledon-based studio (The Pilates Clinic) were glam and young. They were passionate about what they did and, over time, the change to my body was huge. Hello glutes!

Just over a year later, one of the instructors asked me whether I’d be interested in training to become an instructor. The thought had crossed my mind, yet I had believed my injury would get in the way. Through further discussions I thought I’d give it a go and I am so grateful I did! I have loved learning the theories behind the moves, how to improve my personal practice to help prevent further injury and then sharing this knowledge with others. I recently qualified and am now hoping to run classes where I live in Battersea (alongside teaching Chemistry at a secondary school – I owe that to Mr Watson, Miss Foote and Mr Reynolds!).

So, a huge thank you to the DHSA for helping make this possible. Hopefully I will be able to share all I have learnt with others and consequently see their bodies – and lives – transformed by Pilates in the same way mine has been.

Naomi Vallance (2015)

Naomi received a grant to develop her teaching career by studying for a National Award for a SENCO qualification

Ileft Downe House to pursue Primary Education at Winchester University with a particular interest in working with children with Special Educational Needs. This passion started in sixth form with the opportunity for volunteering. I volunteered at a local SEN secondary school one morning a week, helping in class with day-to-day activities and even helping produce their Christmas show. The fact that I remember this so clearly from 2014 shows how much I valued that experience!

At university I had three placements, one of which was in a SEN school in Basingstoke. With these experiences, lectures and seminars it confirmed my passion for supporting vulnerable children and children with SEN. After graduation, I worked in a local primary school for four years working in Key Stage 2 (years 3-6). During this time, I continued to develop my skills by becoming Head of Design and Technology (thank you Mr Kent and Mr Nash for getting me through A-level DT) and also becoming Head of Pupil Premium Funding. This funding is for disadvantaged pupils to help improve their educational outcomes within state schools. Being responsible for this funding, making decisions as to where the funding should be allocated within the school and having to justify my decisions to the governors, showed me how much being a teacher can make a difference.

In 2022, I reflected on my career and thought about what I wanted to do next. I had dedicated a considerable amount of my time talking to my current Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) about her role and what I could do to gain more experience. It was these conversations that led me to explore the National Award for a SENCO qualification at Winchester. I applied in April 2022 and was accepted to start in the new academic year. It was at this point that I contacted the DHSA for support with the funding for this course.

The course consisted of hybrid learning with lectures online, seminars in person and independent study throughout the year. The lectures and seminars gave me the opportunity to network and meet with other professionals who support children with SEN. Having gained the SENCO qualification, as of September 2023, I am a deputy SENCO at a local secondary school in the Bournemouth area, where I am currently living with my fiancé. This role is only for teachers with the SENCO qualification. My role entails supporting SEN children (currently 25% of the school), leading a team of Teaching Assistants who support these children in class, as well as some teaching. The change to teaching in secondary school was not expected, but I think this has been the best move in my career yet.

All of this could not have happened without the DHSA grant for which I am eternally grateful. If you are considering changing career or looking to gain more qualifications, I would definitely recommend it, as it opens up more doors than you think.

Jen Mae Low (2009) Flora Macnamara (2012)

Jen applied for a Mather Travel Award and for a grant for a Master’s in Public Health at Harvard to further her medical career

Five years after graduating from medical school, I chose to pursue specialist training in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology with impeccable (or unfortunate, depending on how you look at it) timing at the beginning of 2020. Eighteen months and relentless waves of Covid-19 patients later, I was ready to take a break from clinical work and applied for a Master’s in Public Health at Harvard University. The pandemic had truly forced me to consider our healthcare system as a whole, instead of the blinkered view I’d had of the individuals in front of me or the hospitals that employed me. As hospitals and ICUs reached capacity and staffing levels were stretched increasingly thin, uncertainties regarding the NHS’s sustainability had never felt more palpable. I wanted to acquire skills which would enable me to analyse pertinent organisational problems as the first step towards developing strategies and inventive solutions.

On a higher level, the Covid-19 pandemic had highlighted the pervasive health inequities that exist both within the UK and globally. High-income countries consistently reported higher rates of morbidity and mortality amongst minority ethnic groups and hoarded vaccines as the rest of the world looked on. I felt compelled to delve deeper into the social determinants of health, and to start having conversations which challenged my own perceptions and beliefs. I looked forward to returning to education for the people, the diverse encounters and the intermingling of minds.

As a result, I ended up with an extremely varied selection of courses, including but not limited to Biostatics and Epidemiology, Financial Management and Analysis, Bioethics in Global Health and Design Thinking. I also took the opportunity to cross-register in classes at Harvard Business School and MIT and co-founded a start-up developing sustainable ways to repurpose single-use face masks. My degree culminated in a final project working with the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care (IAPAC) to research and contribute to the “Building Health Systems Resiliency” section of the IAPAC-Lancet HIV Commission on the Future of Urban HIV Responses. The commission seeks to examine and analyse barriers to accessing care, summarise best practices whilst reflecting global diversity and anticipate future challenges in HIV prevention, care and treatment. Committee meetings provided an amazing opportunity to learn from and exchange ideas with inspirational leaders in the field of HIV. Hopefully this synergy will be evident when the final report is published at the end of 2022.

Moving halfway across the world to start a new school year was arguably more challenging at the age of 30 than 13, but I am immensely grateful to the DHSA for facilitating this incredibly enriching experience. Degrees from leading institutions are almost exclusively markers of one’s success, and since returning to London I have been able to reflect further on my immense privilege. Lawrence Bacow, Harvard’s President, reminded us during the Commencement ceremony to “save a seat and make room for others to ensure that the opportunities afforded by our education do not enrich our lives alone”. As I progress through the next few years of speciality training, and indeed the rest of my career, I look forward to seeking out ways in which my newly acquired knowledge and skills can have a positive impact on those who are less fortunate.

Flora applied for a grant for a PGCE in order to change career to primary teaching

After leaving Downe House, I went to The University of Manchester to study Psychology and then spent a year working as a marketing executive for a speaker bureau. I soon realised I wanted to explore child development further and joined Eaton House The Manor as a teaching assistant in a reception class. At Eaton House, I really enjoyed teaching and observing how children learn and develop in The Early Years Foundation Stage. I decided primary teaching was the career for me and, with the help of my DHSA grant, I spent a year studying for my PGCE at The University of Roehampton.

The PGCE course was incredibly full-on and couldn’t have prepared me better for the world of teaching. I gained a greater understanding of the theories that underpin learning and current priorities in teaching, particularly learning with English as an additional language.

Throughout the year, I trained in different schools across London, which helped to build my confidence and adaptability to the needs of different children. Thankfully, my time in schools was only marginally cut short by Covid and I was able to complete the remainder of the course online.

I have since taken up a position as a Year 2 teacher at Knightsbridge School which I love. I feel so lucky to be greeted each morning by lots of smiling faces that are excited to learn. Knightsbridge has a wonderful ethos that values fun alongside learning. I have found that makes for a very happy school environment.

Pandora Bibby (2012)

Pandora received a grant to further her medical career by qualifying for membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

Ifeel very fortunate to have received support from the DHSA for my membership exams for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG). Obstetricians and Gynaecologists are required to pass all three parts of the MRCOG before being eligible for promotion to consultant. They are notorious for bringing recently qualified doctors back down to the exam room with a bump, after the high of graduating from medical school with the false sense that long revision sessions are a thing of the past.

Having completed my foundation training in the North East, I moved down to Wessex to embark on my speciality training in 2020. Now in my second of seven training years, I am loving my role as a Senior House Officer at Basingstoke Hospital. No two days, or even two halves of the same day look the same – ranging from a night shift on the labour ward, to a morning antenatal clinic, followed by an afternoon in the gynaecology operating theatre.

The single most important lesson from my time at Downe House was the value of strong female friendships. The empathy I learned as a friend translates into my working life on a daily basis, not just in caring for women, but also working alongside them.

Thank you to the DHSA for their continued support, it has been invaluable to have one less thing to think about in what has been a challenging couple of years working in the NHS. I am due to sit the second part of my MRCOG in two years’ time and enjoying focusing on developing my clinical skills in the meantime.

Jo Henley (2010)

Award-recipient Jo has transitioned from being a family lawyer to being a family mediator, with a DHSA grant supporting her retraining

When my partner was offered a job which raised the prospect of leaving the UK for an adventure in Vermont, it felt like a rare and special opportunity and one worth taking.

The opportunity to uproot arrived as I was a solicitor in the family department at law firm Mishcon de Reya in London. I loved my job as a family lawyer. I felt I had cheated the system, qualifying as a lawyer but working in a fascinating and meaningful area of law based on fairness, equality and the welfare of children. Building relationships with clients and guiding them through some of the most difficult moments in their life never felt like work. However, I was becoming increasingly disillusioned with the Family Court system as a method of resolving family disputes, particularly where children were involved. I saw couples lose huge amounts of money, and any prospect of positively co-parenting their children, as they navigated a court system rife with backlogs and (occasionally) uncollaborative lawyers who further ostracized separating couples.

Moving country meant changing jobs, and changing jobs meant reassessing what I did for work. I wanted to use the legal knowledge I had built, as well as my communication skills, to help families work towards better, more collaborative and longer-term solutions. I believe that the people best equipped to make decisions about their own family, their own finances, their own children, are the couple themselves (separating or not). Making court applications in relation to finances or children means handing over this decisionmaking power to someone completely unknown to the family – a judge. Mediation, on the other hand, is a voluntary process which is confidential and leaves the decision-making power in the hands of the couple. I have seen first-hand how skilled mediators can work magic in high-conflict family dynamics. A good mediator creates a safe space for difficult conversations and facilitates discussions with a view to participants better understanding each other and reaching resolutions that suit them and their families.

And so, I decided to transition from being a family lawyer, to family mediator. I completed two Vermont-based mediation courses, and a UK family mediation course approved by the Family Mediation Council (the regulatory body for family mediators in the UK). These courses built on my family law skills and involved a significant amount of learning in child brain development, substance use disorders, family system dynamics, managing conflict, communication styles and co-parenting skills. I believe I have learnt more, both personally and professionally, through these courses than I did from my previous five years working as a family lawyer in London.

I have now set up my family mediation business, Jo Henley Mediation (www.henleymediation.com, henleymediation@gmail. com, 0203 026 9832) and provide family mediation services to UK clients (remotely) and US clients. The work is everything I hoped it would be. It is moving, gratifying, and effective in reducing family conflict and the emotional and financial costs of separation/divorce.

So far Burlington, Vermont has also not disappointed – a half-hour drive to the nearest ski slopes, fiery-Fall foliage, positioned on an enormous lake bordering Quebec and the Adirondacks, and next to a mountain range littered with hiking trails and summer swim holes. Thank you to the DHSA who made my career pivot and therefore my relocation possible.

Pippa Durrant (Parkinson, 1991)

Pippa was awarded a grant to train as a child and teen therapist through Ollie and his Superpowers

Until March 2020, I was running a successful bed and breakfast near Stonehenge. However, this changed overnight when the pandemic hit and I was left with no guests, no income and everyone at home trying to work. I signed up for the Covid-19 vaccination programme because I wanted to do my bit and help fight the disease. While doing this, I realised how much people needed to talk and offload. I found that I enjoyed providing a listening ear and a calm presence. I realised then that I really didn’t want to go back to the hospitality industry, and that my heart was really in helping people.

It was while reading Psychologies magazine that I saw an article about Ollie and his Superpowers – how they were looking for people to join ‘Ollie’s army’ to help empower children (and adults) to manage their emotions. I quickly signed up and in July 2020 I found myself in a Zoom classroom with ten other Ollie students. It was pretty terrifying having been out of education for so long. However, I soon realised that everyone on the course had the same thoughts and ideas as I did and we quickly bonded. The course started off with the first few weekends on Zoom where we learnt all about underpinning the theory to the model and then were taught the techniques that we will be able to use in therapy. We then moved into the classroom in London where we practised everything we had been learning over the weeks. I have absolutely loved the course and have learnt so much, not only about myself, but also ways in which I can help my family and friends.

The Ollie concept was devised by award-winning author and therapist Alison Knowles, and uses several different methodologies to empower children to seek solutions and take control of their emotions, rather than being controlled by them. The Ollie methodology combines CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), Play Therapy, Positive Psychology and Parts Therapy, and believes that no two therapy sessions are the same because everyone is unique and individual. The course also teaches that therapy should be holistic and tailored to the individual needs of the client.

At the beginning it was incredibly confusing with so much to learn, lots to practise and a huge amount of coursework. I decided to take it slowly and not put too much pressure on myself, especially as I was still having to look after three children, two dogs, sixteen chickens and a husband!

On top of all the essays, tests, reflective journals, units and practice hours, we also had to write up several very detailed case studies using real people with real presenting issues – a somewhat daunting task. However, once I started my first one, I realised how much I enjoyed it and how it was starting to come naturally to me. In one of my case studies I helped a 9-year-old girl with a crippling phobia of dogs that prevented her going anywhere. I used a range of techniques to help her and I can now say that she is cured and wants to become a dog trainer!

As an Ollie coach, I can help both adults and children with anything such as anger issues, behaviour issues, grief, stress, anxiety and phobias. Now that I am qualified, I am hoping to set up in private practice from home and combine my love of nature and gardening with therapy. I have also signed up for the next course on the Ollie programme which will enable me to deliver parents’ evenings and assemblies within schools and to work with small groups of children who might need some extra support. I am currently building my website and business with a view to launching myself in September once term starts.

I cannot thank the DHSA enough for the very generous grant that has enabled me to retrain and take my career in a different and more fulfilling direction. I am passionate about helping children and teenagers with their mental health and I am hoping I will be able to help many people over the years. There is a huge need for qualified therapists especially since the pandemic and waiting lists for CAMHS (Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services) are at an all-time high. Thank you DHSA!

MATHER TRAVEL AWARDS

The Mather Travel Awards were launched in 2020. We are delighted to include two of the inaugural reports from beneficiaries of this scheme, inspired by Jennifer Murray’s (Mather, 1957) adventures to become the first woman to circumnavigate the globe in a helicopter

HCharlotte Eden (2014)

Charlotte received a Mather Travel Award to support her humanitarian medical charity work in Lebanon

aving completed Foundation years as a junior doctor in London, in 2022 I went out to Lebanon to work for a charity called Endless Medical Advantage. The charity is run by Syrian and Lebanese doctors and other healthcare professionals, providing healthcare services to the refugee population and other vulnerable people in Lebanon. Charity volunteers visit over fifty refugee camps, mainly in the Bekaa valley which borders Syria, and treat over 2,000 people every month. It was a fascinating experience and opened my eyes to the importance of free healthcare to some of the poorest and most socially disadvantaged populations – especially when we can take free healthcare for granted.

During my time there we focused on women’s health education and ran sessions for women and girls, many of whom have their children when young and have never had formal education. Many of the camps have been there for over ten years, so many of the children have never known life anywhere else. The climate ranges from extreme heat in summer to snow and flooding in winter and, as most of these communities live in canvas tents, they are extremely vulnerable to these conditions. The charity was efficient and sustainable, and I really enjoyed the small-team environment. Grassroots charities are so vital for local communities and the Syrian doctors I worked alongside were so remarkable in their positive outlook on life. I hope I can learn from these attitudes going into my future career. Working in healthcare can be a privilege and I encourage Downe House girls to pursue it as a career as I believe we were taught the skills for it!

Amelia Hughes (2019)

Amelia applied for a grant and for a Mather Travel Award to assist with costs in playing for England in the World Ladies Polo Championships 2022

Having arrived in Argentina after an incredibly long flight and all my bags going missing, our team of four made our way out to our Airbnb in Pilar. We spent our first two weeks in Pilar training and preparing for the games that awaited us. This included riding horses that we did not know and of all different heights, abilities and quirks. This was because we were being given randomly selected horses for the tournament, so we had to be prepared to be able to ride anything.

Training in Pilar was an incredible experience especially at one of the top polo ranches called La Quinta. The coaches who helped us with team tactics were second to none and I learnt things that I could take away to improve my own personal game. Then we headed into the centre of Buenos Aires. On our first day there, we were welcomed by the Argentine Association Polo (AAP) who greeted us with tickets to a live music concert being held in the evening on pitch 1 Palermo. The next day we drove back out to Pilar for the reading of the rules and for all teams to sign documents and have photos taken, followed by a practice game on the selected horses given to each team. In our practice game, we were up against Brazil. Of course, this was mainly a friendly game in order to give us a feel of our horses but deep down we all also wanted to show everybody that England was a team to fear.

After finishing the practice it was time to head back to BA to sort out team tactics and make preparations before our first game.

Then…

Game 1: England vs Ireland 6-1 Victory!

The first game of the tournament was against a team close to home. The Irish team were extremely strong and already knowing a few of their players was to our advantage when deciding tactics.

Game 2: England vs Argentina 5-3 Victory!

Playing against the home team was an incredible experience – the crowds were bigger than ever with every seat filled. We had an incredible game and came away with the win. Also not to mention being the only team of the tournament to have beaten them!

Game 4: England vs Italy Victory!

The next stage was knockouts in which we came face to face with Italy – the team we played in the finals in Europe and lost to by 0.5 goal. Therefore, every bit of pressure was on us to win! We all fought hard and came away with the win – it was well deserved and led us to the semi-finals! A chance for either a Gold, Silver or Bronze medal game!

Game 5: England vs USA

4-5 (loss)

The semi-finals were a super-tough game.

This brought us to the 3rd/4th playoffs when we came face to face with Italy again. The game was extremely close, ending in a draw and a penalty shoot-out with the skill of our talented penalty takers being put to the test. England won and we brought home the Bronze.

In the overall tournament my statistics (out of all the players in the tournament) were: Throw-ins –1st; 50/50 balls – 5th; Assists – 4th.

I was pleased with this result as I was the second youngest in the tournament. I am so grateful to the DHSA for their financial assistance.

Reunion for Leavers between 1990-1995

In 2023, the DHSA welcomed 75 leavers from 1990-1995 to the Bluebird for what can only be described as a fantastic and well-attended reunion. The atmosphere was electric from start to finish and the two hours seemed to fly by. So many happy, familiar faces and a lot of reminiscing. The fizz and rosé flowed throughout the evening and the Bluebird canapés did not disappoint. It shows Downe House girls really do know how to party –regardless of their age!

