Old Girls' Newsletter - Spring 2023

Bolton School

OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER

Issue Number 38 Spring 2023

Shared memories and continued support

CONTENTS

STAY IN TOUCH

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

‘Like’ our Facebook page for event invitations, School news and memories: search Bolton School – Old Boys and Old Girls (Official)

Connect with fellow Old Girls on LinkedIn: connect with Bolton School Alumni and join the Bolton School Group.

Follow Alumni and School news via Twitter: @BoltonSchAlumni/@BoltonSchool

Follow boltonschoolalumni to keep up with news, events and memories on Instagram. You can also follow bolton_school_foundation for the latest news and photographs from School and use #BSAlumni to share your own memories and photos.

Watch short films posted on the School’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/ boltonschoolmedia

Read regular blogs from pupils and staff from across the campus: boltonschool.me/

View photos of Alumni events on Flickr at www.flickr.com/photos/bsalumni/albums

Visit the ‘Alumni and Giving Back’ section of the School website at www.boltonschool.org to see event photos, read Alumni career profiles, find news of Old Girls, view an up-to-date events calendar, update your contact details and more.

CONTACT US

Development Office, Bolton School

Chorley New Road, Bolton BL1 4PA

T: 01204 434718 E: development@boltonschool.org

THE DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Rebecca Brayshaw – Development Manager

Laura Firth – Director of Development and Alumni Relations

Frances Johnson – Development Officer

Rebecca Kendrick – Development Assistant

Elizabeth Lupton – Development Assistant

Emma Metcalfe – Alumni Engagement Officer

Bolton School Merchandise

A variety of merchandise, including our new style hoodies, priced at £25 each and available in burgundy or black, is available from the store on the School’s website –please visit www.boltonschool.org/ our-community/commercial-services to see the full range and find details of how to order. All profits made from the sale of merchandise go directly to the School’s bursary scheme which helps to make a Bolton School education open to all academically gifted pupils, irrespective of their families’ financial situations.

Stay Connected

We hope you enjoy being kept up-to-date with what is happening at School and within the Old Girl community as much as we value the opportunity to stay connected with you. If your contact details have changed, or if you have not yet let us know your communication preferences and wish to continue hearing from School, then please contact the Development Office as soon as possible, or complete the Alumni Communications Update form found in the ‘Alumni and Giving Back’ section of the School website, www.boltonschool.org

WELCOME FROM THE OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION

I am enormously proud of the way in which Old Girls are becoming increasingly involved in helping and supporting the girls in School. The Inspiring the Next Generation section, beginning on page 14, features myriad ways in which current pupils benefit from the advice and experience of our former pupils –from the Women of Work talks, which aim to encourage current pupils to broaden their horizons, to the series of ‘Perspectives’ lectures which highlight the wide variety of career opportunities available in particular spheres. Meanwhile, the Girls’ Division’s customary celebration of International Women’s Day in March saw a record number of Old Girls returning to School to discuss their careers and inspire the current pupils. Old Girls are also now assisting their fellow Alumnae via the Association’s recently launched mentoring scheme, Steps to Success (see page 17). Thank you to all of you who have volunteered your time and expertise – the strength of support from within the Old Girls’ Association is much appreciated.

Away from their careers, Old Girls continue to inspire with their sporting and charitable endeavours –

congratulations to Emily Varley (page 21) and Jaiminee Patel (page 22) on their respective – and impressive –achievements. Please contact the Development Office if you have a triumph you wish to share!

I thoroughly enjoyed attending the first ever joint Old Girls' and Old Boys' lunch in February (see page 13). The event was a resounding success, with the number of guests necessitating a change of venue to accommodate them all! The regular Old Girls’ lunches are set to continue, the next one taking place after the Association’s AGM on Thursday 15th June, but in the spirit of Old Girls being part of an Alumni community as a whole, the joint lunch is set to become an annual fixture. I look forward to catching up with Old Girls of all generations both in School and at the forthcoming regional events.

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

WELCOME FROM THE HEAD OF GIRLS’ DIVISION

Welcome to the Spring Edition of the Old Girls’ Newsletter

It has been a short term, but, as you will see from the pages that follow, it has certainly been a busy one, with more than its fair share of events – our Alumni of the Year Awards, the Platt Fisher Lecture and the Bridgewater Hall concert to name just a few. In addition, you will find articles in this newsletter about Culture Week and the main drama production of last term, The Great Gatsby. We were delighted to host a visit from Commons Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, who came to speak to our own pupils together with some students from nearby schools. Speaking of significant events, it would be remiss of me not to mention the upcoming Coronation of King Charles III, which we have marked in this newsletter with an article on the School’s coronation lamps.

You will also find reports of some of our Old Girls’ events in this newsletter, including the usual Alumni Dinners held around the country. The very first Joint Old Girls and Old Boys Lunch took place in School earlier this term, and this was a tremendous success. It is always a pleasure to welcome people back into School, hearing them chat about what has changed and what has stayed the same. The Prefects’ Gowns are always a talking point, as former Prefects hunt for their name badges; inside, you will find a feature on these gowns. There is also a feature about the work undertaken by

our archivist, Eric Fairweather, who is a great source of information on days gone by!

Old Girls continue to be extremely generous in the giving of their time and our current pupils are very appreciative of this; in the Newsletter, you will find features on our Perspectives lectures on careers in Geography and Apprenticeships. The number of students wishing to follow a career in Medicine continues to grow, so please do come and talk to our Medsoc Society (page 18) if you are able. Speaking of giving, our pupils have also been busy raising money for various charities and you will find numerous features inside with further details.

I hope you will enjoy reading the various articles detailing some of the things our Old Girls are up to. It is always fascinating to see how our Alumni find their way to every corner of the world and I particularly enjoyed reading about ‘Arts in the Arctic Circle’.

Please do let us know if you have news that you would like us to feature here and, indeed, do come and see us. It is always a pleasure to welcome you back!

Lynne Kyle Head of Girls’ Division

FOUNDATION NEWS

A Message from the Head of Foundation

Without doubt it remains one of the great joys of my role to meet so many Old Girls and Old Boys at events, to enjoy your tales of School life and to recognise in your own appreciation of your School days what we must be very sure we continue to do for those currently at School: the key features seem to me to be intellectual ambition (with a helping hand for those who find some things more challenging); the chance to find your passion and interest in life, whether sport, drama, music or at one of the many other activities; a sense of being part of something bigger than yourself and a desire to help others.

This attitude of helping others is shown by how many of you assist with our careers programme and mentoring schemes for young Alumni. It is most encouraging to see the rapid growth of the Old Girls’ scheme, launched last year. This helping hand, giving advice we either were given or wished we had been given, is a wonderful example of how being part of the wider community of the School can still create a sense of belonging. The reinvigorated Friends of Bolton School will aim to find a place for all who wish to be associated with the School, whether former or current parents or Alumni, to maintain those important connections.

