WGS Summer Bulletin 2025

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HEAD’S LINES...

Dear Readers

Welcome to our Summer Bulletin 2025, our final bulletin of this school year in which we can read of the fantastic array of activities and achievements which have brought this exceptionally successful year in the life of our school to a very fitting and memorable close. Back at the start of term in April, the theme for this year’s Founders’ Day was ‘Memories and Milestones’ and what a very appropriate theme that has been in this, the 135th anniversary year of the school’s founding. I am sure that the school’s Founders would be very proud of Withington pupils today and of our vibrant, thriving school community in which ambition, compassion, a love of learning, and respect for self and others are the principles which inspire and guide us all in our endeavours. This term has had so many highlights, from the sheer joy and quite exceptional standard of our school shows, Annie Jr and Legally Blonde The Musical Jr, and our Sports Days which saw the very best of our Withy team spirit (not to mention a lot of very impressive talent!), to our very own WGS Model United Nations Conference with 16 visiting schools from near and far, a thought-provoking and uplifting Citizenship Day, a whole host of Careers, Enterprise and House events, enriching school trips, an Eco Green Flag Award with Distinction, and a simply outstanding PTA Summer Fair where the PTA managed to raise the bar even higher, bringing our school community a day of fun, friendship and yes, lots of sunshine too!

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What a show! This year’s school production of Legally Blonde The Musical Jr was nothing short of spectacular - it was pink, powerful, and positively unforgettable. With four dazzling performances - three evening shows and a special matinee for local primary schools - the production lit up the stage with charm, humour and high-energy brilliance.

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The Tatler Schools Guide, in one of their reviews of our school, described this energy as a ‘Withy state of mind’, whilst the Good Schools Guide, in their latest review of Withington this term, praised the girls’ ‘can-do attitude’ and described Withington as a ‘remarkable school’. Whilst plaudits are not the motivation for what we do each day, I am delighted that the sustained dedication, creativity, vision, and professionalism of the staff, governors and trustees, and the exceptional school culture and partnership with our pupils, parents, alumnae and wider community is recognised by objective outside experts in this way. We have also been shortlisted once again for the best girls’ school in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2025. And in these more challenging times, to be named the Daily Telegraph’s third Best Value School in the UK, our fourth consecutive time in the top three, is an accolade of which we are very proud.

Our term began with a celebration of the life of our school and its people with descendants of our Founders travelling from across the world to share with us the very special occasion of Founders’ Day. It was a great privilege to have them with us, just as it was to mark the milestone of the final term in the school for our Class of 2025, all outstanding young people now ready for the next stage of their lives. We look forward to keeping in touch with them as Withington alumnae and to warmly welcoming the next generation of Withington pupils who will join us in September.

In the meantime, congratulations to all on everything that has been achieved this year and my thanks to you all for your support and encouragement.

I wish you all a wonderful summer – and happy reading!

With my best regards

MRS SARAH HASLAM Headmistress

Directed by Head of Drama, Mrs Berry and Director of Music, Mrs Sargent, the show followed Elle Woods in what begins as a quest for love but quickly transforms into a journey of self-discovery, empowerment and staying true to oneself.

“ With themes of resilience, friendship and challenging stereotypes, it’s a story that encourages young people to believe in themselves and support one another – values clearly embodied by everyone involved in the production,” said Mrs Berry.

This was truly a whole-school endeavour, with students from across year groups and staff from multiple departments collaborating to bring the show to life.

“From the first rehearsal, the cast and crew poured their passion, creativity and dedication into every moment. Whether on stage or working behind the scenes, in lighting, sound, costume and stage management, their enthusiasm for storytelling was in abundance. What stands out most is the personal growth, new friendships and sheer joy that blossomed throughout the process –memories for a lifetime have been made.” added Mrs Sargent.

The matinee performance was a particular highlight. After the show, the school children had the chance to meet the cast, collect autographs, and share their favourite moments - many left inspired and starry-eyed.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who supported the production, pupils, staff, families and the wider school community. An enormous congratulations to all involved – together, you created something truly special.

With its inspiring message and seamless execution, Legally Blonde The Musical Jr proved that Withington really is the place where girls shine.

ECO SCHOOLS CELEBRATION

Members of the WGS Eco Society recently attended a celebration at Heaton Park, recognising the efforts of pupils across Greater Manchester in making their schools more sustainable.

Over 200 pupils from 14 schools across Manchester took part in the celebrations with their teachers and community leaders. The day was packed with engaging workshops and hands-on activities, as well as a poetry session, guided historical walks, eco-themed sports games and a big picnic lunch.

WGS was proud to be invited as one of just 30 schools in the region to hold a Green Flag award - a recognition of our commitment to embedding sustainability into our curriculum, school culture, and community outreach. This achievement is thanks to the dedication of our incredible Eco team.

Mrs Cotton, who leads Eco Society with Mrs Howling, was interviewed and features in the press release released by Manchester City Council.

The news that WGS’s Green Flag was renewed with distinction fittingly came soon after the group attended the event. In addition to the renewal, Manchester City Council will support the work of our Eco Society next year with funding. They said:

“Thank you on behalf of Manchester City Council and Keep Manchester Tidy for your continued and valued sustainability efforts and work towards our cleaner and greener goals; not to mention the embedding of green skills and empowerment of learner voice. We hope that you continue to deliver the Eco-Schools programme for years to come! We look forward to continuing to work with you in the future.”

BEST VALUE IN THE NORTH WEST

In the same week that the school year came to a close, we learned first that Withington has been shortlisted for the Independent Girls’ School of the Year Award in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2025 (finalists will be announced in September), and then came the news that WGS has been named the third best independent school in the UK for value for money – and the top in the North West –by The Telegraph.

The report, which assessed independent schools across the country, considered both academic performance and affordability, and for the first time this year, it reflects school facilities. The ranking highlights Withington’s exceptional academic results - 77% of A Levels awarded A or A* in 2024 - combined with some of the most affordable fees in the independent sector, even after the recent VAT changes. Withington sits just behind King Edward VI High School for Girls (Birmingham) and Queen Ethelburga’s College (York), making us the top school for value in our region. This marks our fourth consecutive year in the top tier, having previously held both first and second place.

Mrs Sarah Haslam, Headmistress, commented:

“ We are very pleased that our commitment to providing an exceptional experience at a truly competitive cost has been recognised in this analysis by The Telegraph. Our parents place great trust in us to provide academic excellence alongside a rich and varied programme of extra-curricular opportunities. We remain dedicated to fostering a stimulating learning environment, supporting our pupils’ emotional and physical wellbeing, and enriching their school experience through a wide range of activities, giving our pupils an inspiring foundation for their future lives.”

CITIZENSHIP DAY:

A CELEBRATION OF GROWTH, RESILIENCE & PURPOSE

This year’s Citizenship Day was an inspiring journey into selfdiscovery, emotional strength and the power of personal responsibility - essential tools for shaping a better world.

The day began with an energising and insightful keynote from Dr Alex Renshaw, who returned after her popular parent workshop on Resilience. With warmth and understanding, Dr Alex introduced students to two powerful frameworks: ARC (Acknowledge, Refocus, Comfort) for navigating emotional ‘defence mode’, and SOW (Spot the message, One small action, Wider view) for stepping into ‘discovery mode’. She also challenged students to reflect on the question: “What is in your hands?” - a call to recognise their own agency in the face of pressure, self-doubt and conflict. Through real-life case studies, students explored how to respond to challenges with courage and clarity.

Next came a creative and deeply personal session: the Tree of Resilience. Students designed their own symbolic trees, mapping out their roots, values and sources of strength. This reflective activity encouraged them to think about who they are, what nourishes them and the kind of citizens they aspire to be. Just like a tree, when we’re grounded and supported, we grow stronger - and eventually, we bear fruit that benefits others.

The afternoon was all about giving back. Students threw themselves into hands-on activities that brought joy, colour and community spirit to life. Some groups crafted beautiful friendship bracelets and jewellery from recycled plastic, while others ran a buzzing swap shop, promoting sustainability through the exchange of books, clothes and accessories. Year 10 added a splash of colour to the day by decorating plant pots with uplifting messages, ready to brighten homes and hearts.

Meanwhile, Year 12 students stepped into leadership roles during their Wellbeing Ambassador training. They honed their skills in active listening, peer support and mental health advocacy - preparing to be a steady, compassionate presence for younger students in the year ahead. Their dedication to the programme continues to be a cornerstone of our school’s wellbeing culture.

Citizenship Day 2025 was a celebration of reflection, creativity and connection. It empowered students to grow as individuals and as members of a wider community, ready to make a difference with empathy, resilience and purpose.

MRS JULIA JOHNSTON

EMILY SIMON LUNCH

It was a great pleasure to welcome guests for the Emily Simon Lunch in May. Attendees are members of the Withington community who have pledged to leave a gift in their will to Withington, something for which we are extremely grateful. Following welcome drinks, the guests were very impressed by a presentation from Upper II Junior School pupils who shared their favourite memories from the Junior School and what they are most looking forward to when they start Senior School in September. The pupils were outstanding ambassadors for Withington and those guests who were alumnae felt transported back to their own time here. After lunch, guests were taken on a tour of the school and one certainly enjoyed her visit to the gym, which she remembered very clearly from her own PE lessons.

CHARITY FUNDRAISING

Withington pupils and staff have been busy in the Summer term raising money for various charities and, once school exam week finished, the girls flew into action despite it being a short half term.

There were creative activities across the years. 8X raised funds by having ‘anything but a backpack day’ for UNICEF. There were some very interesting colours and storage items that Friday such as knapsacks, picnic baskets and even a mini suitcase.

7V have sponsored a guide dog this half term, raising money by selling pamper hampers for each year group. Meanwhile, 7X challenged their peers with a riddles quiz, raising £93 for their form charity, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

Ice lolly sales were especially popular during the warm weather spell. 9W capitalised on Sports Day to raise over £200 for Women for Women, which supports women in war torn countries. Food was also the theme for 9X who raised money from a chocolate tombola, raising over £198 for The Manchester Refugee Support Network.

The Gambia Team are celebrating 21 years of partnership with the Mamba Tamba Nursery School. This half term, they have been busy raising money in a variety of different ways: a large, pink hamper raffle, a stall at the PTA Summer Fair and a tuckshop at the recent MUN conference at WGS. Margot Tatton also ran a stall at her local tennis club. This flurry of activity has raised around £1,500 and brings their current total to approximately £10,000.

Staff have also had termly coffee mornings to support Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity that is close to our hearts here at WGS.

Not to forget our Junior School of course, who have raised over £4,397 by running two miles around the school field. A huge well done to the Junior School!

Throughout this term, we donated weekly to the Fallowfield and Withington Foodbank and Emmeline’s Pantry. I would like to personally thank parents and pupils for their kind donations; it has been very much appreciated as demands on foodbanks rise.

The amount of money raised this year has been a staggering total of £37,270.43, with even more still coming in and not including the PTA Summer Fair. Thank you for all your continued support. Every donation really counts and has a massive impact on all the different charities, both globally and locally, that we support. So, thank you again!

MRS NADINE MORGAN Charities Coordinator

EDGE HILL BIOLOGY

Two teams of Year 12 Olympiad. This is an annual students on their analytical rounds: ‘Help I Caught diseases based on information vectors, ‘How Hot Is My of leaves under different rainforest canopy, and deductive skills to identify students worked effectively enthusiasm, even though time. However, the day insightful tour of the the vibrant world of student

HILL BIOLOGY OLYMPIAD

biologists took part in the Edge Hill Biology annual competition run by the university that tests analytical and practical skills. They took part in three Caught it Abroad’ where they had to diagnose tropical information about symptoms and possible parasite My Plant’ in which they took temperature readings different conditions representing different levels of a and ‘Those are My Bones’ in which they used their identify animals based on just their skeleton. The effectively in their teams, showing great effort and though they didn’t come away with any prizes this day wasn’t without its highlights - we enjoyed an university campus, giving everyone a glimpse into student life.