“Huge thanks for a wonderful evening on Thursday night. It was such fun to see so many familiar faces and catch up with besties. I thoroughly enjoyed it and the venue was both special and terribly familiar!”

“Thank you very much for the lovely DHSA gathering last night. So good to see everyone and all looking the same as ever (our daughters may not agree!) It was a wonderful evening and I’m so grateful you got us all together again.”

“Thank you for such a wonderful evening last night. So much fun catching up with old friends and seeing so many recognisable faces (the overwhelming cry of ‘you haven’t changed a bit’ echoing around the room) and then peering at name stickers to help the aged brain!”

Class of 1988

50th Birthday Reunion at La Gazette in Battersea

In October 2022 (delayed from 2020), the 1988 year finally got together to celebrate their 50th birthdays.

Over 90% of our year were able to make it, including some from countries 4,000+ miles away.

No surprise the noise level was high all evening with lots of laughter and ‘Do you remember when …’ conversations.

Many thanks to Shorty for all the organising and to the DHSA for their very kind contribution to the bar bill!

70s Decade Reunion

Honorary Seniors’ lunch held at Downe House

DHSA Committee member, Antonia Kingsland (1988), shared her thoughts on the event in March 2023. The School and the DHSA were delighted to welcome back 24 Honorary Seniors for a lunch at Downe. Louise Peto from the Foundation Office organised everything perfectly, the catering staff prepared a delicious lunch and some kind LVI Ambassadors volunteered to take the Honorary Seniors on tours of the School to show them some of the recent changes, for example the Murray Centre, the transformation of the old Staff Common Room and the new Library.

Many had not been back to School for over 20 years, and it was clear from the volume of noise over lunch that everyone enjoyed a chance to catch up and to reminisce on their time at Downe.

The School had also very kindly arranged a short service in the Chapel for Jack Bayliss who had died earlier in the week. A popular figure who had been a member of staff for over 22 years in such roles as Head of Holcombe, Head of York and Director of Studies, he is fondly remembered and will be much missed.

The following thank you summed up beautifully the thoughts of everyone who was able to attend:

“It was such a special occasion. It’s so lovely to still feel part of the Downe House community and it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces who love the School as much as I do. It was made all the more poignant by having the opportunity to attend the service for Jack and to be able to reflect and give thanks for his life.”

As we departed, one of the questions asked by many was, ‘Can we do this again?’. And we very much hope this enjoyable event will be held every couple of years.

Many thanks again to everyone involved – it was a very special day for all.

Anumber of those who were at DH in the 1970s met at the Bluebird in the Kings Road, London for drinks in the Autumn of 2022. A buzz was certainly created by the get-together.

“Huge thanks for making such a success of the reunion evening. The Culverwell trio loved catching up with so many old friends and discovering how their lives have unfolded. It was fascinating to find out how fulfilled and successful most Downe House girls are.”

Corty Howard (Culverwell, 1977)

Hurlingham Club lunch party

On Friday 19th September 2021, the DHSA held a Lunch Party at the Hurlingham Club for members who left in 1970 or before. The lunch was extremely well attended with 63 guests in total and each decade from the 1940s to 1970s represented, with special mention to the 1960s, who were the largest group.

The event was held in the elegant Quadrangle Room and as the day was fine and sunny the doors were thrown open onto the terrace for pre-lunch drinks overlooking the magnificent Hurlingham gardens and lawns. The two-course lunch was delicious and accompanied by a fine selection of wines. The DHSA would like to thank the Hurlingham Club for pulling out all the stops for this special occasion.

The thank-you letters we have received seem to reflect that everyone had a marvellous time. The atmosphere was very upbeat and certainly very loud, with many stories and memories being shared and enjoyed! It was wonderful to see so many members once again after such a long period and to be able to hold such a key reunion in the membership calendar. A collection of photographs from across the decades was kindly brought from Downe House by Mrs Jane Caiger-Smith (Archivist) who thoroughly enjoyed talking with Old Seniors gathered for the reunion.

The DHSA would like to thank those who wrote for all their kind messages and hope to see them again very soon.

“Thank you again for inviting all of us ‘oldies’ to a really memorable and happy occasion.”

“I just wanted to thank you and your colleagues very much for arranging a really lovely lunch party on Friday for so many of us. It was all very enjoyable: great to meet up with old school friends in such lovely surroundings. We have met up on Zoom over the last 18 months but there’s nothing like actually getting together in person. All in all, it was a very special occasion.”

“I am so glad I decided to come, it was such fun catching up with so many people from all those years ago! The lunch was totally delicious and the arrangements perfect! Hurlingham certainly did us all proud so please pass on my thanks for a splendid day.”

22

SHORT STORY COMPETITION

We are delighted that this annual competition, sponsored by the DHSA and organised by Mrs Jenny Hill, Manager of the Murray Centre and Library, is thriving and inspiring young writers. The competition, held in the Lent Term, is open to all pupils and is judged by an esteemed panel comprising alumnae and staff. Prizes are given to all three age categories and the entry judged ‘best overall’ is awarded the Clare Balding Prize for Excellent Writing.

The Trophy

The DHSA recently presented a trophy designed and made by Iain Kent, former Head of DT at Downe. The trophy, a book beautifully carved from oak, has plaques bearing the names of the winners.

As part of the prize, each year the winners attend a bespoke literary event. In 2021, this comprised a Celebration of Writing – a discussion with four DH alumnae who have all included some form of published writing in their careers. They were Clare Balding (1988), Marina Dudley-Williams (1992), Francesca Martin (2000) and Virginia Macgregor (former member of DH staff).

For the last two years, a Creative Writing Workshop led by Poppy Scales (2021, twice a competition winner whilst a pupil) was held. The workshop event is followed by lunch with the judges and the presentation of the trophy to the overall winner.

Results

Short Story Competition

2023

Clare Balding Prize Lilias Hoare Nairne

VIth Form Lilias Hoare Nairne

Upper School Amelia Karoly

Lower School Alexia Walker

2022

Clare Balding Prize Annabel Trew

VIth Form Lauren Akinluyi

Upper School Annabel Trew

Lower School Sophie Bones

2021

Clare Balding Prize Poppy Scales

VIth Form Poppy Scales

Upper School Iona Neville

Presentation of the DHSA Short Story CompetitionTrophy in 2023

NEWS FROM OLD SENIORS 24

1942

ELIZABETH BRETON (DEAN)

I have two bits of news. I am in my 100th year, riding twice a week, playing bridge twice a week, once face to face and once more online.

1944

DIANA ECKERSLEY (MACNAGHTEN)

I would be interested to hear from anyone of similar vintage. I’m afraid I am a total luddite as only do landline and snail mail. But I can still remember most of the names of the Remove A form register! I have amazing neighbours – tolerant, generous, and kind. Otherwise, survival would be impossible. I also remember the Marseillaise which I had to learn for a punishment from Mademoiselle Chapoulou which has always stood me in good stead! Otherwise watching racing and playing Scrabble are my main interests.

1948

CANDIA BARMAN (BARROW) has been in her care home since December 2021. She seems well settled and gets on well with carers, often joking with them so they have a good laugh. Her memory is not good, and her mobility is limited but otherwise her health is not too bad. Her husband Ben died in 2019. She arrived at Downe in early 1940, aged 8, when a junior house was opened and for some time she was the youngest in the school. She has happy memories of Miss Willis and of the freedom, she was allowed to pursue her interest in the natural world. Her older sister Jane Livingstone (Barrow) was already there. 1940s

HEATHER GALBRAITH

I am approaching my 94th birthday in February. I still enjoy riding when the sun shines (!) and I have taken up pony driving which also happens on better weather days. Walking the dogs and doing the garden fills my time. Although the gardening may be more designing than digging these days. I love getting news from all my DH nieces and great nieces.

OENONE TROLLOPE (LANG)

I celebrated my 92nd birthday in 2023 and I am doing very well; I am still living at Clare Park. I enjoy spending time with my great grandchildren including Elizabeth and Ralph, children of Annabel Suarez (Ritchie). I was thrilled to celebrate the engagement of my other granddaughter Charlotte (Ritchie) to Matthew in October. Also, thank you to Charlotte for helping me.

1949

ROSEMARY GREEN (STORR)

I am very grateful, aged 92, for pretty good physical health and all of my marbles (I think!). I have an extensive, scattered family, who are currently reeling from the totally unexpected, unexplained death of my nearly 3-year-old great-grandson. It is wonderful to see how the parents, in their deep grief, are helped by their deep Christian faith. One grandson is currently cycling (alone) from London to Cape Town. I keep busy with many friends and a lively church.

ELIZABETH ANN MONK (SAMSON)

My usual rather dull year! My four sons and their families are the highlights of my year. One son lives in Sydney and his second son had his leg badly damaged by a crocodile. I have had old video tapes made into DVDs and some very amusing scenes of Senior Weekends. The fashions are amazing, and the massed gym brought a lot of laughter! Things have changed since the 1940s! I do love getting the magazine: the 100 Years of Cold Ash was one of the best – really super!

1953

LINDSAY BLYTH (FORSYTH)

I have finally sold my beautiful Finca and wonderful garden, which was my life, after 27 years. I have made so many friends through the Mediterranean Garden Society and learnt so much, but now faced with climate change who knows what the future holds. l have moved into a flat on a golf resort and have a large balcony full of droughtresistant plants.

DORCAS WARD

Having long retired from over forty years working ‘in Housing’, I am still living independently in my own home in beautiful Berkshire and can still drive – just. My greatest achievement at Downe was getting a county scholarship to Cambridge to read History. Researching and writing up family and local history has occupied much of my retirement. But I increasingly miss contemporaries to share memories. I have wonderful neighbours and extended family. My sister Marion Ward having emigrated to Australia to raise a family, obtained a late degree in Archaeology, and died last year.

1954

HENRIETTA CLARK (HARTLEY)

In 1958, after graduating from Bristol University, I emigrated to Australia as a “Ten Pound Pom”. Though I miss the changing seasons, I have never regretted it. I spent 31 years with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation mostly working on the children’s program “Play School” – a joyful career. Now at 87 I delight in the energetic and varied lives of my children and grandchildren, one of whom rings me on Zoom from his job in Antarctica.

ELIZABETH LESLIE (BOWDEN-SMITH)

In 2018 I left Muir of Ord and came to the Borders where my son Malcolm lives. I spent 18 months with the family while a lodge was modernised. I have now been here for three years, have a garden which has been a great success. I only have a walk of about 10 minutes to the family, so we are able to see each other on a regular basis which makes a very happy arrangement. Visitors welcome!

CAROLINE OSBORNE (WETHERED)

I have no interesting news, but I would like to send my best wishes to anyone who remembers me! Still not a great grandmother, older, wrinklier, a bit slower but very well considering! Happy in Suffolk, come and see us!

1955

CHARLOTTE BATHURST (FORMBY)

I am continuing to live in Cirencester, just moving to a new apartment. I make cloaks, having been influenced by our green & red school cloak! I would love to be in touch with anyone from my year.

DEIDRE SMITHWICK (COOPER)

My sister Priscilla Leigh (Cooper) died late last year and one of my brothers died a few days ago, they were both much younger than me. I’m now 86 and I live by myself in the old stable block across the yard from my elder daughter and her 3 children. I’m lucky I can still look after myself.

1956

GILLIAN FEARY (BRUNDELL)

Unfortunately my husband of 61 years is suffering from dementia/ Alzheimer’s as well as macular degeneration and I have become his registered carer. However, we still manage to go out together quite often what with monthly theatre outings to London with a theatre group, shopping in Guildford, snack lunches with friends at our golf club (no more golf sadly), visits to the Hurlingham Club which we joined in 1965, etc. If there are any Old Seniors, whatever your age, living near Guildford I would love to hear from you!

PHYLLIDA GARDNER (BARROW)

We moved into Shipston, June 2023, five minutes’ walk from the centre, a godsend as David no longer drives after falling downstairs in our former home, breaking a neck bone which miraculously didn’t affect his spinal cord but left him with restricted head movement. Recently we sang in a memorable performance of Mendelssohn’s ‘Elijah’. I still play flute duets with a friend. We keep walking and exploring local urban routes. Happy memories of DH friends and music.

1957

SUSAN MILES (ARMSTRONG)

In June 2017 we exchanged our Wiltshire farmhouse for a secluded Georgian property in the centre of Devizes. Our wonderful artist daughter Sophie also moved into a new house. Tragically, after we had enjoyed renovating the house and gardens, Sophie became very ill. She died on Boxing Day 2018. Then in 2021 Christopher became seriously ill. He died on 23 September 2023. On 27 March 2024 in Devizes, there is a memorial charity screening of Christopher’s film ‘Priest of Love’.

1958

JILL DE CASTELLA (MACRAE)

My husband Hubert died suddenly in June 2022. We had been married 54 years, so it has taken some adjusting to. My four children, two in Australia, have been wonderful. I am now in a small flat near my daughter Sophie, in London. I will have to sell my lovely Sussex cottage fairly soon, I think. I would love to hear from any others, who are of my vintage, who are in London.

ELISABETH RANSOM (GREIG)

I enjoyed the lunch at Inveraray Castle very much.

1959

JANE STEPHENS (ROBERTSON)

I have been living in Winchester since 1980 and fortunate enough to still be able to enjoy decent walks with my latest rescue cocker spaniel and more recently having a few shares in racehorses. Something that may be of interest is that I was very happy to find my birth family and although my halfbrothers on my father’s side didn’t want to meet me, I continue to have a good relationship with my cousins on my birth mother’s side. She never married and my birth father died young, so I never met him. There were so many coincidences with Sheila, my birth mother. We even had the same breed of dogs and horses were a big feature in her family’s life. Coincidentally shortly after leaving Downe and living in London, I was in the same social circle as her niece (my first cousin). I had been led to believe that I was the daughter of an Irish maid which was not true. My family on both sides were titled! Ariel Bruce of Long Lost Family found my birth father but I did the research on my birth mother. Her surname was unusual so it wasn’t hard.

JENNY TRIBE (HENSON)

I am lucky to have a husband who is a good driver! This means that we are still able to travel for singing, mainly renaissance polyphony, with choirs in Winchester and London. We both play wind and string instruments too, which is hopefully keeping our brains ticking over. This year I have joined a pottery nearby, where I can do whatever I like with clay for three hours a week! I am a very proud grandmother of six amazing youngsters.

1960s

1960

GILLIAN FORBES (MCCALL)

I would like to bring to mind those who, by kindness, patience or understanding, eased my teenage years: Miss Sadler, Miss Archbold, Miss Farquhar, Miss Hunt, Miss Barnsley, Mrs Grey of A.G., Sister Kite, the Top South matron of 1959 and 1960 and, above all, Miss Vincent, whose intervention made the following three years so much happier for me. As for life now: still spread thinly over U.S. and Ireland.

ANNE GRIFFITHS (FETHERSTON-DILKE)

Husband Tony died in September 2022 after a period of illness. So, I have now settled to life without him. Fortunately, I am able to stay in the house, not too large though one day the garden may defeat me! I kept myself busy with seeing kind friends and also managed a tenth visit to a favourite hotel in Madeira. Jardin do Lago is a magical place, can’t rate it highly enough. I went with a very old friend and this year we are off to Malta, last visited in 1948 when my naval father was there. My close family live very close by which is wonderful.

JANE PETTIE (CHAPPELL)

Sarah, my twin, and I celebrated our 80th birthdays in December and Downe friends joined us. My husband, Jim, is now rather frail with Parkinson’s and prone to falls, so I have become a carer. Our children and Sarah are a great support.

DIANA THRELFALL (CAMPBELL)

Marvellous year in 2023, had my 80th party in Wales, lots of family, for a long weekend, round the table ping pong with

my grandchildren, hot tub, and tennis court in a large house near Offa’s Dyke, which slept 23, highly recommended. Otherwise lots of tennis, bridge, gardening and litter picking!! Everyone welcome here if near Winchester.

1961

ANNE BAKER (PRICHARD)

Disbelief that our year is rolling into our ninth decade! Still so much to do and enjoy especially with family and friends. I run a lunch club for the old and bold; enjoy a drawing and painting course with the Open College of the Arts; this summer I helped chaperone children rehearsing and performing “The Wiz” in aid of our hospice where I do some bereavement listening. Thankful for grandsons when it comes to keeping up with technology!

NAOMI LE FLEMING (BUTTERWORTH)

Still playing, still teaching at Trinity College of Music, still painting and still alive! Thankful in this desperate world to have all children and grandchildren.

MARGARET STARACE JANFOLLA (WAYNE)

My husband, Antonio, died in June 2022, but I am still living in Tuscany, where there is always plenty to do and to enjoy, albeit at a slightly slower pace than before.

DIANA MILLER (LATHAM)

I was happily in retirement with ewes and various volunteer roles when I offered to be reinstated onto the General Medical Register at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic 2020. I am now once again (at the age of 80) an NHS employee currently as Medical Examiner, a role established following the Shipman Enquiry report. The young team members (my children are older) keep me on track with the NHS IT systems and like the chocolate biscuits I take in for the shift!

ROSEMARY PLINCKE (BALL)

Richard died over five years ago, I still miss him terribly but have, just like so many others, learnt “to get on with it”. This meant selling our family house and moving to a bungalow which backs onto

the graveyard and filling it with Richard’s paintings. I seem to keep extremely busy with bridge, trying to keep fit, seeing friends, creating a new garden, and achieving a home which is comfortable to live in, much of this was during Covid which made the project challenging.

1962

JULIET AUSTIN (PRIOR)

We have moved from Charminster, sadly breaking up our familyshared home as daughter Liz and her husband Richard work too far away for it to be viable. Still painting, reading and walking though much time spent caring for Anthony who is now wheelchair bound.

SOPHIE BAKER

Having founded The Saraswati Scholarship Fund in 2016 we now have five recipients currently training in and around Kolkata to be nurses and midwives. Without the fund’s support these girls wouldn’t have these chances. Recently I was taken on by the Longford Trust as a mentor for further education recipients (currently or recently serving prison sentences) – both activities to stimulate the brain cells as one’s 9th decade looms!

