WGHS In Touch Vol 6 Summer 2021

IN TOUCH ISSUE 06 SUMMER 2021

www.wghsintouch.org.uk

FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF WAKEFIELD GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL

‘ONCE A HIGH SCHOOL GIRL, ALWAYS A HIGH SCHOOL GIRL’

Contents 05

08 03

HEAD’S WELCOME

04

CLASS OF 2020

06

CLASS OF 2021

12

GIVING BACK

18

HEAD GIRLS WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

22

OG IN THE ARTS

26

OG NEWS

32

OG MEMORIES

36

STAFF LEAVERS

40

LIVES REMEMBERED

11

22

27

A welcome note from the Editor Welcome to the WGHS IN Touch magazine 2021! I hope that you enjoy reading the magazine, especially how some of you are helping, through our Giving Back programme, to inspire the girls as they navigate their future career paths.

The past 18 months have been unusual and challenging for us all. School closures, remote learning, and Covid protocols have all brought their challenges. However, we managed to make the transition to remote learning swiftly to ensure continuity of education and pastoral care. The Development Office staff were furloughed which, of course, resulted in no magazine last year.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed time and articles to help create this magazine. It is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on your achievements, memories and news. It is only possible to put together such a magazine with your help, involvement and the reporting of your activities to us. Please do continue to send in your news, comments and announcements throughout the year.

STAY IN TOUCH Join the WGHS Old Girls’ Facebook Group to keep up to date with event and reunion information, WGHS news and memories.

Search for ‘Wakefield Girls’ High School Official Old Girls’ Page Connect and network with fellow WGHS Old Girls on LinkedIn by joining the WGHS Group.

Search for ‘Wakefield Girls’ High School In Touch’

Make sure that you have a look at the Giving Back feature and should you wish to volunteer for the IGTV live interview with Mr Eggleston then do get in touch!

The usual Old Girl events have been put in the calendar in the hope that we will be able to get together this year. As I write (June 2021), the first event planned is the Old Girl Reunion which is booked for Saturday lunchtime 18 September 2021, followed by the London Dinner on 12 November 2021.

Please do book early to secure your place.

Once a High School Girl, always a High School Girl!

Catherine Worsley, Development Director

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cworsley@wgsf.net

Visit the Official WGHS Old Girls’ website for all alumnae profiles, news, events calendar and event booking information.

You can also claim your own Old Girl profile and update your information and contact details.

Visit: www.wghsintouch.org.uk

DEAR ALUMNAE: Heidi-Jayne Boyes

Welcome

This last academic year - 2020-21 - has been quite a year for us all and I sincerely hope this finds you and your loved ones safe and in good health.

This year has thrust us all into a vortex of uncertainty that, at times, felt as if it would never stop spinning.

However, amidst this uncertainty, I am incredibly proud that the unstoppable thirst for learning and love of teaching has continued to be demonstrated at Wakefield Girls’ High School. In true Wakefield Girls’ spirit, we have not been outdone by restrictions and bubbles and we have ensured that our students' learning has been rich and diverse. Wakefield Girls’ students not only have the passion for lifelong learning but also the need to be outward looking and supportive of others.

As a school community our daily practice reflects these key values and we strive to ensure that all our students are empowered, aware and work together.

At this time of year, as senior students move on to the next stage of their life, we have been sure to celebrate their contributions and very much hope we shall keep in touch over the coming years. Keeping in touch and reaching out to our alumnae is something we are very proud of.

I hope you have found time to catch Mr Eggleston on a Thursday afternoon on Instagram Live as he interviews a past student or indeed that you were able to tune into the ‘Wakefield Girls’ Matters’ webinar where we were joined by ten amazing and inspirational Wakefield Girls’ women.

There are many ways in which you can keep in touch with us or offer your support; we are always looking for speakers who are keen to contribute to the school experience. The sharing of your knowledge, experience and skills is invaluable, motivational and extremely powerful. Therefore, if you would like to be more engaged with current school life, please do let us know through our active LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter groups. The diversity and size of our community are what help to make it so special and we greatly value the legacy of our women of the past – but also - of the future. I am confident from working with the young women at Wakefield Girls’ that the future is very bright.

Ms Heidi-Jayne Boyes - Head wghsIntouch.org.uk 3

CLASS OF 2020

Welcome to the

Class of 2020

The School career of the Class of 2020, sadly came to an abrupt end at the end of March; no exams, no fancy dress final assembly or leavers’ ball.

However, the stoical way you approached these disappointments was testament to your maturity and character and we’d like to give you all a special welcome to WGHS In Touch.

WGHS In Touch is a community of over 5,000 Old Girls, living all over the world, doing all manner of jobs, each with their own experiences, but bound by the same foundation- an education at WGHS. As you move onto the next chapter of your lives, we hope you will stay true to the friendships you’ve made, cherish the many experiences you’ve had along the way and remember that whilst you are no longer entering through the School gates every day, you are still very much part of WGHS. In Touch is a community with an abundance of experience, goodwill, skills and resources and I am sure that you will both benefit and contribute to it in the coming months and years.

The Old Girls’ Reunion is the highlight of the Old Girl calendar.

This year the Reunion is taking place on Saturday 18th September 2021 in the Quad and Jubilee Hall. Book your place at WGHSInTouch.org.uk.

We look forward to welcoming you back to school!

We wish you all the best in your life after WGHS. Please do stay in touch.

Remember...

“Once a High School girl, always a High School girl”

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Abigail Ackroyd Mariah Ahmed Hafsah Aksar Ruby Allen Taryn Allen Lola Allison Imaan Asif Safa Azam Georgia Bainbridge Ellen Barraclough Katharine Belfield Catherine Berridge Aimee Blake Molly Boulton Abbey Brooke Erin Budge Saffron Butler Chloe Chandra Hasnaa Choudry Chloe Chow Rebecca Coe Ella Craven Leah Crisp Charlene Dews Imogen Duncan Eleanor Egan Fatimah Fasil Joanna Fearnehough Niamh Grafton Sana Haider Olivia Heywood Louisa Hutchinson Romy Jackson Lillie Jones Anisha Kamath Thushiga Karunanithy Jasmine Kaur Eleanor Kaye Sophie Knowles Loretta Krasniqi Eilidh Lee Kate Leonard Izzy Macklin Rosalind Maddan Geeta Mahapatra Nikhita Majumder Phoebe Marsh-Muir Lily Mathieson Tarynn McWilliam Scout Mehr Alex Middleton Hannah Minifie Lucy Morrell Megan Morris Shaima Mughees Ella Northern Vimbai Nyachuru Molly Parker Juliet Pepper Olivia Pye Ayesha Qarshi Ella Riding Katie Roberts Megan Schofield Katy Shearman Alice Shelbourne Olivia Shuter Neha Sinha Liv Smith Charlotte Stead Izzy Taylor Anshini Thakur Mal Tulwin Sangeeta Unnikrishnan Sophie Wainwright Sophia Walker Chanais Wharton Eve Wickham Olivia Wilson Maya Woodcock Olivia Woodhead Hana Yaqoob Raian Yousif

Head Girl 2020 Review

Sangeeta Unnikrishnan It has been an absolute honour to serve as Wakefield Girls’ High School Head Girl 2019/20. Though this year may have ended in a way that none of us could have seen coming, the wonderful experiences that I had in this role are in no way tarnished. Along with the Senior Prefect Team, Rebecca and I have been very lucky to represent the school at various functions, including Parents’ Evenings, Founders’ Day and so many more.

It has been a privilege to work alongside this group; they are responsible, thoughtful, and always take initiative.

The biggest project for any Head Girl Team is likely the Christmas Revue - the weight of the amazing productions we have seen over the years hangs very heavily on us! Our plot was that two girls were trapped in the tunnels under the Sixth Form Centre and required their friends above ground to go to every department in school to retrieve a key for them. Of course, in typical Christmas Revue fashion, this involved them getting into lots of hijinks - putting on a proud display of our staff and Year 13 students’ skill and showmanship.

Our school environment is very unique. Reflecting on our time here, it’s striking how lucky we have been to grow up in a place that encourages us in so many ways. Whether that’s in our learning, our extracurriculars, the opportunities and

challenges we are offered to take - this school is, in part, responsible for the people we are when we leave at 18. That’s a huge task, and Wakefield Girls’ excels at this. My peers have been a joy to know, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.

Now that my time in the Foundation is coming to an end, I am very sorry to say goodbye to all of the incredible people this school has allowed me to meet, from the students and staff. We may not have received the farewell that we were expecting, but our makeshift celebration on our last day (singing Jerusalem and the school song in Jubilee Hall as a year group, followed by us opening our letters from our Year 7 selves) highlighted the strength of the community spirit we share.

The message that I take with me is that this community isn’t defined by the four walls that surround us while we are in school. If the last few months are anything to go by, it’s clear that our school spirit cannot be diminished easily - the phrase, ‘Once a High School Girl, always a High School Girl’, resonates louder than ever.

I wish you all the best and hope to stay in touch.

Sangeeta Unnikrishnan, Head Girl (OG 2020)

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Welcome to the

Class of 2021

We are delighted to welcome the Class of 2021 to our WGHS In Touch alumnae community which stands at 5,000 strong.

You have experienced a year like no other; with a mixture of ‘Home School’ and ‘In School’ learning. You will have been busy revising for the assessments and securing your future beyond WGHS. Whilst your final year has been disrupted, we hope that you have enjoyed your time at WGHS and that you take with you on your journey beyond these gates, the many lessons learned here and that the friendships you have made will remain strong in the future. As you prepare to embark on the next phase of your life, know that you are one of many ‘Old Girls’ who are making their mark on the world.

As you leave WGHS you become an Old Girl. We are here to help you share your news, welcome you to events and offer any advice and help from other Old Girls.

We hope that you will continue to be part of our wider school community and return to school to share your own journey beyond WGHS. Please do ensure that you have claimed your Old Girl online record (at WGHSintouch.org.uk) and keep your contact details up to date.

The Old Girls’ Reunion is the highlight of the Old Girl calendar; we look forward to welcoming you back to school in the future.

We wish you all the best in your life after WGHS. Please do stay in touch. Keep your details up to date www.wghsintouch.org.uk Remember...

“Once a High School girl, always a High School girl”

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CLASS OF 2021 Malika Bhamji Annabel Bond-Sampson Kyne Bordon Anna Chew Huda Chowdhery Lucy Cockayne Ellie Farrar Leah Galdas-Smith Emma Gallagher Ruth Gardiner Aymah Haleem Alisha Hameed Qurat Hayat Ebony Hempsell Grace Herrington Rosie Higgins Sasha Hildyard Hannah Hussain Inaya Hussain Sophia Hussain Brooke Inglesfield Daisy Inglesfield Ella Jackman Tanatswa Jaison Tara Jayawardena Farai Kanyimo Annie Kelly Zaina Khan Poppy Layden-Fritz Jennifer Li Madison Marner Millie McDade Lucy McKinlay Felicity Milner Alanis Milner-Moore Sanya Mirza Niamh Morris Mariam Mubeen Nandi Ncube Abigail Neilson Cara Prasad Ananya Randhawa Hope Reynolds Sienna Sekhon Sarah Shah Daiya Shergill Georgia Stone Poppy Thun Charlotte Tyzzer-Smith Nyle Usman Aminta Utting-Simon Amna Waqar Heather Watson Eloise Woolley

Head Girl 2021 Review

Sarah Shah I cannot express how much of a privilege it has been to have the opportunity to serve Wakefield Girls’ High School as the Head Girl of 2020-2021. It has undoubtedly been a challenging year for everyone, but I am so proud of the Senior Prefect Team for stepping up to these traditional roles in quite untraditional times. Their love for and commitment to the school has always been inspiring as we have worked alongside each other to think outside the box and leave legacies in our own unique ways. Although it has been different, Anna and I both agree that these roles have been extremely fulfilling as we were able to represent the school virtually in assemblies, at the Cathedral on Founders’ Day, as well as on Social Media platforms to audiences much wider than we could have previously imagined.

When the Head Girl Team and I were first awarded our positions, we were all very curious as to what our roles would look like in the year ahead. However, we were all certain that the Christmas Revue was a must! Having been given the opportunity to present the school’s first virtual Revue, Year 13 worked together (over multiple Zoom meetings and Google Documents) to transform our diverse interests and ideas into a ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ story following a time machine.

This allowed us to keep the interactive charm of the Revue as students were able to vote on which routes to take while watching from their form rooms. Seeing everyone’s efforts come together to produce this was definitely the highlight of my year: from the acting team, prop and wardrobe teams, editing teams, directing teams and of course, all the teachers, the Revue was not only a welcome celebration for the Christmas Holidays, but also a reflection of the resilience and camaraderie I have always admired in the people around me.

We have been very lucky to have been involved in the beginnings of new projects by working alongside the new Assistant Head and Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing, Mrs Ladds. Her contributions to the school and introduction of The Female Lead have already defined her role within our community and we cannot wait to see how they develop further in the future. I know that such initiatives will allow

future generations of High School Girls to walk out just as strong and confident as the women who came before them, as we are all able to look up to inspirational female role models.

Whether it is as a celebrity or as an alumna, there is not just one standard to be able to succeed as a woman. This school equips us with the skills and ambition necessary to carve our own futures and to chase success for ourselves; I cannot wait to see which new paths will be made in the years ahead!