...Orli Garnett , 12M, who recently completed the Future Leaders’ Programme through Miss Kick Foundation - a course for girls from across Greater Manchester aged 16-20 who are interested in sports coaching. On the experience, she said:

“I learnt so much, not only about how to be a good coach and help players improve at football, but also about how to be organised, responsible and engaging. I met several other girls who are interested in football, specifically how to help more girls become involved in football. On the programme, we had many CPD sessions with speakers such as the Head of Women and Girls at the Manchester Football Association. I learnt so much from them all and about the different routes football can take you. Through the programme, we found a placement for a place to coach. I chose to coach football for the younger girls at school and I was amazed at how many girls in the Juniors and across Years 7-9 came to play – many more compared to when I was their age. The programme was funded by Mitre, a sports brand. They have sponsored and paid for me to complete further coaching qualifications. I would recommend the programme to anyone who is interested in sports coaching and I look forward to developing my coaching skills in the future!”

MRS ELIZABETH CORRIGAN Head of Biology

WALL OF HONOUR: WITHINGTON’S TRIBUTE TO THE HEROES OF VE DAY VE DAY

To mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, students and staff embarked on a deeply personal and moving history project - one that reached across generations and continents to honour the lives touched by the Second World War.

Coordinated by Mrs Kate Roberts, Teacher of History, and with support from the Year 7 History Club, the digital Wall of Honour invited students to delve into their own family histories, uncovering stories of relatives who served, supported or were affected by the war. The result was a powerful exhibition, rich with artefacts, photographs and letters, capturing the human stories behind the history books.

What made the project especially poignant was its breadth. The stories reflected the global nature of the conflict. From the beaches of Normandy to the deserts of North Africa, from fighting in Greece to working as part of the Arctic convoys and serving in the Women’s Land Army, the exhibition painted a vivid mosaic of courage, sacrifice and resilience.

Alongside the digital display, a physical exhibition was curated in the Hub. Carefully preserved artefacts - medals, uniforms, flags, drawings and an assortment of paperwork were loaned by families and displayed with reverence. Each item told a story.

A big thank you to everyone who contributed to the Wall of Honour.

We also took a look back at this time.

After six years of war, and 9th of May to mark flags lined the streets people took part in parties Here at Withington, the a round of painting and transformed corridors, form rooms.’

The Sports Day on 9th for all 1,200 guests. It a fitting celebration both domestic staff, parents easily to be borne and thanksgiving was held and interior air raid shelters

The accounts of VE Day at Withington during and much-needed building Withington during wartime? to the adaptations made wartime Newsletters succeed despite these You can read all about VE Day at WGS | Withington

DAY AT WGS

back at what life was like for Withingtonians

war, a national public holiday was declared on the 8th mark Victory in Europe Day. Colourful bunting and streets of villages, towns, and cities across Britain, as parties filled with singing and dancing.

the celebrations included ‘a grand Sports Day and and decorating, which - with blue and cream paintcorridors, the dining room and kitchens, laboratories, and

9th May also featured concerts, sideshows and tea

It was described as ‘a most happy afternoon and both of the mutual helpfulness of teaching staff, parents and pupils which has made the war years more and of our thanksgiving for the ending.’ A service of held the next day and on the 17th May, the blast walls shelters had been demolished.

Day in the 1945 Newsletter offer a glimpse into life the war, highlighting the construction of shelters building refurbishments. But what was it like at wartime? From the resilience of students and staff made in response to air raids and evacuation, the capture the spirit of our school, determined to these challenges.

about the history of our school here: Withington Girls’ School

CHEMQUIZ SUCCESS

During the Summer term, a group of enthusiastic WGS Science students took part in Chemquiz 2025, a Chemistry competition held at Manchester Metropolitan University, sponsored by BASF. The event brought together schools from across Greater Manchester and featured hands-on experiments, problemsolving tasks and a fast-paced quiz. Throughout the day, students demonstrated excellent teamwork, critical thinking and precision during laboratory activities. They also tackled problemsolving challenges and competed in a high-energy quiz round that tested both knowledge and quick thinking.

We were delighted to be awarded second place out of 34 schools - an outstanding result! Congratulations to team members Imogen Polley (10X), Anushka Prasad (10X), Harshini Vijay (9X) and Trinity Yu (9W), who were fantastic ambassadors for our school. Thanks also go to Dr Richard Daniel, Senior Science Technician, for supporting our team on the day.

MR KIRK ECKERSALL Teacher of Chemistry

DENTAL DOS AND DON’TS

A group of Year 12 students visited Terra Nova School to teach oral hygiene and healthy eating to Nursery, Reception and Year 1 pupils. With the help of some extra-large props, they shared fun and practical tips on keeping teeth healthy.

The Year 12s did a fantastic job leading the lessons, which the children enthusiastically enjoyed. Feedback from Terra Nova congratulated the pupils on sessions that were not only well-planned but also engaging and informative. The impact was immediate: teeth cleaning became the talk of the afternoon and the children have been actively completing their teeth brushing chart.

Very well done to Nitika Banerjee, Faqiha Chaudhry, Zhilin Fan, Kavitha Gnanalingham, Aleeza Khan, Shira Prabahar, Sapphire Randall-Morgan & Tenesha Swarbrick.

HOLOCAUST

On Tuesday 10th June, North as part of their trip offered a powerful their understanding of Through immersive exhibits, artefacts, students explored human stories behind was brought to life later Ladenheim visited Withington why at 86, he continues Born in 1939, Marcel was control of the French was taken to Auschwitz went into hiding - a decision Marcel spoke movingly detailing the persecution badges marked ‘Juif’, reflected with emotion acknowledging that he During the war, Marcel described them as strong, care for deeply. He stayed arrived in Paris to bring

Now retired, Marcel worked At the time of his visit, wedding anniversary and five grandchildren.

Marcel told the group to share his story because remembrance and tolerance talk, there was time for thoughtful questions

Marcel explained how was very excited to return divulge which football compelling and it was

HOLOCAUST TALK

June, Year 10 pupils visited the Imperial War Museum their Religious Studies course on the Holocaust. The powerful and thought-provoking opportunity to deepen of one of history’s most significant periods. exhibits, personal testimonies and historical explored the impact of global conflict and the behind the statistics. This focus on remembrance later that day when Holocaust survivor Marcel Withington to share his experience and to explain continues to tell his story.

was just a year old when the German forces took capital. Three years later his Austrian-born father Auschwitz and along with his mother and brother, Marcel decision that saved their lives.

movingly about his childhood in Nazi-occupied Paris, persecution of Jewish people, the enforcement of identity and the role of the Drancy transit camp. He emotion on the many children who never returnedhe so easily could have been one of them. Marcel lived with two sisters, Olga and Esther. He strong, brave and bold women whom he grew to stayed with the sisters until 1948 when his aunt bring the brothers to Manchester. worked for over 40 years as a dentist in London. visit, he was looking forward to celebrating his 60th with his wife. Together, they have three children grandchildren.

group that he speaks to schools and organisations because it is reminder of the importance of tolerance and respect for others. At the end of his for interactive discussion as pupils asked several questions and some stayed behind to talk to Marcel.

how he often presents over Zoom now but that he return to Manchester - although he was unwilling to football team he supports. Marcel’s story was incredibly was a real privilege to welcome him to school.

SIMON SHINES!

In Final Assembly, Simon House picked up a haul of awards, winning the Summer Shield and the Code of Conduct Cup for the Summer term.

Introduced at the start of the year, the Conduct and Character Cup is awarded in recognition of willingness to go above and beyond for others. Each Daybook entry for behaviour that is particularly supportive of others and our whole school community gained a House point – and the House with the most points at the end of term receives the cup.

Over the course of the term, pupils competed across a variety of exciting events to earn points for the coveted Summer Shield. The contributing events included the PTA Summer Fair stalls, rounders matches, Sports Day, the Swimming Gala and House Plays. The final scores were incredibly close, with just four points separating first and second place.

Well done to all on the many ways in which everyone in our community has engaged so positively with our school values over the term.

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MINI MARATHON MOUNTAINS

Our Junior girls took part in the mini marathon event organised by the London Marathon. Over two lunchtimes, they ran two sponsored miles for The Christie. The total amount raised was an incredible £4,397.70! A representative from The Christie came into school to speak to the girls about the work they do and the impact of their efforts. Well done to all those who took part and a big thank you for all the sponsorship.

PTA AFTERNOON TEA

In April, the PTA hosted their first Afternoon Tea for Junior parents. It was a wonderful opportunity for parents to come together and enjoy being part of the Withington community. Parents were treated to a selection of beautiful cakes, scones and refreshments. The chef’s demo was fantastic and shared an easy, quick recipe that could be recreated at home. Thank you to the PTA for organising this fabulous event.

At the start of their residential they had! Immersed of the Peak District, resilience and of activities, making decisions, supporting one The highlight across Lose Hill into Castleton under a beautifully with stories renewed sense challenges both

MOUNTAINS & MEMORIES

of May, our Lower II girls embarked on residential trip to Castleton - and what a week Immersed in the stunning surroundings District, they developed teamwork, and independence through a wide range as well as building confidence in decisions, managing their belongings and one another.

highlight of the trip was a breathtaking hike Hill Ethel, followed by a scenic descent Castleton along a winding mountain path, all beautifully sunny sky. The girls returned of adventure, stronger friendships and a sense of self-belief - ready to take on new both in and out of the classroom.

LIVING HISTORY

In the week marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe, Upper II visited the Air Raid Shelters in Stockport to experience life as it was during wartime Britain. Carved into the natural sandstone cliffs, the intriguing network of underground tunnels offered the girls an insight into the realities of civilians during the Blitz.

The visit continued at Stockport Museum, where the girls fully immersed themselves in the sights, sounds and routines of 1940s Britain. They tried on period clothing, carried out household tasks using equipment of the era (with no electricity and lots of manual work!), handled pre-decimal coins and even tested out gas masks - gaining a hands-on understanding of the challenges faced by those on the home front.

As ever, the trip was invaluable in bringing the history curriculum to life, but it held particular poignancy this year as the country, and the world, honoured the lives of those who contributed to the war effort.

junior journal... SCHOOLS LINKING

This term, our Schools Linking Programme has continued to flourish, fostering meaningful connections and shared experiences between pupils from different schools.

In May, we welcomed a Year 3 class from Arden Primary School. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and curiosity as our Transition pupils hosted their guests. It was heartening to see friendships forming so naturally, with children engaging in collaborative activities and enjoying each other’s company throughout the day.

Later in the term, we also welcomed a Year 5 class from St Peter’s School. Their visit was equally vibrant, featuring a day of sports, creative selfportraits and team-building activities. The event provided a fantastic opportunity for our Lower II girls to strengthen their partnership with St Peter’s pupils, deepening the sense of community and mutual respect.

These visits are a valuable part of our curriculum, encouraging empathy, cooperation and a broader understanding of the world around us.

The Junior School during a series a team from to inspire curiosity Roadshow offered across all year Transition and 50 mathematical Upper II pupils scores. The afternoon show-style activities, Pointless, encouraging Wednesday, quite literally, activities with Their day concluded small groups challenges. These workshops understanding and collaboration thanks to the enriching experience.

MATHS ROADSHOW A TASTE OF THE PAST

School was buzzing with excitement series of engaging maths workshops led by the University of Liverpool. Designed curiosity and confidence, the Fun Maths offered hands-on challenges for pupils year groups.

and Form I began the week by tackling mathematical puzzles in pairs, supported by pupils who checked answers and recorded afternoon brought lively game activities, including Countdown and encouraging playful problem-solving. On Lower and Upper II explored Big Maths, literally, rotating through six large-scale with guidance from Year 12 volunteers. concluded with the Dragon Quiz, where groups solved a variety of reasoning

workshops not only deepened mathematical understanding but also highlighted the creativity collaboration that numbers can inspire. Our the University of Liverpool team for a truly experience.

Lower II pupils stepped back in time with a captivating visit to Tatton Park. The girls explored the grand Egerton family estate, immersing themselves in life as servants preparing for a royal visit in celebration of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee. The girls scrubbed floors, baked scones and meticulously laid the table for an elegant afternoon tea - all in anticipation of the arrival of the Prince and Princess of Wales. The immersive activities offered a vivid glimpse into domestic life in a stately home, blending historical learning with practical engagement. By the end of the day, many of our young servants were hoping to be offered a permanent position!

ECO CLUB

Our Eco Club has been hard at work this term, bringing new life to the school’s raised beds by planting pea seedlings. The girls repurposed sticks from around the school grounds to support their plants as they grow – a wonderful example of creative recycling in action. In another sustainable touch, wildflower seeds harvested from last year’s blooms have been sown, promising a vibrant display later in the season. The club also checked in on their earlier plantings of lettuce, rocket and radishes, which were sown just before the holidays. Much to their delight, the seedlings are sprouting beautifully, showing healthy signs of growth.