Our sense of togetherness across the Foundation at School has been in evidence in three notable School events recently. The Bridgewater Hall concert (page 7) was an excellent example where pupils from the very youngest to the outstanding Year 13 musicians all played

The Bolton Alumni Network

The Bolton Alumni Network continues to grow into 2023 and the free Business Directory, which offers self-employed Alumni the opportunity to promote their businesses and services, enables us to present a networking community that spans the globe. With nearly 3,000 registered users in the UK, Australia, the USA, Canada, the Far East, Europe and beyond, the Bolton Alumni Network offers a diverse spectrum of support for Old Boys, Old Girls and Former Staff in a variety of sectors.

In the last six months, 69% of users have indicated they are willing to help those within the Bolton Alumni Network community, whilst we have seen a steady rise in the number of users seeking help via the network. The most commonly sought advice is around work experience and reviewing CVs and users are most likely to offer advice around mentoring and recruitment.

• 1,762 users are willing to answer industry-specific questions

• 1,474 are willing to introduce other alumni to their connections

• 1,603 are happy to offer advice

• 1,236 have offered to review CVs

• 298 currently offer work experience or internships

their part on the stage. The Primary Division choir, for many, stole the show. Our collective fundraising efforts across all parts of the School for Malawi (page 9), jointly supporting an initiative begun at Hesketh House, is another. A final example is the joint audience from Boys’ Division, Girls’ Division and Primary Division who attended the Alumni of the Year Awards (pages 26-27). My theme that morning was that we should try to find reasons to say ‘Yes’ rather than ‘No’ to opportunities that come along. If you are an avid reader of the alumni magazines, but have yet to attend an event, then might I encourage you to think about saying ‘Yes’ – even if at first you know no one, it will soon be very clear there is a shared heritage. I look forward to seeing even more of you and hearing even more of those tales of School life.

Philip Britton, MBE Head of Foundation

The use of the Bolton Alumni Business Directory as a free tool to showcase services to an active network has proved very popular, as has using the platform to offer benefits directly to members. The network of registered users can also be used as a free recruitment tool and we actively welcome any members of the Alumni community who work within, or are responsible for, recruitment to make use of the varied and engaged pool of potential candidates. Over the last six months, 20% of users who have visited the main directory page have gone on to interact with the offer from the relevant business.

For advice on how to advertise a vacancy or search for a mentor within the network please see the informative ‘How to’ videos in the Resources tab. We also welcome any Alumni who are keen to post a careers skills video specific to their industry to contact the Development Office.

If you are not yet a member of the Bolton Alumni Network, you can join today by signing up at www.boltonalumninetwork.com with your LinkedIn, Facebook or Google Account or with an email address.

CONTINUING SUPPORT

The Bolton School Bursary Foundation

During the 2021-22 academic year, the School community made pledges and gifts in support of the School and its pupils totalling £1.96 million.

£1.71 million was given in support of the Bolton School Bursary Fund, including £51,000 donated by 201 families of the departing Class of 2022 who gifted their child’s deposit to the School, and £778,000 bequeathed to the Bursary Fund by three Alumni who had remembered the School in their will - enough to provide for two bursary places at the School in perpetuity.

In addition to the gifts received to support the bursary scheme, £140,000 was donated by a charitable trust to provide hardship funding for pupils whose families were facing financial challenge, enabling 15 pupils to continue their studies at the School. A further £111,000 was donated to support the provision of extra-curricular, uniform and ancillary costs for bursary recipients, for academic prizes in the two Divisions, to provide university scholarships for recent leavers, and for the redevelopment of the School’s facilities, including a £50,000 gift donated to fund the refurbishment of the facilities at the Leverhulme Pavilion and a bequest by a former member of staff in the Girls’ Division to support extra-mural activities in English Language.

As a result of this generosity, last year the School was able to spend £3.1m on means-tested bursary assistance supporting 329 – one in five – pupils across the two Senior Schools, including 50 bright, talented members of the Class of 2022 who left the School last summer. In the A Level results published last August, 68% of those bursary recipients achieved grades A*-B, with 36% of those pupils securing grades A*-A. 37 members of last year’s bursary cohort left the School to study at university, with 24 pupils taking up a place at one of the prestigious Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge.

“In my time here, I have made a trunk full of memories that I will treasure for the rest of my life and which have all shaped me to become the independent, confident individual that I am today. To the donors, I would like to say - thank you! I hope you know how much I appreciate all your support over the years. Your help has guided me to grow and prosper both intellectually and emotionally. Bolton School is now home, and I will remember my time here forever! I hope one day I am able to return this generosity.”

Girls’ Division Bursary Recipient, Class of 2022

We hope that Old Girls would agree that the portrayal of independent schools which now prevails in much of the press – as bastions of privilege serving only a small segment of society – is unrecognisable as a description of Bolton School. Through its substantial bursary

scheme and extensive partnership and outreach work, the School serves its local community wholeheartedly and has a pupil body which is economically and socially diverse. This work is fundamental to the national renown in which the Foundation is held, ensuring that it continues to be seen as a force for positive change in Bolton and beyond.

Prior to 1997, most recently, during the past halfcentury, with the Assisted Places and Direct Grant schemes, and before then through philanthropic support from individuals, a mixed model of funding existed which drew the different types of schools within the educational landscape closer together for the good of all. The Governors’ ambitions for the growth of the bursary scheme to support one in three pupils by the end of this decade will ensure that the School will continue with this mixed model, enriching the School community and the wider society that it serves, whilst offering bright young people from every background the opportunity to transform the trajectory of their lives forever.

The support the School enjoys reveals the depth of its supporters’ confidence in the work of the Bolton School Foundation and their understanding of the transformational impact this will have on the young people who benefit from it. Thank you, sincerely, to everyone who supported the School during the past academic year - your generosity is greatly appreciated by the Governors, Staff and pupils of the School.

If you are considering supporting the School, and would like to find out more about how to do so, simply scan the QR code on the right. If you would like to discuss your intentions in more detail, including learning more about how to make a bequest to the School, Laura Firth, Director of Development and Alumni Relations, can be contacted on 01204 434718 or at development@boltonschool.org

A New Charity for Bolton School’s Bursary Funds

2022 marked the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Bolton School Foundation's bursary scheme. In that quarter of a century, the School’s bursary scheme has enabled over 2,000 young people to receive a first-class education here that they would otherwise have been unable to access, before going out into the world to make a difference for good.

by the School's supporters to the Bursary Fund are ring-fenced for that purpose in the decades to come. The primary charitable purpose of BSBF is to provide bursary funding to the School, and its charitable objectives, in line with the School’s ethos outlined by Lord Leverhulme, are ‘the advancement of education for the public benefit of those who need financial assistance in particular but not exclusively by the provision to Bolton School of bursary support for the benefit of pupils who would be unable to continue in education at the School or who would be unable to commence education at the School despite being accepted, without financial assistance.’