I am incredibly grateful to have been a member of such a community, and am looking forward to continue to be one as an Old Girl. When reading our letters from our Year 7 selves, we all noticed just how much we have grown over our years at this school, both as individuals, and as a year group. While it seems obvious now, I cannot help but reflect upon how gradually these changes occurred at the time. From each sentence written during lessons, to each trip to the Tuck Shop and each EDGE activity, we keep learning and growing in every way: academically, emotionally, introspectively and much more. There has not been a single moment wasted and I believe that my Year 7 self would look at my current self with pride and excitement (as well as disbelief!). WGHS has shaped us throughout lower school, throughout our GCSEs and throughout lockdown; I know these experiences will continue to shape us throughout our futures. I would like to thank Ms Boyes and all the staff for creating and nourishing such an environment, as well as my peers and every student for supporting and animating it. Although we will all continue to grow in ways we cannot predict, we will always share a connection as High School Girls. I am proud to have been able to represent such a brilliant year group and such an outstanding school community as Head Girl; I hope that my work was able to reflect this well and sincerely convey my gratitude.

Thank you, I am optimistic about what the future will hold and I am looking forward to keeping in touch!

Sarah Shah, Head Girl (OG 2021)

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UPDATES

CLAYTON HOSPITAL SITE, DEMOLITION HAS FINALLY STARTED Demolition View June 2021

View from Wentworth Street

View towards WGHS

View from Northgate

A considerable amount of time has passed since we first communicated our exciting plans for the former Clayton Hospital site to you. The Governors and our consultants have been busy in the background negotiating with Wakefield Council about our plans for the site.

building but it does sit within the St John's Conservation Area so great attention has been given to ensuring the development is sympathetic to its surroundings.

I am therefore delighted to confirm that the Foundation received permission on 15 April 2021 to undertake the first part of the redevelopment scheme for the benefit of WGHS and QEGS and to be able to offer some community uses.

The "enabling" phase, as it is referred to, comprises the demolition of buildings, retention and repair of the central pavilion, creation of a landscaped boulevard through the centre of the site, creation of a MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) and associated parking. The rest of the site will be grassed in preparation for future phases. We were delighted that the demolition contractors started on the site in June 2021 and are making good progress. We have installed a time lapse camera to record the demolition so we will have a permanent record of the work undertaken. These works should be completed before the end of this calendar year.

Planning permissions will be required to continue with the future phases but this step forward is very much welcomed for the investment made so far.

As background, Wakefield Grammar School Foundation purchased the Clayton Hospital site from the NHS in 2018 having successfully obtained Outline Planning permission in the previous year. The buildings had stood empty for six years prior to this and the Foundation have made the site secure, removed the asbestos, and engaged with stakeholders (staff, parents and alumni) to create the vision.

With that we have pursued the planning and now can progress the demolition and create the first part of the development. The land sits strategically between both school campuses and presents an opportunity to create new facilities for the benefit of all children within our Foundation. It will be known as the Clayton Campus.

The discussions with Wakefield Council have been long and protracted, however they support us in our endeavours, as do Wakefield Civic Society. Clayton Hospital is not a listed 8

Fundraising for this scheme is underway to enable future phases and we continue to explore funding options for the scheme. Please contact the Foundation Development Director, Cath Worsley, in our Development Office if you are able to assist us with this in any way or if you would like any details of how you can support the building project financially. cworsley@wgsf.net We hope you will support us as we continue with our efforts.

Helen Massey (OG, 1998) Deputy Chair of Governors and Chair of Land and Buildings Committee, Wakefield Grammar School Foundation.

WGHS Scrub Hub How WGHS helped fight the pandemic

A lockdown poem...

During the first lockdown, with school quiet as students learned safely at home, The Design and Technology Workshop at Wakefield Girls' High School continued to buzz with the efforts of our dedicated teachers manufacturing PPE. Brent Carlin, Head of Design & Technology, improved production efficiency by producing two different kinds of face shields; one type was made using the department's CNC laser cutter and the other was printed on the department's 3D printer.

Whilst slower to produce the visors, the 3D printer could be left running almost 24/7, unlike the laser cutter. Brent was also aided by a team of WGHS staff who gave up evenings and weekends to manufacture, assemble and distribute over 2,000 visors.

Alongside visor production, Biddy Maher (OG 1989) and D&T teacher established the WGHS Scrub Hub, with 15 sewers all making sets of scrubs for Pinderfields Hospital, dental surgeries, vets and GP practices. Scrubs that went to Pinderfields were checked for quality, stamped with NHS Mid Yorkshire Trust and then sent for heavy laundry. They were used as the base layer next to the skin and under the disposable gown of health care workers.

A cosy cuppa When will we meet again for tea?

It won’t be soon that’s clear to see, We’ll have to do it virtually Helped by the new technology.

“

One type was made using the department's CNC laser cutter and the other was printed on the department's 3D printer

”

We’ll still enjoy our tea and scone

By Skype or Facebook or the phone, We’ll chat and laugh and have a moan As we all face the great unknown.

There’s nothing like a cup of tea To calm and soothe anxiety, And bring to us tranquillity In these times of adversity.

Barbara Hunt (OG, 1969) Barbara was delighted that her poem was chosen to be published in Dancing by the Light of the Moon: A collection of poems to read, relish & recite by Giles Brandreth.

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EVENTS

Looking back...

Understandably, we have not been able to run events since March 2020 and we have missed two Summer Reunions, two London Drinks, a London Dinner, a Wakefield Drinks and a Bake Off. So we have much to catch up on!

Rest assured we have been planning our events for the remainder of this year. We have rescheduled the Summer Reunion to 18 September 2021 and have set the date of the London Dinner for Friday evening 12 November.

Book your place at www.wghsintouch.org.uk As a reminder of the happy times of reminiscing and catching up with old friends over a drink or two.

CAMBRIDGE 2020

ASK PAT LANGHAM Back in November, as we were working towards the shortest day, during the middle of an on-off lockdown, this virtual event was a lovely getting together of Old Girls spanning the whole of Mrs Langham's tenure as Headmistress. They are spread far and wide; as close as Wakefield and as far away as the USA and South Africa! It was a pleasure to see you all. All the feedback was positive and everyone had fun!

Mrs Langham enjoyed seeing 'her girls' and answering their questions, which ranged from whom she admires; who inspires her; to what makes her laugh (it's the minions if you didn't know!).

Thank you Mrs Langham!

CLASS OF 1972 MINI REUNION

CLASS OF 96 MINI REUNION

These photos act e as a reminder of th of happy times reminiscing and catching up with old friends over a drink or two

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LONDON DINNER NOV 2019

SUMMER REUNION 2019

EVENTS ARE BACK! With the removal of restrictions, together with the vaccine rollout, we are looking forward with optimism to planning and running events.

With this in mind, we have arranged the following events.

Summer reunion (18th September 2021) London Dinner (12th November 2021) Cambridge Dinner (29th January 2022) We are all looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible!

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GIVING BACK

WGHS -

Still in touch and giving back The covid pandemic made it virtually impossible for people to visit school in person, including our esteemed alumna.

However this did not prevent some alumnae from making a major contribution remotely, both in Yr 11 Futures Thinking lessons, school events including Junior School Speech Day and the Yr 10 Work Experience Conference and particularly through the new medium of Instagram TV Live.

Furthermore, a growing number of our alumnae adorn the walls around the school - with inspirational images and messages.

Yr 11 Futures Thinking serves as a valuable introduction and insight into careers that the current students may or may not be aware of. Therefore if you would be willing and able to contribute to a 50 minute lesson in person or remotely, it would be greatly appreciated. The more diverse the careers on show, the more informed the students are likely to be of their possible future choices.

Alternatively if you would like to be part of a careers panel then the Year 9 and 10 events that take place throughout the academic year may appeal to you. These are interactive sessions in Jubilee Hall, primarily guided by questions from the audience.

In the spring term of next academic year, the Foundation is due to hold a “careers insight” event. As we plan this event, we are particularly interested in contributions from alumnae in less typical occupations and professions. The primary focus of the event is to highlight long standing and well established careers alongside new and emerging ones.

In other words, how “jobs for life” are likely to be replaced by a “life of jobs”, underpinned by transferable skills, as the norm for future generations of students.

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“

Your back stories, successes and achievements are both informative and inspirational to the current generation of students and often their parents

”

Last but not least, Instagram TV live has in many ways been a revelation. Not only in showcasing an increasingly diverse range of jobs and professions, but in reconnecting many alumna with school and reflecting on the foundations for their success. If you are willing and able to share your story with the current generation of students at 4pm one Thursday afternoon, it would be our pleasure to welcome you as a speaker.

In summary your back stories, successes and achievements are both informative and inspirational to the current generation of students and often their parents.

Therefore if you are willing and able to get “in touch” and give something back you are likely to facilitate even more students achieving the same heights as yourself.

The mosaic/photo wall of Instagram TV should serve to illustrate the breadth and diversity of what the WGHS alumnae have done so far - with hopefully much more to come.

Thank you for your support.

Mr David Eggleston (DJE)

THE GIFT OF A WGHS EDUCATION

“

Why I give...

As we look back at the creation of WGHS in 1878, which led to educating women, which led to women gaining the vote; that wasn’t indulgent. It was visionary and farsighted. It was about creating the kind of country we all want to be part of.

The reason I support the school is because I want future generations of the very brightest girls to enjoy the very finest education regardless of their backgrounds.

Amanda Mackenzie OBE DL, Old Girl 1982

”

Our commitment to help with fees We are committed to ensuring that girls from all backgrounds can benefit from a WGHS education and we offer means-tested bursaries to help. However, we need your help to ensure that we can continue to offer this vital financial support.

£ 125

21%

20

4

Number of WGHS Senior School pupils supported by a bursary

Percentage of WGHS Senior School pupils supported by a bursary

Number of year 7 entrants supported by a bursary Sept 2020 intake

Number of 100% + bursaries

Total bursary funding awarded by Wakefield Grammar School Foundation to pupils at WGHS... £1,042,000

PLAY YOUR PART If all Old Girls reading this magazine were to give a single donation of £25 we would raise over £60,000 in support of our bursary programme.

To make your donation please complete the form at https://WGHSIntouch.org.uk/wghsbursaryfund

Leaving a legacy Some Old Girls may choose to leave a gift in their will to WGHS. If you would like to discuss leaving a legacy, please contact Catherine Worsley, Development Director, cworsley@wgsf.net 01924 231642

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GIVING BACK

ALUMNAE VISItS The interview-style assemblies led by Mr Eggleston (Deputy Head) continued to be popular during 2019. However, when the world changed in March 2020, we were unable to welcome you back to school in person, so, like everybody else, we have used technology to continue keep in touch!

Instagram live interviews INSTAGRAM INTERVIEWEES OIivia Hunt Sam Wynn Lizz Wainwright Gemma Sykes Simone Allum Jo Stewart Fiona New (née Robertson) Sophie Ogg Charlotte Smith (née Youngs) Sophie Isaacs Holly Walters Francesa Rukin Emily Crowson Emma Brindley Alexis Barr Sanna Ahmad Alicia Collinson Amy Rennison Neena Dugar Sophie Carrigill Natalie Wright Kate McCabe Hayley Marsden Laura Siddall Alex Green Francesca Waugh Zoe Grunewald Louise O'Shea Heidi Allen Sophie Lowe Laura Gibb

At the start of term, in September 2020, Mr Eggleston introduced his Instagram live interviews. It’s been a real bonus for the girls to continue to be able to hear from you and because it is online, geography is no boundary! Thank you to everyone who has volunteered to be interviewed live over Instagram; you have all been superb.

Your support and commitment to these programmes is invaluable and imparting your knowledge and sharing your individual journeys across all our Giving Back Programmes, helps our girls to see their possibilities as limitless and go out into the world with a ‘I can do this’ attitude and we are proud and thankful in equal measure.

If you are interested in any of these initiatives, and would like further information, please contact cworsley@wgsf.net.

Whilst every endeavour has been made to ensure that all Instagram interviewees are named, we apologise if there are any inaccuracies.

Please let us know if this is the case.

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All Instagram interviews can be seen on IGTV, search for WGHSYorkshire IGTV wghsIntouch.org.uk 15

GIVING BACK

Careers Convention March 2020 In March 2020 it was QEGS turn to host the biennial Foundation Careers Convention. This is a significant event in the Foundation Calendar and is an integral part of the careers support offered to our students with the aim of providing information and insight into their future careers.

Students from Years 9-13, were given the opportunity to tour the exhibitors’ stands during their afternoon lessons. Alongside the main convention Years 11 and 12 were able to access an extensive programme of seminars and these were available to the rest of our students and their parents in the evening.

This year marked the 15th Foundation Careers Convention and saw representatives from over 50 different exhibitors; including employers such as KPMG, Rolls Royce and West Yorkshire Police as well as a wide range of colleges and universities.

We were particularly delighted to be supported by our alumni and would like to thank the following for giving their time to contribute to this initiative:

Laura Cox (OG, 2013)

Addleshaw Goddard

Lauren Will-Dixon (OG, 2012)

Addleshaw Goddard

David Jenkinson (OS, 2009)

Atkins

Alastair Morris (OS, 1998)

Pryor Marking technology

Nick Thornton (OS, 2006)

Rolls Royce

Matthew Smith (OS, 2008)

Donaldson’s Vets

Chris Langrick (OS, 1997)

Langricks Limited

Adrian Spawforth (OS,1981)

Spawforths

If you would like to exhibit at our next careers convention in 2022, or can offer internships, work placements to current and past students, please contact cworsley@wgsf.net for further information.