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ALDERLEY EDGE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Several of our talented pupils took to the stage at the prestigious Alderley Edge Music Festival, one of the UK’s leading annual events celebrating musical performance across all age groups. The festival provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their skills in a supportive yet competitive environment, and our Withington girls certainly rose to the occasion.

Among the standout performances, Davinia Lea (Upper II) impressed the adjudicators with her vocal versatility, earning second place in both the Musical Theatre and Classical Song categories. In the Junior Duet class, Mia Guo (Lower II) and Athena Lin (Form I) delivered a charming performance that secured them third place. Athena also shone in her solo performance, winning first place in the Classical Song class.

Congratulations to all who participated and helped fly the Withington flag at this year’s Alderley Edge Music Festival!

During the term, took part in the Challenge, a students in Year to learn that School achieved outstanding receiving a gold well for their look forward year. Very well Form I enjoyed local Platt Fields building’s history community. Guided children engaged insightful questions interest in the Their exemplary a credit to the

FORM I CHURCH

MATHS CHALLENGE

term, several of our Junior School pupils the prestigious Junior Mathematical national competition designed for Year 8 and below. We were delighted every participant from our Junior achieved certificate-level recognition - an accomplishment in itself, with one even gold certificate! This bodes extremely their futures as mathematicians, and we forward to seeing them do even better next well done to all of the girls!

CHURCH VISIT

enjoyed a reflective and enriching visit to the Fields Church, where they explored the history and learned about its role in the Guided by welcoming church staff, the engaged with curiosity and respect, asking questions and demonstrating a genuine the building’s significance and traditions. exemplary behaviour throughout the visit was the school.

EXPLORING THE LAKE

DISTRICT

Our Upper II girls had a wonderful time on their residential in the Lake District - they enjoyed some amazing weather and completed a whole variety of exciting activities.

The group embraced a wide range of outdoor activities, building confidence, teamwork and plenty of laughter along the way. There were adventurous challenges and moments of calm reflection, and it was fantastic to see the girls supporting one another and making the most of every opportunity.

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JUNIOR PROJECT DAY A

Junior Project Day was a fantastic celebration of creativity and collaboration, bringing together Lower and Upper II with Year 12 students! Orchestrated by a group of Year 12s with Mr Dunn, Lower II Teacher, the day offered a journey through time powered by teamwork and imagination. The Junior girls worked through several activities in a carousel: pirate boat building, Egyptian pyramids crafting, rock painting and creating time capsules that they will open in Year 12. Sixth Form students supported the younger girls throughout the day, imparting knowledge and sharing their experiences of school life beyond Junior School. It was certainly a brilliant day of learning across the ages - in every sense!

The Junior School’s production of resounding success, remarkable talent our Junior School. enthusiasm and our pupils lit brought the From the opening curtain call,

SPARKLING PRODUCTION OF ANNIE JR

School’s summer of Annie Jr was a success, showcasing the talent and dedication of School. With boundless and infectious joy, lit up the stage as they production to life. opening scene to the final the girls demonstrated

exceptional confidence, energy and creativity. Each performer had the opportunity to shine, contributing to a vibrant and polished ensemble performance that captivated the audience.

This achievement was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Music Department and staff from across the school,

and it was a joy to welcome so many parents into school to share in the excitement.

As our Year 6 girls took their final bow in the Junior School, they were applauded for performances that were nothing short of spectacular – a memorable conclusion to their journey with us in the Junior School.

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A team of eight girls competed in the AJIS Athletics tournament in June. The girls worked together brilliantly, cheering each other on during the different events.

CRICKET

A mixed Year 5 and Year 6 U11 team played in the Dynamos Cricket Competition in June. They came away with one win and two losses - one by only seven runs. It was a fun day out for the team.

A Year 6 side played away at Manchester High School for Girls and they won their fixture, making it two wins in two games for the WGS side.

TENNIS

Twelve WGS girls travelled the short distance to The Manchester Grammar School for games of mixed doubles. Everyone had a fabulous afternoon.

In June, we welcomed Manchester Harriers presented certificates their participation Country League. In the Year 5/6 overall and Cara 3/4 race Lily Betsy Buckley-Holbrow to our runners.

NETBALL

At the AJIS Netball top of their group the final after in the last minute. next fixture 5-1, schools. Well

COUNTRY ROUNDERS

welcomed Mr David Wood from Harriers and Athletics Club who certificates to four of our Junior girls for participation in the Primary Schools Cross League.

5/6 race Brontë Lowe finished first Cara McAulay finished 11th. In the Year Daley finished in joint third overall and Buckley-Holbrow finished 17th. Very well done runners.

NETBALL

Netball Tournament, our U9s finished group and just missed out on a spot in after their opponents in the semi scored minute. Undeterred, the team won their 5-1, ending the competition third of 13 Well done girls.

Three U10 teams played away at Stockport Grammar School: the A and C sides won their games, with the B team narrowly losing.

Two teams – U10 and U11 – were in action against Manchester High on the first day back at school after half term. The U10 side lost their fixture and it resulted in a draw for the U11s.

Out of 13 teams, WGS secured silver medals at the AJIS U11 Rounders Tournament. They remained unbeaten until the final against King’s School, Macclesfield’s mixed team. A fantastic performance from the girls all day!

SWIMMING

Swimming has been a highlight for many throughout the term, with lessons in full swing and culminating in the Swimming Gala.

Eight girls took part in the AJIS Swimming Competition, held at The Manchester Grammar School in May. Sixteen schools took part with lots of tough competition but the girls showed great effort and worked together incredibly well as a team. WGS were in the finals for the 50m backstroke, 100m freestyle and the 4x25 medley relay.

junior journal...

SPORTS DAY

Sports Day was a fantastic example of fun, teamwork and sunshine! Our young athletes gave it their all, whether sprinting down the track, cheering on their friends or trying something new.

The sun shone brightly and the children rose to the occasion with enthusiasm, sportsmanship and plenty of smiles. From the sprints to the sack races, every event was met with cheers and encouragement.

A huge thank you to our staff, volunteers and families for making the day so special. Very well done to all involved, and to our parent egg-andspoon race runners.

SWIMMING GALA

The Junior School Swimming Gala was a vibrant celebration of skill, determination and team spirit. Pupils from across the year groups took to the water with enthusiasm, showcasing the progress made during a term of dedicated swimming lessons. From thrilling races to supportive cheers from the poolside, the event captured the energy and camaraderie of the school community. It was wonderful to see so many pupils giving their best and encouraging one another.

JEFF SMITH MP VISIT

On Friday 9th May, we had the pleasure of welcoming Jeff Smith MP, the current serving Labour MP for Withington, to school. Jeff gave us an insight into what his roles as an MP and also a government whip entail. Being a government whip includes arranging day to day business of Parliament and ensuring that MPs vote in line with the party’s view. Having been an MP for 10 years, he has experience being in both opposition and in power and highlighted the difference this makes to his job.

After a brief introduction, it was time to open the floor! Students asked a variety of questions including political issues, his personal opinions, the workings of government and how he became an MP. We covered topics such as Reform UK, the impact social media has had on politics, his personal stance on drug policy and much more! It was interesting to see both what he could say, but also what his role prevented him from saying. Overall, it was an incredibly interesting talk, and we are very thankful to Jeff for taking time out of his busy life to come and visit us.

CAMILLE CORBETT, SASHA LEACH & ROSIE WALLIS, Year 12

FUTURE-FOCUSED

Our Year 8 and Year 10 workshop with Loudspeaker public speaking and communication. The session was packed discussions around careers, lively debate where pupils of statements. It was For Year 10, the day began to understand what makes took part in a session into what to expect from strategies to help them

JUNIOR

The Junior Trader Competition offered our Year 12 students access to a real time picking experience in environment. As WGS’s pair, Gauravi Amandakone Sanjana Bathala, attended an afternoon tea at The Hilton Hotel, hosted Duschenes of Bayfield and representatives Capital. Along with enjoying delicious array of cakes, were able to gain feedback about their winning report ask questions to further knowledge of the variety roles within Finance. Very well done!

FUTURE-FOCUSED

10 pupils took part in an energetic and inspiring Loudspeaker Live, centred on building confidence in communication. packed with interactive games, thought-provoking careers, interviews, and hiring practices, and a pupils passionately argued for and against a range was a highly rewarding and practical experience! began with an engaging CV workshop, helping them makes an application stand out. Meanwhile, Year 12 session on assessment centres, gaining valuable insights from the process, along with practical tips and them succeed.

JUNIOR TRADER COMP

Competition students stock in a team WGS’s winning Amandakone and attended The by Marc Bayfield Capital from Zeus enjoying a cakes, they feedback report and further their variety of

CHOIR IN THE COMMUNITY

The WGS Dance Competition at the end of last term brought energy, excitement and a powerful purpose, raising funds for both Family Fund and Downing House, a local care home in Withington. As part of the initiative, a group of Year 12 students visited Downing House to personally connect with the residents and share the impact of their fundraising efforts.

During the visit, students enjoyed heartfelt conversations with residents and treated them to a beautiful performance by members of the school choir. The visit was filled with smiles, music and meaningful moments. Well done to all involved!

MEMORIES & MILESTONES

CELEBRATING WITHINGTON’S 100 TH

“Our founders chose for their school the motto ‘Ad Lucem’, towards the light – and through the endeavours of all in our community, our school continues to flourish and shine as a beacon of excellence for all of our pupils today in 2025, as it has done for 135 years.”

Mrs Sarah Haslam, Headmistress

Withington’s 100th Founders’ Day commemoration was a joyous, uplifting occasion held at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall before an audience that on this special centenary anniversary included descendants of the school’s visionary founders.

Fourteen relatives representing the families of WGS founders Louisa Lejeune, Emily and Henry Simon, C.P. Scott and Adolphus Ward had travelled from as far away as Canada, the United States, Italy, and from across the UK, to join the Withington community on 28th April in marking both the school’s foundation 135 years ago and its first ever Founders’ Day in 1925.

This year’s theme was fittingly Memories and Milestones as pupils, parents, staff, governors, trustees and invited guests – including the new High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mr Martin Ainscough – gathered together to remember our founders whose powerful legacy lives on in Withington’s ethos today.

“The character and values they wished for their school run as a golden thread from 1890 to the present day.” Mrs Haslam, Headmistress

During an afternoon of inspirational speeches, poignant readings and wonderful musical performances, Withington’s pupils past and present were celebrated too. With the traditional presentation of books and a moving speech delivered by current Head Girl Arabella Nawaz, there was a fond farewell to our outgoing Upper Sixth who have contributed so much to school life. Alumnae were recognised in our Ad Lucem Awards presentations – and our Founders’ Day guest speaker was one of our worthy Ad Lucem award recipients, Class of 1979 alumna and Wimbledon’s first female Championship Referee, Denise Parnell.

In keeping with the event’s historic theme, a video montage showcased WGS in action over the years, contrasting then and now with compelling archive photography. And two Year 12 pupils read extracts from Withington’s 1925 Newsletter which captured highlights from that inaugural Founders’ Day.

Each of the speakers, Chair of Governors Mr Malcolm Pike, WGS Headmistress Mrs Haslam, alumna Denise Parnell and Head Girl Arabella, spoke of the values and principles embedded in our founders’ original vision for the school, which have shaped Withington into the ‘extraordinary place of learning that it is today’ (Denise Parnell).

Opening the event, Mr Pike paid tribute to the eminent Manchester families whose ‘strength, courage and determination’ saw their aspirations for equal educational opportunities for girls become a reality with the opening of WGS in 1890; ‘a school dedicated to achieving not just academic success in which it more than excels, but importantly education in its wider sense.’ “Throughout its history the school has always remained true to its founders’ vision. It is a community where respect for oneself and for others and taking personal responsibility are core values. It’s a community which encourages and fosters resilience, and which generates real determination to succeed, qualities we have seen in abundance across the school once again this year.”

Malcolm Pike, Chair of Governors

In her speech, Mrs Haslam spoke of her pride in the school and pointed to recent achievements including national recognition by the Sunday Times who, for the sixth consecutive year, named WGS as the North West’s top independent school for academic excellence; and by the Daily Telegraph for the third year running as one of their top schools nationally for value for money. There were also positive reviews by Tatler, the Good Schools Guide, and the recent Independent Schools Inspectorate report, which described Withington as a place of ‘respect and inclusivity’

MILESTONES FOUNDERS’ DAY

where thanks to the ‘in-depth knowledge’ of the staff, our pupils ‘demonstrate high degrees of self-motivation’.