Bolton School now offers bursary support to one in every five of its Senior School pupils, many of whom attend with a fully-funded place, meaning the School has one of the most generous bursary schemes in the UK. The growth of the School's bursary scheme to its current level has only been made possible through the generosity of the School community, particularly its Alumni, and a number of local and national philanthropists and charitable trusts.

In the past ten years, the School's benefactors –many of whom themselves benefited from a funded place here - have generously donated almost £11m to the School in support of the continued expansion of its bursary scheme. Each of those supporters shares the School's ambition to level-up the educational opportunities available to disadvantaged children in Bolton and the local area, so that every young person living locally can reach their true potential, regardless of their family's circumstances.

It is the Governors' objective that, by 2030, one in three pupils at the School should receive bursary funding for their education. If that ambition is to be achieved, then the future growth of the bursary funds available to support pupils at the School must be maximised. In pursuit of that goal, and marking the next exciting phase of the School's fundraising endeavours, in 2022 Bolton School's Governing Body established a new Charitable Incorporated Organisation – The Bolton School Bursary Foundation (BSBF) – which will raise, hold and grant the School’s bursary funds in the future.

By establishing BSBF, the Governing Body seeks to ensure that the funds already given so generously

Reflecting on the new charity, Ian Riley, Chair of Bolton School’s Governing Body, said: “During the past two decades, the School’s Bursary Fund has benefited hugely from the generosity of Alumni who wish to ensure that the ladder of social mobility remains in good repair for the next generation of pupils at the School. In establishing BSBF, the Governing Body is seeking to provide our donors with assurance that their gifts will only be used for their intended purpose – namely, the provision of bursary places at Bolton School.”

BSBF will be Chaired by Old Boy John Craven (Class of 1982), who also serves on the School’s Governing Body. He is joined by five other trustees –Suve Banerjee (Class of 1999), Andrew Palmer (Class of 1977) and Ian Riley (Class of 1981) (all current Governors of the School), Michael Griffiths (Class of 1965; Former Chairman of the Bolton School Governing Body) and Nigel Wightman (Class of 1971; former member of Bolton School’s Investment Committee).

SCHOOL NEWS

Stunning Bridgewater Hall Sell-Out

Putting the pandemic and lockdowns firmly behind it, Bolton School returned to the Bridgewater Hall for the first time since 2019 to present a joyous Gala Concert.

from the Primary Division to the Sixth Form, from organists to ensembles, from choirs to concert bands.

In a musical – and logistical! – extravaganza, 600 musicians took to the stage to showcase talents from across the Foundation. The pupils relished the opportunity to perform at such a prestigious venue, and a packed house enjoyed a variety of performances

School has a New Website

We are thrilled to present the new Bolton School website to all of our Alumni community and hope that you enjoy browsing through the site. Sections that may be of particular interest to Old Girls include the Alumni Events, Volunteering Your Time, Supporting School and the Contact Development pages. There is also a link to the Old Boltonians’ Association page which is full of useful information.

As always, we love to hear from Alumni and value being able to stay in touch with Old Boys and Girls as well as Former Staff. If you would like to update your details with us please do so by clicking on ‘Update Your Details’ in the

Many Old Girls will have fond memories of previous concerts at the Bridgewater Hall and will endorse Mr Britton’s closing comments in which he praised the School’s incredible Music Department and all those who helped behind the scenes to put on such an outstanding show.

You can watch the concert here: bit.ly/40LAJwb

Alumni and Giving Back section.

We hope you enjoy the new website and seeing how full and vibrant School life is. There is a welcome from the Head of Foundation, Philip Britton, and pages for each area of the Foundation, as well as updates about Bolton School life, the extended School community and news stories from across the campus, which really capture the essence of what an education at Bolton School has to offer.

AO Sponsors School Sports Kits

AO, the Boltonbased electricals retailer founded and led by Old Boy John Roberts (Class of 1992), are the new sponsors of the Girls’ Division’s Netball team kit, as well as the Boys’ Division’s all-age Rugby and Cricket team kits.

Reflecting on the sponsorship agreement, John Roberts said: “I firmly believe that talent amongst young people is evenly distributed but opportunities are not, which is why we support a wide range of youth sports teams, including our kit sponsorship for the rugby, netball and cricket teams at Bolton School. As sponsors of Sale Sharks, Manchester Thunder Netball and Lancashire County Cricket Club’s youth and medical teams, we can help to create lots of opportunities for young people interested in these sports.”

A Royal Visit

There was great excitement throughout the town when King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort, visited Bolton in January.

The visit came 150 years after the King's great-great-grandfather, the future King Edward VII, officially opened Bolton Town Hall in 1873. Representatives from Bolton School were among the thousands who filled Victoria Square to welcome the Royal couple.

Coronation Lamps

In honour of the coronation of King Charles III on Saturday 6th May the front cover of this Newsletter features one of the School’s coronation lamps.

In early 1953 the Governors discussed how the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II might be commemorated at School. Since all children in the Borough were to be given souvenirs it was agreed that something of a permanent nature should be given to each Division. After reference to the Headmaster and the Headmistress it was decided that the Governors’ gift to the School should be electric lanterns at the entrance to the Quadrangle.

In recent years the lamps were relocated: anyone wishing to take a closer look at them will find them under the Main Arch to the Riley Quad.

Anastasia Remembered at Christmas

A plethora of Christmas traditions raised money in memory of Year 7 pupil Anastasia Costello.

The Girls’ Division was delighted to present members of the Costello family with a cheque for over £4,000 for their recently founded charity, Anastasia Days.

The charity was set up in memory of their daughter, Anastasia, who had been a Year 7 pupil at the School when she sadly passed away in December 2021. The charity, Anastasia Days, aims to provide fun and memorable days out for children who have suffered trauma.

Several Year 8 and Year 10 pupils addressed a wholeSchool assembly explaining how girls had raised the

The Development Team Welcomes Liz

In January, the Development Office welcomed a new team member, Elizabeth Lupton, following her appointment as the department’s Development Assistant.

Liz previously worked in HR for Bury Council and British Gas. She will be responsible for the bookings and preparations for many of the Alumni events and will be the friendly first port of call for Old Girls and Old Boys who contact the Development Office to reconnect with School.

impressive amount through their annual ‘Christmas Post’ fundraiser, the wearing of Christmas jumpers and at the Ceremony of Carols concert.