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tO ALL OF OUR AMBASSADORS...

tHANK yOU FINANCIAL GIFTS All the gifts we receive, whether large or small, help us.

They help us to provide better facilities and extra-curricular opportunities to broaden girls’ horizons. Most importantly they help us to continue to provide bursaries to bright young girls who would benefit from our specialist brand of education, but otherwise wouldn’t be able to access it due to family circumstances. As you will know, nurturing our girls, providing a first class education and equipping them with the life skills to go out into the world and challenge themselves is what we do. Together with your help, we can continue this tradition for many more years to come.

Thank you to those alumni, parents, and friends of the Foundation Schools, for all your gifts. As a community you are making a difference to future generations and for that, we are eternally grateful.

DONORS Julia Bradshaw & Patrick Addinall Ms Melissa Addy Dr Katherine Adler Mr Vinaykumar Ahir Mr William Asquith Mr Andrew Beales Mr Donald Beardshall Mr Stephen Beaumont Mrs Helen Bennett Mr & Mrs N Best Mr Paul Blakeborough Mr Roger Blakemore Dr Gerald Bloomfield Mr Jonathan Brain Mr William Bramley Dr Tim Brears Mr David Brindley Mrs Bronwyn Broadhurst Ms Judith Brown Mr Samuel Butterworth Ms Joanna Carlisle Dr Michael Cheesbrough Ms Stephanie Chui Miss Mildred Clark Mrs Jane Clarke Mrs Margaret Clayson Ms Penelope Cliffe Ms Lisa Colledge Mr Anthony Collett Mrs Geraldine Collie The Reverend Mrs Cecilia Conwaye-Wright Dr Richard Coppack Mrs Pat Craven Mrs Karen Crockford

Financial gifts aren’t the only way that you are helping.

Your gifts of time and experience to our Giving Back Programme are enriching our girls’ experiences and instilling in them a sense of community and a culture of giving back.

100 donors wished to remain annonymous Mr Jeremy Crompton Dr Anna Crossley Ms Heather Danyluk Mr Robert Davidson Mr David Elliston Captain & Mrs G English Miss Julie Evans Mrs Claire Fairclough Mrs Catherine Featherstone Mr & Mrs M Fergusson Ms Louise Foster Mr & Mrs G Gilfeather Mr Simon Godley Mr Malcolm Golightly Mrs Caroline Gorton Mr Nigel Gray Mrs Jayne Grigg Mrs Joan Guénault Mr Rajiv Gupta Mr Geoffrey Haigh Mr Phillip Hodson Mrs Ann Holmes Ms Patricia Howarth Ms Heather Hughes Mr Andrew Hunt Ms Barbara Hunt Ms Georgina Hyde Mr & Mrs S Ingram Dr Meena Jain Mrs Janine Johnson Mr Christopher Jones Mr David Keighley Mr Saqib Khan Ms Michelle Kirschner

Mr Christopher Knowles Mr & Mrs S Krasniqi Mrs Pat Langham Ms Katrina Law Mrs Claire Lawrence Mr Simon Leach Mr & Mrs J Longo Mr Iain MacDonald Mrs Amanda Mackenzie Mr & Mrs S Manoharan Mr John McLeod Mrs Laura McNeillie Mr Steven McTiernan Mr Christopher Millington Mr Ian Minards Mr Alastair Morris Mr & Mrs J Nakuti Mr & Mrs J Nutton Miss Louise O'Hare Mr Paul Oakley Dr & Mrs R Oba Mrs Mary Oldham Mrs Barbara Panton Mr Wayne Parkinson Mr Andrew Pelkiewicz Ms Natalie Petyt Ms Jean Piper Mr & Mrs C Plumpton Mr Srikanth Rajgopal Miss Louise Reeve Mr Richard Roberts Ms Jill Roe Ms Sarah Rushton

Mr Sarwjit Sambhi Mrs Nicola Sephton Ms Shuchi Shah Mr Michael Shaw Dr James Shawcross Mr John Shirtliff Mr Geoffrey Skenfield Ms Helen Slinger Ms Rosalind Stead Mr Paul Sykes Ms Chantal Szymanska Dr James Tabner Ms Alison Tetley Ms Ruth Tetley Mr & Mrs P Thompson Mr John Thorp Mr Christopher Toone Mr & Mrs D Towler Ms Leah Tsirigotis Mr Michael Varley Mr Philip Way Mr Timothy Welton Mrs Shirley Wigglesworth Mr James Wild William Lamb Group Ltd Ms Bridget Wirtz Mr David Woodhead Mrs Glenys Woods Ms Anna Woolley Ms Catherine Worsley Mr & Mrs E Young Mr Peter Young WGHS PTA

The Foundation Ambassadors listed have pledged or made a gift to the Foundation schools. Whilst we endeavour to ensure that these lists are correct, we apologise if there are any inaccuracies. Please do let us know if this is the case.

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HEAD GIRLS

Where are they now?

We asked our former Head Girls to tell us what careers they have had and where they live and to describe their experiences of WGHS in three words. This is what they said... who do you recognise?

Head Girl name

Year

Rebecca Beaconsfield (née Rainsbury)

1943

Known in School as Rebe

Carol Otley (née Nettleton)

1952

Retired

Jill Hamblin (née Barnes)

Hilary Sullivan (née thorp)

1965

Angela Lishman

1966

Usha Prashar

18

Place of Residence

Retired long since ; formerly medical practitioner as well as medical journalist

London

Horbury Wakefield

1964

Retired

Christine Verity

Current or former occupation

Retired (Granny, Village Historian & Poo-Bah)

New york

1966

Retired Physician

1967

Retired Maths teacher/Finance Officer

South Shields

Cross Bench Peer, House of Lords

Experience of WGHS in three words

Academically excellent; happy

Excellent life foundation

Ardleigh, near Colchester

Supportive, encouraging, confidence-building

Great foundation for life

thornton, Cleveleys

Opportunity, friendship, all-round

Educational, encouraging, enabling

Englefield Green, Surrey

Supportive, inspiring, excellent

Julia Watson (née Lawson)

Val Harpin (née Robinson)

1971

1971

Consultant Paediatrician

Jennifer Robson (née Verity)

Joyce Oliner (née Coleman)

1975

1981

Louise Hough

Claire Mallinson

1985

Helen Bray (née Dawson)

1974

1976

Retired medical practitioner

Darley, Harrogate

Head of International Investor Relations at Saudi Aramco

Doctor, consultant anaesthetist

1988

Uppingham, Rutland

London

teacher, Head of Performing Arts

Supportive, safe, springboard

Nurturing, enjoyable, enabling

Leeds

Baltimore, USA

Executive Director of local charity

1983

Hathersage

Retired

Employment law consultant

Shirley Clarkson (née tabner)

Helen Flynn (née Wilcock)

Retired European Director Inspiring Futures (Careers)

Education for life

Empowering, wonderful education

Wakefield

Laughter, friendship, learning

Stimulating, friendly, memorable

Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

Fun, friends, and of course education!

Life changing opportunity

Altrincham

Exceptional, unforgettable education

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HEAD GIRLS Head Girl name

Year

Current or former occupation

Katie Turner (née Pollock)

1990

Teacher

Tamsin Bromley-Rahlke (née Bromley)

1991

Financial Adviser

Sally Appleton (née Whitehead)

Natasha Midgley (née Oliver)

1997

2000

20

2002

Partner in a national firm of chartered accountants

Linton, North Yorkshire

Lawyer

General Practioner

Charlotte Crick (née Brown)

Victoria Bromley (née Sugden)

1999

Solicitor

2001

Wimborne, Dorset

Bedford

Flower farmer-florist

Georgina Powling (née Warnett)

Devika Unnikrishnan

1993

Place of Residence

Barrister

Leeds

Inspirational, treasured, enduring

Nurturing, challenging, achieving

Inspiring, rewarding, challenging

Unforgettable experiences & friendships

Huddersfield

Clapham, London

Formative, foundational, friendly

Challenging, learning, friendships

Harrogate

London

Experience of WGHS in three words

Best possible start

Lots of laughter

Ruth Ithurralde (née Helme)

2003

Translator for National Bank of Canada. Now a full time mum!

Bethany Zanatta (née Bradshaw)

Rebecca Asquith (née Wathen)

2006

2013

2017

2015

Student

Kyra Balmforth

Elspeth Lee

2019

2007

East Yorkshire

Wakefield

Headteacher

Savile Row Coatmaker (tailor)

Disha Shetty

Vivi Way

Doctor

Psychiatrist

Chandini Misra (née Mallick)

India Heaversedge

2004

London

Medical Student

Wakefield/ Cambridge

2018

Law Student, Newcastle University

Student, Loughborough University

South Yorkshire

Fortunate, unbounded and fortunate

The greatest foundation

Dubai

Fun, inspirational, challenge

Happy, challenging, life-affirming

Birmingham

Each for all!!!

An enjoyable journey

Huddersfield

Defining, special, memorable

Just about survived

Former WGHS Head Girls...

Sangeeta Unnikrishnan

2020

PPE student, Durham University

Dubai

Rewarding, exciting and treasured

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Old Girls in the Arts CHRISTINE CURTIS (OG, 1980)

Graphic design “Let’s start at the very beginning. For it’s a very good place to start...”

The Sound of Music is one of my favourite musicals which is also an inspiration to me, as we often change career paths which, through transformation, can be an unpredicted success.

Presently I live in Sydney, Australia. My journey has been long, varied and exciting.

In order to be the person I am today I encountered many challenges and times where I felt confused and despondent but I found the resilience to persevere, to follow my dreams and enjoy life.

WGHS was always a school I admired and although I only attended from 1977-1978 my final ‘O’ Level year, I felt so proud being able to wear that uniform.

A careers talk led me to think that Graphic Design was the better option over languages and it became my chosen path. I chose the subject I loved and excelled at.

After completing a year at Wakefield Art College doing a Foundation Course I was keen to do a degree in Graphic Design and went to Coventry Polytechnic.

I felt the course was too technical however and transferred to Newcastle upon Tyne where I loved the Geordie humour, warmth and the illustrative based degree course.

It wasn’t easy. I had some private issues to deal with and almost gave it away in my final year. However, I think hurdles are there to make us stronger and I won the National Sign Centre Awards and received first prize and five hundred pounds presented by the then Lord Mayor of London Sir Anthony Joliffe.

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This achievement opened many doors and I accepted an offer made by Allied International Designers in London in the Corporate Design department and later in the New Product Development department.

I later went to Abu Dhabi as my father was working there and worked in an advertising agency there.

Cut to Germany where I worked in Aachen and Düsseldorf in advertising and design for international agency BBDO. As you will have noticed, my other passion is travel!

Family arrived and I freelanced for many years before moving over to the Middle East once again only this time as a teacher.

I later specialised in art and taught the whole of Primary School and later High School. I can happily say many of my students have gone on to study Art and Design and I am proud to lay claim to having some influence in their lives.

I am now living in Sydney, Australia where I teach children art after school, give private lessons and when I can find the time, plunge myself into my private world of Art where I paint commissions, usually dog portraits, and produce a body of work for exhibitions and competitions.

I enter competitions wherever I can and receive awards after award but the gratification is in knowing that my art has sold and has an admirer.

My career path involved many twists and turns but like a tree, it had strong roots. It has a solid trunk which is obviously creative and branches and twigs that complete the picture in their individual yet similar way.

My advice to anyone at school today is to follow your dreams, listen to your heart and as the aboriginals say here ‘feel it in your gut.’

You know when it is right for you. Change is inevitable in life and to be embraced and as challenging as it may be, it will make you stronger.

I am happy to share with you some recent works I have created and hope you will enjoy the viewing.

Christine J Curtis B.A. Graphic Design

Creative minds...

ROWENA BEIGHTON-DYKES (OG, 1975) The creative and cultural industries are a huge, often untold, success story in the UK in the last 20 years.

I am happy to say I have enjoyed not several jobs, but several careers as I have navigated through the sector.

Under the inspirational Barbara Wyles we were able to study costume history for A level art, meeting museum professionals as part of our studies. I gained a BA in Textile Design at the University of Leeds, and on graduating I worked in a costumiers in London. I then moved to Yorkshire Television (now part of ITV), specialising in costume for period drama and educational television.

Recognising that the TV industry was changing and with a family history in the decorating trade, I set up an interior decorating business, designing and supplying schemes for clients. With a growing family and a relocation, I transferred my experience and skills, qualified as a lecturer, and embarked on a career in education. I taught design history, media studies, interior design and professional practice for creatives. Before long I was working on the development of degree courses across creative industries subjects.

Having taken up a university post I gained a University of Leicester MA in The English Country House. I continued to develop creative industries degree courses with Staffordshire University’s partners across the country, and later internationally, travelling all over the world. I have now returned to interior decorating, and am the editor of the Review, the journal of the Wallpaper History Society.

The creative and cultural industries are not necessarily for those who seek stability and predictability, but for anyone who likes a challenge and enjoys variety, it’s a sector with many exciting opportunities, and can evolve as you navigate through life.

Rowena Beighton-Dykes (née Janet Rowena Dykes)

“

I am happy to say I have enjoyed not several jobs, but several careers

”

TARA AVEYARD (OG, 2014) I completed my Master of Architecture at the Manchester School of Architecture in June 2020. During my five years at university, I explored a wide range of topics, including adaptive design, conservation, social housing design and architecture in film.