“ We are proud of what this school and its people, based on the vision of our founders, sustain and make possible for our pupils; a supportive, inspiring, empowering education which will serve as a strong foundation and compass throughout their lives.” Mrs Haslam, Headmistress

Guest speaker Denise Parnell – who presented each of our Class of 2025 with their book of choice – drew on similarities between the lauded Wimbledon Way and the way at Withington.

“ Withington has helped mould my life and my career. At Wimbledon we have a set of principles which all of us that are involved in the championships try very hard to put into practice in our everyday work. Those principles are Heritage, Integrity, Respect and Excellence. And those principles, whether you realise it or not, will have been or are being instilled into you at Withington.” Denise Parnell

And to WGS pupils, Denise Parnell had a final message:

“Be big and brave and be true to yourselves. Ad Lucem.”

The final speech of the day was from Head Girl Arabella who addressed the auditorium but, in particular, her peer cohort, expressing her gratitude for their true friendship, their kindness, humour and honesty and for the memories and milestones they had shared throughout their unforgettable seven-year Withington journey together.

“Although the world beyond Withington feels uncertain, I take comfort in knowing that we are more than prepared for whatever comes next. Because if there’s one thing Withington girls do well it’s facing the unknown with determination, curiosity... and the occasional dance routine.”

Arabella Nawaz, Head Girl

Arabella also spoke of the wealth of extracurricular she had embraced during her time at the school. “I’ve had the freedom to throw myself into the things I love – whether that was teaching Latin at a local primary school, playing netball and lacrosse or attending SciSoc, Hepsoc, PhilSoc, PsychSoc or Medsoc. Put it this way, if there was a ‘soc’ at the end of it, I probably signed up. But that’s exactly what makes Withington so special. The sheer range of opportunities means that the best thing you can do is take full advantage of them.”

To the school’s Governors and Senior Leadership Team, Arabella added:

“Thank you for sustaining the legacy of respect, ambition and support that our founders envisaged 135 years ago when they dared to believe that girls deserved the same standard of education as boys.”

As always, Withington’s talented musicians and choristers made an impressive contribution. This year’s performances featured a composition inspired by Emily Dickinson’s poem Hope is the thing with feathers, written by Year 12 pupil Emily Edge for her GCSE Music exam. Emily adapted the piece into an ensemble arrangement especially for Founders’ Day, performing it as a duet with Year 13 pupil, Meira Narayan. Meira also shone as a soloist in the choir and orchestra’s vibrant medley of songs from Wicked, delivering a powerful rendition of Defying Gravity.

Readings were Black Cherries, a poem by W.S Merwin delivered by Year 10 pupil Sadie Horwich and 1925 Newsletter extracts were read by Year 12 students Amy Hueting and Olivia Sawney.

FOUNDERS’ FAMILIES JOIN WITHINGTON’S 100TH

FOUNDERS’ DAY COMMEMORATION

Withington was delighted to welcome 14 very special guests to our recent 100th Founders’ Day commemoration as a group of our founders’ descendants travelled from far and wide to join our centenary celebration.

Relatives of WGS founders Louisa Lejeune, Henry and Emily Simon, C.P. Scott and Adolphus Ward attended the event at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall from Canada, the United States and Italy, and from across the UK, to mark this significant milestone in our school’s history.

For the Withington community, it was an honour to host representatives from four of our founding families as we paid tribute to their inspirational ancestors who, 135 years ago, had been a pioneering force in creating equality of education for girls in the area, and whom we have remembered annually at Founders’ Day since its introduction to the school calendar in 1925.

A reception ahead of the event, held on Monday 28th April, gave our guest families the opportunity to meet each other and to share stories of their own personal connections with the school. They were also able to speak with Withington staff and Governors and enjoyed browsing through historic archive artefacts including the Founders’ Day red book which has been signed by every guest speaker since 1946.

Afterwards, they made their way to the Bridgewater Hall’s impressive auditorium where they joined our school community in formally remembering our founders through a programme of speeches, readings and musical performances under this year’s theme of Memories and Milestones.

In welcoming our descendants’ families, Headmistress Mrs Haslam described their ancestors as ‘inspiring people who had the courage and commitment to create new opportunities and to nurture a love of learning in a vibrant community... with the character and values they wished for their school, running as a golden thread from 1890 to the present day.’

Following the event, our guests – 10 members of the Chambers family (Louisa Lejeune), Simon and Caroline Barnes (Adolphus Ward), Andrew Simon (Emily and Henry Simon) and Paddy Montague (C.P. Scott) - spoke with warmth of their Founders’ Day experience, the valuable insights they had gained into Withington life and their pride at the legacy left by their ancestors, which is still very much embedded into the school’s ethos and values today.

Louisa Lejeune was represented at Founders’ Day by her great-grandsons Russell and Derek Chambers and a multi-generational group of other family members including their own children and grandchildren, who had all travelled from Canada, the US and Italy to join the commemoration.

Lea Chambers Volpe, Louisa’s great-greatgranddaughter and one of approximately 70 of her direct descendants located across the world, said:

“The descendants of Louisa Lejeune are honoured to have attended the 100th Founders’ Day event and witnessed the extraordinary quality of the students, staff and wards of this incredible school. We treasure our connection with what Louisa Lejeune and the other founders started in 1890.”

With the help of WGS archivist Hannah Brown, the family have meticulously researched their Withington links, dating back to Louisa’s involvement in the school’s foundation, including attendance in the early WGS years by Louisa’s five daughters, and later, her granddaughters.

The family have been so inspired by their findings, they have set up their own website page laying out the Lejeune/WGS timeline from 1889 to 1921, along with a selection of memorabilia including old school photographs. “Our connection with Withington has become a galvanizing force in our global family who can be found in Canada, the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom. We are excited to continue our involvement for generations to come,” said Lea.

Adolphus Ward’s great-grandson, Simon Barnes, was accompanied to Founders’ Day by his wife Caroline. Simon’s grandmother Adelaide was Adolphus Ward’s daughter, and also one of Withington’s first pupils. She went on to marry Ernest W Barnes who became the Bishop of Birmingham. Together, the couple built an enduring connection with WGS which continued for some years, including Adelaide’s presence at Founders’ Day in 1946 at which she was guest speaker and the first signatory of our red book. Simon recalled that his grandmother spoke fondly of her Withington memories and how she had always cherished her WGS artefacts. He was able to bring along to Founders’ Day a diary with entries by Professor Ward and his wife during the years their daughter had been a pupil at the school in the late 1890s. He also shared with the Lejeune descendants an original 1898 Withington programme that had featured two of Louisa’s daughters in a performance of The Tempest.

Simon and his wife, who had travelled from Dorset for the event, had planned an extended visit to retrace their Ward ancestors’ footsteps in and around the Manchester area. By chance, Simon found accommodation at Ladybarn Road, close to Withington, which as it turned out, was located in the former home of the Wards and the house in which his grandmother had been born. “It was immense fun to find ourselves, with the school’s invitation opening the opportunity, playing ‘grandmother’s footsteps’ along the byways of Fallowfield, Withington and Rusholme, visiting the church where my infant great uncle’s death is memorialised with a window and, above all of course, staying at the Wards’ Ladybarn Road house.

We were very grateful for having been asked to such a historic and happy oncea-century celebration. No one could fail to note the strongly confident mood with which Withington’s young women would be moving on from this marvellously marshalled musical commemoration,” he said. “And the style and variety of the Upper Sixth’s dazzling gowns was impressive. ‘Where Girls Shine’, indeed.”

Henry and Emily Simon, whose three daughters all attended WGS, were represented by greatgrandson Andrew Simon.

Henry and Emily’s involvement at the very beginning of WGS, along with their other

philanthropic work, is recorded in a recentlypublished book, The Simons of Manchester. Andrew says that he has been aware of the family’s link to the school for most of his life and “it is a source of much pride that Withington continues to be probably the very best school in the North of England.”

Andrew grew up in Alderley Edge and remembers as a young boy visiting Lawnhurst, which had been his great-grandparents’ home in Didsbury and a place where the Withington connection had continued during the latter part of the Great War. By 1916, Emily had handed over Lawnhurst on loan to the Red Cross for use as a hospital for wounded soldiers - and according to the school’s archive records, throughout the remainder of the war years, WGS made monthly donations to support a bed there.

Andrew added “I was greatly honoured to be invited to this year’s Founders’ Day celebration. My great-grandparents and their fellow founders were remarkable people. They achieved much in a wide variety of spheres for the benefit of their fellow citizens. It is good that Withington Girls’ School continues to honour their memory and the values they sought to instil.

“It was a most impressive event in so many ways, perhaps most of all seeing this year’s leavers processing across the platform to be given their Leavers’ Books. The Head Girl Arabella’s speech was outstanding. I am sure she and her fellow leavers will go far. The readings and musical performances were splendid and Denise Parnell was a particularly inspiring guest speaker.”

In later generations of the family, Henry and Emily Simon’s daughter-in-law Shena, wife of Ernest Simon, was much involved in education as a member of the City’s Education Committee; and their son Brian was Professor of Education at Leicester University and a leading proponent of comprehensive education. Andrew’s father was for many years a governor at Cheadle Hulme School and on the Council of the University of Manchester.

Attending the event to represent the family of Charles Prestwich (C.P.) Scott was his greatgrandson Paddy Montague, who now lives in Solihull. In his annual Recital of Founders, Withington’s current Chair of Governors Mr Malcolm Pike, said that Mr Scott, Editor of the Manchester Guardian at just 25 years old, was

one of the school’s founding governors in 1890, ‘retaining this office after he had resigned every other; loving truth, duty and the exercise of reason Charles Scott and his wife Rachel wished for the school knowledge through difficulty rather than success through ease.’

The Scott’s connections with Withington continued for more than 60 years, from the school’s foundation through to the 1950s. Paddy explained:

“My grandmother was Maddy Scott – C.P. and Rachel’s only daughter. Her two daughtersRose and Rachel - both attended WGS and so did my three sisters – Isabella (known as Bella), Rosa and Meg. We lived in Heaton Road from the late 1930s. I have very vivid memories of WGS in the 40s and 50s under Miss Bain. These include the fathers’ cricket match and us collecting each year the school Christmas tree and carrying it home through Withington.”

C.P. and Rachel Scott’s commitment to education has prevailed throughout the family line, with Paddy noting:

“All but one of my aunts and uncles went to university and the one who didn’t founded her own prep school in Oxford. I was surrounded by very strong women. The family now has six generations of university-educated women - and it all started with Rachel Cook and C.P. Scott!”

“ The Founders’ Day event was very, very special. It is difficult to express adequately

my appreciation for the invitation to attend and meet the bevy of descendants of the founding families. It was wonderful to be at the celebration and to see first-hand the excellent job all of you at the school do to give women opportunities in life. Thank you all. It was lovely also to see the leavers receive their books all dressed up - young woman ready to face the trials, the challenges, the tribulations and the joy of setting out into the wider world,” he said.

Of Caroline Herford, Mr Pike told how she had been the first secretary of Withington and in whose home the decision to found the school was originally taken. Uniquely amongst the WGS founders, Caroline had no daughters herself. As then headmistress of Lady Barn House School, however, and seeking a suitable next stage for her female prep pupils, alongside WGS’ other founders, she was a passionate advocate for a progressive girls-only senior school in Manchester.

According to the Lejeune/Chambers’ family records, within 11 weeks of that first founders’ meeting, sufficient funds had been raised, premises were acquired and Withington’s first headmistress was appointed. Caroline Herford then went on to teach Biology at the school and from just four pupils when WGS opened its doors in April 1890, Withington’s cohort has now grown to over 750, with one in six today benefitting from our school’s ethos of inclusivity and diversity via means-tested bursaries.

BERLIN BOUND

Eleven Withington pupils from Year 8 and Year 9 skipped the final assembly of the school year on Thursday 3rd July. This otherwise reprehensible behaviour didn’t however incur a negative Daybook entry, as it was in a worthy cause: the pupils, Herr Eccles, our excellent trip leader Frau Siddons and I had excused ourselves in order to make it to Manchester Airport in time for the flight to Berlin (and thank you to Mr Bean for driving us!).