GILLIAN GORDON (STEPHEN)

My news is that life continues to evolve. Three days a week I work as a Volunteer Historian managing Mount Martha House Historical Collection (find us on Facebook and the www) for the Mornington Peninsula Shire. Digitising the collection of material from 1889. I have also been continuing textile art using a sewing machine – well three actually – and am preparing for my first exhibition. We also downsized to a smaller unit after 39 years in our family home which will be very good. The family continues to grow and expand as grandchildren move into the workforce and acquire partners. Delighted to make contact with anyone who is visiting the Mornington Peninsula.

SOPHIA CAMPBELL (CONSETT)

Charles and I have lived in this wonderful house for 45 years, how lucky is that! We have two sons, Ollie and Jules, who run a hotel in Crewkerne, Somerset called the Crooked Swan. It has eight en-suite bedrooms, each one quirkier than the next, so if anyone is close by, I would love you to visit, and you will be well looked after.

CELIA EDEY (GREEN)

Having finally retired from all Governance roles, I am enjoying a Creative Writing course, alongside my continued enjoyment of singing in a Chamber Choir. I play golf badly, but enthusiastically, and try to keep as fit as possible. I was astonished to be awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Suffolk on my retirement. It led to a surreal moment for this Old Senior who hadn’t achieved an Undergraduate degree of any sorts! My ‘capping’ was watched by our daughter, Kate Mozzicarelli (Edey), another Old Senior. All that aside, my delight is watching six grandchildren develop into full adulthood and spending time with them as much as possible.

RACHEL FOWLER (SAVORY)

We are hoping to be on the move in the next two months about 10 miles further north, nearer our eldest daughter and the M3 to get to our two other children and their families. My eldest granddaughter is to start at Dauntseys in September and my youngest grandchild is 15 months old (the first child of our son), I also have 2 more granddaughters and one grandson. I often meet with Downe girls from my year and mostly my form, which is quite an achievement since it is 50 years since most of us left.

JOANNA KNOTT (BEST)

Now very happily settled in Budleigh Salterton, but sadly my husband Tom died just before Christmas and so I am having to adjust to life without him. It is made easier by the wonderful support I have been receiving from family and friends and by keeping as busy as possible, but having been married for over 53 years, there is, inevitably a big gap to fill.

ELIZABETH LOFFHAGEN (FLOWER)

I’m now semi-retired from our marine electronics business (husband still working, but then he is a toy boy) in glorious North Wales where we still live. Pic is view from the house. We aim to take some extended sailing trips this summer on our 42’ catamaran, Zoot Allures – (Frank Zappa fans will know the reference), to Scotland and/or the Scillies, then maybe the Baltic, maybe do the ARC. It’s the feeling of supreme freedom when you slip anchor that gets to me.

MARIE WORTH (GASKELL)

Christian and I are happily settled in the Pays Basque since 2005, after over 30 years living in various countries around the world. We are now only ten minutes from the ocean and very close to Spain. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me!

1964

JULIET BICHARD (WRIGHT)

I’m enjoying country life in Dorset, still working as an adviser for Citizens Advice, got a Volunteer of the Year award for 17 years with them. Playing bridge and treasurer of our local church. Four lovely grandchildren but my poor eldest son has had long Covid for two and a half years now, still only on part-time work.

NATALIE WHEEN

Having left Music, the Arts, BBC, Broadcasting – and finally LONDON! I’m now mostly in Dorset – which must be an early Heaven! Also excellent for olive oil business as Dorset seems to be the UK gourmet capital. AND it’s positively awash with Old Seniors. Please contact?

ELEANOR WILLIAMS (JONES)

My husband died in 2022 and I have finally downsized into a more modern house about a mile from our home. I’m still on the same bus route, which is important as one gets older! I am still volunteering for two local charities, and I am the secretary of the Winchester branch of the Historical Association. My contacts from Downe are all well and happy. I had lunch with Saranne Piccaver (Prior) before she moved back to Norwich in the Pallant Art Gallery café, where we met Sarah Webster.

1965

JANE DAWTON (NELSON)

Loving living in Norfolk on the Broads with my dog. Usually have lots of friends visiting in the summer including Sylvia Sandeman last year. I enjoy volunteering in a local hospice shop every week. Keep busy gardening and holiday in Gran Canaria in March 2023 and 2024.

ROSEMARY INGE (PAGET)

Twenty years ago, we started looking for a plot or a house which could accommodate Chris and me, together with our very good friends. We found nothing, so three years ago, we decided to pull our house down and build a new one in which we could live and die happily. Bats presented a problem, but we are waiting for the foundation slab to be laid and the house should start rising! In September, Chris started a degree in English Lit & Creative Writing –having read Greats at Oxford in his youth. Our eldest daughter Alexia is now living in Kenya and about to produce her second child, aged 46, and our youngest Olivia has at last bought a house, about an hour away from us, with her husband and two children.

EILEEN FIELD (GOWER)

Music continues to keep me busy: singing in the City of London Chamber Choir, which my husband conducts, teaching piano and singing, examining and adjudicating at music festivals, competitions and song prizes at the Royal Academy of Music. Our elder son and daughter-in-law are medics, and our grandchildren are at St Andrews and Norwich universities reading chemistry and geography. Our younger son, a chef, and his wife, a manager at the Manoel Theatre in Valetta, live in Malta.

1966

ROSEMARY BAIRD ANDREAE (GILBERT)

Catching up on all the things one ever wanted to do, I have just been awarded my PhD, which I was lucky to gain ‘by Publication’ (of books and articles). It therefore only took a year and a shorter thesis as the original research about patrons of 18th century architecture and art was already published. I received it exactly 50 years after I would have if I had decided to go for one at the usual time, when young!

CHARLOTTE BARKER (CONSETT)

I found myself on the M4 with time to spare and decided to nip into Downe on the off chance of being allowed in! I could not have been more welcomed by everyone I met – Alexandra Barlow took me around – so the same but yet so completely different. All the new buildings are amazing, and the atmosphere was very similar to what I remember. Thank you for a really special, memorable, unexpected hour.

CAMILLA GIBSON (LANGMAN)

After four years of chemo and long spells in hospital, Ian, my wonderful husband of 51 years, died last April. I’ve stayed at the community which we helped to create many years ago, supported by the other six families, and I’ve taken on a lodger, who is great, and planning a new puppy this summer. I edit the village news, serve coffee

in the Hall Café, drive people to hospital appointments for Community Care, grow lots of veg, and with forty acres to manage days are full, though I fitted in a long trip to New Zealand this Feb, which was fantastic.

CAROLYN MOORE (MITFORD-SLADE)

I’m still in the Quantocks. I have lived in the same house for 42 years. My husband has made an amazing garden from nothing over the years. My daughter and her fiancé live across from us. Both work from home. Dogs rule the roost. I see Juliet (Wilson) Harkness and Joanna (Torrens Spence) Lewin Harris who live nearby. I play lots of bridge, but I have given up the tennis. Just growing old!

SYLVIA SANDEMAN (MACLEHOSE)

A difficult few years with osteomyelitis from a pressure sore and then breast cancer and a mastectomy. Over it all now and beginning to feel human. Sold our motorhome which we had used for 14 years. Decided it was becoming too hard work. So back to trusting the lottery of accessible hotels for me in my wheelchair. Had a great DH reunion at Inveraray Castle kindly hosted by Her Grace the Duchess of Argyll. The weather was beautiful, and my friend Stoo (Susan Ewart) came over from Ireland to accompany me.

unexciting life in Richmond. Alex works as a land agent and I’m back to the school run and child taxi service and thoroughly enjoying renovating a totally neglected 1960s house and wonderfully large garden. Not missing the hustle and bustle of work and city life but loving exploring the countryside, counting Stratford as my local theatre and developing new interests.

1967

JENNY RATHBONE

I continue to represent Cardiff Central in the Welsh Parliament and Chair the Equality and Social Justice Committee. My particular interests include ridding all school meals of ultra processed food; de-carbonising our homes, our energy, transport and agriculture as fast as possible to meet our Net Zero aims and improving the health of the nation. Outside of work, I’m blessed with three lovely granddaughters.

PATRICIA ROBERTS

Now living very happily with my daughter and two grandchildren in a very welcoming and active village on the edge of the Cotswolds after a rapidly arranged move away from my ordered but somewhat

We have lived here, on the edge of the Peterborough fens, since 1986 – assuming we would move on after a few years. In that time, we have brought up 3 children, and now have 6 grandchildren – with two families in walking distance, (both with children at the local primary school – which they attended) and the third just a few miles away. I retired from my work with Historic England – sadly but inevitably – not long ago and am glad that I remain in touch with former colleagues. I’m also very pleased that I remain in touch with Downe – thanks to my mother (Elizabeth Roberts (Clarke) 1940) who was there in the late 1930s, and a governor for a time (in the late 1960s/early 1970s, I think).

JANE STAFFORD-CLARK (PARKER)

JULIA SANDERSON (RUSSELL)

Not much changed since the last magazine, still living in the same place, still yoga twice weekly on Zoom but travelled more. Rented cottages in Norfolk, IoW, Glos, New Forest and Dartmoor; to Orvieto and Berlin with Ian’s choir, hotel-ed in Vienna, Amersham, Rye, Poole, Amsterdam and Bournemouth and over to Boston a few times. We’ve lost both my mother-in-law and my older brother Francis. The most exciting news is my daughter Vita Sanderson (2000) is getting married soon.

1968

ANGIE GOODA (GOULD)

My life is based on caring for my husband who has been living with Parkinson’s for 15 years. I still play tennis and captain Billingshurst Tennis Club’s first team and enjoy gardening. Our daughter Anita is still Director of Music at St Mary’s Ascot and grandson Herbie gained entry to the Royal Academy with a scholarship playing bass guitar. Life continues quietly with our two new rescue cats Bertie Wooster and Jessie Jeeves!

1969

CAROL EMANUEL (SMITH)

Enjoying retirement, my little weight-loss coaching business, playing pickleball, singing, spending time with grandchildren. Very sadly, my stepson, the playwright Oliver Emanuel, died of brain cancer in December after only a few months of illness, aged 43. The BBC have repeated some of his radio dramas and they can be found on BBC Sounds. All five grandchildren, aged 4 to 8, thriving.

1970s

1970

OLIVIA GERRISH (BOSTOCK)

I am still working in jewellery and am a director together with Matt my son of The Antique Jewellery Company based in 49 Maddox Street just off Bond Street. I love the cut and thrust of dealing. Please do come and see us if you are nearby. I now have four grandchildren under 5 years old which is great fun. We still have the house in London, but Derbyshire is where we love to be. I would love to be in touch with any friends out there!

JULIET GRAYSON (MCCORMICK)

Having moved to South Wales in 2021, we are actively involved in church and musical activities locally and further afield, as well as volunteering with a local charity. We love walking up a 1,000ft mountain from the house and are joined by grandchildren from Cardiff and Bristol regularly. We have hosted two Ukrainian families since August 2022, the first for a year, and the second came at Christmas 2023, including a oneyear-old which keeps us young!

MARY MURPHY (PIERCE)

Now well settled into life on the edge of the Wye Valley and appreciating the slower pace of life after Surrey. The tally of grandchildren is now four. We enjoyed a visit to North Norfolk last year to celebrate Maggie Guite (Hutchison)’s 70th birthday. I treated myself to painting lessons for my 70th and I am now hooked, albeit alternately frustrated and pleased by the results – I am definitely a ‘work in progress’! Have also had occasional fun digging with Chepstow Archaeological Society. Still copy-editing/ proofreading part time to keep my brain (mostly) functional.

1971

JEANIE LOUISE ELLIOTT

Our house moves to Oxford and the death of the last of our parents have brought many changes. We have adjusted to a different tempo, new friends in a lively community, a convenient house and a church full of young families. A new grandson, born last year, means that we will soon be caring for him weekly which will be a joy. We enjoy the cultural delights of the city, French conversation and we keep active at Parkrun and with the Walkers Group.

PHILIPPA FLETCHER (WARE)

Despite having hit the big 70 we are fortunately still fit and active. Sailing our cruiser across the Channel, down to the West Country and around the Solent. John and I both sing with The Chichester Singers... I make jewellery out of scrap sterling silver and vintage materials. Our 2 children Florence (33) and Paddy (30) are both employed in London and happy with partners, no weddings, or grandchildren yet. I see Caroline Frost, Janie Hextel (Freeland) and Gaye Wesston-Simons (Stearns). We try and meet up once a year for a reminisce and a catch-up.

SUSANNAH GRIFFITHS (BEDWELL)

We have had a year of weddings and funerals, joy and sadness. Some exciting travels especially The Grand Tour in Switzerland in our 1977 Triumph Stag, great fun and recommended. Beautiful views, wildflowers, and waterfalls. Since my father died 21/12/22 my mother, sisters and I have met once a month to reflect, pray and eat lunch. It has been a huge blessing. I am very grateful to have my husband of nearly 50 years. We still have 2 dogs and are very involved with our church in Poole.

CAROLINE LACEY (WEMYSS)

I am in constant touch with my dear Jackson cousins – Catherine CJ, Tor and Louise (Joey went to NFL). My mother Ann died in 2023 which means ending my links with Upham in Hampshire – the village we moved to the year before I started at Downe House. Allie White (Czarski) and I have birthdays one day apart which meant we both became 70 in September. Both my children, Alice and Will, have partners – let’s hope Stephen and I become grandparents before too long.

HELEN MARY LLOYD

During the pandemic my National Trust role was made redundant so, after 39 years, I joined a network of conservation consultants, www.trustedconservators.com, advising owners of historic house collections, and training their teams. In 2023 I visited friends and relations in Victoria and NSW; also, Norfolk Island where our greatgreat-great-grandfather was born in 1794, the son of convicts. In 1818 William Lee was granted land west of the Blue Mountains, becoming a successful pastoralist. In the 2023 King’s Birthday Honours, I received an MBE ‘for services to cultural heritage conservation’.

KATIE MARTIN (SMITH)

Last year we all turned 70. To celebrate us all getting so old I went with Hanny (Foster) and Liz (Calder) for a few nights away in Bath. We had such fun, saw the Roman Baths, enjoyed the thermal baths, loved the shopping, the amazing restaurants and above all there was lots of laughter. We hope to do something similar again this year.

VICTORIA RUSSELL

It has been a sad year with the death of my elder brother after a slow decline, and we are having a service for him in February. On a happier note, I have plans to make marmalade with Anstace Monk’s mother which we have done for the past few years. I sometimes see Hilary Walker if we sing the Messiah from Scratch together. It was great to see Laura Aitken after many, many years. I continue to do cover teaching occasionally.

My car was written off by a drunk driver who was arrested at the scene, luckily, I wasn’t in it.

1972

BELLA CRAVEN (MATHESON)

I’m lucky enough to still be riding and I have my own horse. After over 60 years of winning rosettes the pleasure hasn’t diminished, so I am out competing most weekends! I am also heavily involved with the Riding for Disabled Association and county coach for both Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire, as well as coaching the local group. My husband is now semiretired, resulting in him becoming a part-time resident land agent so, although life is more relaxed, we still have all the privileges and enjoyment of being part of a beautiful and historic house and agricultural estate.

CLARE RICHARDS (MITCHELL)

I’m now a granny to five, which I love, but thankfully there’s no retirement in sight! I founded Footwork Trust, a charity that supports local social innovators to make change in their communities, a few years ago. I’m pleased to say I still see a number of Downe friends, including Audrey Smith and Ellen Schroder (the Laskey twins) and a trip last autumn to see Gilly Gammell (née Gaskell) in Australia. A real treat.

1973

DIANA FOSTER (BAILLIE)

We are blessed to be living close to our grandchildren on the West coast of Canada. Organised chaos but such fun! I am retired and enjoying various activities despite some physical challenges. My mother, Sheila Baillie (Mathewson), died last year after a long and fulfilling life. She also went to Downe.

KATE KELLEHER (MICHELMORE)

Since the autumn of 2020 I have been Chair of the governors of Dulwich Prep London, the largest boys independent prep school in the country. We recently decided to extend the age range from 3-13 to 2-16 in September 2025 and are reconfiguring the buildings on site in order to do this. I have very much enjoyed using the skills I learnt as a City solicitor in a different context.

OLIVIA WHITWORTH (COLMAN)

We feel very fortunate to be living in West Berkshire, not far from Downe House and to now have 4 married children and 9 grandchildren. We see lots of the grandchildren especially in the holidays. I enjoy listening to children read as a volunteer in the local primary school, helping in the church and walking our Working Cocker Spaniel in the lovely countryside here. My dear father, who some of you may remember if you stayed with my family when I was at Downe or if you saw him visiting Downe House, died on Boxing Day aged 95. He used to embarrass me when I was head girl by walking on the grass which was, of course, strictly forbidden!!

MARY WOLLEY (AXON)

Having moved three years ago, we are loving our house in Yoxford. It’s nearer to the golf and the sea, (which makes me a popular granny!). We are both working, and Hugh will become Master of his Livery Company in July, so I will be spending more time in London, and I hope to catch up with some of my DHSA friends there. The reunion last year was great.

1974

VIRGINIA VON CELSING (MACKENZIE)

For the last thirty years I have designed gardens and got hands muddy around the country. I live with my Swedish husband in London and in a West Berkshire downland village. Our three grown children live in Havana, Cuba, London and New York respectively. We have one granddaughter in London born last year, which is wonderful.

1975

LUCIA BORRADAILE (VIVIAN-NEAL)

Still pushing the pedals, as I have qualified for ‘The Worlds’ in Denmark in my age group in time trialling. My daughter Laura Boscawen got married on the beach in Sri Lanka this January, to Jack Cooke-Hurle, which was very magical. Rather than training our own racehorses, we have now got shares in two chasers, so are getting to know England visiting the various racecourses... life is never boring! Looking forward to our 50th Reunion in 2025.

JULIA JACOMB-HOOD

I’m now loving living in Dorset near Bridport with my cocker spaniel! Looking out over the everchanging countryside to the sea! There’s plenty of walking, time to paint and draw, and I’m enjoying local life as well as visits from family and friends.