At master’s level, you pick what area of architecture you’d like to specialise in, ranging from landscape architecture, futuristic design, feminist architecture or conservation.

I chose conservation as it has always been of huge interest to me. We looked at real life issues for small towns and cities. In my masters first year, I proposed changes for Rochdale’s Victorian train station and the surrounding area to give it a new lease of life, with a huge sweeping canopy, improved facilities and public green spaces. For my final thesis, I looked at an architectural theory that proposes making small changes to improve a city’s existing buildings and spaces, to create a better city overall. I proposed interventions throughout Shrewsbury and used my findings to update its old swimming pool. Updating and reusing existing buildings allows us to remember the past, reveal both the positive and negative aspects and construct considered, quality buildings for the future.

I always tried to incorporate hand drawing and model-making into my projects where possible. Although not essential, these skills can be incredibly useful and a lot of fun when designing.

Studying architecture has allowed me to travel a lot.

Each year there is a study trip to a different city, my trips included Venice, Berlin, Paris, a weeklong model-making course in Spain, and Triennale Architecture festival in Oslo.

Tara Aveyard wghsIntouch.org.uk 23

Old Girls in the Arts

Opera singer extraordinaire!

GILLIAN BRIERLEY (OG, 1961) I left WGHS in 1961 to study singing and piano at the Royal College of Music in London.

A petite 4’11’’ is not the usual build for an opera singer and at my first audition after leaving college, a voice called out “Too small,” before I sang a note. Undeterred and with a love of acting, I applied to the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, for an audition.

I was successful and joined the Extra Chorus, but was quickly invited to audition for the permanent chorus.

The new contract included small parts and understudy work and there followed six years singing alongside many international singers, conductors and directors.

The Performing Arts take resilience and courage which were both needed when I masqueraded as a boy treble, auditioning amongst a group of children for the role of Yniold in Debussy’s “Pelleas et Melisande”.

Selected by Pierre Boulez I had to admit to my deception and was devastated when Boulez said “I want a boy,” and ran a re-audition. However he made me the official understudy and awarded me one performance in my own right. When the boy succumbed to ‘flu I also sang the first two performances. This lucky break catapulted me into repeating the same role in Switzerland, then with Scottish Opera and later the Hessische Staatsoper in Wiesbaden.

“Too small,” they said! This made my career. I left the chorus to freelance in this and similar ‘boy’ roles until retirement.

Retirement? Oh no! Singing teacher, choir director, after dinner speaker.

Gillian Brierley (née Ramsden)

“ 24

A voice called out “Too small,” before I sang a note

”

Ballet Teacher and Fellow ISTD MADDY JACQUES (OG, 1992) I started WGHS in 1985, the same year Mrs Langham joined as headmistress, leaving in 1992 to further my dance education at Northern Ballet School in Manchester.

All the staff, especially Mrs Langham were supportive of my career choice. I remember being asked to perform in assemblies and even having a photo placed in the glass cabinet outside Mrs Langham’s office (I was a very proud student that day!)

Now, many years on, I am a Ballet teacher and Ballet Examiner for the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (ISTD). I teach at Renaissance Arts, a professional dance college based in Leeds, and Ellite Studios in Wakefield where I’m head of ballet and a tutor for the teacher training course. I am also a lecturer for the ISTD CPD courses and have taught and adjudicated at the Imperial Ballet Awards.

I consider myself lucky. I get to work with some amazing children and students and spend the day doing what I love. School allowed me to pursue my passion alongside my academic studies and I am forever grateful for the support I received whilst at WGHS.

Maddy Jacques (née Samwell)

SUSANNAH HOMER (OG, 2002) Art was always a favourite subject at school. I took a gap year after A-levels during which I had work experiences at Wakefield Art Gallery and Christie’s in London: both valuable not only for learning about the different sectors but also for including in later applications. I went to Nottingham University to study Architecture (BArch) but midway switched to a BA(Hons) course, letting me study Art History modules. I gained a place to study for an MA at the Courtauld Institute of Art. Compared to undergrad, this one-year course was very demanding but immensely rewarding and fulfilling.

Not sure what to do afterwards, I took another gap year with work experience at Sotheby’s and the MCC Museum at Lord’s.

Still slightly unsure of my path, I applied for a PhD at Cambridge University to develop my MA research.

The three years at Cambridge varied from self-doubt as I navigated self-led research to pride and satisfaction when I presented research to experts in my field from around the world. In 2012 I was Junior Research Fellow at the Frick in New York which was a great experience.

In 2016 I was invited to take part in a conference on the London town house that was organised by the National Gallery, Paul Mellon Centre, London, and Birkbeck College, University of London. The conference discussed both famed and little-known London town houses, considering how these residences were designed,

furnished and ornamented as well as exploring the significance and function of these properties for owners and their families; this was actually very close to the subject of my PhD research.

Following the conference, a number of speakers, including me, were asked to contribute to an edited volume on the subject.

The Georgian London Town House: Building, Collecting and Display was published by Bloomsbury in July 2019.

My chapter 'The Display and Reception of Private Picture Collections in London Town Houses, 1780–1830’ introduces the second part of the book which is on buying, collecting and display. The URL for the book is: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/the-georgian-londontown-house-9781501337314/ I finally got a job: a heritage consultant in London, taking me back to my architectural roots.

I am now the Senior Conservation Officer for Sevenoaks District Council; a role that incorporates theoretical aspects of historic building conservation, architectural history and practical construction knowledge. I enjoy the varied work and that I am still developing my knowledge. I am also a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars.

Susannah Homer (née Brooke) wghsIntouch.org.uk 25

OG NEWS

A RELUCTANT CHOICE! I started at WGHS in Year 5. I loved the School and all it had to offer and I have certainly made friends for life.

However, in Year 12, I found myself not enjoying studying and feeling quite unhappy. After much discussion and deliberation between myself, my parents and teachers, I reluctantly left WGHS and enrolled at Leeds Art University, to undertake a BTec Level 3 course in Art and Design.

I was full of trepidation and wondered whether I had done the right thing. However, despite my initial reticence, I was taken completely under the wing by the staff and students there, which helped me to settle in quickly and throw myself into the work.

In January 2019 I chose to specialise in fine art, (I’m sure this will have shocked Mrs Varley!!). It allowed me to create large pieces of expressive art work whilst still using my written techniques for research and analysis throughout.

However, after some debate regarding my preferred subject choice for university, my tutors and I decided I would be better placed on the 3D design course. After the summer break, I joined the 3D course. The briefs were far more interesting and required much more analytical thought and brain power which I enjoyed!

I am pleased to say, I have received the highest marks possible for all my work and the photos of my penultimate project were showcased in a short pop up exhibition.

During the past few months I have been researching university courses and putting together my application.

I narrowed down my course choices to interior architecture or just architecture and my universities to Derby and Lincoln.

After visiting and falling in love with Lincoln, I didn’t visit Derby, however, I received unconditional offers from both but chose to accept a place at Lincoln to study interior architecture starting September 2020.

I am now undertaking my final major project at Leeds which is entirely self-designed and which will be in an exhibition later on year.

My time at WGHS genuinely made me who I am today.

Whilst I didn’t really want to leave WGHS, I now know it was the right decision. The support, understanding and advice I received from my teachers, especially Mrs Varley, Ms Doyle and Mme Djokovic (or Djoko) were second to none and also the reasons I enjoyed Art, English and French so much. Whilst it took me some time to figure out exactly what area I wanted to focus on, the belief the teachers had in my ability has given me confidence to try different things and I am now excited to be finishing my Art Foundation Course and looking forward to what Lincoln University brings.

Thank you WGHS.

Francesca Mills (OG, 2018)

belief the teachers had in my ability has “ The given me confidence to try different things

26

”

In Memory of Minha

Boys from QEGS who ran - all are from the Class of 2020

Hi, my name is Faiq and I had the pleasure of joining QEGS in the Upper 6th years. Living in Bradford, I can certainly say the early morning trains to Westgate were worth it! I was fortunate enough to enjoy 1st XV rugby, Mr Mason's ‘interesting’ but well thought out analogies when explaining A level Chemistry to us, but most importantly, I have made some friends for life along the way. It truly is an honour to be a part of such an esteemed community.

As I venture onto start Medical School at the University of Liverpool, I have the pleasure of recalling some great camaraderie between the QEGS and WGHS boys and girls in what was already tough times due to the pandemic.

Last year on the 16th of April, my family suffered a tragedy in the loss of my cousin, to cancer at the tender age of 18. Minha was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer two years ago and despite many challenges during her journey, she faced them with optimism, fearlessness and most importantly, always smiling. She was ready to tackle her university years despite her deteriorating health.

A moment that stands out for me is finding her looking for portable oxygen cylinders to aid her breathing. She never thought she wouldn’t make it to September. After her death, the impact she left on me was immeasurable.

I decided it was only right if I honoured her life.

Macmillan Cancer Support were integral in her palliative care at home. Especially during a pandemic, they were essential in providing Minha's medication, her oxygen support, and answering any queries her Mum Sadia had when she was worried for her health. Their presence was emphasised during the national lockdown.

I decided running would be a fantastic method of honouring her life and raising money for Macmillan. There had been a social media trend during the national lockdown to run 5km and donate £5 to a charity of your choice.

I decided to take a little twist on that and make a challenge for me and a couple of friends.

Minha's battle with Cancer lasted 734 days to be exact. It was then I posed the idea to 5 close friends to run 5km every day for a whole month in hopes of raising money for Macmillan. After the news spread, I was overwhelmed with support, and many friends

THE RUNNERS

Adam Priest (Head Boy)

From left to right Aminah (Minha’s cousin), Minha, Faiq with Ryan, (Minha’s brother Ahad), Faiq’s brother holding Amaan, (Minha’s brother)

Patrick Maher Amai Ganjam Oliver Appleyard Ed Booth Luke Smith Harry Duke Harry Longworth Jack Cherry Ryan Taylor Tom Noble Will Gatus Ibrahim Shamchiyev (left in year 11)

wanted to also participate and take part.

Before I knew it, I had 57 runners/walkers/ cyclers doing 5km a day for a whole month.

This included friends, family and teachers also! I remember on day 3, having my body riddled with aches and pains, but remembering the importance of driving through, just as Minha did. With an initial target of raising £750, this was achieved within 2 hours of the challenge starting, and it eventually picked up regional attention on the news, making it to the BBC! After a long, gruelling, but rewarding 30 days, we ended up raising £12,067, and running over 8000km! It was truly a humbling experience.

A year on from her death, I am still reminded of how importance resilience is, and how far positivity can take you. It also made me realise how important the QEGS community is. Without it, this amazing feat we have achieved would not have been possible. I don’t think words will suffice how grateful I am to the help I had from all the teachers, boys and girls who ran and helped in raising an amazing amount for such an amazing organisation! Minhas legacy has become a focal point in Macmillan’s Cash Appeal sent out at the start of this year, in hopes more money will be raised to go towards bettering the lives of people who suffer with this terrible disease. Once again, I thank this amazing community, and look forward to seeing it flourish even further in the future.

Faiq Aziz (OS, 2020)

Stevan Balac Max Wotton Tobi Irelewuyi Will Joyce (left in year 11)

Girls from WGHS who ran - are all from the Class of 2020 Abbey Brooke Ella Riding Lola Allison Rebecca Coe Alex Middleton Eilidh Lee Lucy Morrell Olivia Shuter Sophia Walker

Teachers Mr Rees Mr Pesterfield Mr Higgins Mr Barker Dr Clark Mr Fraser Mrs Palin Mrs Armson Mrs Eggleston Mrs Fitzsimons Mr Stiff Mrs Allen Dr Brunt Mr Becker Mr Head

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OG NEWS

CHRIS, KATE & JET’S ADVENTURES In November 2020, I began walking the UK coastline; a walk that will take me from Inverness to Swansea and the best part of 2 years. So far, I have walked around 700 miles over 8 months, wild camped over 220 days, spent an entire lockdown living in the woods, slept rough in cities, woken up to many a beautiful sunrise and met thousands of amazing people.

In August 2020, I decided to take a solo trip up to the Scottish Highlands and explore the North Coast 500 route, wild camping along the way. On the last night of my trip, I ventured down to the bottom of the Whaligoe Steps, just south of John O' Groats, where I met a kilted man pitching a broken tent in howling winds at the bottom of a huge cliff.

I was intrigued and asked if I could camp next to him for the night. As it turns out, he was just over 3 years into an epic odyssey, on a mission to walk the entire UK coastline, including all of the islands, alongside his devoted hound, Jet, who he adopted along the way. The walk was both a personal quest to find happiness and to raise money for the veterans’ charity SSAFA, who had helped him through struggles after leaving the parachute regiment. We stayed in touch; by October we were an item and by November I had committed to joining him on the walk full time.

There are so many highlights I could describe about the journey so far: the awe-inspiring scenery, the phenomenal kindness of strangers, the excitement of constant adventure, connection with nature, discovering some of the untamed beauty of our coastline, learning the skills of surviving a life in the 'wild' and gaining a much greater insight into the history and geography of the British Isles are just a few. I think what I love the most though is the sense of freedom. This walk has now become a lifestyle and one that is completely liberating. We dictate our own schedules; there are no alarm calls, no set places to be at a set time, no commutes, no deadlines, no meetings.

28

We work for ourselves and when I say 'work', I mean working hard for the basic things that this walk has stripped us back down to: food, water, shelter and promoting the charity and we enjoy every minute of it.