Mr Costello thanked the School, saying: “With this cheque you have already exceeded our expectations that we had when we set up the charity. It is a flabbergasting amount. On behalf of our family, the trustees of the charity and the children who will benefit from it, I offer a heartfelt thank you to you all.”

School Hosts Anti-Bullying Ambassador Training

The Girls’ Division hosted a two-day Anti-Bullying Ambassador Training Programme conducted by The Diana Award Team.

Year 5 girls and boys from Hesketh House and Park Road and students from the Senior Divisions, together with pupils from local primary and secondary schools, learned about bullying behaviour, what it looks like and how

to support those who experience it. They devised action plans of how to approach bullying issues that may arise in their schools and committed to their roles as Anti-Bullying Ambassadors in which they will promote zero tolerance policies and helping others in need.

Anti-bullying ambassadors at Hesketh House

School Comes Together for Malawi Orphans

A chance encounter between Mrs Julia Marsden, a teacher at Bolton School’s Junior Girls’ School, and a parent, Mr David Armstrong, led to pupils from across the Foundation collecting stationery and toiletries to fill bags for over one hundred orphans from Malawi. The School also donated Primary Division uniforms and cuddly toys.

The bags duly filled, each class wrote a short letter to ‘their’ orphan to wish them all the best at their new school and in life and stapled it to the bag with the child’s name on it.

Mr Armstrong, who flew out to a cyclone-hit Malawi to deliver the goods, said: ‘I am so grateful to Bolton School.

The Great Gatsby

In 2022 it was 100 years since F Scott Fitzgerald’s character Jay Gatsby threw his lavish parties – and this year’s Senior Joint Production paid tribute to the infamous tale.

The novel was adapted for the stage by Foundation Director of Creative Learning, Miss Naomi Lord (Class of 1998), and the talented cast presented the joy and the freedoms of the 1920s alongside the unsettling prescience of Fitzgerald’s tale of boom before bust – the Wall Street Crash arrived in 1929 and the 1930s rapidly descended into World War II.

The show was delivered in cabaret-style in an immersive Jazz Age environment, opening in Europe and hopping across to the USA with audiences dressed to impress in 1920s attire. The action was accompanied by live music from the Gatsby Band, led by Miss Hannah Sherry, Head of Music in the Boys’ Division.

The children will be so excited to receive these uniforms and bags and for their new school to open!’

Mrs Marsden’s own fundraising campaign has raised over £10,000 towards its target of £40,000.

Culture Week

Following the initiative of a Year 13 pupil, the Girls’ Division hosted a Culture Week aimed at recognising and appreciating diversity within the School community and the importance of understanding other cultures.

The week of activities included exhibitions, writing projects, a Continental Culture Trail, quizzes, dancing

sessions and film screenings, and culminated with two non-uniform days. The girls enjoyed attending School dressed in clothing that gave a sense of their personal culture or identity, for example through traditional dress or sports, art and pop culture clothing. The following day they were invited to wear red to Show Racism the Red Card.

Ilham Nagi as Jordan Baker

Jordan and Daisy, as Daisy spirals in despair ahead of her marriage to Tom

Felicity Field as Daisy Gatsby and Daisy’s reunion

Commons Speaker Addresses Local Students

Sixth Form students from across the borough enjoyed an enlightening talk by Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons.

Sir Lindsay gave an overview of his political career, with particular reference to his role as the Speaker of the House of Commons. He noted that ‘sitting in the chair’ is only three hours a day – a small fraction of his role!

He then answered a variety of questions from Bolton School pupils, plus students from local schools and

colleges, about Prime Minister’s Questions, remaining neutral, making time to represent his constituency, the recent changes in Prime Minister and the possibility of a General Election, before giving advice to those looking to pursue a career in politics: get involved in local, grassroots politics and join a party.

Pupils Support Pakistan Floods Appeal

A group of Year 9 pupils held a sweet sale to raise money for the DEC’s Pakistan Floods Appeal. The girls sold cakes and sweets, as well as hand-made bookmarks and hair accessories, and ran two ‘Guess the Name of the Plush’ raffle games. The sale raised an incredible £917.96 –this amount beat records set by Girls’ Division cake and sweet sales in recent years by an impressive margin!

Sponsored Silence Supports Disadvantaged Children

Selection Boxes Stack Up

Pupils and parents from across the Bolton School Foundation smashed their target of collecting 2,500 selection boxes for Urban Outreach’s ‘Christmas Dinner on Jesus’ campaign.

This is the tenth year that Bolton School has taken part in the charity event, collecting items for hampers that are delivered to those families and individuals in most need in the town. In addition to collecting over 2,800 selection boxes, students also undertook several fundraising events, with the monies raised used to buy more boxes.

Year 7 pupils quietly raised an impressive £1,370 for the Mission Christmas Cash for Kids campaign. The annual fundraiser, organised by Hits Radio and Greatest Hits UK Radio stations, benefits disadvantaged children in the Greater Manchester region.

Spending an entire day in silence – much to the delight of the teaching staff! – the girls raised money and then spent it on a trolley dash at Smyths toy store at Middlebrook. The pupils’ purchases were then donated to the campaign, which, in turn, distributed to local families.

Mrs Entwistle (Girls’ Division Staff) and pupils help Dave Bagley from Urban Outreach pack his van with selection boxes

‘3’ Class Reunion

Calling all Old Girls who left in 1953, 1963, 1973, 1983, 1993, 2003 and 2013!

We will be holding a Reunion at Bolton School on Saturday 30th September 2023 for these year groups –Former Staff are also very welcome to attend, as are Alumni from other years.

Details of how to book may be found at www.trybooking.co.uk/CHUS. We hope to see as many of you as possible, so please get in touch with your classmates and make sure you all have this date in your diaries!

Calling the Class of 1992!

not be a Schoolorganised event, more a revamp of the Sixth Form school parties that were held at Central Park and Ritzy’s (with a little more sophistication and better drink choices!). These venues are long gone, but the organisers promise to find a great place in Manchester to bring everyone together. It will be a fun night of reliving old memories and creating new ones.

Do you remember the days of passing notes in class and staying up late talking on the phone? Trips to Cautley, Geography field trips, lots of rain, ski trips, French exchanges, day trips to London, Edinburgh and York, running around the park in the rain avoiding the piles of leaves, a teacher who inspired you, the smell of freshly-cut grass on the Levels, School dinners, Central Park, Ritzy, 'Avinit, using real coins and using phones with wires?

It’s been 30 years since you left School, but these are memories shared. As you are all contemplating turning the big FIVE O you now have the opportunity to celebrate this milestone with a blast from the past!