We spent the next three days getting to know Germany’s enchanting and sprawling capital via a very packed programme of activities. This began the next morning after a delicious hotel buffet breakfast, when we met Beth, our wonderful and engaging guide on a walking tour revealing to us the history and lasting significance of the Brandenburg Gate, the overwhelming and thought-provoking Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted under Nazism, as well as two huge artworks exploring the same key moment in the national life of the German

Democratic Republic from two ideologically different perspectives.

The pupils were spellbound as Beth recounted a thrilling real-life tale of a zip-wire escape over the Berlin Wall by an East German government official and his family. Lunchtime was an opportunity for pupils to try out their German as they purchased appetising sandwiches, rolls and snacks, typically on fresh crusty bread, and filled with German or Swiss cheese or sliced meats. Food remained the pupils’ focus on Friday afternoon as they took part in the Ritter Sport Chocolate Experience, designing and producing their own original chocolate creations. Many pledged to bring said chocolate home for siblings and family, but I’m not sure how many squares eventually made it back to the UK without being nibbled at or devoured by the pupils themselves! The afternoon was rounded off with a visit to the Spy Museum where pupils got to attempt an escape from a room crisscrossed by security lasers. Germany is the home of the hamburger and it was only appropriate that we sampled some of this ubiquitous staple on historical Friedrichstraße on Friday evening.

Saturday found our party taking a deeper dive into Berlin’s history with a fascinating visit to the city’s brand new interactive

HERR CUMBERFORD Head of German

Deutschlandmuseum. Many pupils were surprised to learn that ‘Germany’ has only existed since 1871, although the museum expertly and entertainingly explained the nearly two millennia of context leading to the Empire’s inception, from the first-century victories of the Germanic tribes in skirmishes with the occupying Romans, through tales of medieval kings and queens and their dashing knights, to the leading figures of the Enlightenment and the rise of Prussia as a military and economic powerhouse. Fun exhibits coaxed students into contrasting living rooms from the post-World-War II era of the divided Germanies, namely the consumerist West and the communist East.

After a lunch selected by the pupils from the mind-bogglingly varied selection of food outlets in the Mall of Berlin, we then headed to the heart of the former Soviet sector in Alexanderplatz for a dizzying trip to the top of Berlin’s iconic Television Tower, where, from a height of 368m, we enjoyed a stunning panoramic view of the German capital. We rounded off the second day of our visit with some hearty traditional Bavarian fare (perhaps not the right region but still German!) at the Hopfingerbräu restaurant.

The final (official) day of the visit brought further adventures, with a morning tour of the Reichstag, very ably and sensitively led by tour guide Ruth,

allowing the girls to sit in the Parliamentary chamber and to get a sense of democracy in action. The pupils then made their way up the gently spiralling ramp to the top of the huge Norman Foster-designed glass dome which sits atop the building. Sunday afternoon was an opportunity for the girls to get up close to Lena and Lotti, the two adorable young giant panda twins who were born to mother Meng Meng in Berlin Zoo last September.

We had expected to be heading for home on Sunday evening, and we dutifully made our way (on the lovely double-decker FEX train) to the airport and had already cleared security when it was announced that EasyJet had cancelled our flight back to Manchester. At this moment Frau Siddons, Herr Eccles, and not least our Withy girls proved how well they can cope in a ‘crisis’. The pupils were so patient as they waited as details coalesced of a new plan to fly us home a different way. We cannot underestimate the hard work done by Dr Madden in bringing such a contingency into being and for helping to secure our seats on a flight to London City Airport on Monday afternoon, as well as finding a bus to deliver us back to the waiting parents at school. Berlin 2025 was an unforgettable trip, and a unique insight into German history and culture for all who attended.

SPORTS DAY

Sports Day 2025 was a show of sheer joy and community spirit!

The field was alive with colour, camaraderie and just the right amount of friendly competition as pupils (and staff) put their all into field and track events. The day kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony, followed by mood-boosting dancing and team-building games - setting the perfect tone for an afternoon full of sport, friendship and fun.

Years 7 and 8 were first on the track, competing in sprints, and long-distance runs, before moving onto a series of fun activities and novelty races, such as the sack race, egg-andspoon race, skipping race and beanbag race. Field events included high jump, long jump, triple jump, shot put, discus and javelin. Once everyone had finished their activities, it was time for the Mile Cup and relay races – including the much-anticipated staff relay.

The Junior girls really got behind Senior Sports Day! There were lovely sights of girls across the years coming together, learning chants and dance routines to cheer on those competing on the track in true Withington style.

Congratulations go to Wei Ann Ho, Year 7, for finishing first in the Mile Cup and to Emilia Cichocki, Year 9, who set a new record in the javelin. Herford were this year’s champions.

A LEGACY REKINDLED: THE LOUISA LEJEUNE BURSARY

We are proud to announce the launch of the Louisa Lejeune Legacy Fund, established in honour of Jane Louisa Lejeune, one of Withington Girls’ School’s founders and longest serving governor.

Louisa’s extraordinary 47-year commitment to our school helped shape its early success and instilled values that continue to guide us today. Her legacy now lives on through this new bursary fund, created to widen access to a Withington education for generations to come.

The fund was officially inaugurated in April 2025, with members of the Lejeune family travelling from the United States, Canada and Europe to mark the occasion. During the signing ceremony, Francesca joined virtually from Australia, connecting with both her family and the Withington community. Their visit also included a guided tour of the campus, an exploration of the school archives and meeting the Lejeune House Captains.

The Louisa Lejeune Legacy Fund will support a means-tested bursary, with recipients becoming members of Lejeune House - a fitting tribute to Louisa’s lasting influence. The family’s aspiration is to grow the fund over time, with the ultimate goal of supporting the bursary in perpetuity.

We are deeply grateful to the Lejeune family for their vision and generosity. If you would like to support the Louisa Lejeune Legacy Fund or learn more about its impact, please contact the Development Team at development@wgs.org.

Dof E

This Summer term, 73 boots and took on the Award expeditions - and

The adventure began Saturday 10th May. With camped overnight at days, the group worked communication and navigation, This took place on Sunday breathtaking Hope Valley. approximately 12 kilometres winding trails under clear at Pindale Farm offered campfire stories and Throughout both expeditions, teamwork and perseverance, presented by the expedition. adjust their backpack collaborative spirit shone Overall, the expeditions determination and collaborative

Teacher

E BRONZE

73 spirited Year 9 students laced up their hiking the challenge of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze and what a journey it was!

began with a practice expedition from Friday 9th to With tents pitched and spirits high, students the scenic Borwick Hall. During the two worked in teams and developed key skills such as navigation, ready to face the qualifying expedition.

Sunday 29th and Monday 30th June in the Valley. Over two days, participants trekked kilometres each day, navigating rolling hills and clear skies and sunshine. Their overnight base offered a well-earned rest and a chance to bond over shared achievements.

expeditions, students displayed exceptional perseverance, rising admirably to the challenges expedition. Whether it was helping a teammate backpack or finding the best route through the valley, their shone brightly.

expeditions were a great success, reflecting the students’ collaborative spirit. Congratulations to all who took part!

MS ALEX KUSZNIR Teacher of Mathematics & DofE Bronze Award Coordinator

Dof E THRIVES AT WGS

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme has continued to thrive this year. We have now completed five of the six expeditions, with the Gold Award expeditions visiting the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, the Silver Award practice expedition to the Lancashire hills, and the Bronze Award expeditions in Lancashire and the Hope Valley. The Silver qualifying expedition will take place at the start of the new year in September.

We congratulate all of the participants for the time committed not just to the expeditions but also to the volunteering, physical and skills section of the award. Pupils spend at least one hour per week on each of these activities for time periods ranging from three months at bronze level to 12 months in the Gold Award.

DofE recognise that the WGS pupils spent 2,561 hours volunteering between Easter 2024 and Easter 2025 which is particularly impressive and is an enormous commitment to our community projects.

DR SUE MADDEN Assistant Head

Providing opportunities for girls with potential to attend Withington, irrespective of financial circumstances, is an important part of our ethos here at Withington. ‘Memories & Milestones’, building on the theme of this year’s Founders’ Day celebration, aims to ensure that we can continue to support one-in-six Senior School pupils.

Our aim is to make a tangible difference to all our pupils but we know that for some students the opportunity to attend Withington is truly life-changing. Haleema, a Sixth Form Bursary Ambassador, describes for you in her own words the very real difference your support makes.

‘Each day has been a new and exciting adventure for me... Withington has given me lifelong memories that will stay close to me no matter what.’

We are very grateful to the anonymous donors who have agreed to match the first £14,910 given. This will provide the equivalent funds for two full bursaries for a year.

‘ We are proud to have had the chance to support Withingon’s bursary programme by contributing match funding for the Memories and Milestones campaign. As parents, we’ve experienced first-hand the impact that attending Withington can have – not only through academic opportunities but in the lasting memories being created through everything the school provides. This is an opportunity for us to support other families who, like us, simply want the very best education possible for their daughters.’

We fully understand if you feel unable to donate at this time, but if you would like to help another young girl to follow in your daughter’s footsteps and create her own Withington memories, you can find out more and

This has been another at Withington. And, in and 16th annual Model Saturday 28th June. We welcomed 16 schools participants brought with global affairs. The conference from Madeline Garlick, the United Nations High offered a compelling insight UNHCR, setting the tone engagement. From tackling global crises future, delegates demonstrated and leadership. The event international awareness.

Our own main innovation preparatory sessions Hueting. Attendance of year and pupils have been leadership, research, public Over the course of the conferences and what at MUN in Cheadle Hulme School for Girls in February, School for Girls in January, Better still, we won two competition: these were own Twilight Conference year full of accomplishments. walking in another’s shoes with everyone’s involvement.

INNOVATION

another

busy and innovative year for Model United Nations fact, ‘Innovation’ was the theme of our most recent Model United Nations conference, held here in school on schools from across the North West and beyond, and with them energy, enthusiasm and a passion for conference began on a high note with a keynote address Garlick, Chief of Protection Policy and Legal Advice at High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Madeline insight into her role and the work undertaken by the tone for a day of thoughtful debate and diplomatic

crises to proposing innovative solutions for the demonstrated impressive knowledge, collaboration event was a true celebration of youth diplomacy and awareness.

innovation this year has been running special MUN for Year 7, created and led by Year 12 student, Amy of these sessions has been strong throughout the been encouraged and supported to develop skills in public speaking and problem solving.

the year, our pupils have been involved in a number of a successful year it has been. From a strong showing Hulme School back in October, at Manchester High February, and a silver placing at Altrincham Grammar January, our delegates have consistently impressed. two conferences outright, despite some very stiff were at MGS and Shrewsbury School. Add to this our Conference at the end of March and you have a very packed accomplishments. These skills in research, debating and shoes are so important and we are really delighted involvement. Very well done.

INTERMEDIATE BIOLOGY OLYMPIAD

At the start of June, Year 12 biologists were given the opportunity to take part in the annual Intermediate Biology Olympiad. This is an international competition open to all students in the first year of A Level study that is run by the Royal Society of Biology and UK Biology Competitions, and this year over 17,000 students took part.

The competition tests students’ biology knowledge and consists of a one-hour multiple choice paper with questions on topics likely to have been studied at GCSE and in their first year of A Level. Some additional ideas were introduced in questions which required students to use their problem-solving skills and understanding of core principles. We are thrilled that many of our students have been awarded medals and certificates, with eight students awarded Bronze, five Silver and a special mention to Karinne Leong who placed in the top 5% of all competitors and achieved a Gold award.

Gold: Karinne Leong

Silver:

Nitika Banerjee, Zhilin Fan, Maisa Farrukh, Amy Hueting & Hannah Lam

Bronze:

Anya Borland, Layli Brookshaw, Chloe Leung, Cara Mooney, Henny Peach, Shira Prabahar, Isha Reddy & Tara Sumra

Highly Commended:

Alyssa Bhatti, Yasmin Duncalf & Nanaki Singh

Commended: Sofia Dhawahir-Scala

YOUNG ENTERPRISE

Our Year 12 Young Enterprise team, Ayana Books, have had a fantastic year. Having worked hard to write and illustrate a children’s story that encouraged young children to develop a passion for the outdoors and nature, they have developed a huge range of skills. They now understand the publishing process and how to market their book online, as well as how to sell their product and present their company to others. They have been proactive in creating opportunities to sell their product through conversations with local bookstores and primary schools. With the support of our YE sponsor, they know more about merchandising opportunities and how they could develop their company in the future. They had a few hurdles, as any business does, but they have tackled these challenges with good humour and a ‘cando’ attitude.