We walk as far as we please each day and if we happen upon a beautiful, secluded place to camp, we stop and take full advantage of it. All of the clutter, white noise, trappings and stress of my past everyday London life have dissipated. Instead, there is space, endless variety, a far deeper appreciation for what and who is around me and an excitement every morning as to what adventures and discoveries the day ahead may hold. Living this way energises me in the most positive way.

Alongside all the positives, there have been some seriously challenging aspects, some are the smaller everyday challenges that have become a new 'normal' and others have been grander in scale.

The hardest thing for me when I first joined this walk was trying to navigate my still ongoing work commitments alongside the major and sudden upheaval of switching to a life outdoors. Before this, after 10 years teaching and leading in schools in East London, I had quit full-time teaching to concentrate on developing my career in training teachers. I was working with schools in various places around the country, had government contracts abroad to train English specialists as well as a national contract in England creating online educational videos to support learning during lockdown. When I joined the walk, I thought I would be able to juggle both. I thought I would be able to carry a laptop, get WiFi when needed and take time out every so often to fulfil work commitments elsewhere. How naive I was! I very quickly realised that this walk was indeed a full-time endeavour and that to commit to it properly, in the way I wanted, I would have to transition out of all my other commitments and essentially leave behind the career I had been forging for the last decade of my life. To leave something I had worked so hard to build over so many years was a difficult decision to grapple with and the transition wasn't easy. Education and adventure travel were my two biggest passions and, whilst previously, I had been taking steps to build a life which balanced both, to do this walk, I knew I would have to make a choice. Deep down, I knew that life as a fulltime adventurer was my ultimate calling. I have always loved travel and a big part of that was instilled in me at school - from my love of French and Spanish which I then went on to study at St Andrews University.

Writing from her home in France...

With the latest FR lockdown and curfew, I feel my world shrinking. With my son’s help, I have had four books published, so I keep on writing under the name Elizabeth Laughton Corney.

The reason I hadn't pursued it as a career always really came down to the fact that I thought I would need some serious savings in the bank to make it happen, or at least maintain work somehow alongside, in order to fund it.

Chris set off on this with just £10 in his pocket and 2 days of rations. There have never been any sponsors or support teams and he had been on the move, every day, for over 3 years! Meeting him showed me that this kind of thing can be done without savings or a back-up plan. He was living proof that I could have this life with no financial backing and without months spent dedicated to planning and preparation. I began to realise that, often, those reasons perhaps become excuses or security blankets that we create in our heads because of the fear that comes with plunging headfirst into the depths of such an unknown like this. I realised by main fear was about letting other people down but I realised that, in the end, if I didn't do this, the only person I'd really be letting down would be myself.

In the end, I decided to take the same plunge he had done: a leap of faith that I could make it work and it's been the best decision I ever made. I truly believe now that when you follow your heart and trust your instincts, it can only lead to good things!

Beth Corney (OG, 1944)

Editor’s note Beth’s books can be found on Amazon. Thank you Beth for sending your cheque to support the WGHS Bursary Fund.

Charlie Charlie One

Another major challenge was coming into this walk from the comforts of a house with central heating straight into the start of a brutal Scottish winter. Whatsmore, this particular winter was to entail another 3.5 months of lockdown.

Kate Barron (OG, 2004)

Charlie Charlie One, all serving and former members of the regular and reserve armed forces are requested to email Cath Worsley cworsley@wgsf.net with contact details to aid the development of an Old Savillians’ and WGHS InTouch military network. The intent would be to connect currently serving and former serving members, from both the regular and reserve Services, encompassing all ranks, to develop a network that would both support ongoing military careers but also foster the shared values embodied by the Foundation. The initial aim would be to start informally, and then look to host an annual dinner at an appropriate venue if enough interest is generated.

Editor’s note Kate’s blog’ Kate Walks the Coast’ can be found on Facebook. Kate, Chris and Jet will feature in a forthcoming BBC documentary which will be aired in September 2021.

Major Tom Buck (OS 2006), MBE, Royal Marines

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OG NEWS

My room, your room

I have just graduated from the University of Cambridge, where I completed an undergraduate degree in Mathematics at Girton College. Girton College is really beautiful, and I've had the most special years of my life spent living and studying there. The college was founded in 1869 by Emily Davies and Barbara Bodichon as the first women's college at Cambridge, and the first in Britain to offer higher education for women. It wasn't until 1948 that the University allowed the women of Girton College to receive official University degrees. The college later became coeducational in 1976.

Baroness Hale of Richmond, the President of the Supreme Court in the United Kingdom from 2017 to 2020, attended Girton College from 1963 to 1966. Incredibly, we both lived in the same room at Girton! She came to visit Girton to have an interview with me, for a segment in Cambridge Alumni Magazine called "My Room, Your Room". As soon as I met her, she was instantly welcoming and insisted

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I just call her "Brenda". She is also from a small place in Yorkshire, and we talked a lot about our time at the University. She was one of six female undergraduates studying law which had 110 men, and although she felt outnumbered, she was confident and ended up graduating at the top of her class with a starred first. We had very similar experiences at the University; my class of 256 maths students was only 16% female. My parents, and my teachers at Wakefield Girls' High School, instilled a confidence in me that will stay with me forever, and although the degree was tough and being a minority in a male-dominated subject made it harder, I excelled there and would relive it again in a heartbeat.

Read Maisie’s full article here... www.cam.ac.uk/cammagazine/myroomyourroom/ladyhale

Maisie Muir (OG, 2017)

She was one of six female undergraduates studying law which had 110 men, and although she felt outnumbered, she was confident and ended up graduating at the top of her class with a starred first

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OUR 2021 BIG LAP OF OZ you think adventure is “ Ifdangerous, try routine, it’s lethal ”

Growing older, it’s happening to us all, all the time. We rarely notice it, it happens so gradually, but time passes so faithfully, you can quite literally set your watch to it! 20, 30, 40...

Then 2020 happened. And COVID. And being locked down at home. I don’t know about you, but as life slowed down, time slowed down. Ability to travel freely was suddenly no longer an expectation, but a privilege, depending on where you live in the world.

Paul Coelho

I moved to Australia 9 years ago, with my (now) Australian husband, and have visited England every year since being here, until now. I was planning a trip back home in June 2020 for my 40th birthday, but had to cancel with no idea of when a trip back to the UK would be possible again (it still isn’t).

I know there are many Old Girls around the world in the same position as me.

The long Melbourne lockdown provided the perfect opportunity to plan a different kind of adventure, and we decided to do a 12-month lap of Australia in a caravan. As soon as domestic travel restrictions eased at the end of February, we left our corporate jobs, rented out our home, and set off.

We are now 3 months into our big adventure and we are appreciating every moment, much more than we would ever have done pre-COVID. We’ve seen so much wildlife: kangaroos, koalas, emus, wallabies, dingoes, wedge tailed eagles, seals, dolphins, whales and many more. We’ve woken up to cliff views, beach views, outback views, forest views.

We’ve walked, run, swum, snorkelled, dived, climbed, laughed and played. We’ve made new friends, chatting by the fire as the sun went down and the stars came out.

If you are interested in following our adventures around Australia, you can find our weekly videos on YouTube and photos on Instagram. Just search for “Staycation Oz”.

Hannah Thorne (OG, 1998)

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OG MEMORIES

Celebrations from down under Cecilia celebrated 50 years of life in Australia in July 2019. A large party was planned by Cecilia’s family and her daughter, Nancy, phoned School to see if we could organise a card to be sent to her mother signed by the Head.

We’ll let Cecilia take up the story now...

Greetings and hello from the Land Below Capricorn!

How can I begin to tell you what joy you gave to me and my family when you wished us Happy Golden Jubilee, our 50th year of migration to Australia? It took my breath away: you have been so generous to send all those mementoes of my time at school between 1942 and 1949: the print outs of pages from the school magazines, the painting of school from the front, the huge card of good wishes from the Head and the Development Office.

Thank you for the tea towel with the coat of arms and our motto, the Old Girls lapel pin and so much more. My daughter, Nancy has been busy- she also told the Queen! Great heaven... I opened a letter from Buckingham Palace on our special day with a lovely message via a lady in waiting.

Mentioned, as I have been in the list of successes over the school years, I never covered myself with a desperate glory, I suppose that I came through well enough.

A little eleven year old girl in the early years of the war, set off to sit for the Eleven Plus exam; that was me and I walked with destiny that day. Winning a place at the High School changed my life.

I have been reading through what you sent me and all those old familiar names... names and faces I can still see in my mind’s eye. Many will still be alive, looking a bit worse for wear as I do. What stories are locked away in our memories? Members of staff too: I wonder where they are now: it’s not hard to guess really.

My Headmistress was Miss Kingswell. War time buses were often crowded. I was sitting on the bus journeying to school, along with another couple of WGHS girls and after we had left the Bull Ring towards school it was standing-room only. Suddenly an imperious voice rang out “Stand! And give up your seats!” Mrs Kingswell had got on the bus at the Bull Ring and saw us occupying seats. We shot to our feet to let some adults sit down, but the shock and the shame shrivelled us. To add to our embarrassment, Mrs Kingswell got off the bus at the same stop as us. She was carrying a basket. Good manners demanded that one of us offer to carry it for her.

Yes, yes... which meant that we had to walk at the same speed as the Headmistress and hold a polite conversation all the way to school. I wasn’t the one carrying her basket, but we walked as a group with our heads held as high as we dare. That short walk seem inordinately long that morning: no scuttling along or hanging back! I expect that we were soon forgiven.

Cecilia Conwaye-Wright (OG, 1949) (née Elsie Smith)

Edited from a longer version of Cecilia’s memories.

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WONDERFUL WAKEFIELD, NOT SHAKEY WAKEY? Used to live in Wakefield, still live in Wakefield...? Well, we all share one common bond, we went to school in Wakefield and spent many an hour in this metropolis.

Last year the local Wakefield paper reported, with some horror that Wakefield had been voted the 8th worst place to live in the UK. Says who? Not a chance or as us Yorkshire folk would say… “get away with you”.

Well, here we are in 2021, post- 2 lockdowns and keeping everything crossed that we are not about to embark into another and… “plus, ca change” - as the French might say (remember French lessons in room 4, watching the chalk dust cloud and dance in the bright light cascading through those big windows staring out onto a sun-drenched quad on halcyon 1980’s summer days? And if I am honest probably sweating a bit through your Amplex or Mum roll- on deodorant, which never quite dried).

Drum roll please...

Wakefield has thankfully now been the subject of more favourable press and media coverage. The city has been the subject of a one- off Channel 4 Programme, presented by comedian Tom Allen- with the very lovely Martin Kemp- yes, “he of ah, ha ha haaaa ha True” and “Gold” fame making an appearance at the Theatre Royal. Also, the Wakefield Express has recently reported that Wakefield has made a list of the most “chic”, yes you read it right- I said “CHIC” cities...

Memories of 1980s Wakefield So, I thought I would both share some memories of 1980s Wakefield and then... update you a little and write an ode to this fair city. I hope that you can also enjoy my little pictorialsashay down memory lane (taken in Feb 2021).

I absolutely concur with the view that Wakefield has a lot to offer and here I am today living my 11- year- old self’s dreams of residing in WF1, in wonderful Wakefield.

My first visit to Wakefield was in Jan 1982 when I sat my WGHS entrance exam- armed with a Parker “Flighter” silver fountain pen, some worse than average mathematical skills, little logic, or reasoning (verbal or non-verbal) as evidenced here, but hopefully I was slightly better at telling a story!

Somehow, I passed and…

Throughout my subsequent years at WGHS I always lived in a small, quite pretty-( but for a teenager that equated to “quiet and pretty boring”) village just north of Pontefract, off the old A1 (remember that- a dual carriageway bit next to Ferrybridge- eeh them were the days!), with a vista of power stations! However, from Sept 1982 to 1989, I only travelled, or in the words of the Pet Shop Boys, was prepared to GO WEST- west to Wakefield (on the 148, 149 or 150 – 35p each way or using my “Kerching – a – Saver Strip”. For a good while (for most of the 1980’s) Wakefield became and remained the epicentre of my very existence.

It was a 20- minute drive from home to Ponte, service bus to Wakefield, walk out from bus station across car park and cross busy road to walk up Northgate to Wentworth Terrace and to school- via of course, the Wentworth Street pedestrian crossing (still there- just think how many times you pressed that button- to and from school, to the games field). Everyone got on some kind of bus, train, or public transport.

My world was Wakefield and it always seemed “wonderful to me”. I was resentful that we lived so far away and envious of friends who lived closer. There were friends who lived in or near Wakefield (Sandal, Walton, Thornbury Ave, West Ardsley), The Doncaster Crowd, the Huddersfield Set etc. Where were the Ponte People?

As I grew older, I spent time shopping with friends in the “Ridings”. Hard to believe now, but when it opened in 1982/3- people travelled far and wide.

This modern mode of shoppingpredated Meadowhall by around a decade- with its glass lifts (woo!), C &A, Miss Selfridge, Top Shop, Dotty P’s, Benetton, M and S, Tie Rack (remember that- I am sure we had one at some point!) WH Smiths, BHS and food forecourt downstairs.

I wanted to be able to meet my friends with ease at the Odeon (soon to be demolished) on Kirkgate, to queue outside and to watch Top Gun for the 5th time. I longed to be able to meet up with boys from Silcoates and QEGS at the “Athena Café” (top of Westgate) and buy one cup of tea I could make last for hours. I yearned to buy clothes from the teen boutique nattily called “Intique”. We would buy our 99p burger and pull out the green gherkin (What’s that? Yuck) in McDonalds on Cathedral Walk, window shop the ball dresses in Vivien Smith’s window (were there about 3 styles of dress, and about 4 different colours of shiny metallic taffeta?) and browse in a very small Next which I do remember was somewhere opposite the Cathedral too.