GHISLAINE KENNERLEY (GALBRAITH)

Celebrated two family weddings in 2023 of nieces Elizabeth Galbraith (DH) and Annabel Galbraith (DH) and met many of their DH friends. The DH friendship links are always strong as with daughters Sarah and Julia’s DH friends. I am still involved with the Boswell Book Festival which is held in the house of another DH (Dumfries House) 10th-12th May 2024.

JOANNA MORE (CHERRY)

Miss Willis apparently said that Downe girls could cope with anything anywhere in the world. I have tried... working in Iran and Jordan in the peaceful 70s. Before matroning in schools. Then marrying a “Pomme” and moving to Australia. Now with children and grandchildren ticked off the list, I have been made the President of the Queen Mary Club, in Hobart, in charge of 350 opinionated ladies. Interesting and the hardest work of my life. I am looking forward to seeing schoolfriends at our 50th reunion in 2025.

CATHERINE PALMER (JACKSON)

As I nudge into my late 60s I seem busier than ever – juggling granny duties and sorting through parents’ houses. Next year we will have left Downe House 50 long years ago.

It would be great to get as many of our year as possible together for a reunion – probably in September which should give plenty of time for making travel plans for those who live abroad. Please contact dhsa@downehouse.net if you are interested in meeting up in September 2025 and do spread the word.

NICOLA SMITH (HORSEY)

Since retiring at the end of 2020, I’ve become a Trustee of a local community centre in a deprived part of Winchester which is struggling to make ends meet since the pandemic. We are hosting a Ukrainian refugee in our home which has been incredibly rewarding. She arrived speaking no English, thank goodness for Google translate! I continue to keep fit by cycling and last year we spent two weeks cycling the length of France which was amazing.

CAROLINE SNELL (BEDWELL)

Very fortunately I can continue to have good health and a happy outlook on life despite some sadness and loss of both family members and good friends. I lost my father in December 2022 at the grand age of 96; he’d led an amazing life, giving to so many far and wide. My mother has coped admirably and is still fit and healthy at 93! Active in her church LoveChurch at Bournemouth – much to aspire to and hope I have her genes. We have 5 grandchildren 2-9 years old whom we enjoy seeing as much as possible. Our youngest daughter got engaged at Christmas and is getting married at the beginning of April – all very exciting planning a daughter’s wedding! We are about to embark skiing as a family to

get the grandchildren addicted to skiing. I love my sea swims through the year either at Lulworth Cove, Swanage or Studland. Part of God’s amazing creation.

1976

JANE BRUN (TEMPLE)

Another busy couple of years! Held exhibitions in Norfolk of my oil paintings which went down pretty well! More grandchildren seem to be turning up; Teddy and I are up to seven now (seventh arrives this March ‘24) – Christmas has taken on a new theme now and Teddy makes a brilliant Father Christmas! My sister Georgie isn’t well and has been battling cancer, amazingly she is determined that it shouldn’t distract her from living her life and she is doing everything! A good example to us all! Looking forward to the future, Teddy and I are moving ‘down the road’ to a smaller house on the estate! Letting the next generation get on with it – it will be nice to have our own space together.

Turned 60 in 2019 and treated myself to two two-month trips in Europe, visiting all my favourite places and many old friends. March birthday in Venice, Cinque Terre, London, Oxford, Scottish Borders, and stunning SW Ireland. In late summer, I spent two months on my favourite Greek island, Patmos, and a few days revisiting always stunning Santorini. Thankfully, I’ve avoided getting Covid and also hung onto my house despite serious loss of work income which has now been restored.

MIRANDA CULME-SEYMOUR

HENRIETTA FERGUSON (STEWART)

I have just retired after 40 plus years as a Registered Nurse, most recently working in education and supporting students. To celebrate my retirement, we are off to Argentina for a month. I enjoy regularly keeping up with several old Downe House girls including Caroline Pilkington, Tessa Quartermaine and Julia Bannister. We sadly lost a very old friend Harriet Witherington last year, there was a fantastic Downe House turnout for her funeral. I have 3 sons: 2 in London and one in Manchester, no grandchildren yet!

HENRIETTA JOWITT (ROBINSON)

I have a portfolio career, as a NonExecutive Director in investment management, a Trustee of Opera North and as a Partner of a climate tech fund and advisory business. I also advise Green Templeton College, Oxford and Ripon Cathedral. My two daughters have 2 children each to keep me and my husband busy and my older son married last summer. My youngest son is at Exeter University reading Philosophy.

1977

ANNA JOANNA ADAM (HAGARTALEXANDER)

During lockdown I took an MA in Creative Writing and the result is my first novel KEPT. I have selfpublished and it is up on Amazon. Do have a look! Also, Mike and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary and our son got married last year. The years fly by...

FRANCHESCA ARGYLE (BEDWELL)

The new year gives time to reflect – I am grateful for family, friends and good health. The last couple of years have seen new additions to the family – more grandchildren, losses including my darling father at Christmas 2023. He was a remarkable patriarch. My mother, now 93, welcomes support within our family. Retirement for me beckoned with my father’s failing health so in March ‘23 I finished schoolwork but am now back teaching a small sibling choir in their retirement – great fun. Tennis features in my life, the dog loves exploring areas of Wiltshire and Dorset. Reunions with DH friends are great fun as always.

FIONA LEATHART (MAITLAND)

No great changes since the previous magazine. I am still busy with a local cat rescue group. I am also busy with the Ross u3a Group, belonging to a few interest groups, and I am the leader of the Theatre Group, organising theatre outings. I keep in touch with Sarah Smallbone, Vicky Jones (Hobbs), Pippa Bone (Chesterman) and Joanna More (Cherry). We plan to see Pippa and Joanna in Tasmania in Oct 2024.

SARAH MACDONALD (CULVERWELL)

When I was 15, I said loudly, that I would never work with horses. I have gone on to qualify as a physiotherapist and progressed to specialising in treating horses. The moral is, never say never. I met Scot in 1999 and moved to Ireland having married him. Living in Tipperary with two children. Our daughter is pursuing a career in law and our son is setting out on a degree in accounting. We live on, and run a smallholding, aiming for self-sufficiency. Any visitors are welcome.

SARAH SMALLBONE

I’m just back from an amazing trip to the stunningly beautiful New Zealand to attend my godchild’s wedding in Waiuku, South of Auckland; the family emigrated 20 years ago, and I hadn’t seen them since. This was followed by a fantastic tour of North and South Islands with highlights being paragliding over Queenstown and a helicopter ride over the Franz Joseph glacier. I share my life with my wonderful rescue cockapoo, Poppy who is my ‘made to measure’ dog.

1978

KAREN CRAWLEY (EDWARDS)

It was so wonderful to see so many of us at the last reunion near me. Lots of lovely old friends. I am now settled in Ropley, Hampshire, fairly near where I was brought up. If anyone ever heads this way, please call me. I’d love it and there’s always a bed here for you. Two of my children are engaged (Sam and Bibi) and my youngest (Kit) is at uni so I live mostly alone. 4 stepchildren too – 2 married. I have a step-granddaughter and another on the way. They all live in London

and doing great. Hoping we can do another reunion soon and get even more to come. With much love.

1979

LULU BOSCAWEN (WITHERINGTON)

2023 had its highs and lows. Apart from getting a new puppy who has occupied my spring/summer, the highlight was joining Bridget Wheeler on one of her tours to Jordan which was fascinating, and Bridget is the best tour leader! The low was that my darling sister, Harriet, died in May. We miss her so much.

SARAH CUNDALL (BAXTER)

Still farming and gardening after 40 years. I still see Hattie Sharp, Bridget Wheeler and Nicky Lovell.

JULIA BUSCH HANSEN (REID)

Lovely sunny wedding reception in our garden in May 2023 for our eldest daughter, Natasha to Henry Ritchie. I continue to work as an Educational Psychologist, and I keep horses for hacking, and I travel.

MARIGOLD SHORT (LEWIS)

After leaving Downe I spent a year in Paris. Then back to London to start my Art studies. I have at last completed my MA in Fine Art. In the meantime, I got married, travelled the world, and studied homeopathy. I now have 4 grandchildren with another on the way. Happy days. I am delighted to have two paintings in the Ironstone Art Prize exhibition and am working on a commission for English Heritage in Rushton Triangular Lodge this summer.

DEBORAH SWIFT (UNDERWOOD)

I’m in my 14th year at Bruern Abbey School and my 7th as Admissions Registrar. Never a dull moment at work! My boys are properly grown up now and they are ambassadors for the non-uni generation! As I work with boys with SEN it’s so important to think about the future and keep the whole exam culture in perspective! Still enjoying skiing and outdoors as much as possible!!

1980s

1980

EMMA CARTER (JOWETT)

I am still working as a humanitarian consultant for the UN and INGOs. I am still married to my husband of 28 years, and still love him dearly. I have two daughters both with good degrees from Edinburgh, doing their own thing – travelling and working. I have moved to Jersey, my husband’s birthplace, and he is now renovating and I am carrying on working. We enjoy going to great beaches with our dog and family.

DIANA COX (FFENNELL)

Life busy in Hampshire and still spending 3 months a year exploring Southern Africa in our Landcruiser. In addition, we have been blessed with 5 grandchildren in 4 years and another on the way in April – 3 living in Zimbabwe and 2 in Devon – which keeps us on our toes. I very much enjoy meeting up with DH friends as always.

CAROLINE FINDLAY

DE CONCHA (FINDLAY)

About to complete my diploma as an End-of-Life Doula. Still caring for my mum and occasionally working in travel when needed! My husband and I did an 8-week trip to Peru for his 60th last year, visiting places we had never been and ending up in Cusco for our 33rd wedding anniversary. We went via Mexico City for a week with our boys. Eight DH friends went to see the Rocky Horror Show – a real blast from the past!

CAROLINE GLADSTONE (THOMAS)

One of the highlights since last submitting news has to be our very delayed (thank you Covid) 40-year reunion. About 30 of our year group GATHERED together and had a blast. Some of us hadn’t seen each other since leaving! We caught up with news, we remembered things about our time at Downe that we had forgotten, and we laughed a lot. In personal news, two more of my children got married in 2023, and I am a granny to three wonderful girls, which is just the best. Still dividing my time between Scotland and Wales, where we run several businesses (holiday accommodation, hospitality, tourism etc) with the occasional foray to London to see children and grandchildren and DH friends.

SUSIE GREENWOOD (DE BOINVILLE)

It was a joy to meet up with so many of our year in late 2022 and to see that no one had changed at all and we are all as nuts as each other. I was privileged to be able to take my family to Kenya and Tanzania last Christmas for a lovely holiday and am now fired up to do

some paintings although I continue to do animal portraits which keeps me very busy. I am now getting a child substitute in the form of a puppy...well...just could not resist!

GENEVIEVE SALLIS HOLMES (BENNY)

Adrian and I still live at Manuden and spend half the year living at our place in the French Pyrenees. India has launched her own company called Pelican House and Olly and Angus are still city boys. Olly has finally asked the delightful Charlotte to marry him. So, May will be an exciting month. I have sent a photograph of the reunion at Susie Greenwood’s house, great turn out. Not sure if it ever got aired last year.

NICOLA LOVELL (FAZAKERLEY)

In April 2022, I took on an exciting new role as Headteacher of a new prep school offering specialist provision for pupils aged 8-13 years. It has been an enjoyable roller coaster ride and we are in our second year with pupil numbers growing. It was wonderful meeting up with so many of our year group last September at Susie de B’s house. A lot of laughter and reminiscing which was impressive since most of us had met nearly 50 years ago!

ANNA MARKWELL

I am doing maternity cover at a very busy doctors’ surgery in Bury St Edmunds, but desperately looking for a full-time proper job, though thinking hard about doing my world travels instead before I’m too old! Did a lot of ‘wedmin’ for my niece’s wedding last June, including actually acting as Celebrant, which was very special. Super exciting in September 2022, we finally managed to have our 40th anniversary reunion since leaving Downe (delayed by two years due to lockdowns) and gathered 21 people in Susie Greenwood’s (de Boinville) fabulous party barn. The noise of jollity, as you can imagine was off the scale. And we raised a glass to wonderful Camilla Brown (Keef) who very sadly died a few months before. All now in our 60s, it hasn’t slowed anyone down as many settle into ‘Grandmotherhood’!! If anyone would like to be included in our 50th year reunion (whose details I don’t already have) please do contact me dhsa@downehouse.net.

LOUISA MCELHATTON (MELLY)

We moved out of London to Somerset 18 months ago after 40 years in London. I still work parttime for Universal Aunts as well as volunteering for the Samaritans and we have three young grandchildren who keep us busy.

MELANIE PHILLIPS (DENHAM-DAVIS)

Another year and like everyone else in our year I have passed the grand old age of 60 (and officially retired!) but still behave like I’m 15 at times! Enjoying 2 wonderful grandchildren and keep in touch with Sarah Taylor (East) and Nicky Lovell (Fazakerley). Loved catching up with lots of the year at the belated 40th celebratory lunch –what a day! The sad news was that my younger brother died a couple of years ago but otherwise life is good!!

CAROLINE RUSSELL

Standing for re-election to the London Assembly for the Green Party this May. Currently Chair of the Assembly Police and Crime Committee which scrutinises the Mayor of London and the Metropolitan Police. With the continuing revelations of the impact of racism, misogyny and homophobia in the Met and with disproportionality in policing impacting trust and confidence it is an extraordinary time to be carrying out this scrutiny role. I am also campaigning hard for more public loos as an urgent accessibility and public health issue. Have won £3m a year in Mayor’s budget for new loos on the tube system. Not enough but a good start.

BRIDGET WHEELER (CAMPBELL)

I am still working full time for The Ultimate Travel Company and spend one night a week in London which I thoroughly enjoy! I continue to be very involved in our church. Rupert and I have decided we are rattling in our house so 2024 is the year to downsize. The plan is to have moved by Easter! Our DH year had a fantastic reunion in September 2022 which we intend to repeat...hilarious memories and an incredible amount of chat!

CAROLYN WILSON (REID)

Mike and I are currently working part-time in a government school in Abu Dhabi as freelance consultants, advising on ways to improve the education for local Emirati children. David and Sam are both married and our youngest son, Ben, is engaged and getting married in June 2024. We have one grandson, Arthur, who was born in August 2023. Mike and I are loving being grandparents.

PRISCILLA WOOLWORTH

It’s now been almost seven years since I moved to the Hudson Valley in upstate New York from Los Angeles, and I absolutely love it here. I built River’s Edge Farm; a climate-resilient, carbon-neutral, zero-waste, organic vegetable garden, where I grow a lot of my own food and medicine, as well as my own Christmas ornaments, sponges, toothpicks, birdhouses, lanterns and fertilizer.

1981

FIONA MACBETH

After 28 years as a lecturer in the University of Exeter, I left to work freelance. It’s taken five years to get to the point where my practice is thriving. Those five years included a sabbatical for six months in Morocco, the Covid years and a cancer diagnosis and treatment, so emerging now into full health and doing work that I love that also helps people, which feels very good.

NICKI SHERRIFF

I’m a gemmologist (FGA) and instructor based in Montreal, Canada and I have had a business for over 24 years with my partner, called Nikmak, selling gems, crystals and jewellery in Montreal and around Eastern Canada. It’s great living in such a vibrant and bilingual city.

LUCINDA TINDLEY (FRANKS)

It is almost 50 years since I started at Downe and my peer group is now in the throes of celebrating 60th birthdays! We had a wonderful weekend on the west coast of Donegal to celebrate with Lucinda Kinnaird (Sharp) and our flatmates in June 2023. I also celebrated with Emily Tulloch (Baxter) in June 2023. Mine is coming up shortly and we are planning a family holiday to Marrakesh. I have been involved with the DHSA Committee for well over 20 years now!

EMILY TULLOCH (BAXTER)

As I write this I am heavily committed to putting on (and selling 1,400 seats) for a fundraising concert at Salisbury Cathedral in Feb 2024. I have been organising this concert (on a voluntary basis) for the past year... As the day looms nearer, my years at Downe taught me to remain deadly calm on the surface, but paddle like crazy beneath the water...! The highlight of 2023 was undoubtedly arranging the wedding of my daughter, Zara, in August. It was the happiest of days when she married her long-term boyfriend of 10 years, who she had met at school...

She now has to get used to being a Naval wife. I still regularly see Lucinda Tindley (nee Franks) and I have caught up with Victoria Johnson (Vica Humphreys) and my cousin Christina Bayly (nee Hindson) this year, which is always a plus!

1982

MARIA CARLETON BOYLE

Hello everyone! 2024 has been a great year for seeing many Downe House girls (I use that word quite loosely seeing most of my year group are now 60!!!). I went to Katrina Verdon-Roe’s for a fabulous supper and meeting up with Phillipa Heinmann, Lucy Wadham and Fliff – of course everyone looked exactly the same!

I was in Spain earlier this year and met up with Femme-Marie Garner – whom I had not seen for over 40 YEARS!!! We had a wonderful lunch together and it was just like old times. Last November Burty, Camilla Robb, Rachel Hollins and the Seymour twins all came over for lunch which was great ... food and old friends ... what could be better? Moving back to my old stomping ground in Hampshire has been just the ticket as I see so many of my old DH friends on a regular basis!

FIONA DIAMOND (SEYMOUR)

I have been enjoying a prolonged sabbatical, having moved away from working 24/7 and am now in the process of working out which career path to follow next. The main thing is to work less and have some fun! I have trained as a mediator and now to see where that leads me…

CLARE DUFFIELD (DAVIES)

Living in Hampshire, I am kept busy with communications work, our two boys, picking up with the dogs and a lovely garden, and, most importantly, amazing friends and family who have been so incredibly supportive particularly in the last few years. I also seem to be knee deep in Downe House as DHSA Treasurer, Editor of this magazine and helping to finesse merging alumnae relations between the DHSA and School. Always really enjoy catching up with Downe friends. Whilst sorting papers came across pictures of our post A-level camping jaunt to Devon – great memories!

CLAIRE DYSON (GATES)

Settled in Weybridge in Surrey with husband Chris and cats Roderick and Lil. At peace in working life having found my “thing” as a counsellor working with individuals, couples and those who binge eat. Powerful and life-affirming letting people talk, empathising and, in so doing, enabling them to make sense of their life so far, find their ease or move to a preferred future. Have turned over part of my allotment to hybrid tea roses so looking forward to summer.