Over the year, the team won many competitions, including the National YE Skills competition, the Judges Award at the Trafford Centre trade fair and the Greater Manchester round of the main competition. They came second in the YE slogan competition and gained the ‘Best Presentation’ award at the North West final this term. They can be rightly proud of their achievements, with all those who have bought the book being so impressed with it. The Young Enterprise mantra of ‘Learn by Doing’ certainly rings true for this team - very well done to all.

YEAR 12

The day began with a statements, led by a Students explored how aspirations in a way that Students then worked interview skills workshop, how to present themselves an insightful talk on different possibilities, encouraging and, setting up their – an exciting first step future careers.

A huge well done to all throughout the day.

12 FUTURES DAY

a session on crafting compelling personal representative from the University of Nottingham. how to showcase their strengths, experiences and that stands out.

worked through different activities: a hands-on workshop, helping students build confidence and learn themselves effectively in high-pressure situations; different career pathways which opened up new encouraging students to think broadly about their futures; UCAS accounts and beginning their applications step on their journey toward higher education and

all our students for their enthusiasm and focus

FRENCH CREATIVE WRITING COMP...

Year 12 student Vivian Tran was awarded third place in the high school category of the Durham University’s School of Modern Languages and Cultures and The Centre for Foreign Language Study creative writing contest, in conjunction with Royal Holloway University and St Andrews University. Students were tasked with writing a text in French on the theme of ‘la justice’.

The judges said:

“ Your text deeply moved the jury. You handled an extremely traumatic subject with remarkable lyrical power and emotional depth. The voice you created is haunting, poetic and painfully human – a brave and unforgettable piece.”

Many congratulations to Vivian whose piece will be published alongside the other winning texts in September.

MISS LISA HEGARTY Head of MFL

INSPIRING INNOVATION: HMC TEACHING AND LEARNING SUMMER CONFERENCE AT WITHINGTON GIRLS’

Withington Girls’ School was delighted to host a Teaching and Learning Summer Conference, offering educators from across the UK an occasion to come together in their shared commitment to excellence in education. Coordinated by Assistant Head Academic, Mrs Esther Suttle, the event welcomed representatives from a distinguished group of schools, all members of The Heads’ Conference (HMC): Bancroft’s School, Cheadle Hulme School, City of London School, Guildford High School, Haberdashers’ Boys’ School, Haberdashers’ Girls’ School, James Allen’s Girls’ School (JAGS), Norwich School, South Hampstead High School, Solihull School, St Albans High School, The King’s School Chester, The Perse School, and Yarm School.

The conference opened with opportunities for in-depth discussion. The group participants engaged in a series of workshops and roundtable discussions focused on two central questions: ‘How do school leaders measure the impact of Teaching and Learning initiatives?’ and ‘How do school leaders make Teaching and Learning a significant strength for ISI inspections?’.

Delegates shared strategies for evaluating the effectiveness of pedagogical innovations, including the use of student voice, lesson observation frameworks and data-driven approaches to track progress and outcomes. Conversations highlighted the importance of embedding a culture of continuous professional development, fostering reflective practice and ensuring that teaching and learning priorities are clearly articulated and evidenced across the school. Attendees discussed how to showcase these strengths effectively during inspections, with a focus on impact, coherence, and innovation.

A compelling keynote address by Gareth Conyard was a highlight for attendees. A nationally respected voice in education and leadership,

Gareth’s talk focused on the evolving landscape of teaching and learning, the importance of professional collaboration, and the role of schools in preparing students for a rapidly changing world. His insights sparked lively discussion and concluded what was a day of meaningful engagement.

The atmosphere throughout the day was one of collaboration, curiosity, and shared purpose. Educators left the event with fresh ideas, renewed energy and a deeper sense of connection with colleagues across the sector. Feedback shared after the event very much reflected this sentiment:

“I just wanted to say thank you for a seriously interesting day of discussions. The great choice and delivery of every one of your speakers made it an inspiring and thought-provoking day.”

INNOVATION: SUMMER GIRLS’ SCHOOL

“I took an awful lot away to think about and in many cases it validated actions that we had in mind, so gives us more confidence to go with these.”

“I made plenty of notes and took away some great ideas to mull over.”

“ Thank you so much for all your work in organising such a great meeting. It really helps me build confidence in my role when I meet my counterparts from other schools and talk through issues that we all care about. And I learnt so much!”

“ Thank you very much for organising the Teaching & Learning Conference. It was incredibly useful, and I came away with lots of great and fresh ideas that I look forward to sharing with my team. I really appreciate being given the opportunity to attend.”

JUNIOR MATHEMATICAL CHALLENGE

In May, all pupils in Year 7 and Year 8 took the Junior Mathematical Challenge. From Year 7, 33 achieved bronze certificates, 19 silver and five gold. From Year 8, 20 received bronze certificates, 23 silver and 17 gold. Congratulations to all certificate winners for their excellent mathematical problem solving.

Year 7 Gold Certificates are as follows: Anna Crawley, Faye Lau, Tara Sabeti, Ella Tsang & Enze Yuan (best in school).

Year 8 Gold Certificates are as follows: Aafreen Bux, Ciara Cheung, Nithila Chidambaram, Yin Ching Lo, Leah Dev, Tala Elamin, Shaymaa Elbey, Safa Haque, Millie Huang (best in year), Ryanna Hung, Hamna Khan, Inaaya Mahmood, Skyli Mirihanage, Jessica Morris, Lena Poole, Anooshay Tariq & Runyi Zhou

In addition, extra congratulations go to our top scorers who qualified for the follow-on Junior Kangaroo round, which they sat on Tuesday 10th June. Well done to Aafreen, Enze, Inaaya, Jessica, Millie, Ryanna, Runyi, Shaymaa, Skyli & Tara. We look forward to hearing further excellent results!

MRS ROSEMARY STATTER Teacher of Mathematics

DRAMA

PLAY IN A DAY

MRS LUCY BERRY Head of Drama

Following an exceptionally busy fortnight featuring LAMDA exams and showcases, Citizenship Day, and our school production of Legally Blonde The Musical Jr, we were thrilled to celebrate the creativity and talent of our Year 7 and Year 12 students in the annual House ‘Play in a Day’ competition.

This year’s theme, ‘Music with a Message’, invited students to use one of the following songs as a creative stimulus: Count on Me by Bruno Mars, Hall of Fame by The Script ft. will.i.am, Fight Song by Rachel Platten and True Colors by Cyndi Lauper.

Plays were written by our talented Year 12 students, who spent the morning of Tuesday 1st July, working intensively with Year 7 to direct, block and rehearse their pieces. The results were shared in front of the whole school in the Arts Centre that afternoon.

Our Year 7 actors rose brilliantly to the challenge learning lines, rehearsing cues and bringing their characters to life. Meanwhile, the Year 12 students demonstrated leadership and theatrical flair in directing to an exceptionally high standard. Students were also responsible for managing the technical aspects of each performance, including sound and lighting. They had previously received guidance from with Mr Walsh, Performing Arts Technician, to prepare for these roles, and their professionalism was evident throughout.

The plays were adjudicated by Mrs Dent, Teacher of Music, Dr Terrill, Teacher of Mathematics, and Miss Thorpe, Teacher of Biology, all of whom are sadly leaving Withington at the end of this academic year. While the judges deliberated, the audience enjoyed a selection of silent movies created by Year 8 students as part of their Drama curriculum.

The judges praised the students’ confidence, creativity and teamwork, noting the particularly strong characterisation and exceptional writing. They judged the performances on writing, acting, directing and staging, costume, set and props, and the creative use of sound and lighting.

After much deliberation, Simon was crowned the winning House for 2025! The audience left uplifted by the infectious energy, humour and heartfelt performances from all involved.

Congratulations to all our brilliant Third Formers, dedicated Lower Sixth committee members, and our Heads of House: Mrs Levene, Mrs Morgan, Mrs Roberts and Mrs Corrigan, whose guidance, creativity and commitment made the day such a resounding success.

LAMDA EXAMINATIONS AND SHOWCASE EVENINGS

We are delighted that so many students across both the Junior and Senior School choose to take LAMDA lessons as an extra-curricular activity. This reflects the strong value placed on the performing arts at Withington by students, parents and staff alike.

This year, an impressive 210 WGS students have taken LAMDA exams - 156 from the Senior School and 54 from the Junior School. Across three days in June, 112 students from Year 7 to Year 10 took part in their LAMDA examinations, presenting work in Acting, Devised Theatre or Verse and Prose.

In celebration of their hard work, students also had the opportunity to share their pieces with an audience. On Tuesday 17th June, Year 7 and Year 8 students performed their examination work in showcases held in our two Drama studios, attended by friends and family. After two further days of examinations, students from Year 9 and Year 10 presented one selected piece from their exam repertoire in a second showcase on Thursday 19th June. Both events offered a fantastic celebration of talent, confidence and creativity.

We wish all our students the very best of luck as they await their results and we look forward to celebrating their achievements with them. I would also like to express our sincere thanks to our dedicated LAMDA teaching team, Ms Radcliffe, Ms Hotten, Ms Guest and Ms Paul, for their outstanding support, expert guidance and inspirational teaching throughout the year.

CHOIR RESIDENTIAL

Year 12 students Emily Edge and Orli Garnett attended a week-long course with the National Youth Choir of Great Britain in April. They were based at Queen Margaret’s School for Girls near York for six days of rehearsals and the residential culminated in a final concert called ‘Heart and Soul’ at Albert Hall in Nottingham. On their experience, they said:

EMILY:

“As I had expected, each day required a lot of hard work and concentration and we began each day with 15 minutes of ‘Dancersize’, which quickly became a favourite amongst the choir, and even involved us learning a traditional ballroom dance routine! Vocal warm-ups followed, essential for preserving our voices throughout the week. Rehearsals were varied and intensive, including sectionals, consorts, half and full choir sessions. Musicianship classes helped us tackle tricky time signatures and deepened our understanding of Brahms’ Requiem, which we performed at the end of the week.

Beyond the core schedule, we were offered individual singing lessons and masterclasses in conducting and performance- opportunities I embraced fully. These sessions equipped me with skills I’ll carry into future musical experiences. Despite the packed timetable, social activities like football, sardines, taskmaster, and an Easter egg hunt brought balance and fun. A standout was the game of assassins, which brought me closer to other members of the choir and was one of the most exciting parts of the week, especially once the staff got involved!

Each evening ended with the ‘Complimentary Carrot’, where we anonymously celebrated each other’s contributions, which was a great way to uplift us all before bed. On the day of the concert, we travelled by coach to Nottingham, and had the opportunity to showcase the music we had been working on. Orli and I were both incredibly excited to have solos within the repertoire, and we were really thrilled with how the concert went! Overall, it was an absolutely incredible week and allowed me to meet so many lovely people that I will remain close with in the years to come.”

ORLI:

“I loved my week at National Youth Choir so much! It was amazing to spend a week with so many other people who love music as much as I do. It was my first Training Choir (ages 15-18) course so it was a bit of a step up from Girls Choir (ages 9-15). It was also one of the first times I’ve sung with a full SATB (Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass) choir which was an incredible experience and it was so lovely to hear the full choir singing all together.

Our week was basically entirely singing all day, every day! I also loved learning more about vocal anatomy. We saw a video of an MRI of an opera singer and it was so interesting to see all of the different muscles singing requires. I’m doing the summer course which takes place in York but the end concert is actually in Manchester - I can’t wait!”

POETRY BY HEART

A

reflection by SERENA OMEJE

Find a poem. Learn it by heart. Share it with others. I entered the Poetry by Heart competition by simply doing these three things. I received the information that I was a finalist with an invitation to the Globe a few weeks after entering the competition through school. As a finalist, the spectacular package that awaited me in London was as follows: Witness two brilliant Shakespeare plays; tour of the Globe and perform my chosen poem at the Globe.

My experience of Poetry by Heart did not start in London. First, I met the author of my poem. I met Shamshad Khan, who turned out to be an old friend of my mother’s. The bond I made with Shamshad was simply amazing and I treasure the moment when I performed her poem ‘Pot’ to her. She visited me a week before the exciting trip to the Globe and sent with me a parting good luck gift, it seemed there was a mutual feeling of honour and pride.