In the sixth form aged 16, I memorised my fake date of birth (must remember it’s 1969 - for the purpose of getting in for the “light show”) so I could go to Henry Boons, Roof Top Gardens and Casanovas (black eye liner, tube skirt- skirting very briefly with a goth phase-dancing to “She Sells Sanctuary”)- in the days when last orders were at 11 but often we all went into a nightclub at about 10 pm, only to be collected by our patient parents, waiting at midnight in the Westgate Car Park.

In the 1990s and early 2000s I completely neglected Wakefield. University, work, love, and life took me elsewhere and I only resumed our love affair when... somewhat incredulously, I found myself moving back, complete with family, to a village where the power stations meet. Full circle!

There followed children sitting entrance exams and being put on buses (luxury coaches for 21st century learners) before upping sticks, biting the bullet, kicking village life firmly into touch and moving to WF1- yep city centre!

At long last I was living my IV Lower dream!

And do you know what… I absolutely love it!

Clare Kirton (OG, 1989) wghsIntouch.org.uk 33

OG MEMORIES

Miss ‘ German’ Jones I started at Wakefield Girls High School in September 1959, aged 11. About 18 months later my father met Elfrieda, a German lady through the German Shepherd Dog Association in West Yorkshire. She came from Hamburg but was living in Holmfirth, having married an English “Tommy” (who was a part of the Allied Occupational Force), in 1947. She had approached my father because she knew he had a daughter close in age to her niece in Hamburg. This niece, Margrit, was learning English and wanted a pen-friend. I agreed, on the understanding that we would correspond in English.

So began a friendship which has lasted for 60 years!

In IV Upper we had to decide on options for our O-levels.

It seemed only right to me that I should choose German so Margrit and I could also correspond in her native language as well. I had, of course, known who Miss Jones was, distinguished from the other Miss Jones (Domestic Science) by the prefix “German”. I also had friends in the year above me who were doing German and who talked about her sometimes. Some of the things they said really made you wish you were studying German so I looked forward to starting in Lower V. Although a seemingly quiet and unassuming person, we all knew who she was, partly because she did stand out in a way because of her clothes, especially in the winter.

She wore fairly long pleated, or gathered tweed, or wool, skirts and quite large sweaters - Fair Isle (?) - possibly hand knitted - and old fashioned lace up shoes with thick stockings. I suppose she was dressed a bit like Margaret Rutherford in those “Murder at the Gallop” type films.

Somewhat country type and old fashioned.

She looked quite ancient to us youngsters and had steely, greying hair. She had a round, often smiley, face but couldn’t be said to be good looking, although not ugly and actually quite a benevolent look. I vaguely recall she wore a large, man’s wrist watch. We would see her around school and, although quiet of voice, she was firm in her application of the rules! As I was destined to find out!

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Her classroom, as I recall, was one of the smaller ones. It had a blackboard and a large, old fashioned school teacher’s desk with a fairly high chair for her to sit at it. This meant she, sort of, looked down on us as she taught. I got off to a bad start. My Godmother had given me a small signet ring during the summer holidays and I had worn it constantly. On our return to school I totally forgot to remove it - wearing jewellery was not allowed, apart from “sleepers” for pierced ears. Well, “Hawkeye” Jones honed in on it immediately I entered her classroom and she confiscated it forthwith. “You can have it back on the last day of term”. Arghh!! I had to go home and admit to my mother what had happened. Mind you true to her word, she returned it on the last day of that term, and the next, and the next... Some of us never learn!

Her teaching methods were much as those we had encountered in French with grammar and vocabulary taught using an old text book, with emphasis placed mostly on written, rather than spoken language. She would neatly write on the blackboard and speak in a gentle quiet voice. She never seemed rushed, impatient or annoyed. However, when she marked our work, she was always very honest and blunt about where we had gone wrong but not in a nasty way. I must admit I struggled with the 3 genders! I also struggled with how the words used could change according to the case, nominative, accusative, genitive and dative.

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She would put her hand up the bloomer leg, take out her handkerchief, blow her nose, replace the handkerchief and lower her skirt

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She did have one unusual trait which many of us found rather embarrassing, definitely different! When she had a cold, or needed to blow her nose, she would scrunch up her voluminous skirt and, beneath it she wore what I can only describe as “bloomers”. Loose and extending down her thigh towards her knee, rather like what you saw in films like Tom Jones! She would put her hand up the bloomer leg, take out her handkerchief, blow her nose, replace the handkerchief and lower her skirt.

All done “just like that”, no fuss, just as though it was what everyone did!! After a while you got used to it but it never stopped seeming odd. When you talked with others past and present pupils, they all said the same doesn’t she know what pockets are for?

She talked about her time. In Germany, before WW2, and described her time in Leipzig and Dresden. She had kept contact with one of her friends in what was by then East Germany. This friend was a teacher of English.

German Jones suggested to us all that we would benefit from corresponding with a German pen friend and, despite already having my friend Margrit, I decided to go ahead. I got the names of two girls. One never really hit it off with me, or I with her, but the other, Elke, is still my friend today. We use WhatsApp, she writes to me in English and I write to her in German. I have to say I’m not sure if German Jones would appreciate my use of Google Translate - but I do. Plus, modern technology is so much faster than letters in the 1960s!!

She did encourage us to speak the language, on the basis that, if we visited the country, we would be more welcomed if we tried speaking, however nervously. She was a stickler for pronunciation and it was the one thing she praised me for. She said I had a GOOD EAR!! I must admit it has been fun and even hilarious at times - like the time I ordered a lager and limestone! When I realised how silly I had been I could hear her saying “it is important to think about what you are reading and saying and also beware of using a dictionary blindly with no thought!”

Looking back I think we learned a lot from her, partly because she did something I don’t think any other teacher at the school did. Every December she invited us all to her home for an Advent Party. She lived at 1 Lacey St in Horbury with her friend Miss Heap.

Their parties were renowned for fun and great food.

I seem to remember it was usually on a Friday evening.

We entered a nicely decorated hallway and were led into an equally well decorated lounge. The decor included lots of items from Germany, some of which I have myself. Small wooden “roundabouts”/“whirligigs” propelled by the heat from a candle flame, angel chimes, a small set of wooden choristers and beautiful enamel

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We would sing German Carols and read German Christmas stories and then be taken to the dining room for an Advent Feast

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Lebkuchen cookies

and wooden tree decorations and also the candle arch (electric, with candle bulbs) on the window ledge so when the curtains were closed it was visible to passersby. I was fascinated by the fact that, instead of turning it off, she just twisted one bulb and once, the contact was lost, all the bulbs turned off! Later I found out that this is the way most German families do it - both my friends and their families do.

We would sing German Carols and read German Christmas stories and then be taken to the dining room for an Advent Feast. She and Miss Heap had made wonderful sandwiches and there was Stollen and Leberkuchen. We drank a variety of soft drinks but there was also a non-alcoholic warm drink flavoured like mulled wine but definitely NOT wine! We had heard about these parties but, until you went, you couldn’t imagine what fun they were. You just couldn’t wait for the next Christmas and, of course, as they were only open to her current pupils, once you stopped learning German, that was that - a great disappointment.

I remember her with great fondness and have always been grateful that she introduced me to the language which led to flourishing friendships, lasting many, many years. Thank you “German” Jones.

Pat Lowe (OG, 1966) (née Agus)

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STAFF LEAVERS 2020 In 2020 we said goodbye to some much loved members of staff.

DANNY SHEEHAN

SARAH LOFTUS

Head of Religion, Philosophy& Ethics Department

Deputy Head of Pastoral

Danny joined the RPE Department as HoD in September 2015 from All Saints’ Catholic High School in Sheffield, and helped to cement the Department as a vibrant, exciting and innovating part of WGHS life. As a dynamic practitioner of RPE, his love of the subject and drive to see our students do their best was a joy to collaborate with. Danny was also an integral part of the school’s HPL initiative, sparking enthusiasm about its benefits in both staff and students, and would always do his utmost to help see the school on its journey to become a High Performance Learning World Class School.

From an extra-curricular perspective, Danny was a dedicated Sixth Form Tutor, and happily led the Girls’ Football Team at lunchtimes as well as taking the mini-bus out for EDGE excursions - and he always maintained a healthy sense of humour after going up hill and down dale! This was also particularly evident on his trip to Rome with the Classics Department where his knowledge of churches and church history challenged and stimulated the students. On a personal note, Danny was a constant source of support and encouragement before, during and after my two periods of maternity leave - he made it effortlessly easy for me to slip back into the school’s hustle and bustle, for which I will always be very grateful.

At Christmas 2019 both staff and students were sad to say goodbye to Danny, who took up the post of Head of Religious Education at his alma mater, All Saints’ Catholic Voluntary Academy, in Mansfield. We know he was sad to leave too, but at least he got to go out to the Brass Group’s refrain of Survivor’s ‘Eye of the Tiger’ in his last assembly, which we all know was a particular favourite of his.

We wish all health and happiness to him, his wife Katie, and children Amelia, Olivia, and Matthew.

Mrs Keegan-Phipps

DANIELA DJOKOVIC Teacher of French and German Madame Djokovic, or DD, joined the MFL department at WGHS in January 2011. A passionate linguist, Daniela soon settled into life at the school enjoying all aspects of what it had to offer. Daniela was not only enthusiastic in the classroom but she also valued the extracurricular activities and was always ready to volunteer to help with DoE or with an overseas trip. We know Daniela would like to thank all the girls she had the privilege to teach, and all the students she had the pleasure to chat to in the corridors, over the years.

Her thanks also go to the many parents who have been so supportive over the years. Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité!

It is with a heavy heart that we said farewell to Mrs Sarah Loftus, our wonderful Deputy Head of Pastoral Care, at the end of this academic year.

The whole school community will feel this loss keenly.

Sarah joined Wakefield Girls’ High in 2004 for a maternity cover in the English Department before settling in as a permanent member of staff, becoming Head of Year 12 and 13 in 2010 and appointed as Deputy Head, Pastoral in 2014. Clearly the Heads responsible for these appointments had great judgement. During Sarah’s time here she has always shown a steadfast commitment to the school and to the girls’ wellbeing and care. Her dedication may be the main factor that has won the respect of so many pupils and staff, however it is by no means her only contribution.

As a (newish) head, many challenges that arise are novel and can be initially disconcerting. At such times, leaders need a team around them who know the school, its staff and its students and Sarah has provided calm, wise counsel on so many occasions. She has a wealth of experience and is unflappable. In her role - and actually, in life - she has been proactive, hands on, forward thinking and selfless. She is certainly a glass-half full individual and always looked to bring the best out of our students, and a situation.

Sarah’s mark on WGHS will be longstanding. Exciting initiatives from the Happy Cafe, Odd Socks Day, Falcon Friday to Wellbeing Week are all thanks to her. And who would have thought that so many teenage girls would love to sit on a Thursday afternoon learning cross stitch for their EDGE activity? I feel it was more about spending time together with an opportunity to have a good natter to the girls than the stitching. Indeed, who could forget her ‘Old Woman of the Week’ assemblies whereby she had us all on the edge of our seat, waiting to find out about the next inspirational, rule-breaking woman. Examples of such women include Hedi Lamarr, Frida Kahlo and Kathrine Switzer. Such initiatives are a testament to her energy and warmth at school. However to requote Maya Angelou as used in a recent assembly I suspect that her more lasting legacy will be the memory of how she made people feel.

Students sense staff who really care for their wellbeing, and they knew Mrs Loftus was firmly in this category.

Her approach to school life - bringing joy and laughter to each day - really helped to shape not only the student experience of Wakefield Girls’ High, but also the staff experience, too. I will miss her greatly, but I know, so too will a great number of students and colleagues. We wish her a very happy next chapter of life as she begins her early retirement and hope that she will visit often (with her cross stitch basket!).

Heidi-Jayne Boyes 36

BEVERLEY WILKINS Chemistry Technician Beverley has worked at WGHS for 32 years and was initially appointed as a DT and Physics technician before moving to the Chemistry Department in 1998 to work as a full time chemistry technician. Beverley has been excellent in her role as chemistry technician. She has been a most reliable, conscientious and efficient member of the Department. She has contributed greatly to the development of many pupils over the years as well as to the overall success of the Chemistry Department. She has had a pivotal role in the running of chemistry, supplying apparatus and chemicals for each lesson, servicing the laboratories, liaising with staff and pupils and maintaining and ordering new stock. Her policy was always to repair rather than renew and this greatly helped our budget stretch that little bit further! In recent years Beverley has worked successfully with Vicky Mitchell in a chemistry technician job share role which allowed her to spend more time with her then newly born granddaughter.

HANNAH MITCHELL Teacher of Art Hannah Mitchell joined the Art Department in 2011 led by Head of Department Rowena Gration. Hannah brought about really creative ideas in textiles, printmaking and mixed media and went on to develop these for the Art Department throughout her time in post.

Hannah's class room was always bright, energetic and busy with girls attending additional Art during lunch times. She was always a bright and cheerful presence and her love for the pomegranate Art Project and her consumption of vast amounts of toast each break time, still resonates amongst our girls today. Hannah really enjoyed working at Wakefield Girls’ High School and we wish her all the best of luck as she becomes a full time mum to her beautiful daughter Lola.