ANGELA FINDLAY

After years teaching art in prisons in Cologne, I first returned to Downe in 2011 as a visiting speaker, even standing on the same stage where we had got the giggles performing The Importance of Being Earnest. Many talks and paintings later, my first book, In My Grandfather’s Shadow, was published in 2022. It explores inter-generational trauma and the legacies of war and silence. A big bonus is that it’s brought me back in touch with lovely old DH friends.

MARY JAMES (DAVIDGE)

Still teaching at Oundle (and delighted to be teaching Sophy Jubb’s daughter). Wonderful to be able to lead trips to Sicily and Greece again. I believe I’m the oldest new 2nd Lieutenant in the CCF: my latest challenge! Much enjoying playing baritone sax in the school Jazz Orchestra. I am also the Visiting Lecturer in Classics for the Dept of Education of Buckingham University: teaching Classicists to teach Classics is awesome!

JOANNA LONGDEN (SEYMOUR)

I am now working as a Lecturer at UCL, whilst writing a monograph and doing visiting teaching at foreign universities, when time allows. (My research work is around racialised history and EDI issues.) Having worked in TV, journalism, and publishing until my mid-30s, I am loving the rigour of academia – although my approach is less earnest than some of my colleagues! Our third daughter is doing her A-levels at DH this summer, but it has been fun to be part of the School again for a few years.

SARAH NICHOLAS (BURTON)

We still live in Wandsworth and our three children are all living and working in various areas of London. I am a part-time PA for an actress which I have done for many years. I have bumped into quite a few old Downe House girls living nearby, but I still see a lot of Clare Davies, George Asprey and Penny Reeves amongst others.

KATIE WOOD (FOSTER)

Still living in St Mawes, still sailing on our yacht Lillie and still working part-time in the local deli so not much has changed since the last entry; just a few more wrinkles and a few more years on the clock! This year we are hoping to move – but stay in St Mawes –and we are also planning a threeweek trip sailing to Bembridge. Would love to see anyone who is coming to St Mawes – get in touch!

FIONA WRIGHT (COWAN)

I can’t believe that I’m turning 60 in June! Stephen has retired after being in the city for 42 years so hopefully more time for travelling. Both Clarissa and Hugo are working and living in London. We’re still in Pewsey surrounded by old DH girls of all ages! I’m still playing tennis and looking after a 2-acre garden. I opened the garden last year to Wiltshire Garden Trust all arranged by Alex Gray (Maude).

1983

CAMILLA BENGOUGH (BELLOC LOWNDES)

Living on a lovely farm in Herefordshire running holiday lets and helping with my husband’s property business. I love spending time seeing art exhibitions and plays, visiting family and friends and of course, I enjoy travel. Billy has a London-based recruitment business monacareers.co.uk focusing on actors and creatives. Any aspiring actors who are looking for work in London should contact him. Octavia is a registrar at MPW Sixth Form College, also in London. I am incredibly proud of them both.

CHARLOTTE DRINKWATER (FINLAY)

We live six months of the year in Spring Lake, New Jersey and six months in the Florida Keys. We welcomed our first granddaughter in April, our second daughter was married in June and is having our first grandson this April! I’m playing lots of tennis, pickleball and golf and love to scuba-dive too. I’ve met up with Caf Dowler a few times recently which has been lovely and ‘see’ other old DH girls on social media too.

1984

CHRISTINA BAYLY (HINDSON)

This year I have managed to catch up with some Downe friends including Henty Williams, Charlotte Ryder, Emily Baxter and Clare Duffield. It was such fun to see them all. On the home front, all is well. Amelia is now fully employed in Sustainable Consulting; Honor is in her last year at Exeter and Miles has just started at Manchester. Bill and I are still happily in France for the foreseeable future.

PENNY BURLES (REEVES)

I can’t believe I left almost 40 years ago. Still living in Wandsworth and still a large group of DH neighbours of all ages. I am now working at White Coco on the Kings Road where faces that I have not seen for a very long time suddenly appear – so if passing, please do pop in!

ROBINA PELHAM BURN

I continue to work – and enjoy working – as a freelance editor, specialising in translated fiction and non-fiction. (Thank you, Miss Gosse, and various MFL teachers). I’m also a trustee of the Children’s Book Show and chair of Beyond Detention, where I’ve discovered a fellow Old Senior, Frances Marlow, among the volunteers supporting men and women detained in Yarl’s Wood IRC. It will be 40 years in June since my cohort left Downe. Unbelievable! Time for another reunion?

MIRANDA FRANKS

I had a fantastic few days in August, in Pithiviers, France staying with Charlotte Menon, (née Ryder). We laughed a lot and remembered the days at Downe. Leaving Thomas’s Battersea shortly, after 26 happy years!

JESSICA HIGHAM (ACHESON)

If anyone in my year is passing, perhaps on their way to Goodwood or Petworth, do look me up. My news is that I am having fun buying a few, glorious and inexpensive paintings at auction. This one by Horatio McCulloch was, I suspect, too large for anyone else to purchase! My husband Dominic is having fun playing real tennis all over the country, having only taken it up a year ago. Our son, Edward is now 23 years old and working in London; his sister, Calixta, is just about to finish Real Estate at Oxford Brookes and our cocker spaniel, Lola, has hydrocephalus yet is fully functioning and very cuddly.

DAMARIS HOBBS (GILES)

We continue to live near Bath in Somerset. I am still working as a physio for the NHS and husband is still Head at Downside. Children now all gone so am thinking of purchasing a campervan so we can see a bit more of the world!.

JEMMA MACK

Continuing to enjoy working as a physio in Salisbury as well as exploring various parts of Italy and now doing up a property in Mudeford. Have adopted a dog which I never thought would happen but I love. Life is busy.

AMANDA MCKEE (JACKSON)

Working at Newlands House Gallery in Petworth.

CHARLOTTE MENON (RYDER)

I am enjoying life at a leisurely retired pace: travelling, still motorbiking overseas, painting and walking the dog. I am constantly in touch with Miranda Franks and met up with Christina Bayly (Hindson) last year, who actually lives quite close to me. Was fun catching up. My son Thomas (28) has bought and is running a hotel near the château in Azay-le-Rideau and is thoroughly enjoying meeting a mixed bag of clients from around the world and putting his English to good use! My daughter Louise (26) is back in France after two years working for an investment bank in several African countries. She was delighted with her missions there and is now looking forward to getting back into crisis management, her initial training. Any reunions planned soon?

KATHARINE NISBET

We have nearly finished building our new house (three years of living in a motorhome with very limited facilities!!) in Templecombe, Somerset. Looking forward to re-joining civilised society and seeing some of the DH old girls who live in this area and beyond!

1985

ELIZABETH CLARK (BAYLISS)

Still living in Somerset. Boys have finished at university and husband about to retire so feeling very old! My father sadly died last year, but it was lovely to see some of the old seniors and teachers at his funeral.

SUSAN YATES (BOXALL)

Busy few years and I am now at that time in life where the older generations in my family are sadly passing away. Still working in investment banking which certainly keeps me on my toes but now divide my time between London and the north of England each week. Regretfully missed my year catch-up last November in London due to other commitments but would love to catch up with those in my year if people want to get in touch.

1986

MARY DONALD (NAISMITH)

I still live in Kent and work as an agent to opera singers. Emma Wippell (Wirgman) and Caroline Hutton (Taylor) remain close friends and godmothers to my children, and it was lovely to meet up with them and also reconnect with Chitupa Mung’omba (who I hadn’t seen since 1986) at a fab outing to Abba Voyage last year!

LOUISE WILSON (PEACOCKE)

If anyone is interested in a Designer Sample sale not far from School, come and visit me in October. I have over 35 amazing designers – many of whom I knew when I organised the exhibition at London Fashion Week – plus a room of preloved. Everything is heavily reduced, and we always love seeing a Downe House girl! It’s invitation only for friends and friends of friends so do get in contact if you can come on 9-12 October.

1987

HESTER BASSETT (MARRIOTT)

Widowed just before Covid, mum to three (12, 15, 18), still taking photos www.hesterphoto. co.uk and now running a luxury dog-friendly Airbnb in the South Downs. All welcome!

RACHEL DRUMMOND-HAY

Another busy year running Drummer TV – my business partner retired last year so it’s all down to me now. We continue to make lots of really interesting, challenging, engaging and fun programmes including Sign 2 Win, the world’s first game show in British Sign Language and a BBC One documentary: Humza Arshad, Forgiving the Unforgivable. Children are no longer children but still living at home – and I’m still in Bristol.

ELIZABETH GRAY

After 25 years in the expedition and travel risk sectors, I’m now working in risk management for global TV productions which I’m loving! Still singing in two choirs and playing in a symphony orchestra in Bristol and spending the rest of my spare time sculling and sweep rowing in Bath and beyond. Highlight of 2023 was rowing in the Vogalonga Regatta in Venice with 11 other women from the club. 36km around the Venetian islands, finishing down the Grand Canal!

ANNA MALTZOFF (HELY HUTCHINSON)

Andrew and I have recently celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. Our two boys are almost grown-ups: Alex is studying Biomedical engineering at Glasgow University and Patrick is studying Biological Sciences at Warwick. We still live in Fulham (London) and I work for Splash Projects, delivering team building for corporates and business schools. I still enjoy all aspects of music and regularly lead the music in my local church. I am in touch with both Liz Gray and Celia Townend (Anderson).

BRIDGET WIJNBERG

Cape Town; Work – crazy, always pushing the boundaries of more –Digital Media consultant – thought leadership, impact in the Southern African small business space. Personal focus is the circular economy and sustainability; Family – crazy twin 8-year-old boys who invade my every mental space! Everything “extreme”. Life on overdrive. Waldorf educated, nature enthusiasts; Me – Desperate to finish my book? Cold water ocean swims are my sanity! Wildfires have been insane – evacuated with the clothes on our back (minus shoes!) a few weeks ago... climate change, gale-force winds and arson aren’t the best mix! Losing my eldest brother brings our finite life into hyper focus – every moment is precious.

1988

SASHA HOSKINS (HENDERSON)

No one knows us like our boarding-school friends, and Melanie Richards (Brown) is living proof! My 2023 highlight? A riotous long weekend with Mel in Brighton – think menopausal mayhem meets historical hijinks at the Brighton Pavilion, peppered with an unhealthy dose of cocktails and culinary delights. All whilst reminiscing about our Downe House escapades. In other news: my eldest is now Durham’s problem (!), and my PR business? Still soaring.

ANTONIA KINGSLAND

I moved out of London to Surrey just over 2 years ago and it’s been a great move. Loved catching up with my year at our 50th reunion –lots of laughter and catching up.

HENRIETTA SHORT

Still living in Dordogne near Sarlat, with my husband and 15 year old twins. I spend a lot of time driving one of my sons to endless golf competitions across France, helping him to achieve his dream of becoming a golf pro. I am also now working as an estate agent for Beaux Villages..... and loving it.

1989

ALISON KIRTLAND (KILPATRICK)

Robert and I are celebrating our silver wedding anniversary this year. Our daughter, Charlotte, is in her fourth year of Medicine at Sheffield. Our son, Edward, has finished school and works at Waitrose. We are opening our garden for NGS in September. We are looking for a puppy, after sadly losing our 11-year-old miniature schnauzer last year.

1990s

1990

BECCA ARNOLD (STEVENSON)

Finally traded London for Wiltshire in 2019 and now embracing rural living with husband, 5-year-old and dog. My foodservice consulting business celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, so still get my London fix once a week. Also loving voluntary roles as trustee for Back Up a spinal injury charity and governor for our village school. Sorry to have missed the reunion, looked like a great evening.

LORNA BLANE (JEPP)

Had a fantastic evening catching up with 30+ people from our year group in London a few months ago. It was like no time had passed! Still living in London and my daughter has just graduated from university and off travelling the world, so my husband and I are able to enjoy a slightly slower life. Would love to see everyone again soon – and hopefully get even more attendees.

FELICITY BYRNE (RASON)

Really great to see so many people at the reunion! We’re continuing to do up the new house and recently built a new garden office which is a great workspace and bolt hole! Saskia started secondary school in September and Amelia has begun GCSEs. Gerry recently changed roles at work which means he’s now home evenings and weekends, which is great because finally we see more of him and can do more together.

OLIVIA CAMPBELL SLIGHT (INGLEFIELD)

Still very happily living near Marlborough, close but not too close to my brother and sister with my father about to move up here too. Have some wonderful garden design projects on and also working for sister Kate and her fabulous Cochine brand. Archie is loving Elstree and going to Radley in Sept so do let me know if you have any Radley uniform for a 6ft’er!

SOPHY HARRIES (MACLEAN)

Mirry is in her penultimate term at Downe House. After 7 years as a “student” and 9 years as a parent I am off to pastures new. Will really miss Chieveley Services for the emergency tuck. Aisholt is now the most requested house for new girls. My work here is done.

ALICE KEOWN

I am marrying Phil this summer. We’ve known each other for 20+ years and reconnected 18 months ago. I’m joining his family of 4 teenage boys, so life has become quite busy!

TANIA LINGER (VON STRUENSEE)

Now living on the Surrey/Kent border, working part-time for my husband’s headhunting business. Otherwise most of my time is spent being a taxi for 2 teenage boys, walking our labrador Millie or playing tennis! Was gutted not to be able to make the reunion this year. Really hope there is another soon as would love to see everyone.

ANTONIA MAY (MASON)

I am working with my eldest daughter on her clothing brand ‘No Emotions’ www.noemotions.co.uk which is very exciting – we had our first pop-up shop in Notting Hill and the brand is growing fast. My other girls are at uni, on a year off and LVI respectively so feel that we are clawing our way to the finish line! Sad to miss seeing my year group reunion recently and hope to catch up soon.

LUCY NORRIE (HELME)

Amusingly I am currently teaching French and Spanish in a prep school for a term as a supply teacher...I can now tell you all about what’s in my pencil case in Spanish, and - thanks to Mrs Novakovic - I’m impressing them with my casual fluency

in French.... Both kids are now at secondary school, which we chose for its flexiboarding, but they’ve both almost immediately flipped up to full boarding (not offended) – so suddenly my life as a servant is almost over, and independence is back....

LUCY ROBERTS (MILLER)

Two kids at senior school in Bath. Still writing romance but thinking of turning my hand to murder. Not quite sure how I can be 51 when in my head I’m 28.

SARA SCRIVENER

Living in London, changed careers last year although still working for JPMorgan but in Asset Management now. Alexi is at Exeter reading Mechanical Engineering and he’s having a great time. Sophia is doing A-Levels. Time goes so quickly that soon it will just be Will, me and Bo the dog at home!

JO WILSON (PRICHARD)

I am still living in Adelaide which we love. Love coming back to the UK to catch up with friends and family. Loved going back to DH a couple of years ago and had a tour around. Amazing how it has changed. My daughter is getting married in March which makes me feel old! Otherwise, life is pretty good!

TAMARA WOLCOUGH

I’ve been busy back at uni and in September 24 I will complete my MA in Creative Writing For Young People at Bath Spa University. Billy is in his first year at Bath University but unless I bring food he avoids me! The other three at Wellington. Great evening organised by Lorna for our year. Brilliant to see everyone and catch up. No one had changed!

ELIZABETH WOOLISTON

The children are now 17, 14 and 11 and are more fun than they have ever been. I’m working at Lloyds of London and still trying to make the world a better place with insurance. Happily and amicably divorced and now in a relationship with a musician. Life is good.

1991

ELEANOR ARGYLL (CADBURY)

Loved seeing so many friends at the drinks in the Bluebird. No one has changed a bit (although will admit my eyes aren’t quite what they were). Found a brilliant picture of us at Outward Bound. Still living between Scotland and London.

SACHA BERNARD-GARRETT COX (JAN)

My life in France has changed somewhat since I lost my Englishteaching job due to fibromyalgia. Now life is between hot water spring treatments and my three girls (only 2 at home now and not for much longer probably), and don’t forget my husband and his two (but his have already moved away). Not really looking forward to being an empty nester. New chapter about to start… but what? Don’t know for the moment!! Important I think for girls reading this to know that not all of us get the high-flying career or the rich husband (or both)! Some of us lead rather a mundane life that throws complications at you when you least expect them! But that’s life!

LOTTIE COLE

Still painting and showing at Long & Ryle Gallery and through the Royal Watercolour Society, with a solo show coming up in late June. If anyone is ever in the Ashdown Forest, please look me up.

ANNABEL CORBETT (PILLING) District Judge (Magistrates’ Courts) at Westminster. Crime, Extradition and Terrorism cases. Board member for the Wiedemann Steiner Syndrome Foundation, my son’s rare genetic syndrome. Daughter at university (and skiing) in Canada. Archery, bee keeping and Krav Maga in spare time.

PHILIPPA DURRANT (PARKINSON)

I still live in Wiltshire with my family and a menagerie of animals. I was very lucky (and extremely grateful) to have been given a grant from the DHSA and have retrained as a therapist. I set up my practice from home in 2022 and it’s been going from strength to strength. www. pippadurrant.co.uk

GEORGINA DWERRYHOUSE (OFFORD)

Living in North Essex. Both sisters in East Anglia too. Married for 20 years to Damian with two daughters, Honor, 19 and Flora, 17. Amazed to be writing that! Very happy designing gardens and organising festivals. Have loved catching up at all the reunions this year!

HELEN FRYER (MARKHAM)

Life still full of adventures. 2023 was a year of celebrations – 50th birthday, trip to Paris with Cate, my daughter. A full summer of pop-up bell tent hotels all over the UK at Hels Bells Tents, spring full of lovely lambs in the woods and a brilliant hedge-laying course to round it all off in October. I am enjoying running and helping out with coaching lacrosse at Stowe this term – and Saturdays on the side-lines watching Aex playing football with Luke. Life’s good.

LOU HAVERS

We are off travelling around the world, first stop Barcelona, for three months. Very excited for this.

HEATHER MILLER (TYRRELL)

Like the rest of the year I turned 50. Probably unlike the rest of the year I decided not to have a party but cycle across South Korea for fun instead. It was totally brilliant, and I can highly recommend it to anyone looking to do anything completely nuts.