Six of your School mates are arranging a reunion night to take place on Saturday 18th May 2024. This will

Alumni Events Calendar

2023

As plans are firmed up you can register your interest on the following site: www.avinitagain.com. There is also a Facebook site you can request to join too: ‘Avinit again! 2024. If you have any problems registering, please email: avinitagain2024@gmail.com

Wednesday 7th June Former Staff Lunch Bolton School, 12 noon (Boys’ Division and Girls’ Division)

Thursday 15th June Old Girls’ Lunch and AGM Bolton School, 12 noon

Friday 16th June Alumni Cumbria Lunch Lindeth Howe Hotel, Windermere, 12 noon

Tuesday 27th June Recent Leavers’ (Class of 2022) Reunion Bolton School, 2.30pm-5pm

Saturday 30th September ‘3’ Class Reunion Bolton School, 11.30am-4.30pm

To reserve your place for any of our Alumni events, please call the Development Office on 01204 434718, email development@boltonschool.org or visit the ‘Alumni and Giving Back’ section of the School website (www.boltonschool.org) where you can book online.

Alumni Oxford Dinner

St Hilda’s College, Friday 18th November 2022

The Oxford Dinner saw its biggest attendance ever as Old Girls and Old Boys were eager to meet up after an enforced absence.

Alumni Cambridge Dinner

Sidney Sussex College, Friday 3rd February 2023

Old Girls and Old Boys had been looking forward to meeting up at Sidney Sussex College since before the pandemic and the evening did not disappoint!

Sarah Walker, Katherine Baker, Thomas Britton, Thomas Higham (all 2021), Laura Henthorn (née Carless, 1977; Chairman, Old Girls’ Association)

Jeremy Newton, Alex Hopkinson, Jack Toner, Chris Hopkinson, Amanda Valentine (1983), Ursula Newton (née Farrell, 1983)

Charlotte Jones, Alastair Ahamed (2016), Sam Warburton (2018), Alex Hopkinson (2016)

Antonia Jameson (2019), Arsh Patankar (2022), Amerleen Hundle (2022), Sam Gunatilleke

Brian Darbyshire (1965), Wendy Johns (née Battersby), Michael Johns, Jeanette Powell (1990), Val Hanrahan (Girls’ Division Staff, 1978-2014)

Laura Tunbridge (1993) and Peter Knowles (1979)

Kirsty Fielding (2017), Matthew Schaffel (2019), Tom Underwood (2017)

James Hopkinson, Amerleen Hundle, Arsh Patankar (all 2022)

Prunella Harrison (née Williams, Laura Henthorn (née Carless; Chairman, Old Girls’ Association), Virginia Skoyles (née Welch) (all 1977)

Susan Reed (née Berry, 1996), David Reed, Lesley Thompson, Vanessa and Mark Bannister (1974)

Old Girls’ and Old Boys’ Joint Lunch - Bolton School, Friday

10th February 2023

The first ever joint lunch for Old Girls and Old Boys was a resounding success, with guests having no problem overcoming the ‘great divide’ of their School days!

Alumni London Dinner

The Armourers’ Hall, Friday 3rd March 2023

There was a fantastic turnout of Old Girls and Old Boys for the first Alumni dinner to be held in London for three years.

Carol Haslam (née Bonser, 1966; former Girls’ Division Staff, 1987-2009), Ann Evans (née Littlejohn, 1968); Janet Hathaway (1966), Lynne Kyle (Head of Girls’ Division)

Margaret Allen (née Brookes, 1957), Roy Battersby (President of the Old Boltonians’ Association, 1961), Laura Henthorn (née Carless, 1977 and Chairman of the Old Girls’ Association)

Jean Howarth (née Lever, 1961), Elsie Peel (née Addison, 1956; former Girls’ Division Staff, 1962-1970); Catherine Bankes (née Chadwick, 1960), Kathleen Zimak (née Smith, 1961; former Girls’ Division Staff, 1969-1979)

Michael Griffiths (1965), Harry Lane (1964), Sue McNeill (née Kershaw, 1963), Carolyn Radcliff (née Garrett, 1975), Allan Eaton (1974), Sheila Tonge (née Baird, 1963)

Craig McCoy, Peter Knowles, Judith Hibbert, Elizabeth Newton (née Whyatt) (all 1979)

John Craven (1982), Adam Hall (2018), Nancy Craven (née Gaskell, 1983)

Shivam Patel (2019), Finley Littlefair (2022), Amelia Wood (2019)

Lynne Kyle, Matthew Kyle (2020)

The Armourers’ Hall was a stunning venue

Inspiring the Next Generation OLD GIRLS’ FEATURES

Healthcare Champions

The November Perspectives Lecture focused on careers in Healthcare. The panel of Old Girls reflected on the diverse range of career choices within the sector and the skills requires to succeed.

Queen’s Nurse Heather Henry (née Fisher, Class of 1979) opened the lecture. Heather is a social entrepreneur, writer, innovator and health policy influencer. After completing her A Levels, she trained as a nurse at Manchester Royal Infirmary, working her way up to board level before deciding to start her own business and training to work in partnership with communities to tackle health inequalities.

Heather is the former chair of New NHS Alliance (now The Health Creation Alliance CIC), a national membership body promoting wellbeing, and is a current trustee of Being There, a Greater Manchester charity supporting people with life limiting illness. For her partnership work with severe and multiply disadvantaged fathers in Salford, Heather won the Sue Pembrey Award for person and community-centred nursing care. She has also received the Open University Business School Alumnus Award for her ‘Outstanding Contribution to Society’. Based on her own severe asthma as a child, she set up BreathChamps, offering a post-pandemic holistic breathless recovery programme across Trafford.

Heather explained how a career in nursing is a job for life; it provides transferable skills and opportunities to help other people and, in doing so, oneself. She described the eight different paths into nursing, noting that the whole sector is a ‘land of opportunity’.

Sheila Fisher (née Platt, Class of 1970) enjoyed two medical careers; the first as Consultant Maxillofacial Surgeon in Nottingham, and later as a Senior Lecturer in Leeds, and a second as a Medical Researcher. She was an examiner at the Royal College of Surgeons of England, as well as having national involvement in areas of clinical and research governance; medical ethics and innovation and regulation of medical devices. In ‘time beyond paid work’ she returned as medical supervisor in the Covid-19 vaccination service.

Sheila’s advice to those considering a career in healthcare was to be prepared for their career to evolve – if you are given the opportunity of doing something new in life, then go for it!