Mrs Varley

Beverley worked tirelessly for the Department and will be greatly missed both as a colleague and a friend. We wish her a long and happy retirement and hope to keep in touch.

Sarah Duerden-Brown (Head of Chemistry) and Mike Uttley (retired Head of Chemistry)

ROSIE LEWRY Teacher of Geography The Geography Department sadly said farewell to a most loyal and enthusiastic member of the Department. In a typically unassuming, compassionate fashion, Rosie has provided a thorough geographical education for those fortunate enough to have been taught by her. She always puts the needs of the students first and regularly goes the extra mile to ensure her lessons are of a high standard. This approach continued outside the classroom where she spent hours supporting individual students. So many have benefited from her knowledge and expertise over the last seven years.

She has not only spent her time teaching in the classroom but enjoyed helping, supporting and organising a range of diverse events including many field trips and other extracurricular activities that have enriched the educational experience of the students. One minute she would be found in the music concerts, then the next motivating students on their Duke of Edinburgh Expedition to climb yet another hill. Her willingness to give up her time is also exemplified by the summer of 2015 when she supported an expedition to Costa Rica. Her fastidious organisation will not be forgotten nor the huge amount of equipment she always packed for every eventuality. The Department had never ever seen anyone climb the Malham steps with such a large rucksack until Rosie took the lead for this trip!

All good fun and her sense of humour will be missed. There is no doubt that many students benefited from the Geographical Association WorldWise Quiz that she was instrumental in organising for local schools and cultivated a number of strong teams of which some won the trophy for WGHS. Rosie has always enjoyed her life at WGHS and it has been a difficult decision for her to leave. We know Rosie is devoted to her young family and this will mean she can spend more time with her fantastic young boys. We wish her luck on this new chapter and all the adventures it will bring.

Mr Hargreaves

LIZ ZOCCOLAN Head of Learning Support It is with real regret that we are saying farewell to a wonderful member of staff, our Head of Learning Support, Elizabeth Zoccolan. We “stole” Liz from across the road QEGS - in 2016 and since then she has developed and expanded the provision we already had for girls who require further support across the school. She will be missed by students, staff and parents.

Liz’s background is in Languages, and having studied French with Portuguese at Kings, London, she taught in a variety of local schools, finally moving to the Grammar School Foundation as a teacher of Languages. Previous experience with learning intervention initiatives came to the fore though, and before long, Liz had moved into the LS department at QEGS. It is in this arena that Liz has made such an impact at WGHS. From her office in Cliff, Liz has built up a vibrant, thriving and innovative department, where countless children (as well as staff) have benefited from her expertise, wisdom and kindness. She has quite simply changed students’ lives with her skill and compassion.

As well as having the specialist subject knowledge to ensure girls are gaining fair access to the curriculum and exams, she has the “can do” attitude that marks her as a true professional.

Liz is a generous colleague, always keen to share her understanding and expertise, either in full staff training sessions or one-to-one. She asks staff to play to their strengths, and gives them the confidence to deliver the appropriate support for a student in the most effective way.

Liz has made such a difference to so many students in so many ways. She is humorous, dedicated, effective and knowledgeable. It’s little wonder that she has received a promotion which elevates her to senior management.

Wakefield Girls’ High School will miss you, Liz. We thank you for being such a wonderful colleague and with you all the best for a happy, successful future.

Sarah Loftus wghsIntouch.org.uk 37

STAFF LEAVERS 2021 In 2021 we said goodbye to some much loved members of staff.

RACHEL EDWARDS

DR JONATHAN KOROSI

Head of the Junior School

Head of Biology

In December we said goodbye to Mrs Rachel Edwards who had been Head of the Junior School for six years.

During her tenure she always made everyone feel welcome and cared deeply about her staff, the girls and the future of the School. Building on the existing foundations, Mrs Edwards incorporated up to date technology into the curriculum. She oversaw the refurbishment of St John's House, transforming it into a modern, contemporary and aspirational environment for learning and, in her final year, she successfully guided the school community through its unprecedented period of national lockdown and online provision. She will be missed greatly by staff and girls alike.

We wish Mrs Edwards a safe and happy retirement which allows her to spend more time with her husband and her horses. We thank her for all she has done for the school during her time with us.

In January of 2020 the Governors announced that both WGHS and QEGS would become through schools from Year 3 to Year 13. Accordingly, Ms Heidi-Jayne Boyes is now Head of WGHS years 3 to 13.

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She successfully guided the school community through its unprecedented period of national lockdown and online provision

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Since arriving from Norwich School in January 2003 Jonathan, or Dr “K” to many current and former students, has made a lasting impression on the WGHS school community as Head of Biology and as a teacher and person.

Academically he has always put the students first and supported them in countless ways, whereas his commitment to wider school life has been both comprehensive and unrelenting - from leading trips and undertaking numerous charity events to starring regularly in the Christmas Revue and showing a real passion for “WGHS life” generally.

Dr “K’s” contribution to academic life at WGHS cannot be understated. Helped by his medical background, Dr “K” brought a real passion to Biology and this rubbed off on many of his students, particularly those who went on to study medicine and related scientific disciplines at university. It is not unusual for former students to explain that they are where they are today because of Dr Korosi - often because he repeatedly went the extra mile. One junior doctor recently mentioned on Instagram Live how Dr “K” would visit her family home to provide extra tuition; to which she and her parents will remain eternally grateful.

Beyond the “lab” and the realms of STC, Jonathan has been an equally great supporter of high school life. Shortly after joining school his woodworking skills were put to the test as he took on the role of stage crew manager making trees for a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. His contribution to charity events, especially “gymathons'' and the numerous coast to coast cycle rides with the pupils (collectively raising thousands of pounds) will live long in the memory as will his frequent visits to the East Coast, Blencathra and Pembrokeshire to run field trips along with supporting D of E in various guises.

Although “JCK” has finally made the decision to retire to spend more time with his wife Elaine and his sons Ben and Alex, his commitment and connection to WGHS is likely to continue in perpetuity. Following in the footsteps of his father George at QEGS, the Korosi surname and “Biology at the Foundation” will remain inextricably linked for many years to come.

We wish Jonathan and his family a happy and healthy future and hope that his wish to travel becomes a reality. I suspect that he might enjoy a pint or two en route!

NB. In addition to reading the above you may also wish to watch the recent interview with JCK, which was initially shared across the school in May 2021.

David Eggleston (DJE) 38

LIZZIE HULME Development Officer After almost 11 years of dedicated service, Lizzie decided to leave the Foundation in November 2020. During her time at the Foundation, Lizzie worked in a variety of roles with the QEGS Office until she moved into her role as a Development Officer for the Foundation.

In her position as Old Savilians’ Club administrator, she already had strong links to the Club and good relationships with the Old Savilians.

She quickly built on these relationships whilst at the same time created links with the WGHS Old Girls. Lizzie helped establish the Development Office, build alumni relationships, arrange events and keep in touch with our alumni through regular e-newsletters, posting on social media and the annual magazines.

Lizzie was great for taking ownership of tasks and seeing them through to completion. She was always eager to build on her knowledge, through on-the-job learning, selfteaching or attending a training course. Her exemplary organisational skills ensured that all Development Office events were a success, as those Old Girls and Old Savs who have attended a dinner or reunion will know! Her energy, attention to detail and her commitment to perfection, meant that all the events ran without a hitch.

Lizzie was the ‘swan’ gliding into the room, when she had been frantically ensuring that everything was perfect for the guests!

Lizzie and I shared an office and she would always brighten up the day with her cheerful personality, funny tales and a beautiful wardrobe!

Thank you Lizzie for your dedication, enthusiasm and contribution to the Foundation.

Cath Worsley

BARBARA MILNE Head’s PA Mrs Barbara Milne Retires after 33 years!

Barbara Milne has worked as WGHS Junior School Head's PA for 6 Heads which must have been quite a challenge as each of us will have had our own way of doing things.

Barbara was incredibly loyal to everyone one of us. She enabled us all to settle in so quickly and had such a wealth and knowledge of the people and the workings of the Foundation. She always managed to give us a gentle nudge when deadlines had to be met and always alerted us to meetings and events which were coming up. She was such a calm organised person, rarely got ruffled but always there to listen to moans and groans.

MUSIC DEPARTMENT This year we have bid farewell to some brilliant staff and thank them for bringing a wealth of talent and happy memories.

Our talented singing teacher, Miss Katie Johnson, is leaving us to undertake primary school teacher training this year.

Katie's lessons have proved to be extremely popular and she has always had a waiting list of pupils wishing to take singing lessons with her. Our choirs and performances have reaped the benefits of her expert teaching. We wish her the best of luck with the training for the exciting next step in her career.

Mrs Catherine Baker has sadly finished teaching in the foundation. Her work with the double reed instruments (oboe and bassoon) was amazing, and her renowned Double Reed Club and Wind in the Willows ensemble gained attention both around the country and abroad. Catherine’s work will always be remembered in Willows and we will strive to ensure that double reed instruments continue to be well represented in school.

Mr Chris Bacon retires from his brass teaching in Willows and across the foundation, after an astonishing 33 years of teaching and leading brass ensembles and orchestras. He has taught generations of brass players who will remember him fondly.

Mrs Saskia Bacon is retiring after a wonderful 33 years of flute teaching across the foundation. Saskia’s flute ensembles have featured in so many concerts, assemblies and festivals in and out of school. Her annual appearance at Wakefield Cathedral was a highlight every Christmas. She will be greatly missed around Willows and by her many pupils, past and present.

I once described her as 'an island of calm in a tumultuous sea' and I for one could not have done the job without her.

I had immense admiration for her during my 18 years as Head but especially just after her husband sadly died. She refused to take time out preferring to come into school each day 'to take her mind off things'. She was an inspiration to us all at coping with adversities. She had that wonderful balance of being an excellent team player but always had time to sense what was going on in the staff room and just knew how people were feeling.

It was a privilege to work with Barbara. The Foundation and each of we Heads owe her great gratitude.

I wish her good health and happiness in the future.

Thank you Barbara. You are a true guiding light and a Star!

Daphne Cawthorne Former Headmistress WGHSJS wghsIntouch.org.uk 39

LIVES REMEMBERED Building Brighter Futures

A GIFT THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

“

WGHS was life-changing for me. Education is the answer to social mobility and for girls, a single sex education brings so many advantages. I was very lucky and am very grateful that I was able to benefit from the Assisted Places Scheme and the superior educational offer at WGHS

”

Kathryn Davis (OG, 1983) Non-executive director, trustee, board advisor, retired law firm partner

Wakefield Girls’ High School (WGHS) was founded in 1878. Since then the gifts our Old Girls have left in wills have helped shape our school. Many have enabled the completion of small yet important projects; others have inspired the creation of larger buildings. Most importantly of all, some have given the gift of a WGHS education.

Legacy income represents a valuable source of funding, enabling us to plan for the future, fund additional buildings and ensure that more girls can benefit from a WGHS education.

Since our earliest foundation, we have been fortunate to have benefited from a number of legacy donations. Miss Allen, our first Headmistress, was the first person to leave WGHS a gift in her will.

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A legacy gift in your will can benefit the school long into the future and is a wonderful way of helping future Old Girls. Whether big or small, every gift makes a world of difference.

MA KE YO UR LEG AC Y THE GIF T OF A WG HS EDU CAT ION

If you have already made provision for a gift to WGH in your will, please do let us know as we would love to hear why you have decided to leave a gift to school.

We would also like to thank you for your generosity during your lifetime.

Please contact cworsley@wgsf.net for more information.

LIVES REMEMBERED

EDITOR’S NOTE We have sadly said goodbye to members of our Community over the past two years, including some much-loved former members of staff. Some of our Old Girls have lost their Old Savilian husbands and they are included also.

NICOLA DAVIES (OG, 1989) It is with sadness that we report the passing of Nicky Davies, who sadly passed away 25th June 2019, following a breast cancer diagnosis.

From WGHS she went onto study languages at the University of Surrey before gaining her teaching qualification at Roehampton. She went onto teach French and German at Wilson’s Boys’ Selective School.

It was at the University of Surrey that she met her partner Derren, whom she leaves behind, along with their sons Thomas, 9, and James, 6, as well as her parents Anne and Tom Davies.

SUSAN DEVONPORT- SMITH (OG, 1974) (née Barstead) I am sad to inform you that Susan Devonport - Smith (née Barstead) passed away in Cheltenham on April 2nd 2021.

Having gained her B Ed. she taught for 2 years then changed careers to join the RAF. She rose up quickly through the ranks to become a Wing Commander and received the MBE for services to her country.

In 1984 she became the first WRAF officer to receive the Prince Bandah Trophy- a trophy awarded to the officer recruit who had achieved the best result in war studies during training. Susan's essay was on the UK's options to participate in “Out of NATO area” operations with special emphasis on the Middle East''.

On leaving the RAF she became a Bursar at the Latymer School, London and Cheltenham College.

Carolyn Keeling (OG, 1975) Sister

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LIVES REMEMBERED KATHLEEN O’MALLEY (Former Teacher) Kathleen passed away peacefully 24 February 2021 at Castleford Lodge Care Home. She was a loving mother to Richard, Christopher and Sarah and grandmother to Betsan, Alys, Hana, Eli and Jethro Powell. She devoted her life to teaching, mainly at Wakefield Girls’ High School and English Martyrs School.