ANNABELLE POLITO

(DUNNINGTON-JEFFERSON)

Still living near York and no plans to leave God’s Own County for the foreseeable future as we love it here. Eldest daughter Jessica has started at Edinburgh Uni studying Japanese and Linguistics, Eliza has gone into the LVI and 13-year-old Sam is in Year 9. My husband Tom and I can mainly be found on two wheels, cycling round the Dales and searching for the next cake stop.

KATE SHERWIN-WHITE (HOWDEN)

I’m based in Kent these days with my husband Luke, children Sidney and Cecily, a miniature poodle and two Burmese cats. I run my own headhunting business working with strategists in the world of creative and advertising. This time of life sees me loving my garden more and more and I have had mixed results from my recent birthday present to myself – raised beds. It’s a potting shed this year! I still go north to our home in the Highlands as often as possible. Turning 50 last year was a brilliant chance to spend more time with dear old school friends and also reunite with others. Shout if any of you are near Tonbridge.

JANE STRUDWICK (GODSON)

After 26 years of marriage and 16 military quarters we have moved into our own home and are able to let our roots take hold and ditch the packing boxes! We hope our green fingers will sprout to manage the garden! Our daughter takes her A-Levels in May and is following in my footsteps as a lacrosse goalkeeper! Our boys have both graduated so off the payroll, hooray!! I am excited to host a few DH girls in The Hague for the Tulip Festival.

1992

LINDSEY HARDY-GRIFFIN (MORGAN)

Really enjoying life in Oxfordshire. Tom and Hamish are now at uni and Ed is about to do GCSEs. I have retrained and am now working as a psychodynamic counsellor. Hard but rewarding work! Continue to be inspired by my DH art experience and I love that I’m still in contact with a few of my dear Tedworth friends.

CAROLINE MCSHANE (MOUNTAIN)

The year of 50th Birthdays! Being this old isn’t so bad as it’s been a great excuse to see so many ex-DH girls when celebrating our wrinkles and bulges. Looking forward to our big Reunion in Wales in May. Home life – still married (lucky chap), still mother to 2 teens – one doing A-levels and the other just started at Cheltenham College where I’ve bumped into other DH families. Working in social media – shout if I can help.

ALEXIA QUIN (CRONLY)

No major changes for me –sometimes that’s disappointing, but mostly I’m grateful! I’m one parent down, but still in Stockwell with Jonathan. One daughter has just left school and going to study linguistics in the autumn; another is chugging through it (Y10). I’m still running Music as Therapy International (www.musicastherapy. org) and still always happy to talk to people about music therapy. Miss Byrom-Taylor surprised me by inviting me down for lunch in the summer, together with my piano teacher Miss Lovett!

1993

SOPHIE CAMPBELL-WYNTER (MURRAY)

Life continues with fewer young adults at home now – two at uni, one on a gap year and one in fulltime work (frankly quite enjoying it – no empty nest syndrome here). The work in W Uganda, through An African Dream, goes on www. aaduganda.org as does squash coaching and life at church. The hope of Jesus remains and keeps me going in this crazy world – if you’re curious check out alpha.org.

STEPHANIE DAVIS

sitters. Hoping to find a home, although we just have to work out where that will be!

SOPHIE HEARN (PIM)

All good with us – only one boy left of the three that’s not taller than me and I give it six months. Sports presently represented in the house: rugby, rowing, mountain biking, football, hockey, swimming, basketball, tennis, cross-country running and the cricket season’s nearly here too. I am well and truly outnumbered! Very busy at school, still Head of English at St Andrew’s and still loving the sport and the non-stop nature of prep-school life. I see lots of my Downe House girls and I fear we have the same mental age as we did at school!!

JO HENRY (BISHOP)

I left Downe and went to Cranleigh School for sixth form and then Bristol Uni. I’m now married to Ben and have two kids – Jake (11) and Cleo (12). I live near Bruton in Somerset and work as a buying agent sourcing land, farms and estates for clients.

LIZA HOWDEN

SOPHY JUBB (JORDAN)

I have been a Reader in the Church of England for a year now, finally putting my PhD to good use. In September 2023 I became Matron of Sadler House at Oundle School. Both roles have a strong pastoral element, which I love. I also get to work with the marvellous Mary James! India loves boarding life at Oundle; Martin is happily occupied at Coloplast and as a Pantomime Dame (oh yes he is!). Life in the sticks suits us.

VANESSA LANGDALE (LYNDONSKEGGS)

Still loving living out in the countryside in West Sussex with my husband, Charlie, and our twin boys (now learning to drive – terrifying and where has the time gone?!) and daughter. Having ditched the legal profession some time ago, I have created a garden from scratch which I now open to the public and I am also helping others with their gardens – design and general consultancy.

CLAIRE MALONEY (DAVENPORT)

In preparation for turning 50 I’ve taken up aerial acrobatics, stiltwalking, theatrical clown and joined a circus troupe; it’s glorious! www. hamiltonaerialgroup.ca. Still being a psychotherapist day to day – I focus on creative and embodied approaches and currently doing more training in attachment and Focusing-Oriented Art Therapy. I’m thankfully also still a mom to Theo who is 11 now and into his knife collection, making fires and dub step... Hamilton is gritty and artsy and I welcome visitors :-)

LUCY GARDNER

Life has not stood still over the last few years. Driving an Austin Maestro from Bognor Regis to Liberia with my boyfriend, Simon and hoping to continue... We went on to New Zealand with Fatherheart Ministries and got married. Trying to work and study (Therapeutic Coaching) while not having a fixed abode to live – but we are becoming excellent house-

Living in Stockwell with my miniature poodle Margot, in a remarkable blend of village life and city living. Indulging in my enthusiasm for plants organising the Open Gardens at our Summer Festival. Frequently found heading north on the sleeper to my parents in the Highlands to recalibrate, often combining with siblings, niblings and friends. Twentieth year of working in Strutt & Parker’s National Estates & Farm Agency Team in London, coming across a fantastic array of individuals and properties nationwide.

CLAIRE HUTCHINGS (WORSDALL)

Life is busy juggling work and family – I’m still working in the civil service, and about to move from transport to energy after 14 years on the basis that a change is as good as a rest. Both children (Eva and Tommy) are growing up quickly with Eva starting secondary school last September. Their activities and hobbies keep me busier than my own, but am looking forward to planning some exciting holidays now they’re a little older.

Life in Windsor is as busy as ever! Harry turns 18 years old soon, which we all can’t quite believe! He continues to enjoy his rugby (although I’m not sure I have the same level of enjoyment when it comes to doing the washing after the match!) and he is hoping to take a year out before heading to the big city to study fashion and design. Emily has been playing club and county-level netball over the last few years, she just loves it and is now towering over me, even though she is only 14 years old! Pete’s journey 20 years ago into the confectionary industry now sees him lead the commercial division for The Fini Company in the UK. And as for me, I am now 4 years into working with the amazing team at St George’s House, Windsor Castle, I have the luxury of being able to walk to work through Windsor Great Park with the only major congestion being the odd deer!

ROSALIND RAPP (MUIRIE)

When not being a taxi driver around Oxfordshire for my two boys, I’m thoroughly enjoying growing Roz Rapp Coaching and Mentoring with adolescents and young adults. I’m also involved with a fabulous charity called the

Iuventas Foundation in Oxford, helping to support young people. We are looking to grow the charity so if anyone has good ideas for fundraising, real estate options in Oxford, general experience in grant applications, then I would love to hear from you. www.rozrappcoaching.com www.iuventasfoundation.org.

LUCY SMITH (TURNER)

Not much has changed since my last news, we’re all just a little older! Charlie and I decided to do a European road trip in our camper van over the summer. We managed to meet up with Claire Rispe in Annecy and had a wonderful evening together overlooking the lake. With the big 5-0 getting ever closer and spurred on after attending a brilliant reunion at the Bluebird there are talks of organising a weekend away for 1998 leavers to celebrate the big milestone, what fun would that be!

SELINA STEPHEN (DOWN)

Happily ensconced in Hampshire with labradors, baby horse and a fishing rod. Still working in healthcare quality, with a focus on the Middle East at the moment. Horrified that 50 is on the horizon (convinced there has been a counting error…).

1994

ISOBEL HURLEY (ABEL SMITH)

We have finally moved out of London and found our home in Wiltshire. Harry (10) and Rose (8) are busy climbing trees, riding ponies, and the extended family now includes Otter the spaniel, Mittens the cat and 3 chickens (Matilda, Miss Trunchbull and Miss Honey). Jon has changed career after over 20+ years in the film industry and is now settled into teaching History of Art & Art. Abel & Graham, after a few curve balls in Covid, is now growing again. Would love to see anyone Wiltshire bound!

GEORGINA RYLANCE-CIARDI (RYLANCE)

Hello, I have two boys, 5 and 8. We are living in London mostly but in Verbier for the Lent term learning French, skiing and having a family adventure at the International School.

ROSANNE COBB

Thanks to the wonderful DHSA support of alumnae, I am so happy to say that I have been able to gain a place on a doctoral degree to become an Educational Psychologist. Thank you DHSA for the life-changing financial assistance! I’ll report back in three years (as Dr Cobb).

BUFFY ROWE

I now run a nutritional therapy and health coaching business, buffyrowe.com. I retrained (initially a freelance violinist) and have run a private NT and coaching practice for 5 years now and I love it! It is hugely rewarding to support clients improve their health and quality of life, both personally and professionally. I also present talks and workshops in support of both mental health (mood/self-esteem), and general health and lifestyle etc. I’d love to hear from anyone looking to feel better or just reconnect!

1995

RACHEL GOLDING BARRETT (MILLER)

We set up The Tetbury Flower Company in early 2023 here in the South Cotswolds – enjoying life as a wholesale flower farmer and all the fun and graft it brings.

NICOLA BEARMAN (BECKWITH)

Living in Hampshire amongst lots of Downe House girls which is so lovely! Soon to have three boys (aged 17, 14, 13) at Harrow and Lily (aged 8) still at home. Still a major supporter of Great Ormond Street Hospital and a few other charitable causes.

TESSA DAVIES (SMITH)

Nearly 10 years in our friendly village and I am making increased friendships with the more elderly residents. I enjoy getting to know those who are lonely or frail and we all value a cuppa and chat in my home, and some of us attend an art class together. My son just started at secondary school and loves the Soul Band and Snare Drum group. He enjoys composing on the piano. My daughter is enjoying being part of her primary school’s netball club, which I help to lead, and we have fun running together. They also wanted to tell you that they both adore Minecraft and computers in general! Together with my husband, we all are so grateful to be part of a caring church family, and keeping our loving God at the centre of our lives.

ROSANNA FISHBOURNE (CRAWLEY)

Living in Herne Hill, London with our two footie mad boys (seven and eight), left the world of luxury hotels last year to provide branding and hospitality consulting. For the next year I’m supporting a start-up, Londonbased boutique luxury-care home brand called KYN. Keeps me feeling young!

JAVRÉ GASCOIGNE-PEES (DOW)

After 24 years of living in London we made the move to Hampshire last summer with our three boys. I’m still working as a freelance TV producer in advertising, and I am in regular contact with lots of our year. The reunion at the Bluebird was really fun, it was great to see so many former DH girls! Looking forward to the next one.

EMILY GOODALL (HEPBURNE-SCOTT)

I sold BundleBean in 2022 after 11 years running the business, which has given me more time to enjoy life in The Vale of Pewsey and work as a freelance consultant.

Matilda (17) and William (14) are loving Dauntseys and we’re kept busy with endless animals and four grandparents on our doorstep.

FIONA HILTON (JACKSON)

I’ve now lived in the Cape of South Africa for almost half my life – an extraordinary thought! Still married to wine producer and travel specialist, Richard, and our two girls Leila (12 going on 16) and Rosie (9) are happy and thriving at school in this wonderful, outdoor, sporty environment. I’m out of the corporate world now and run my own Strategic Marketing consultancy, which I absolutely love. I am still in touch with lots of awesome DH girls; we have no plans to move back to the UK at this stage, though in a complex, volatile country such as this, a flexible outlook is always required!!

JANE LIDDIARD (STANLEY)

Still living in Hampshire with my husband and 3 sons. The oldest two are now at Bradfield so it’s a bit quieter at home in the term time! Covid was a difficult time for us with our resorts in Indonesia being shut for nearly two years. However, we diversified and started Blue Marlin Dive UK and have been teaching at Downe House and a few other schools in the area.

FIONA PHILLIPS (NEILSON)

I’m living in Wiltshire with my husband Ben and our three boys who are now 14, 12 and 6. I’ve gone back into the world of artist management (classical musicians) which I love. Life is busy and fun and I still see lots of the DH girls from our year as well as others who live locally.

CARRIE SELLON (MARRIOTT)

My first children’s book, Pizza Pete and the Perilous Potions, came out last summer. The second in the trilogy is coming out this September. Enjoying author life!

LORNA SURTEES (DUDLEYWILLIAMS)

Downe House days still feel like they were yesterday! Not much change here – living in Hampshire with Paul and two children. Spend lots of time with my DH friends. Still work for Paloma Picasso. Have recently set up @theartlibrary.co.uk on Instagram.

1996

AMANDA CHERRY

Lost Ian Goodridge, (DH 19891997) to Covid in April 2020 –a devastating blow to us all. Our children Kitty (15), Zander (12) and Charlie (10) are doing well, all things considered, and keep me busy and entertained. I have a new career as a life-coach and professional declutterer; after 23 years in hedge funds, it’s quite a change!

EMILY LEA (ALLEN)

Following an amazing 15 years in the Middle East, we finally moved back home to Oxfordshire in April 2022. Children all settled in their prep schools and it is rather terrifying to now be looking around Downe House and other schools as prospective parents.

GEMMA SCOTT (LEWIN-HARRIS)

We made the move back to Somerset a couple of years ago – the pull of the Quantocks and family proved too hard to resist! Predictably, planning our self-build project has taken slightly longer than intended but hopeful we will start building in the spring. Very exciting but nerve-wracking at the same time. Thankfully Lucy (16) and Archie (14) are both happily settled at school and heavily involved in lots of sport which keeps them busy and Rich has convinced me that life would be boring without challenges!!

1997

SARAH CHIPCHASE (HURST)

I had a beautiful baby boy in May 2023, called Alexander! I am now living in Oakley (Hants). If anyone is nearby, please drop me a line.

LEANORA VERO

I am currently living in Bristol, Leela will be moving up to Clifton College in September from the Prep. Running my Airbnb, Riad Verus Fes, doing lots of yoga, reformer and Ibiza retreats.

1998

EUGÉNIE HANIEL (DUERCKHEIM)

Very much enjoying Oxfordshire life with kids, dogs and all else daily chaos has in store!

MONICA HAWKES (CHINA)

Still living in Surrey with Ed and our 3 children (Zac 12, Isa 10 and Chloe 8). Everyone thriving and turning our minds to choosing big schools. Where is time flying. I am teaching Pilates and loving it. A fair few old DH girls in the area now.

SALLY SEYFRIDE HERBERT (FERGUSSON)

I have been married to Oli, a doctor, for 20 years. We live in London and have three children, Oscar 19, Coco 16 and Phoebe 15. I trained in jewellery design and started my jewellery business Philippa Herbert Ltd 17 years ago with my sister-in-law and we make bespoke and fine jewellery, selling our collections at Fortnum & Mason and online or creating bespoke pieces for private clients. We consider ourselves modern family jewellers and I absolutely love it!

BELINDA HOLDER (LIVERSEDGE)

Proud mum (finally!) to baby Ruby Tuesday born on 13 February. Living in the Chilterns having escaped the big smoke (also, at long last!) with my husband.

GEMMA MOFFATT (HYDE)

Busy family life with 3 young boys, who are now 8, 6 and 4 years old. We make the most of living by the sea here in West Sussex, including the inevitable cold sea swimming throughout the winter!

NICOLA STENHOUSE (GORDON-FINLAYSON)

After giving up work to homeschool in the pandemic, I have had 3 years off and am enjoying tennis, learning to sail, watching matches, dog walks,

gardening, travel etc, but I am missing not working for lots of reasons so I’m determined that this is the year I get back to work – while hoping I can continue with some of the fun stuff too...

1999

VERITY DIBBEN (PATERSON)

Living in Singapore, with two girls (Molly 9 and Perdie 7) and husband Fran. Trying to keep my toes in work by freelancing in marketing/web design/retail/ merchandising for startups here in Singapore and Australia. Love catching up with schoolies when I’m home each summer – in fact I visited Downe last summer with the kids; was (unexpectedly) hugely emotional. But so fun to be back; the concert room smells the same! Hopefully a 25-year reunion on the horizon somewhere??

KATHERINE JANE HODSON

I continue to enjoy life in Hong Kong despite all the hiatus of protests and Covid in recent years. I have happily welcomed, together with my husband, our son Kai, whom we adopted in Hong Kong. He is 16 months now and keeping us on our toes. With Kai now the proud owner of a German passport we will be heading off on our first family holiday soon. We live in the countryside in the New Territories which helps to balance busy life as a partner at Ogier with boating, dog walks and hiking in the surrounding hills.

2000s

2000

REVD LUCINDA VAN DER HART (GAMBLE)

I am delighted and humbled to write that in 2021 I was ordained into the Church of England. I now work as school Chaplain at an independent girls’ school, Francis Holland Sloane Square. I have discovered that a number of my colleagues there are also Downe House alumni!

2002

EDWINA ADAIR (HIGHAM)

Still working and living in Dubai with my husband Henry and our three girls – a two-year move has been 11 years so far... and counting!

LAURA ADDIS (PALMER)

After sixteen years in the publishing industry I set up my own editorial and publishing consultancy, Laura Palmer Books. I’m loving being my own boss and working with new clients.

SOPHIE BLYTHE (CAPRON)

James and I now have three kids under 6 – Isla, William, and Jessica. James is a cameraman so travels a lot so it’s a big old juggle with the kids and my work in communications, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! We moved to the Meon Valley in Hampshire just before the pandemic and are loving it here.