Thorrun Govind (Class of 2010) studied Pharmacy at King’s College London. In 2018 she was named ‘Young Pharmacist of the Year’ by Pharmacy Business Magazine and awarded a ‘Pharmacy Champion’ Award by Greater Manchester Local Practice Network. She is Chair of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society in England. Thorrun studied for her Graduate Diploma in Law whilst working as a pharmacist. In addition to being a practising pharmacist, Thorrun is now a Healthcare Advisory and Inquest Lawyer with Hempsons.

She is a strong advocate for healthcare and healthcare professionals across traditional and social media, regularly providing comment on various platforms, including Sky News and the BBC.

Thorrun advised that studying for a career in healthcare is not easy, but resilience will be built up along the way. She recommended a career in the NHS, saying it is extremely rewarding, enabling the development of a range of skills and providing opportunities to move around, both within the sector and across the country.

Susannah Penney (Class of 1993) is a consultant head, neck and thyroid surgeon at the University of Manchester’s NHS Foundation Trust (MFT). She completed her otolaryngology training in the North-West of England; as part of her training she was awarded a prestigious national head and neck training fellowship at the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Susannah was studious at School, but was unsure about her future occupation until she witnessed an operation while on work experience at Bolton Royal Infirmary and a career in Medicine beckoned. She was the only female surgical trainee at Bolton Hospital, where she took a shine to Orthopaedic Surgery and Ear, Neck and Throat (ENT) work and later became the first female Consultant at the Manchester Royal Infirmary.

Susannah explained that there is a wide range of roles in the NHS and something for every personality type. She advised that whatever skill you have, it may be sculpted towards a job that suits you. Some roles require resilience, others compassion and selflessness, while all need a strong work ethic. She described the various leadership roles she now holds, noting that they are all very rewarding as they allow her to change more than one life at a time.

Jobs for Geographers

October’s Perspectives lecture saw four Alumni considering why students might consider careers associated with a Geography degree, the challenges they might face and what the future holds for the sector.

Rachel Crompton (née Allen, Class of 1983), a Chartered Civil Engineer with over 30 years’ experience of managing and delivering highway and drainagerelated services and projects, is a Lead Flood Risk manager for a Local Authority. She recalled that working on large projects such as the building of a car park at Manchester Airport during work experience made her realise that she wanted to work on sustainable projects. She talked about the National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy for England and the importance of constructing climate-resilient places. Using maps of Withnell Fold in Lancashire, she illustrated the type of projects with which she is involved. Her current challenge, working with her team and United Utilities, is to ensure housing stock is not flooded in the area.

Jennifer Joule (Class of 2010) is a Senior Planning Officer at Teignmouth District Council. She studied Geography at Cambridge and spent two years teaching before undertaking an MSc in Planning at the University of Plymouth. She then

worked in the private sector as a Planning Consultant. Her ambition is to work for the Planning Inspectorate, the central government body which determines all planning appeals.

Jennifer explained that planning involves a wide range of skills, including fairness and impartiality, an appreciation of urban design and architecture, networking and sales (particularly in the private sector), an ability to comprehend and utilise technical information from a wide range of specialist areas, to be able to communicate with a wide variety of stakeholders, and, most importantly, time management and organisation capabilities. She believes that studying Geography can lead to varied and rewarding work that makes a real difference, as well as providing opportunities to travel and to get out on site and in the field.

Rachel and Jennifer were joined by Old Boys Paul Greenhalgh (Class of 2015) and Tom Mair (Class of 2018). Paul is in his second year as a Geography Teacher at Berkhamsted School, having studied Geography at Cambridge; Tom is a Graduate Water Consultant with a large American multinational infrastructure firm.

Alumni Advise on Apprenticeships

Within an increasing number of students considering alternative routes of higher education than university, February’s ‘Perspectives’ lecture focused on apprenticeships, with three Alumni speaking about their experiences, both as apprentices and as employers. The panel discussed the opportunities and challenges of apprenticeships, drawing upon their varied experiences, and the skills required to succeed.

Emily Rajbhandari (Class of 2020), a part-qualified Audit Senior at EY, is working towards a Level 7 qualification. Emily began her career as a business apprentice, having applied to audit at EY, one of the ‘Big 4’ international accountancy firms, in the winter of Year 13. Since then, she has completed 10 of the 15 exams required to become a chartered accountant, passing them all the first time. Working alongside these exams, she has been

a part of a wide variety of audits, gaining a distinctly high level of experience for her age. Having had a range of experiences within her apprenticeship, Emily is now seeking to transition to personal tax.

Emily was joined by Old Boys Lee Richardson (Class of 2000), a Police Detective Inspector who presented an employer’s perspective, and Patrick Hesson (Class of 2014) who started his career with a legal services apprenticeship and went on to complete another apprenticeship in Cyber Security.

Perspectives is a series of free, public lectures hosted by Bolton School. The lectures are virtual and free to attend and are open to pupils in Year 10 and above, parents, alumni, and all other members of the School and local community. Previous lectures are available to watch on the School’s YouTube channel.

A to Z of Careers

This newly-established series of monthly talks aims to provide pupils across the Divisions with an extensive insight into a range of sectors thanks to inspiring talks from Old Boys and Old Girls.

To date, Year Groups 10 to 13 have learned about careers in the Army, Business, the Civil Service, Dentistry and Engineering. Thank you to Lewis Kemp (Class of 2009), CEO of company Lightbulb Media, Rebecca Whyte

(Class of 2004) who works for the Elections Team in the Scottish Government, NHS Dentist Zuhair Patel (Class of 2015) and Michael Wallwork (Class of 1989), President of Renold plc, who have given inspiring presentations about their respective industries and hosted Q&A sessions.

Over the coming months and years careers representing the remainder of the alphabet will be featured, helping current pupils to make informed choices about their futures.

Women of Work

The Women of Work talks aim to introduce pupils to the variety of career opportunities available to them, and to a range of inspiring Old Girls. These short Zoom sessions take place during form time and incorporate a brief presentation followed by a Q&A session. We asked recent contributors to reflect on who and what had inspired them during their time at School.

Aysha Harwood (Class of 2011) has a Master's in Education and International Development from UCL and a Bachelor's Degree in Linguistics from King's College London. She is a Diplomat for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), currently working at the British Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Aysha notes how the teachers and pupils at Bolton School promoted an ethos of learning which encouraged her to work hard and achieve well. She was also encouraged to think of others less fortunate than herself (as in the School Prayer: “to extend to others that which we so richly enjoy”), which shaped her personal motivations towards volunteering and ultimately a career in International Development, working to help those at the sharpest end of poverty. She says: “I will be forever grateful to Bolton School for the impact it had in my formative years and on my future career.”

Holly Craggs (Class of 1997) studied English Language and Literature at Wadham College, Oxford. After graduation she gained a Masters in Shakespeare Studies from the University of Birmingham, then later a PhD in Renaissance Literature from the University of Manchester. She joined the University of Leicester as a Teaching Fellow in 2009, then worked in education until taking the decision in 2013 to retrain as an Educational Psychologist. She currently works as an Educational Psychologist for a Local Authority Educational Psychology Service.