Here are some comments from the Old Girls’ Facebook Group. Apologies that we have not been able to publish them all.

A wonderful supportive friend and colleague.

Pam Nicolls

I loved being in Mrs O’Malley’s class.

Julia Harrow

She was a very special lady.

Kath wanted to extend her own qualifications and succeeded in gaining her BEd following an intense part time course at Bradford University. Quite an achievement alongside a full time teaching job and bringing up three children.

Louise Evans and Janet Baldock

Like a second mum.

Sara Baitson

Amazing lady.

Emma Riley

Much loved and respected colleague.

Pat Langham

Miss O'Malley (Mrs Powell) joined WGHS JS in January 1998 and taught Lower Transition or, according to the children, 'Lower Transformers'. Both infant and junior classrooms were in St John's House and Kath's classroom, the smallest one, was on the first floor. Here she taught until, due to increasing numbers, moved to the STC where the infants were to be housed.

Kath was a very dedicated teacher who cared deeply for her pupils. She would rarely be at her desk but would sit on one of the small chairs delivering lessons. From this small chair she would be heard encouraging, praising and laughing. She had high expectations of the children and they responded to her quiet, but firm discipline.

A look or a change of tone in her voice could quell any unnecessary chatter or unwelcome behaviour. Kath instilled a strong sense of right or wrong in her pupils and this would help pave the way to their future successes in education and beyond.

Once again, in 2002, the school expanded and Kath became the Pre Prep Co-ordinator of Mulberry House.

Here she was known by many, both staff, pupils and parents for her kindness, support and laughter. On becoming a grandparent and wanting to spend more energy visiting her family, Kath relinquished her responsibilities in Mulberry House and returned to her original small classroom in St John's House teaching Year 3 until her retirement in 2012.

Kath loved concerts and the theatre and would go often with her many friends. I recall once, she was so enthusiastic booking tickets for numerous staff and friends to see Phil Collins that she forgot to get a ticket for herself.

The Church was also an important part of her life, especially singing the hymns that she loved. In school assemblies her voice would ring out loud and clear.

Kath had very strong roots in Ireland and spent many holidays with family there. She would bravely drive off with her three children to catch the ferry hoping and praying that they would arrive safely as driving was a necessity, not a pleasure. Along with this affinity for Ireland, came the love of Irish literature and music. During break times or at the end of the day, when the children had gone home the relaxing sound of Clannad would drift out of her room.

Kath was immensely proud of her two sons, Richard and Christopher and her daughter Sarah. Their achievements are a credit to her and the addition of five grandchildren brought even more happiness.

By Linda Cholewa

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IAN PANTON (OS, 1970) Dr Ian Robert Panton who passed away at home on 17th October 2020, aged 67 years.

Ian was born in Wakefield on the 29th October 1952 and attended Walton Primary School, before moving to Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in September 1964.

JOHN CRAPPER (OS, 1968) It is with great sadness that we inform you that Old Savilian John Crapper has died at the age of 70 following a short illness. He is survived by his wife Teresa and their three children, Charlotte (OG, 2008), Katherine (OG, 2010) and James (OS, 2013).

From QEGS he went up to Cambridge in 1971 to read Medicine and graduated with a BA in 1974.

In October 1974 he moved to London to complete his clinical training at St George’s Hospital London and qualified with B Chir in 1977 and MB in 1978.

He completed the General Practice training scheme at St George’s Hospital and became a member of the Royal College of General Practitioners in 1982.

He worked as a GP in Glenfield, Leicester from 1982 until he took early retirement in 2009.

Ian was a keen photographer all his life. He enjoyed music and travel, particularly to Italy.

He married Barbara Wood (OG 1971) in 1974. They had a son and a daughter. After 32 years of living in Leicester they decided to move back to Wakefield and moved to Horbury in January 2015.

Written by Barbara Wood (OG, 1971)

SARAH GAY (OG, 1988) I am very sorry to announce that Sarah Gay has died.

Some of her school friends are aware of this but were conscious that she was a popular and social pupil and that others might not be aware of her passing.

Sarah Jane Robinson

RAY BIRTWISTLE (OG, 1959) We are sad to report that Ray passed away 21st February 2021.

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LIVES REMEMBERED VALERIE LYTHGOE (OG, 1949) (née Crispin)

Valerie passed away peacefully at Warrington General Hospital on Saturday 26th September 2020, aged 88 years. She will be dearly missed by all of her family and friends. A private funeral service took place on Thursday 8th October 2020.

Published in the Warrington Guardian 8/10/2020 Thanks to Pat Craven (OG, 1951) for notifying us.

VIRGINIA HAZEL ELLINGSEN (OG, 1959) (née Wilson)

Ginnie was born Februray 19th,1941 and passed peacefully, with dignity and medical assistance at her home on Cortes Island on Oct. 14, 2019. When she was diagnosed with advanced cancer in August, she received it quite philosophically, saying “ I’m 78 years old and I’ve had a most wonderful life. Coming to Cortes allowed me to become who I was meant to be. If this is to be the end of it, I can accept that, without regrets or unfinished desires.”

Greatly missed by her family in Canada, England and Norway and her many, many friends.

Kindly provided by Bruce Ellingsen

ROBERT EDWARD CRAVEN (OS, 1942) Robert Edward Craven died in Pinderfields Hospital on 22nd April 2020 of Covid 19 and pneumonia aged 90.

He was well known in Wakefield, retiring from his family firm of Craven Fawcett brick machine manufacturers. He was a member of Rotary and Probus and had been President of College Grove Sports Club being involved with Men’s Hockey since 1951. He was also Fellow of the Institute of Ceramics.

He was at WGHS prep school and QEGS junior school before going to Worksop College.

44

He leaves a widow and family who would like to thank everyone who sent messages of condolences; they were quite overwhelmed. Due to the pandemic there has not been a funeral service.

Pat Craven (OG, 1951)

MARJORIE ANN HOLMES JP DCG (OG, 1949) (née Lindley)

19th January 1933 to 18th February 2020.

Musician, singer, actor, writer, poet and much loved wife, aunt and friend.

Marjorie was born in Wakefield on the 19th January 1933.

She attended Eastmoor School where she studied hard and passed her 11+ and was offered a place at Wakefield Girls’ High School and always thought of herself as “The Scholarship Girl".

Marjorie loved the Girls’ High School, and it was there that she learnt how to play piano and compose music which would be the foundation of her musical life.

Marjorie continued to study hard as her dream was to go to University. She comfortably passed the school certificate, but her dream to go to University was shattered when she was 16, due to Marjorie's father leaving her mother. Now living with her grandparents, her grandfather made the decision that she should leave The High School to start work. Sad and disappointed her first job was as a dispenser at Boots the chemist.

Marjorie always loved music and singing and at 16 years of age she had lessons with the same singing teacher as Julie Andrews who recognised she had a talent.

Marjorie joined the West Riding Operatic Society and in 1956 was given her first lead role in “Bless the Bride”.

This was the first of many performances and varied parts she played.

Marjorie also joined Yorkshire Opera under the leadership of Ivor Hughes. She was also a member of the Kingsway Singers and the Women’s Institute where she made many good friends.

Marjorie loved writing poetry and had a number of poems published and one of those was called "The High School Girl" please see below.

Marjorie also wrote a poem called Millennium which she set to music and then wrote the words to transform it into a Christmas Carol.

Later in life Marjorie was offered a position in the Careers Department of West Riding County Council, but she still longed to go to University. One day she saw a notice for a graduate position at Manchester University. Marjorie applied for the position at 38 years of age and got the post. She was the oldest person in the class but left with the diploma she had always dreamed of and soon got a job as a qualified careers officer, which she said was the best job ever.

Marjorie was working hard as a Careers Officer as well as singing, acting and writing poetry but still had a bit of time on her hands, so became a Magistrate which again she loved and was a Magistrate for 25years. To celebrate her retirement from being a Magistrate, Marjorie & Vic were invited to a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace where she had a brief chat with the Queen.

Although Marjorie lived a busy life, she and her husband Vic also had time for holidays and travelled to Africa, Canada, America, Alaska, Jerusalem, Cyprus and all over Europe. They had great times and once flew Concorde to America.

Marjorie lived a full and happy life always supported by her devoted husband Victor Holmes but she never forgot her time at Wakefield Girls’ High School which she spoke about all through her life.

Written by her nephew, Howard Lawton, as told by her husband Vic Holmes.

Editor’s Note WGHS are very grateful to Mr Vic Holmes for making a generous donation to the Music Department, enabling a new Composition Suite to be provided for all the girls to use. In addition, he provided an additional amount for a donor board to go on the wall in WGHS, so that we can add our donors’ names in recognition of their generosity.

Everyone in the Music department were overjoyed with the generous donation from Marjorie Holmes' family. We have been able to update Willows with wonderful new equipment and instruments to enhance students' experiences when making music.

Marjorie was a keen composer herself and the recently named Marjorie Holmes Composition Suite will enable Music students at WGHS to compose and record using the latest Logic software and a mixing desk, alongside electric drums, piano and a lovely range of guitars and amplifiers. We are very excited to hear what the students can create using the new facilities. We will be using these in lessons and clubs all the time.

Mrs Bentham, Music Department

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LIVES REMEMBERED PAT WHITEMAN (Former Laboratory Technician)

Pat was a great teacher and a loyal ambassador for Wakefield Grammar School Foundation (WGSF) for over 40 years.

Initially she joined Wakefield Girls’ High School (WGHS) as a teacher of Biology in 1968 before retiring in 2003.

Needless to say countless students, especially those who went on to pursue careers in science and medicine, will forever be in her debt. I recall many students, particularly those who were aspiring doctors, thanking her for the fastidious nature of her class notes, her unfailing enthusiasm in lessons and the care and support she offered them as individuals. It is testimony to her professionalism that this was a message frequently echoed for over three decades; Pat was a quite remarkable teacher.

Although Pat “believed” that she had retired in 2003, she was persuaded to return to the Foundation, this time at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School (QEGS) in 2006. Although this was on a temporary and part time basis, she remained in post up to 2014! As a consequence, the boys were able to enjoy the same level of teaching and guidance afforded to the girls, displaying equally warm affection for her.

Pat the “person” was equally generous in supporting the wider school community at numerous events and was once presented with her own special award by the Yr 13 girls for being the “happiest person in school”. I vividly recall Pat walking down Jubilee Hall beaming as she collected her prize! Pat always had a smile on her face whenever and wherever you saw her.

“

I recall many students, particularly those who were aspiring doctors, thanking her for the fastidious nature of her class notes, her unfailing enthusiasm in lessons and the care and support she offered them as individuals

”

On a personal level, she was highly supportive of me when I started at WGHS and often we would discuss our shared interests, most notably school, the achievements of the girls and gardening. Pat and Harry’s garden remains one of the most aesthetic ones I have ever seen - beautifully laid out, carefully nurtured and diligently managed. It was in many respects a work of art, though she wouldn't thank me for saying that.

However, beyond even WGSF and Biology, Pat’s true love was Harry. He came up in every conversation and she almost glowed when recounting his skills and achievements.

As a master craftsman, his work was something to behold and rarely seen, with a quite remarkable attention to detail.

To the outsider they were the ideal couple - best friends, loyal companions and quite literally a perfect marriage for almost 50 years.

Needless to say, Pat will be sadly missed by all who knew her, quite simply because she offered so much to so many for so long.

David Eggleston

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“

Her caring nature ensured no child struggled. She was an outstanding woman

”

As a Laboratory Technician it is always intimidating when a new member of staff arrives in the Science Department.

Miss Patricia Mary Boulton came to Biology and impressed immediately. Her lab request sheets were detailed, always on time and all equipment tidied away at the end of each practical session.

(Something she continued to do right until the end of her teaching career) She was disciplined, efficient and highly respected by staff and pupils alike. Her caring nature ensured no child struggled. She was an outstanding woman.

Soon Miss Boulton became Mrs Whiteman and together with Harry enjoyed the happiest of marriages, a like-minded couple who shared everything together.

Pat's kindness, compassion and care spilled over into her retirement and through her voluntary work continued making new friends fulfilling her caring nature.

Rest in peace Pat. Christine Thompson Former Laboratory Technician WGHS

HER FINAL JOURNEy On her final journey, the funeral cortège passed QEGS & WGHS with the funeral director walking in front of the cortège. Staff from both schools, Green House and the Head Girl team complete in their gowns, lined up outside the schools to clap and pay their respects as she passed by.

At the crematorium there were also current and former staff members from both schools. The crematorium was at its Covid limit; Pat was a well-respected and loved member of both schools.

Harry was very grateful to everyone for their support.

Helen Bray Laboratory Technician, QEGS

BEATRICE BUTCHER (OG 1952) (née Longman) Sadly passed away 23 July 2021. She leaves her two sons, Andrew and Mark. Her full obituary will be added to the alumnae website in due course.

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KEY DIARY DATES After more than a year without an events programme and as we look forward to the easing of restrictions, we are excited to be able to start planning our future events, the first of which is the OG Summer reunion on 18th September 2021.

All events can be booked online at www.wghsintouch.org.uk

OG Summer Reunion 18th September 2021 The Quad and Jubilee Hall, WGHS

OG London Dinner 12th November 2021 Café Below, Cheapside, London

Cambridge Dinner 29th January 2022 Christ’s College, Cambridge

PREVIOUS EVENTS

WGHS Development Office, WGHS Wentworth Street, Wakefield, WF1 2QS

cworsley@wgsf.net