JULIET CARPENTER (HAM)

I’m currently living in Warwickshire with my husband (Tom) and 2 children (Eloise, 9 and Oliver, 7). Life took an unexpected turn for me in 2022 when I was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma (a type of blood cancer) which meant 6 months of chemotherapy. Despite the tough times, I’m now over a year in remission and doing well. I’ve gone back to work part-time as an accountant for a small local business which I’m enjoying. I’m still great friends with Jenny Ferriday (now Jamieson) and we’re off on a champagne-tasting trip to Paris this year to celebrate our 40th birthdays!

CLARE MCPHERSON (MARRIAGE)

Currently living just outside Edinburgh with my husband and our 22-monthold daughter, Pippa. I work part-time for a travel company organising safaris to Africa, and sometimes travelling there myself if I’m lucky!

VERYAN PALMER (ARMSTRONG)

Enjoying life in Cornwall with husband Richard, and two daughters Rose (7) and Tilly (4). Working as a Family Director at The Headland Hotel, trying to fit in as much riding, sailing and skiing as possible. Would love to see any Downe girls venturing to the southwest.

EDWINA PETERS (CAZENOVE)

Living in Warwickshire with Andrew my husband and two children Olivia (8) and Rory (5). Life is busy with dogs, ponies and school life. The DH girls are never far away and always in touch. This year is the year for 40ths so lots of parties and meeting up! My niece is starting in Removes in Sept 2024 and can’t wait to visit her.

CLARE RATNAGE (MICHELL)

I continue to work as a GP in a rural practice in Wiltshire which I really enjoy despite the current pressures on the NHS. I have three children: Hugo (9), Ilaria (7) and Alicia (3) who are all at our local primary school and so when I’m not at work I spend most of my time managing their diaries and commitments!

ALETHEA ‘LEAFY’ ROUS (EDDY)

At the end of 2021, we moved from Kenya to Zimbabwe. Our three children go to school out of town and my husband works in AntiPoaching on a Rhino Conservancy. Our eldest, Lily, is the age I was when I started at DH so it’s starting to bring back lots of memories – it’s pretty cool, to be honest! Otherwise, life is hectic with 3 kids but we are well and happy and that is all I can ask for!

ANNA SANDS (PALYS)

I left the world of finance in 2023 to set up a holiday and property business in Norfolk, where my husband Henry, 4-year old son William (known as Billy) and I are now thoroughly ensconced in rural living; come and visit us at bodneyhallfarm.com! After my City years, I’m enjoying having a more creative phase and have picked up music-making again, singing in a Cambridge chamber choir and regularly playing the piano. I keep in close touch with my wonderful Downe House friends, who mean the world to me.

LOUISE YOUNG (WATSON)

I am currently on maternity leave from my role as a banking solicitor in London, having welcomed a baby girl, Beatrice, in January 2024, a sister for Edward, Wilfred and Rupert. I also run the Junior Church in our local church, where my husband is minister, and am a keen photographer, when time allows!

2003

THEODORA CLARKE

Theo Clarke MP was awarded Speech of the Year at the prestigious Parliamentarian of the Year Awards. She was honoured to receive the award for her campaign on birth trauma. Theo is chair of the first national inquiry into birth trauma in Parliament which aims to improve maternity care in the UK.

LOUISE CORNISH (ELLIOTT)

Living in Haywards Heath, Sussex, with husband Ed and my two energetic boys (ages 5 and 7). I am an online personal trainer specialising in postpartum and women’s health. Love to build connections and collaborations with other alumni!

ANTONIA DA CRUZ

2023 was an exciting year. I got married and began my journey to motherhood with the birth of my son Enzo. I also joined an exciting new start-up called Zero2 that seeks to gamify sustainability through a lowcarbon lifestyle. We were awarded an UNSDG (United Nations Sustainable Development Group) Achievement Award (for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) under Goal 13: Climate Action.

BELLE DONATI (LUPTON)

It’s been a busy few years. I became a news anchor at Sky News in 2021. I continue to try and work in culture broadcasting (my real passion) where I can. But the last two years have been busy with the birth of my second child (a daughter), who may have a rare genetic condition. I’ve become immersed in the worlds of neurology, SEN, and public vs private healthcare. Zadie is nearly two now and is beating all initial expectations. She, and my 4-yearold son Xavier, are a joy and I’m trying to balance a career with my desire to spend time with them.

GEORGINA DYBVIG (RAWKINS)

My husband, Ned, and I had a baby daughter, Isabel, on 27th February 2023.

KATHERINE FEDRICK-ILLSLEY (JOHN)

I am still working as a barrister doing financial remedy work, and also sitting part-time both as a deputy district judge and as a recorder. My son is now 5 and loves cars and buses.

ELINOR HARVEY (LLEWELLYN)

Living in North Hampshire and enjoying running my own sex and relationship therapy practice (www. elinorharvey.com) alongside family life. Looking forward to seeing old DH faces at our 20-year reunion!

SARAH HOLT (WAGHORN)

Phil and I are living in Oxfordshire. We are both in the RAF working out of RAF Brize Norton. We are expecting our first baby in March whilst also embarking on a house extension and renovation. It’s all keeping us busy!

MIRANDA LEWIN

I got married in September 2022 and my husband Neil and I moved to Kintbury, near Newbury, in December 2022.

GEORGINA LODER (HASZLAKIEWICZ)

I have been living in South Somerset for two and a half years with husband Jamie, and we welcomed baby Artemis Jane in March.

IMOGEN MABEY (FOSTER)

We live in Balham and have sons aged 5 and 7. I am a GP in Battersea. We are moving out to North Oxfordshire in the summer, and I would love to be in touch with anyone local there.

KATIE MOK

Now a mummy of two (Mia 2 and Milo 1) living in Hong Kong and legal counsel in the music entertainment industry. Three World Cups later for HK, I finally stopped playing lax and now doing Ironman and triathlons when I find the time!

SORREL PROCTOR

I am currently on maternity leave with my third child, Hebe, baby sister to Ivy and Jackson. Otherwise still working as a vet in a lovely local practice. Also try and fit in a bit of very small-scale sheep farming with my teacher husband, Ben.

2004

LIZZIE BARTON (FANE)

Hi everyone! I live in Battersea with my husband Alex and three sons, Leo, 7, Max, 5, and Luca, 2. I work as an artist and designer (lizziebarton.com) alongside looking after the children, and from September I will be able to work full time on all of the creative projects in my head, which is very exciting! I feel so lucky to see my wonderful DH friends as often as I do and I can’t believe we left 20 years ago!

HARRIET BINGHAM (OLIVER)

I still live in Hertfordshire with my husband and two daughters, Charlotte aged 11 and Ottilie aged 9. My husband and I own and run a property development business and at home we have chickens, guinea pigs, a miniature wirehaired dachsund called Augusta and our tortoise called Molly. We also grow our own vegetables and I make an obscene amount of jams and chutneys from the garden.

LOUISA BRASSEY (DE CARVALHO)

Co-Founder of Greenwood Place (www.greenwood.place), a philanthropy consultancy and management company. We run and manage charitable foundations to help people achieve the most impact from their giving.

EDWINA LISTER (GLENNIE)

Enjoying living on the south coast with our two children (6 and 3), spending as much time on the water as possible (when warm!). I still work for Moody’s Analytics 14 years later, helping insurers, banks, governments and corporates assess their risk from natural and manmade catastrophes, including an increasing risk from climate change.

HANG WUN MICHELLE TAM

Dr Michelle Tam has recently moved to private practice as a psychiatrist in Hong Kong. She still holds a position as Honorary Clinical Assistant Professor at the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Hong Kong and enjoys teaching medical students.

NICOLA TITMUS (KOO)

After career-switching out of medicine to IT (with the help of my software engineer husband) I’ve recently joined a public health body as part of the IT/data team. Life feels very busy keeping up with the three kids – but I enjoy opportunities to do stuff like fossil hunting or climbing that I wouldn’t otherwise be motivated to do.

2006

SOPHIE ‘MINNIE’ DUFFY (ROLLS)

I have just been appointed as a Consultant Dermatologist at The Bristol Royal Infirmary in Bristol, where I live with my husband Sean, daughter Margot and baby Dylan who has just joined us (and our whippet Marloe).

2008

ALICE ATKINS (HALLARAN)

Still living in London and working in insurance...plans to move to the country soon!

LOUISA LEDGER (INGHAM)

Louisa and Jack got married in December 2023 in London with approx. 15 DHOGs in attendance spanning four year groups – the life and soul of the wedding (of course!).

2009

KATIE BINNS

After leaving my position as director for one of the largest video game marketing agencies in the world, I now work in virtual reality with Meta and other companies in the US.

HARRIET SYMEONIDES (PALMER)

Since leaving Downe House and Durham University I have been working in schools for children with special educational needs mostly at Blossom House School, where I was in charge of behaviour management for the primary school. I found it incredibly rewarding, despite being very emotionally challenging at times. I left in July 2023 and got married soon after – hence the new (unpronounceable!) surname. I am now working part time in a different special needs school, whilst also working for a special needs tutoring company and I absolutely adore the children

and their families. In my spare time, I am writing a behaviour management booklet to support and advise parents who are struggling in this area. I am still in touch with several Downe House friends, and we often reminisce about our days at DH.

2010s

2011

CAROLINE VOADEN has stepped into the entrepreneurial world, opening a B2B copywriting studio in late 2023. Living between Australia and the UK, she left the corporate world to write story-driven marketing materials for law, finance and property businesses around the world. Her business, STORY Copywriting is designed to give companies and founders in complex industries a competitive edge. Follow her journey at www.storycopywriting.com.

2013

INES NIARCHOS

Third expedition to the Utah completed. Working on a new start-up bringing holistic, chakrabalancing salts from near Salt Lake City to European soil and hoping to bring new opportunities to the Midwest. Still divorced.

2014

SOPHIE SHIPTON

Following three years at HMP YOI Feltham as a prison officer, I joined Redemption Roasters as their Lead Caseworker in the summer. As a social enterprise, we support prison leavers into stable and longterm employment in our 10 coffee shops across London as baristas. It’s a mix of my two favourite things – coffee and rehabilitation! I also live with two other DHOGs in South-East London!

2017

KEZIA DUBENS

Last year I launched a fashion brand with a great friend whom I met at Parsons NYC. Our company is called Ossatura London and we specialise in custom corsets made from beautiful deadstock fabrics. This February one of our pieces, a custom bridal gown (embroidered in India) will be walking in London Fashion Week as part of Annie’s Ibiza Show. It is a huge achievement for us!

OLIVIA HARRISON

After four years of undergrad and two years of law school, I am now in the first seat of my training contract at Slaughter and May and look forward to qualifying as a solicitor in September 2025. I am living in North London with friends.

2018

HOLLY EVANS

In September I started my MSc in Filmmaking and Media Arts at the University of Glasgow! I’m really excited to be on this course as I’m getting to explore experimental filmmaking. I hope this will be the next step I need to go forward

and make a career for myself in the Film and TV industry. My dissertation film is a surrealist folk-horror film focusing on the climate emergency through the lens of mythology and I’m aiming to take it to festivals!

2019

LUCY CUNNINGHAM

In June 2023, I was appointed Label & Product Manager at Fraser T. Smith’s record label, 70Hz Recordings. Fraser is a multi-award winning, internationally acclaimed artist, producer, songwriter and musician who has worked with the likes of Adele, Dave, Drake, Gorillaz, Florence and the Machine, Kano, Stormzy and Sam Smith and has co-written, mixed and produced seven Number One singles in the UK, two Billboard Number One singles in the US and contributed to 18 Number One albums. It’s been an absolute privilege working so closely with him and I feel incredibly lucky for the experience and the invaluable insight into the music industry :).

CHRISTABEL GRAHAM

Having started as a freelance photographer two years ago, working in the music event industry, I had my photos requested to be in an exhibition for the first time in Manchester. Having never studied photography, it was amazing to receive such recognition, and have my work surrounded by that of professional photographers. Two weeks later, I received a job offer from Hurstpierpoint College, to become a physics teacher in their secondary school. Two wildly different achievements, but both equally exciting.

MIRANDA WOODRUFF

I am currently working at Christie’s auction house, as a graduate intern, in the Proposals department.

NEWS FROM HONORARY SENIORS

2020s

2020

SUNNY (LUOYI) LI

Delighted to share that I graduated with a BSc in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from UCL in September 2023. I am now pursuing further studies in MPhil Politics at the University of Oxford.

2023

LOUISA NEILL

I’m currently on a gap year and am about to move to Muscat, Oman for the next six months. I will be working at Downe House Muscat and also participating in a conservation programme where I will get scuba diving training –hopefully up to instructor level –and conduct coral reef surveys!

FIONA PARSONS

As travel opened up again I went to Central Asia in 2022 and last September to Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia. I saw amazing churches and monasteries as well as spectacular modern architecture. I was delighted to see an Armenian Bible in the ancient script I learned years ago. While in Armenia, Azerbaijan seized some territory – reminder of a volatile area. Raising funds for Macmillan with a concert was another enjoyable activity, so I keep busy.

FRANKIE CAPPS

Alan and I are happily settled in North Devon, enjoying being by the sea and walking the dogs on the beach and the moors. We have had many lovely visits from DH friends, giving me the opportunity to reminisce about the happy times we had at Downe. My only regret is that I left in lockdown without saying goodbye properly to the girls, staff and parents.

CECILIA LUNN

News submitted by Cecilia’s nephew: My aunt moved in December to a home in Surrey to be nearer her family. She is very happy and says it reminds her of being at Downe, with its boarding school atmosphere and friendliness. She still, from time to time plays the piano and wins bowls competitions at the home. She enjoys her trips out locally and looks forward to hearing news from Downe House from all her friends and keeping in contact with the School.

PAULA MACHIN

I have finally retired as Head of Swimming after 36 years! I have loved my time at Downe House – all the lovely girls I have taught and the people I have worked with in the PE department. I intend to stay fit, spend more time with my granddaughters (Callie, 2 and a half months and Aubree, 3 months old) and travel with my husband.

MARY MOORE

I was widowed two years ago and spend time doing charity work and travelling often to friends in Spain who live in the region of Galicia which is very beautiful.

I also run a non-fiction book group whereby we choose a subject and all do our own reading. We then bring what we have learnt to the meeting. It sounds heavy but is surprisingly relaxed and fun.

ROSEMARY MORGAN

I am still living in Bristol, not far from my daughter (Keri Jane Michael (Morgan), pupil 1984-1991). Unfortunately, I’m still recovering from an accident in 2021 in which I broke my femur. Long road to recovery. However, I am able to enjoy sewing again – mainly patchwork and quilting and I swim 3-4 times a week, also I am now able to pursue my hobby of church bellringing but only at churches that have a ground floor ring of bells – spiral staircases are not possible for me now.

WENDY NURSER

I am enjoying life in Salcombe and wondering how I ever had time to run Tedworth! Sailing is an absolute priority during the summer months and last year we sailed to the Channel Islands and to Brittany, in addition to exploring the south coasts of Devon and Cornwall. With a son and two granddaughters now living in the USA we have also spent a few weeks during the past year getting to know the Pacific Northwest and practising our grandparenting skills.

ANNA RENTON-GREEN

Still currently based in NZ but experiencing empty-nest syndrome as our son returned to the UK two years ago! I left teaching after arriving in NZ and I am really enjoying the challenges of working in the heritage sector. I am looking at undertaking some archaeological training in the near future. I’ve also recently got the courage to get back into drama after a break of over 10 years, doing some writing and directing.

GRAHAM SALTER

I am now retired and living in Oxford. I teach Spanish to adults as part of the University of the Third Age, operating mainly online via Zoom. Last year Julia and I enjoyed a holiday in Northern Italy, travelling by train via Lyon from St Pancras. Our next rail jaunt will take us to Girona (Spain). Greetings to all DH Seniors.

PHILIPPA TOOGOOD

It was lovely to celebrate 20 years at Downe House in September 2023 and I am still very much enjoying being a part of the School. Having had a range of roles over the past two decades I am now working as Assistant Head (Operations) with oversight of the day-to-day running of the School. No two days are the same and it is great to be part of such a fantastic team. I am also a DH parent with one daughter having finished in 2019 and the other currently in the UVI.

NARDIN THABET

I’m really enjoying teaching in Downe House, Muscat, and it has been a very interesting first term in Oman. I’ve met so many great people there, and although I miss DH, England and my family, I am very grateful to be able to have this adventure.

VANESSA WESTACOTT

I am still happily ensconced in French life in the Charente Maritime. I run a language school (Papillon Ecole de Langues) teaching French and English. Together with my husband, Tim, we also run four Gîtes and a Chambre d’Hôte; www.lesgitesduvigneron.com. We welcomed Miss Henson last summer during her bike ride to Sauveterre. We love living here, the climate is good, the food and wine excellent and we have been integrated into local, village life. Vive la France!

RECOLLECTIONS OF DOWNE HOUSE

by former Headmistress Suzanne Farr (1978-1989) who oversaw considerable changes to the School

When I arrived at Downe House I found myself on a well-located campus of outstanding beauty. However, the School had fallen on hard times and confidence was low. Thirty empty beds needed filling urgently but beyond that lay a bright prospect if we could only begin to climb the new Public Examinations Listings. I would need to find a considerable teaching task force if the numbers were to grow. To my relief, I found some dedicated teachers already on my staff who were immensely keen to put the School back on its feet. Some changes were inevitable and had to be made rapidly. Not the ideal start for a new Head but this was countered by support from some very able subject specialists.

The existing English department, headed by Juliet Austin (great-niece of the Founder) and Jennifer Gosse was excellent and inspirational to the girls. Meanwhile the Modern Languages Department led by Mrs Owen supported by Barbara Castellini and Eileen Horton went from strength to strength. One year they put the top two French Divisions through GCSE ALL with A grades. Paul Risoe was another valuable Head of Department with the future runner-up in the Turner Prize, Fiona Rae, in his class. Dorothy Goode’s Classics Department was well subscribed at A-level and I was devastated when I heard that the subject had been dropped.

I was delighted to find applicants from well-qualified men to counterbalance the many able women. Mr Sidebottom became Director of Music and was aided by Trevor Selby and Valerie Byrom-Taylor. It was at my first Music Weekend that I began to feel proud of my School for the first time.