The Poetry by Heart experience was, undoubtedly, phenomenal. We were treated to a storytelling performance of Twelfth Night, by a single actor who expertly took on several different characters, with a modern twist. Then we watched the comedic and comical Merry Wives of Windsor in Shakespeare’s Globe. The next morning, we were given a tour of the Globe Theatre and I was thrilled to learn about penny stinkers, explosions and royalty. I performed twice - once for the judges and the other on the famous Globe stage. I was pleased with both performances and so were the audience. The poem I chose was not filled with ambitious vocabulary but contained small words. Small words which were thoughtprovoking and certainly powerful.

I really appreciated the whole of the Poetry by Heart team. They were incredibly encouraging, supportive and passionate about poetry. They were genuinely awestruck by our performances and never ceased to bring positive energy. I thank the judges for their inspiring presence and kind words - I was runner up to the winner and highly

commended. A judge encouraged me to enter again. I received many compliments, including a small boy who smiled and shouted ‘pot’ when he saw me.

I also visited the Tate Modern Gallery where I managed to recognise a piece of artwork and was also introduced to the daughter of a Withington alumna.

This amazing adventure would not have been possible without the school. Thank you to the English Department and Mrs Clark for offering such a fantastic opportunity. I hope many other Withington girls will enter this competition with the same eagerness to explore as I did. Once again, Withington has brought to light a brilliant opportunity which I readily thrust myself toward, I am incredibly grateful for these long-lasting memories. I hope Poetry by Heart will inspire many other young people like me.

LEARNING IN LLANDUDNO

On Tuesday 10th June, the entire Lower Fourth swapped the classroom for the coast as they set off on an exciting Geography field trip to Llandudno for a hands-on learning experience, designed to bring the curriculum to life.

Armed with clipboards, maps and plenty of curiosity, pupils explored the unique physical geography of the Llandudno peninsula. From dramatic headlands to sweeping bays, the landscape offered the perfect backdrop for investigating coastal processes and landforms they had studied in class. In addition, they investigated tourism in the area, asking where visitors had travelled from and assessing the tourist facilities that have developed, as well as the land-use structure of the seaside resort.

Pupils conducted environmental assessments, gathered data, and practiced essential fieldwork techniques - skills they’ll be building on in future lessons. Fieldwork is a vital part of Geography, and this trip gave students the chance to connect theory with the real world. It was a day full of discovery, fresh sea air and delicious ice creams too!

ANALYST COMPETITION ’25

The Schools’ Analyst Competition, run by the Royal Society for Chemistry, gave a meaningful insight into the application of chemistry in the wider world. By carrying out experiments that real analytical chemists do, we were able to enhance our understanding of A Level Chemistry and appreciate its significance outside the classroom. Through practical experiments, data collection and post-result analysis, we refined our scientific skills such as precision and organisation - which are key in higher studies. As some parts expanded beyond the specification, we carried out additional research and this taught us how to evaluate our sources of information. Altogether, our teamwork and perseverance ultimately led to our efficient completion of the challenge.

Due to overwhelming school music recital showcased an impressive was warm and supportive, programme and celebrating The recitals highlighted confidence, making it audience alike. A huge

MUSICAL MOMENTS

overwhelming interest from pupils eager to perform, this term’s was held over two separate evenings. Both events impressive range of musical talent. The atmosphere supportive, with families and staff enjoying the diverse celebrating the dedication of our young musicians. highlighted not only technical skill but also creativity and it a memorable experience for performers and huge congratulations to all who took part.

ISAAC PHYSICS COMPETITION

Year 12 student Tarushi Fernando achieved a Diamond Award in the Isaac Physics Competition, putting her in the top 150 students in the competition. Congratulations Tarushi.

SIXTH FORM BOOK CLUB

On a delightfully warm spring day at the start of term, we hosted Sixth Form Book Club with pupils from The Manchester Grammar School and Manchester High School for Girls. The group took full advantage of the beautiful weather and held the meeting outside. The book up for discussion was The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett.

NAVIGATING THE OXBRIDGE JOURNEY

Attending the Oxbridge information evening was very useful, as we heard from both teachers and students, which provided us with multiple perspectives of the process of applying to university. As well as information about deadlines and admissions tests, the talk also contained advice for all parts of the application, such as writing the personal statement and how to approach interviews.

Withington alumna Sitara Bartle-Davies (Class of 2017) shared her experience of applying to and attending Cambridge. She was able to give us lots of insight into the application process, and I thought it was very helpful to hear from someone who had gone through the entire process.

Some of the Year 13s who have been offered places at Oxbridge shared their thoughts about the best ways to prepare for admissions tests and interviews. I liked that we could also hear from people who have very recent experience of the process, and they gave us detailed advice.

It was also reassuring to find out that Withington provides lots of support, including an Oxbridge specific programme that helps students with preparing for applications.

Overall, I found the evening to be very informative, and the speakers gave good advice which everyone will have found useful.

JOY ZHU 12E

CAM FORD OXBRIDGE

STEPPING SIXTH

During the final week pupils back for a series journey and the exciting The week began with much-loved end-of-year students to reconnect, and examinations. We also welcomed pupils tea, a much-welcomed sharing memories. The final event of the Alongside our current students holding offers engaging taster lessons phonetic bingo - wellbeing new people and experience We look forward to the our pupils thrive as

WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL

STEPPING INTO SIXTH FORM

week of term, it was a joy to welcome our Year 11 series of special events marking the end of their GCSE exciting transition to Sixth Form.

with an exhilarating trip to Alton Towers - now a end-of-year tradition. It was a fantastic opportunity for reconnect, relax and celebrate after weeks of study leave

pupils and parents to enjoy a delicious afternoon much-welcomed occasion for meaningful conversation and

the week was the Sixth Form Introduction Day. current Year 11s, we were pleased to welcome several offers to join us in September. The day featured lessons – from chemistry experiments to French wellbeing activities, and plenty of opportunities to meet experience the vibrant life of our Sixth Form community. the start of the new academic year and to seeing they take their next steps in Sixth Form.

LEARN WITH THE LORDS

On Monday 12th May, the Year 12 Politics class had the pleasure of meeting with Lord Hannay of Chiswick, a long-standing member of the House of Lords. Lord Hannay has been a part of the House of Lords since 2001. Lord Hannay is a crossbench peer meaning he has no party affiliation and during his time has served on committees regarding a range of issues, from the European Union to Intergovernmental Organisations. Before joining the House of Lords, Lord Hannay worked with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, serving as the UK Special Representative for Cyprus, as well as holding posts in Tehran, Kabul, the EU, Washington and the United Nations. During our brief session with Lord Hannay, we had the pleasure of asking him a few of our burning political questions ranging from the limitations of the House of Lords to whether or not he thought that the UK’s soft power had diminished over time. All in all, our session with Lord Hannay was extremely rewarding and an enjoyable way to start our Monday morning.

CAMILLE CORBETT, SASHA LEACH & ROSIE WALLIS, Year 12

WARM WGS WELCOMES...

INTRODUCING CARL CROSS, OUR CHIEF FINANCIAL & OPERATING

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to Withington.

I was born in Liverpool and educated within the city, at the Liverpool Blue Coat School and then the University of Liverpool where I read History. I then worked for nearly 30 years for an investment management company which eventually became known as Investec following a number of acquisitions and mergers. I really loved my time there and both the company and the people – and left just as it was on the brink of what I am sure will be another successful merger with a company called Rathbones. This was at just about the time that my partner Simon and I were adopting a baby boy, Marcus, and it felt like a good time to move on and do something different! I had always wanted to do something in the educational and charity fields and the Chief Financial and Operating Officer (previously Bursar) role at Withington was the perfect fit!

What attracted you to this particular role/Withington?

The CFOO role involves quite a bit of overlap with my previous leadership roles within Investec, running the Liverpool and then northern and Midlands offices – in areas such as managing budgets and finance – and working with HR, Site and Tech colleagues. But clearly the educational focus was new, save for my role as a Governor and Chair of the Development Board at my old school. This represented both a challenge and a fascinating change of direction which appealed to me.

What values or principles guide your work?

Honesty, empathy, fairness and transparency guide what I do with trust at the forefront. Sometimes there are difficult decisions to be made, but where you can create a positive and productive working relationship, it is invariably easier to communicate and effect the more challenging aspects of any role.

How would you describe your role to families and stakeholders?

It is essentially to work with teaching and support colleagues, together with governors, to help underpin the exceptional educational and pastoral provision by the school. There must inevitably be focus on finance and commercial aspects in a role such as this and within the school and my job is to try to ensure that this dovetails as effectively as possible into school life.

What are your main priorities in your first year at the school?

Getting to know colleagues and find my way around the school is priority one (and I’m hopefully getting there on both counts!). To understand our systems and processes – and to hopefully be able to identify possible improvements – and, to work with colleagues to ensure the strategic development of the school remains on track.

How do you see your work supporting the school’s mission and educational goals?

Very much as helping to underpin them and acting as a strong foundation to allow to school to develop and thrive into the future.

WELCOMES...

OFFICER

guide where working communicate role. support pastoral be a role to around getting systems with of acting develop

What has stood out to you most about the school community so far?

For me what has been so striking is how incredibly friendly and welcoming every single person has been – whether staff across any and all departments, governors, trustees and pupils themselves. From the very start of my interview process and to the current day this has stood out for me. It is clearly an exceptional school and its people are obviously at its core.

Have there been any surprises or particularly memorable moments since you started?

Founders’ Day within my first couple of weeks was a fantastic occasion and really helped bring home to me what we are all hoping to achieve at the school. To see those happy, confident and successful young people and their families was genuinely joyful.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Spending time with my family including my near three year old son; enjoying holidays and time travelling when we can; going to the gym and keeping fit; gardening; and completing my MA (in Tudor history) where the dissertation is due in this summer! I’m generally into pretty much anything historical!

Is there a fun fact about you that students or parents might enjoy knowing?

I can recite the names and dates of all British monarchs since 1066 and propagate poinsettias for Christmas every year!

REBECCA AMOS Teacher of English AMANDA AUSTIN Teacher of Maths

LINDSEY BIBBY Teacher of F&N

FELIX DELSIGNORE Teacher of Physics

LOIS GADD Teacher of Maths

MICHELLE KENDALL F&N Technician

KATIE MCKENNA Teacher of English

ISOBEL WAKEFIELD Teacher of Biology

ON THE ‘WRITE’ TRACK!

The English Department were very glad to welcome Susan Brownrigg, author of The Wrong Tracks and the Gracie Fairweather series, to school to talk to Year 7 about her career and also to judge our summer historical writing competition. During her talk, she discussed her many careers to date: journalist, librarian, museum education officer and now author of five books. Her favourite part of all of these? Dressing up as a parrot! She also shared how research shapes her writing and the importance of finding a historical detail that unlocks character and plot.

Susan also judged our competition, choosing two winners: Zara Chakrabarti, Year 11 & Lizzie Air, Year 7, who she met after the talk. She said:

“It was so hard to choose winners from such talented writers. I loved the range of the entries – from ancient Greek to the Titanic. But finally, I chose the two with the strongest sense of voice.”

All entries will be published in a booklet which will be available in September.

MRS ANNA CLARK Head of English

SUMMER

We were pleased to once athletes and performers

The Multi-Sports Camp their hand at netball, mini tournaments to and sportsmanship.

Meanwhile, the Theatre into playwrights and devised original pieces, ended the week showcasing family and friends. The Dance Camp brought days, dancers explored expressive Laban technique enthusiasm was infectious.

A big thank you to all who came along.