Holly’s love of English was sparked at School. She vividly recalls a trip to Stratford-Upon-Avon with other English Literature A Level students and members of the English teaching staff. A particular highlight was sitting in a fish and chip shop and seeing Alan Rickman walk past! They also watched some Shakespeare …

Asked what she has gained personally from her experience at Bolton School, Holly has no hesitation in replying that it gave her her closest friends. It also gave her lots of great opportunities to pursue her interests in sport, drama and the outdoors.

Sadie Scorah (Class of 2009) left Bolton School to study French and Russian at the University of Leeds before pursuing her dream of a career in hospitality by applying for Hilton’s Elevator programme. Since then, Sadie has worked in five departments and now oversees all operational departments in her role as Director of Operations at Hilton London Paddington.

Sadie told the girls that her interest in and desire to pursue languages was two-fold: that she wanted to be able to use languages at work and that she wanted to be able to travel, to live and work anywhere without a barrier. Sadie’s work with Hilton has taken her across Europe where she has picked up additional languages and immersed herself in the cultures.

Aanya Pitalia (Class of 2012) studied Law at University College London, which included a year studying in Madrid. She then trained with KPMG in London and now works as a Tax Manager at Heathrow Airport.

Aanya explained how professional services firms like KPMG are there to help other businesses – that could be with how to manage their people, their money, their technology, their marketing or anything else. Aanya dispelled the assumption that a career in Finance might be dull – although she is a tax specialist her job at Heathrow Airport requires her to get involved in everything the business does.

Ziyaah Shaikh (Class of 2008) studied Software Engineering at the University of Manchester, and lived and worked for nine years in the UAE. She now lives in London with her husband and fouryear-old daughter, Sama, and works as a Learning and Development Manager for a company specialising in Middle Eastern student recruitment.

Ziyaah explained that although her first job with HSBC made her realise that a career in IT was not for her, it did provide her with a range of professional skills which enabled her to move to roles more suited to her. She discovered that she likes being part of a team and training people and made the transition to HR and then to a position training teachers in a government school within the Ministry of Education in Abu Dhabi.

Ziyaah attributes Bolton School to giving her the confidence to become who she wants to be. This realisation did not come as soon as she left School, but now she is in her thirties she is much more aware of who she is and what is important to her. “It was an experience that was life-changing and I was lucky to have been a part of this School.”

Emma Harnett (née Karn, Class of 2009) studied Spanish and Chinese at the University of Nottingham before her career in Sales and Marketing. Over the past decade, she has held various regional and global roles within highly successful companies such as Nestlé, Dyson and, more recently, JD Sports, where her current position is Senior Marketing Manager for the UK and ROI. Emma spoke fondly of her time at School, noting that it gave her many opportunities which she continues to draw on – primarily that her love of sport has shone through in teamwork in her career. Emma said that despite the negativity surrounding the high-street and the implications that may have on her role in retail marketing, she relishes the challenge and takes it as an opportunity to innovate.

International Womens’ Day

On Monday 6th March, the Girls’ Division continued its tradition of celebrating International Women’s Day by inviting Alumnae from a range of sectors in to discuss their careers and inspire the current pupils.

Following a networking breakfast, Charlotte Morley (née Maddrell, Class of 1999), founder and CEO of thelittleloop, a sustainable childrenswear rental brand which aims to reduce children’s clothing waste, delivered the keynote address in the Great Hall. Charlotte spoke to the girls about the 2023 International Women’s Day theme, ’Embrace Equity’, and how this differs from equality, asking them to consider that the differences that make each and every one of us unique are the reasons that make equity so important.

Charlotte asked the girls to take away two principles from her speech; one: the importance of a story well lived and two: the role you can play in helping others to lead better lives.

The group of 20 Alumnae then met with girls in Years 8 and 9, focusing on the extra-curricular activities and learning experiences they should take advantage of at School to broaden their horizons and discover new talents. The group then spent time individually with groups of two or three Year 12 pupils, discussing in depth their higher education and career aspirations, passing on advice and reassuring the girls that their decisions are not final: they don’t need all the answers now and the journey into work isn’t always smooth.

For the second year running, the Boys’ Division held its own celebration of International Women’s Day where Nic Ford, Head of Boys’ Division and Katharine Roddy, Head of German, and Diversity and Inclusion Lead, were joined by Katie Clinton (Class of 1997) for a virtual assembly.

The Girls’ Division would like to thank the following Old Girls for enabling the day’s celebrations and for giving their time to deliver such an inspirational day:

Joy Bailey (née Booth, Class of 1984), Retired Barrister; Grace Brookes (Class of 2014), Client Solutions Manager at TikTok; Ayse Caglayan (Class of 2011), CEO, Surge Social; Rashmi Chattopadhyay (Class of 1999), Dentist and Practice Owner at Southport Road Dental; Katie Clinton (Class of 1997), Partner at KPMG; Joanna Czutkowna (Class of 2000), Director at I Went Shopping Today; Dr Victoria Gibson (Class of 1993), Head of Social Research and Senior Government Analyst at UK Civil Service; Cherie Hall (née Cunningham, Class of 2005), Channel Director at UK TV – Dave; Saima Hanif (Class of 1998), King’s Counsel at 3 Verulam Buildings; Kat Harrison-Dibbits (Class of 2000), Head of Communications at Teenage Cancer Trust; Charlotte Hughes (Class of 2021), Audit Trainee at PwC; Charlotte Morley (née Maddrell, Class of 1999), Founder and CEO, thelittleloop; Dr Anushka Patchava (Class of 2004), Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Vitality; Alisha Patel (Class of 2011), Geoffrey Jefferson Brain Research Centre Manager at Northern Care Alliance; Rebecca Pukiello-Slack (Class of 1998), Freelance Journalist, Presenter and Producer; Emma Roden (née Platt, Class of 1990), Director at Kimble Roden Architects; Andrea Taylor (Class of 2000), Commercial and Compliance Director at Aesthetic Technology; Sophie Taylor (née Brookes, Class of 2011), Supply Chain Manager at Pura; Dr Leanne Blackmore (née Tidsey, Class of 1993), Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Socrates Psychological Services; Amanda Valentine (Class of 1983), Director at Torevell and Partners

Steps to Success – Old Girls’ Mentoring Scheme

In 2022, the Old Girls’ Association launched ‘Steps to Success’, a mentoring programme designed to provide inspiration by example for younger Old Girls.