With 13 years as a Housemistress behind me, at Queen Anne’s Caversham and Wycombe Abbey, I had become more aware of the necessity for kind, wise guidance within the extended family of the House. My suggestion of splitting the School into mixed-age houses was initially received with mixed reactions. However, many of the governors supported the idea of having a skilled housemaster or housemistress to whom parents could turn – as was then common in boys’ public schools. The numbers of girls wishing to come to the School had grown into a lengthy list and the fees surplus was sufficient to plan major changes which made this transition financially possible. The living accommodation was subsequently divided into five units with Juniors in separate buildings (Darwin and Hill House).

Whilst the building started at the end of the summer term, I investigated possible house staff among my existing staff. Jack Bayliss (Head of History) became housemaster of Holcombe with the help of his able wife Angela, and Barbara and Albert Sidebottom with their Old English Sheepdog took on Tedworth.

I lived in the woods in St Peters, which was a lovely old house but unmodernised other than acquiring a new Aga.

We planned an alternative uniform (to replace the shapeless djibbah) of a green kilt-type skirt, green and white striped shirt, and green and red striped blazer. The green cloak survived and Choral wore scarlet cassocks. Green gowns for formal occasions were worn by Seniors. The School began to look a lot more attractive when in uniform.

My newly appointed bursar was wonderfully supportive at this crucial time. Between us, we helped design the building that still houses the indoor swimming pool and squash courts. I was thrilled to hear it has since been given Grade One listed status.

This was rapidly followed by a house for the growing UVI. Each girl had a study/bedroom of her own –decorated with Laura Ashley wallpaper bought by me from the factory sale at Llanidloes and furnished thanks to a generous gift of flat-packed furniture from Sophie Conran’s father. The girls had their own dining room. These new facilities encouraged girls to stay on for A-levels. They agreed that they would still play in School teams and would be eligible to become School prefects.

The girls’ fitness was initially a cause for concern. The contract chef’s food was stodgy and unappetising, and the cockroaches in the kitchen corridor proliferated. I cancelled the contract and appointed a sous chef. Things vastly improved.

Physical Education was unpopular and the School teams rarely won matches. Tennis was the strongest game but there were too few courts. The construction of the indoor pool encouraged all girls to take enjoyable exercise and an experienced coach was soon appointed. Sporting success soon followed and at a first team lacrosse match against Wycombe Abbey I became so excited that I found myself calling out in support of the opposition!

I was sad to leave Downe House. Eleven years of relentless planning and restructuring, plus trying to run a busy school even with a very able staff and managing my elderly parents, meant that I needed to recharge the batteries. Later the serious illness of my colleague, Lynne Berwick, with whom I shared Garraway House, left her badly disabled after part-removal of a brain tumour. She lived for 17 years of good companionship and fun, for which I am thankful.

My last Irish Setter died two years ago and Garraway now seems very empty. This chance to look back has given me a good deal of pleasure and I shall eagerly look forward to reading how ‘my girls’ have made use of their lives as career women and mothers. Do visit should you find yourselves in the Wye Valley.

IN MEMORIAM 51

Deaths Notified Since 2021

Honorary Members (former staff)

Jack Bayliss (History, 1979-2001), Anne-Marie Gane (PE, 2006-2019)

Class of

1938 Jennifer Davies, Audrey Harrison (Hird)

1941 Marigold Freeman-Attwood (Philips), Rosemarie Cawson (Beer)

1942 Diana Hinxman (Dunlop), Carol Sarsfield Hall, Jo Hyde (Moore)

1943 Jane de Falbe (Marriott), Anne Inskip (Davies)

1945 Susan Batty, Cherry Palmer (Gibbs, Queen’s Gate)

1946 Aline Sandberg (Duncan),

1947 Elizabeth Culverwell (Farrer), Suzanne Madden (Huband), Penelope Meyrick (Marsden-Smedley), Margaret Payne (Vestey), Marion Ward, Una Whitmore (Malleson)

1948 Bridget Connell (Fletcher), Joanna Thomas (Harben), Rosemary Nankervis (Charrington), Penelope Mason (Touche), Elizabeth Campion (Phelp)

1949 Jennifer Wallinger (Clare-Rees), Carola Hudson (Browne), Janet Spicer

1950 Ruth Chavasse (Gueterbock),

1952 Susanna Catlin (Dring), Diana Burlton (Prickett)

1954 Ann Humphries (Smythe), Susan Peel Cross (Rogers), Jane (Oliver)

1956 Sarah Wise (Clay), Sczerina Hitchens (Hobday), Jennifer Kyle (Templer), Felicity Morley (Peile), Deirdre Cain, Althea Wells-Cole (Haywood)

1957 Anna McNeill (Fogg-Elliot), Elizabeth Russell (Mynors),

1958 Sibella Bees (Abell), Judith Mack (Plunket)

1960 Jennifer Gasson, Gillian Grimes (Townend), Rosemary Mahon (Melville), Kirsten Morag

1961 Sarah Paterson (Hobbs)

1962 Mary Ellen McEuen (Higginson)

1970 Rosie Leggo (Bunting)

1976 Harriet Everett (Withrington)

1979 Camilla Brown (Keef)

1990 Jane Long

1992 Rebecca Morrison (Evans)

2001 Lucinda Butcher

52

MEMORIES OF JACK BAYLISS

So many stories and tributes have come to the fore following the sad news of Jack Bayliss’s death in February 2023. We felt it entirely appropriate, in this edition of the DHSA magazine, to share extracts of the wonderful memories by some of those who were taught by Jack, worked with him and enjoyed time in his company.

Extracts from a tribute given at a thanksgiving service held with Honorary Seniors by Emma McKendrick, Headmistress

“I can vividly remember the first time that I met Jack Bayliss. He had been asked to spend some time with me prior to my appointment. He was Director of Studies; he had a few questions for me, I was told and he certainly did. In our meeting, we talked about all things academic and what struck me most was not only his ferocious intellect and sharpness of thought but also his great warmth, his care and commitment for young people and of course his wonderful twinkle!

Jack worked at Downe House for 22 years. He was equally gifted in the pastoral as he was in the academic and it is no surprise therefore that in 1979 he took up his post as Housemaster of Holcombe and Head of History, supported by his wonderful wife, Angela. Between them, they created a home and Jack was often found sitting in a place central to the House making sure that he engaged with, and was available to, his charges every day and more often if necessary. He knew the value of relationships. Having established Holcombe on a secure footing, he moved on to be the founding Housemaster of York South, the new UVI House where he was described as ‘running’ the House with just that deft touch of diplomacy needed by all UVI House staff who understand when and how it is necessary to give advice to those turning 18!’

It was in 1986 that he moved out of residential work but remained Head of History and then finally took up his role as Director of Studies. As Head of History, his passion for his subject was always evident as well as his enviable breadth of knowledge. Whether talking about the history of British Pop Music, the English Civil War or 20th Century Europe, Jack could talk with ease. His extensive knowledge, easy relationship with the pupils in his classes and his interest in them as individuals made him a very popular and successful teacher. He always wanted them to achieve their best and in the run-up to examinations, he would frequently be found early in the morning in the Common Room marking additional essays or running tutorials and he would always find time to seek girls out and encourage them. His oversight of the Oxbridge programme was excellent, and it was his positive and rigorous approach that ensured high levels of success. That care extended to the staff, and he was passionate about bringing young teachers on and seeing them succeed too.

You can perhaps understand why it was such a privilege to have Jack on my very first Senior Team here. Not just because of all the skills he demonstrated every day in School but because he cared about education. He had benefited from grammar schooling and spoke with such pride about it but also such humility about his journey through school and on to Cambridge.

He understood the power of education in liberating and inspiring people, and his commitment to being an Open University Tutor as well as the time he gave to training teachers in Lesotho also spoke volumes about how he wanted to pass on the education he treasured for the benefit of others.

As a colleague, Jack was also huge fun. He was a very fine singer who sang in the staff Barber Shop Quartet; he was a regular in the Staff Pantomime and always fully embraced his role, although I think there was one occasion when he rather wished he hadn’t, having been stopped by the police on his way home whilst still wearing his costume! He always loved regaling staff and students alike with stories and whether it was his journey back from Lesotho where he found himself seated in the cabin amongst the contestants of the Miss World Competition or another similar story, we all loved hearing them.

It is no surprise that one of the girls gave him a beloved pair of braces which he wore every day until

Paul Risoe, Art & History of Art who worked alongside Jack from 1979-2001

Talk lay at the heart of Jack's teaching. He loved to talk and was good at it. For Jack, talk was no idle indulgence but a form of creative action, engaging, often stimulating and sometimes touched with mischief. It was never dull. When Jack first came to DH he told Albert Sidebottom, the then Head of Music, that one of the presents given to him by the staff at his former school was a wooden spoon, as he could be a bit of a stirrer!

A formative influence on Jack was the French teacher at his old grammar school who had little time for textbooks and would only speak French in lessons. This slightly maverick approach, not likely to be encouraged in today's climate, set the challenge and was Jack's ideal teacher. Two of his favourite subjects were the complexities of the Counter-Reformation and football, a catholic range of interests which was typical of him.

Jack loved football and as a boy was very good at it. He loved to reminisce about the game in the '50s, going to the big game on the bus and finding one of the current stars sitting near him, something unheard of today. One of his footballing heroes was Duncan Edwards. He would ask a new and young teacher whether Duncan Edwards, if he had survived the Munich air crash of '58, would have captained the '66 World Cup team. This would get a rather bemused response, but the teacher would soon realise it as a piece of Jack mischief and a lighthearted relief from the pressures of the day.

Jack had a fine tenor voice and loved to participate in School theatrical productions. He and I provided a "Little and Large" routine of the tenor and bass parts in Britten's "The Little Sweep" where we were joined by Sue Farr's Housekeeper. Jack helped create a very enjoyable atmosphere behind the scenes.

he left in 2001. When asked in a final interview how much he would need to be paid to take them off, he replied with the following;

“I am fond of the braces because they bring back memories of an exceptional group of girls. Classes are like wines in that there are vintage years, 1994, 1997 and 2006. Added to this they are priceless, as they keep my trousers up.”

A devoted husband, a proud father, an excellent teacher and committed practitioner, a wonderful colleague and friend to many, Jack will be greatly missed. For my part, as I suspect for yours, the world felt a little dimmer on hearing of his death but the light shone brightly again when I began to remember my experience of his time here – how lucky we were to have had him as part of our community, to have known him and worked alongside him, and we can take comfort from the fact that the knowledge he imparted, the humour he shared, and the love of others that he showed will live on for many generations in those he taught in this place.”

The young members of the production no doubt enjoyed the prospect of their teachers, and Headmistress, making fools of themselves, but then we were all equally involved as performers. There would be good banter amongst us, like the Twist starting the decline in dancing because there was no touching between partners, odd talk from teachers, but typical of Jack!

Caroline Merrick (Roberts, 1984)

Mr Bayliss was an inspirational Housemaster and History teacher. As Housemaster of York, the sixth form house, surely the trickiest of tasks was steering 17 and 18 year olds through their A-level years, but his sense of humour prevailed and got us to the exam season ready for what lay ahead.

As a History teacher he brought the past to life in a way that stayed with us. Whether it was learning about the Corn Laws, Rotten Boroughs or the Gladstone/Disraeli years, he taught us the importance of knowing what went before in order that we do not make the mistakes of the past. Valuable lessons for life whichever path you follow.

Andrew Hobbs, Teacher of History, Oxbridge Mentor

Jack was a one-off. Quick witted, with a mischievous sense of humour and a great ability to entertain as well as inform; he made sure that the History Department was never a dull place to work in. Jack was no believer in mindless uniformity, but naturally allowed others to be individuals and encourage a love of learning in their students in the way that best suited their style. We could not all teach Removes about slavery by bursting into a rendition of ‘Swing Low, Sweet Chariot’, but one could only admire his capacity for improvisation and originality. There was no doubt that Jack could be an inspiration to many – in and out of the classroom. Breaktimes have never been as much fun as when Jack was around, and I associate him with the best of times at DH.

Christina Bayly (Hindson, 1984)

For me, studying History at Downe is synonymous with Mr Bayliss. He breathed life into the subject, making it enjoyable, interesting and accessible for all. I was lucky enough to enjoy Mr Bayliss’s extra attention as he prepared me for 4th term Oxbridge. He gave me extra one-on-one lessons on Sunday mornings to make sure I was able to answer enough questions on the exam paper (not a given at the beginning!). His commitment to my success was 100% and he was absolutely thrilled when I gained my place at Somerville College. Having Mr Bayliss not only as our History teacher but also our Housemaster in the UVI enabled us all to form a strong bond with him and his wife Angela. We would be invited for coffee in the evening to discuss Politics and Philosophy on a regular basis and he encouraged us to think critically. They always say that there is one teacher you remember or who stood out amongst their peers. Mr Bayliss was certainly that teacher for me as I suspect he was for many others too.

Olive Willis Trust

BURSARIAL ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE

The Olive Willis Trust was set up in 1946 in gratitude to, and appreciation of, Olive Willis at the time of her retirement after 40 years as Headmistress of the school she had founded in 1907.

Income from the fund was to be used to provide financial assistance to girls who had a historical family connection with Downe House. Since the establishment of the Trust 77 years ago, more than 100 girls have been assisted with bursaries during their studies at Downe.

Applications for bursarial assistance by the Olive Willis Trust continue to be welcomed through the Office of the Headmistress.

DIVE INTO THE ARCHIVES

Meditation Chairs

The meditation chairs are made of pitch pine and over their years of service on this site have developed a wonderful character and presence. For many years they were used by the Seniors at whole School assemblies. They seem as sturdy as the day they were made.

There is a cumulation of Downe House stories, memories and history since its very beginnings, stored and professionally archived at School. Generations have sent, and continue to send, memorabilia which builds a rich tapestry and stands the test of time.

Jane Caiger-Smith (Archivist 2015-2023), on the eve of her recent retirement, kindly selected five historical items from the Archives which she believes to be of significant interest.

Miss Nickel’s Spectacles

What she accomplished with such poor eyesight was marvellous, even if the odd roof did drip and her ‘own recipe’ mortar was completely impenetrable.

In a recent meeting with Mrs McKendrick, she said, ‘I have something for you’ and placed these in my hand. When I opened the case, my heart missed a beat!

The Fire Escape Rope

Greek Theatre Pictures

These two photographs were taken in the Greek Theatre at different times. Mr James McLaren Ross (with foxglove), the architect, engaged by the School of Silence, and then the whole cast photograph of a DH production of A Midsummer Night’s dream in 1924. (That play probably has the record of the ‘most performed’ at DH.)

Miss Willis’s desk

Miss Willis’s desk is here in the Archives, and in use! It is in a rather poor state but functions! This picture shows Miss Willis sitting at it in when the School was in Kent. The Dutch cabinet to the right is still in the Tedworth Housemistress’s flat

DEVELOPMENTS AT DOWNE HOUSE 58

Update from the new Development Director, Hannah Litvack

Ifeel privileged to have joined Downe as its Development Director. Downe House is truly a special place, with such a unique heritage and spirit. Having spent the first part of my career in higher education fundraising, I am passionate about the importance of education and the formative role it plays in the lives of young people, their families and our wider society.

I’m pleased to have met many of our alumnae at our reunions over the past year and look forward to seeing many more soon. The School hosts a rich programme of alumnae events, sustaining memories and friendships long beyond time here at School. Alumnae play a vital role in supporting our pupils in their career paths beyond Downe, through our professional networking programme, DH Links, and through our mentoring scheme. We are so grateful to those alumnae who share their experience and expertise.

Downe House takes its educational charity status very seriously and works hard to make our current pupils and their families, proud. The Development Office works to raise valuable funds to support the School. Whilst the School can fund some of the projects ahead, additional philanthropic support ensures that Downe House provides an unsurpassed education of breadth and depth for years to come.

Our office is busier than ever, and we welcome new ideas and feedback to make sure everyone in the Downe House community is connected. Thank you for all the ways you support the School’s endeavours and I very much look forward to meeting some of you in the near future.

Hannah Litvack Development Director

The Centenary Campaign

Downe House has never stood still, and it is imperative that it continues to advance, develop and improve every year, in order to ensure that the education it offers prepares its students to make a difference in the world. The only certainty for the future is that there will continue to be change, so now is the time to invest in our education and continue to be one of the very best schools, both in the UK and internationally.

To mark the 100th anniversary of the School’s arrival at the campus in Berkshire, we are launching the Centenary Campaign, with a clear longterm strategy which sets out our vision and aims.

Our next focus is Maths, Digital Innovation and Music, where we want to provide a world-class education and enhance the girls’ experience of these subjects.

This next phase of development will benefit every girl at the School. The projects will also have a wider role in creating excellence for others outside the immediate School community through our community engagement.

WHY MATHS AND DIGITAL INNOVATION?

The new state-of-the-art building will give these subjects the focus they deserve, as they become increasingly important in the modern world. There is a huge appetite for Maths and Digital Innovation at Downe. Still today, girls are more likely to take up STEM subjects in girls’ schools than in co-ed schools. In the current LVI we have 48% taking Maths.

As female representation in the leadership of different sectors grows, our investment in Digital Innovation education will allow our girls to unlock future opportunities. We want our educational environment to be futureproofed, anticipating the dynamism of a continuously evolving digital skillset, including AI.

WHY MUSIC?

Music is truly an integral part of Downe House life, and interest in it is growing continuously.

The Music Department has ambitious aims for the girls: over 400 music lessons happen every week; and with around 60 concerts a year and over 18 small and large ensembles, every day is enriched by the joy of musical performance. Over 50% of the girls at the School have singing or instrumental lessons.

This investment will transform the Department into the very best teaching and performance spaces that match the quality and reputation of the Music Department and our outstanding Music staff. At the heart of our vision for the building is the philosophy of ‘Music for Everyone’. We believe that every child is a musician and we want to give them the opportunity to match their ambition and passion, in whatever form of music they choose. The performance space will also be used for dance and drama in addition to music.

For further information, please contact litvackh@downehouse.net or visit downehousesociety.net/supportus

Stay in touch

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You can choose how you wish to stay in touch with us and receive your updates. We would love to hear from you, do reach out over email with any queries: dhsociety@downehouse.net