SUMMER CAMPS

once again open our doors to young adventurers, performers for an exciting line-up of summer camps. Camp was a whirlwind of energy. Participants tried netball, hockey, lacrosse, tennis, football and more. From team-building games, the camp fostered both skill

Theatre and Creativity Camp transformed young minds performers. Inspired by visual art, the children pieces, explored stage combat and improvisation, and showcasing all their new skills in a performance for

brought a great deal of rhythm and flair. Over three explored styles from Lindy Hop to Irish Céilí and used the technique to choreograph their own routines - the infectious.

involved in running the camps and to the children

FOND FAREWELLS

NATALIE DOUGLAS Teacher of English

LOUISE TERRILL Teacher of Maths

SIOBHAN DUANE Admin Assistant ZOE DENT Teacher of Music

DINA DA SILVA Teacher of Food & Nutrition

THE GREAT GATSBY MUSICAL

On Saturday 7th June, nine Year 12 students travelled with Mrs Suttle, Assistant Head Academic and Mr Thorley, Librarian, to London for an English Literature trip to see The Great Gatsby Musical - a performance promising to be so great that a 10th student even joined us at the theatre! Prior to the show we stopped at the British Museum and all revelled in seeing the fascinating array of displays on offer here, before stopping to have lunch in Covent Garden. The show itself was possibly even more incredible, even winning over the notorious musical haters among us. The vocal talent of the actors shocked us all, whilst the differences between the musical and original text led to many interesting discussions, both on the way home and to this very day. Even the train journeys were a success, socialising as a group and debating a series of thoughtprovoking questions such as ‘is it easier to love or be loved?’ (much to the delight of the other passengers, I’m sure). Overall, the trip was thoroughly enjoyed by all, albeit it has left us in a miserable state as we now hopelessly search for any excuse to go again.

REBECCA COUGHLAN Year 12

WGS AT

Four Withington pupils, charity that prepares funded or competitive College, Oxford on Tuesday university life.

It was an early start for Manchester who travelled arrival, they were warmly Outreach Officer, who College as the group quad. Their base for oldest purpose-built Dr Munro introduced education, explaining research, and highlighting available across the interests and keep an

The group then heard towards an MSc in the Megan, who previously an engaging session small-group discussions, enthusiastically debated Death? The session sparked then kindly answered life, subject choices, super-curricular activities. After lunch, the students impressive Jacobean of notable alumni. Then interview questions on global health systems challenged) about sibling They also had the opportunity they explored a range and world history. The day, sparking further

The visit left students possibilities that lie ahead

AT WADHAM

pupils, who are alumnae of The Bursary Foundation – a prepares high potential primary school pupils for bursarycompetitive grammar school places – visited Wadham Tuesday 7th July to gain a better understanding of

for the 20 students from schools across Greater travelled together to the prestigious university. Upon warmly welcomed by Dr Hugh Munro, Access and who shared insights into the rich history of Wadham admired the stunning architecture of the front the day was the historic Holywell Music Room, the concert hall in Europe.

the students to the broader landscape of higher explaining the dual roles of universities in teaching and highlighting the vast array of over 50,000 courses UK. He encouraged students to explore their an open mind about their future paths.

heard from Megan Lee, a postgraduate student working the History of Science, Medicine and Technology. previously studied History at Hertford College, led on The Black Death. Students participated in discussions, mirroring the Oxbridge tutorial style, and debated the question: Would you survive The Black sparked lively conversation and curiosity. Megan answered questions from the students about university and how to strengthen applications through activities.

students toured Wadham College, including the Great Hall, whose walls are lined with portraits Then it was back to base to tackle Oxford-style on topics such as experimental psychology and systems - more debate ensued as ideas were shared (and sibling IQ differences and aging populations.

opportunity to visit the Ashmolean Museum, where range of fascinating exhibits spanning art, archaeology The museum visit added a cultural dimension to the curiosity and discussion among the students.

students inspired and better informed about the ahead in higher education.

STEM OLYMPICS

On Wednesday 4th June, four Year 9 students, Sonia Amonkar, Zaynah Karim, Ava Lin and Trinity Yu, took part in the STEM Olympics at the Grange School. Out of 22 competing schools, they came fifth overall which is a fantastic achievement. Their problem solving, team work and aptitude for STEM were showcased throughout the day. They won the prize for scientific research.

DR JO SMILES Head of Science

TRANSLATION TRIUMPH!

Year 12 student

Shiza Absar received a Commendation for her entry to the Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators, an annual translation competition based at The Queen’s College, Oxford. Shiza did a superb job translating an excerpt from French to English, taken from L’Incendie by Mohammed Dib. Over 22,000 students participated in the competition in 2025, of which almost 5,000 entries were judged. This really is a fantastic achievement. Congratulations Shiza!

MISS LISA HEGARTY Head of MFL

THE GAMBIA TEAM 2025

The Gambia Team 2025 has made an outstanding start to their fundraising efforts in support of Mama Tamba Nursery School and the Baobab Travellers Camp in Illiassa, Gambia, ahead of their upcoming trip this December.

Kicking off in January, the team launched a GoFundMe page and an Instagram account to share their journey and rally support from friends and family. Since then, they’ve hosted a series of successful events, starting with a stall selling handmade cards and gift bags for Mother’s Day. The chocolate tombola was a huge hit, raising around £500. At the Summer Fair, Gambia trousers, sourced locally during last year’s trip, completely sold out, while the face painting and hair braiding stall brought in an additional £400.

The school production also gave a welcome boost to the fundraising total. Ahead of the performances, the team sold raffle tickets for the chance to win a vibrant pink-themed hamper, raising an impressive £300. The lucky winner was none other than Meira, one of our two Elle Woods. Team member Margot Tatton contributed £400 through a Gambia-themed stall at her local tennis club, with plans for another later in the year. Most recently, the team ran a busy MUN tuck shop on Saturday 28th June, selling refreshments to over 300 delegates and adding even more to the pot.

So far, the group has raised approximately £10,000, with more exciting events planned for the Autumn term.

MISS KAEREN BROWNING

Teacher of Geography and Gambia Coordinator

HISTORICAL EXPLORATION!

On a sunny June day, headed for Conwy Castle, Abbey. Once on the bus, sleeping, and there was for a day. Once we had we walked up the narrow history to us, before withstand even the toughest directly onto a slab of the little town. It even off around the castle we marched around fearlessly the many fascinating seagulls. We even saw shop and perhaps bought our lovely driver allowed We then travelled for began by admiring the Pilgrim’s Way and explained then set up various stations doing various activities monk sign language, Finally, we drove home, traffic, we all had a fabulous have been learning about

LIZZIE

HISTORICAL EXPLORATION!

Year 7 pupils happily hopped onto two buses, one Castle, and the other for the ruins of Basingwerk bus, we enjoyed singing, playing games and was certainly an excited buzz about leaving school had arrived (our group travelled to Conwy first) narrow entrance as Mrs Air explained some of the organising us into groups of at least three. Built to toughest conditions and sieges, Conwy was created of stone and had large stone walls that surrounded even had towering towers and terrific turrets! We set with our clipboards in hand. For an hour or so, fearlessly as we answered questions, explored rooms, and befriended the resident pigeons and saw some seagull chicks! Once we had visited the gift bought an ice cream, we returned to the coach where allowed us to eat a hard-earned lunch. Yum yum! for 40 minutes to Basingwerk Abbey, where we the fantastic mural which depicted the North Wales explained how Basingwerk came to be. The teachers stations and we rotated in groups to each station, activities along the way. We particularly enjoyed the herbal remedies and illuminated letters stations. home, exhausted! Despite being slightly delayed by fabulous day and enjoyed seeing the history we about brought to life.

WITHINGTON NAMED TRINITY CHAMPION CENTRE FOR

2025/26

Withington has retained its recognition as a Trinity Champion Centre for the 2025/26 year, recognising our continued success in delivering the Arts Award programme.

Arts Award is offered to pupils from Year 3 to Year 9, providing a vibrant platform for students to explore and develop their artistic talents. Beyond creativity, the programme nurtures essential life skills such as leadership, communication and independent thinking.

As Trinity Champion Centre representatives, Miss Brown and Ms Knipe will collaborate with both established and emerging centres, sharing their practices to inspire, engage and support teacher and educators across the network.

LIZZIE AIR , MEG BARKER & WEI ANN HO, Year 7

the sport report

ATHLETICS

We have had another successful year for athletics. We have had some outstanding individual performances but also many team successes.

In the Manchester Schools Track and Field Competition:

Year 7 finished fourth out of 16 schools, with Emily Britton achieving bronze in the long jump and Shreya Jain achieving gold in the javelin.

In the Manchester Schools League Competition:

Year 7 finished third, Year 8 finished sixth and Year 9 finished first.

The points for all year groups are combined and Withington were crowned Athletics League winners.

In the county round of the English Schools’ Track and Field Cup, which is for teams from all over Greater Manchester, the Year 7/8 team finished third and the Year 9/10 team finished first, with our best ever points score.

The Year 9/10 team then progressed to the English Schools’ Regional A final

The Year 8/9 team unfortunately couldn’t attend due to a clash of dates. After eight individual medal winners, a relay team silver medal and a competition record breaking throw Taliah Nourein of 27.8m in the discus, Year 10 team were crowned champions.

which is made up of teams from all North West England – incredibly tough competition with numerous schools specialise in athletics.

After some impressive individual performances and a superb team effort, they finished in fourth place, out of top 12 schools in the North West.

A number of athletes qualified for Greater Manchester Schools Athletics Championships in their specialist Congratulations to Taliah Nourein came second in the discus, Serena came second in long jump and Dalola Kajopaye came first in 100m.

outstanding couldn’t winners, throw by discus, the champions.

all over tough schools that effort, of the for the Athletics events.

Nourein who Serena Omeje Dalola

SWIMMING GALA

On Wednesday 25th June, pupils gathered in high spirits to represent their House at the annual Swimming Gala.

Energy and encouragement were in abundance, with cheers echoing around the pool as teammates encouraged one another throughout the day. A wide range of events ensured that swimmers of all abilities had the chance to participate, with some pupils impressively competing in multiple races. Very well done to all our swimmers!

the sport report

ROUNDERS TENNIS

Two teams participated in the Cheshire Lawn Tennis Association Team Tennis Competition this term. Both the U13s and U15s finished top of their group and made the semi-finals.

CRICKET

We were delighted that competitive cricket came back to Withington this year for the first time in many years. Both lunchtime and afterschool practices have been really popular, especially for Years 7 and 8.

Our U13 team enjoyed a friendly against Manchester High School for Girls and also played in a South West Manchester cricket tournament. They learned a huge amount through these fixtures and should be very proud of what they have achieved. We look forward to continuing to see cricket grow in popularity next year.

We have had year with lots All teams entered Tournament, (Please note due to unforeseeable the History trip

•

• Year 9 were

• Year 10 were

Year 8 won before losing Parrs Wood

ROUNDERS

another good rounders season this lots of success across all age groups. entered the Manchester Schools with standings as follows: that Year 7 were not able to compete unforeseeable delays on their return from trip to Wales.)

their first-round tournament losing in the semi-final against Wood High School.

NETBALL

At the start of this term, the Year 7 and Year 8 netball teams both played in the Manchester Schools Knockout Finals night, where they were both crowned champions.

HOME INTERNATIONALS

The 2025 Home Lacrosse Internationals Series took place at the Sport Scotland National Training Centre, Largs between Friday 4th and Sunday 6th April. The annual competition, which is now over 100 years old, once again saw teams from England, Scotland and Wales compete against each other to be named the best in Great Britain.

There was fantastic representation from WGS at the tournament: Year 12 students Eva Bowie and Cara Mooney and alumnae Carys Bucknall, Chess Grey and Mrs Roberts were in blue for Scotland; sisters Kit (Year 12) and Eliza Towers (Class of 2024) representing Wales, and Class of 2022’s Charlie Bell playing for England.

Mr Bickerton, Lacrosse Coach here at WGS, played in the Men’s European Lacrosse Championships in July, representing England.

were crowned Manchester champions.

were crowned Manchester champions.

SUNSHINE AND AT THE PTA SUMMER

This year’s Summer Fair was a resounding success, bringing together our school community for a day filled with laughter, sunshine and celebration. The grounds were buzzing with excitement as families enjoyed a fantastic variety of stalls, fun-filled games and delicious treats.

From traditional favourites to creative new additions, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming,

with smiling faces all around and a real sense of togetherness.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our incredible PTA for their tireless efforts in organising the event, and to everyone who supported and attended on the day. It truly was a day to remember!

We are delighted to confirm the Summer Fair raised over £7,000. This figure includes £2,800 from the Sustainable Uniform Store alone.

AND SMILES SUMMER FAIR!

of

The PTA would like to thank Shivani Patel and all parent volunteers for their support with the Fair. We would also like to say a huge thank you to Kelly Jones who has taken over responsibility of the SUS this year. SUS continues as a significant fund raiser for the PTA and this would not be possible without the generous donations of uniform from WGS parents.

Withington Girls’ School, Wellington Road, Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6BL office@wgs.org

wgs.org

withingtongirlsschool 0161 224 1077

withingtongirlsschool @wgsjuniors

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