The scheme is supported by 18 Old Girl mentors working in a diverse range of careers, each of whom gives their time for free to support younger Alumnae seeking support and guidance. Whether you are planning your first steps into a career as you prepare

to graduate, or considering your next move on the ladder, a mentor can provide a trusted and knowledgeable guide into and through the world of work.

If you are interested in joining the Steps to Success scheme – either as a young Old Girl (aged 30 or under) seeking 1-2-1 mentoring support or as an Old Girl wishing to volunteer your time to act as a mentor –please contact the Development Office.

Charlotte Morley delivers the keynote address

Thank you to all the Old Girls who took part!

There's No Place Like Home

Lydia Hounat (Class of 2105) ran a workshop on emulsion lift polaroid photography as part of the ‘There's No Place Like Home’ project.

MedSoc

With increasing numbers of Bolton School pupils considering a career in medical sciences, MedSoc is a thriving extracurricular club.

Aspiring doctors have recently heard from GP Ashish Chaudhry (Class of 1999), medical student Jake Rajbhandari (Class of 2017) and Andrew Bird (Class of 1989), who works for pharmaceutical company Acino in the UAE. Any Old Girls who can inspire would-be medics or offer advice on alternative careers in science are welcome to address a MedSoc meeting –please contact the Development Office.

Alumni Authors

Dandy the Highway Lion

By Stephanie Sorrell (née Artley, Class of 2009)

A thoroughly enjoyable read that had me captivated from the first few pages!

Dandy the Highway Lion combines adventure, fun and thoughtprovoking themes with ease. The book was a nice straightforward read for an adult, but is perfectly pitched at older children who will be able to understand and acknowledge the themes running through the book, such as animal welfare. It feels like the story naturally develops from being a Robin Hood type narrative to something much more challenging, while all the time remaining quite light-hearted.

I honestly didn’t think I would be as riveted by the adventures of Mr Dandy Paws, Hattie and Ben, but I looked forward to reading more pages as the story unfolded. I was intrigued by the concept of ‘urban animals’ that talked and lived alongside human beings and feel slightly disappointed that it’s not an actual thing – I mean, who wouldn’t want a charming, polite and well-dressed lion living next door to them?!

Stephanie’s writing and vivid descriptions plus the subtle use of illustrations throughout the book is superb, helping you to visualise the characters that you’re reading about. Nostalgic ideas of a bygone era with silverware, afternoon tea and fashion are written in such a way that the story doesn’t feel ‘dated’, like some period stories can be. As with any good book, there’s a twist at the end. However, unlike most books, it didn’t feel like a predictable twist!

There wasn’t anything I didn’t like about Dandy the Highway Lion; I just wish there were more adventures to read. Maybe this could be the start of a series of interlinked spin-off books about the escapades of all the characters? I’d love to know more about the back stories of Leornard and Beryl and what they get up to while Dandy is out being the Highway Lion.

If this is the Stephanie’s debut work, I look forward to reading her future books and will definitely be recommending Dandy the Highway Lion to friends who have children at this reading level.

Andrea Taylor (Class of 2000)

A Cautionary Tale for Old Girls Working in Science

Deborah is fighting a frustrating battle to get her innovative concept acknowledged as her own work

Having been upset to read the belittling, misogynistic portrayal of the scientist Rosalind Franklin in James Watson’s The Double Helix, for her Biology A Level studies with Miss Stocks, Deborah was recently shocked to experience something similar herself.

She developed a novel participant selection method for global citizens’ assemblies and sought an organisation to collaborate with on coding her concept, but the organisation stole her ideas and claimed authorship of her geospatial sortition methodology as their own. It was used to select participants for the 2021 Global Assembly on the Climate and Ecological Crisis – the world’s first, a historic event – and thereafter acclaimed as its top methodological innovation1 But neither she nor her academic partner have been acknowledged for their contribution. This makes it more difficult to access research funding.

Boltonians Ladies’ Football

Previous editions of this Newsletter reported the rebuilding of the team following the disruption to play and the squad of the Covid years.

As a result, the side decided to drop down a division for this season despite their mid-table position and battling cup final performance. The intention was to offer more competitive and enjoyable football to new young players and those who were returning from elsewhere. The season has proved to be a success, with the Ladies finishing the season as runners-up in Division One of the Greater Manchester Women’s League. That will, of course, mean promotion back to the Premier Division and new challenges for next season. They are also in cup final mood again as they will play the league winners in this year’s Division One final at Avro FC’s Vestacare Stadium; more of that in another edition!

Special thanks are due to Tony Berry and Stacey Saunders, who give of their time to coach and manage the team, and all the players and regular supporters. The Ladies train at Ladybridge High School in the

A formal complaint is proving to be a soul-destroying process, and Deborah would like to warn other Old Girls working in science about intellectual property theft and advise them to protect the copyright of their work.

She notes that if she had read about the nefarious ways in which Rosalind Franklin was betrayed, even by her own (male) colleagues at King’s College, she may not have been so trusting. Accordingly, Deborah has kindly donated copies of Rosalind Franklin and DNA, by Anne Sayre, which have been gratefully received by to the Bolton School Library.

You can find out more here about Deborah’s work in deliberative democracy and collective intelligence at the Democracy Community website. This has links to her blogs, including a description of her experience of intellectual property theft and organisational misogyny: www.democracy.community/individual/ deborah-wa-foulkes

Deborah WA Foulkes (Class of 1977)

Summer, under the floodlights at Ladybridge FC in the winter, and play their matches at the Old Boltonians’ AFC ground in Turton on Sunday afternoons. New players or helpers are always welcome. Please contact Stacey on staceybluemoon@hotmail.com or look for information on the Old Boltonians AFC website www.oldbolts.co.uk

1 J Stormonth-Darling, S Nakyung Lee, C Mellier, E Sow Ebion, F Devine, I Elbeiti, J Kelsie-Fry, J Stever, R Wilson, S Whitley, Y Bermejo, Report of the 2021 Global Assembly on the Climate and Ecological Crisis: Executive Summary (2022) (available at https://globalassembly.org/resources/downloads/ GlobalAssembly2021-ExecutiveSummary.pdf).

Arts in the Arctic Circle

Artist Natasha Lynch (Class of 2013) has found peace and inspiration on a remote Norwegian island. Here she describes her professional and emotional journey to her creative haven.

“From extracurricular art classes to the lunchtimes at School working on my art or textiles, it is no surprise that I have carved out a career in the arts. Although I never had a clear goal that this would be the case – I actually wanted to be a vet! – at each stage of my education art subjects were my haven, a time where I forgot I was studying and let the love of the process allow me to be in full mindfulness. I remember making clay jewellery with Mrs Fisher and thinking, I can’t believe it is possible to make your own earrings. The joy that ‘do it yourself’ brings that I discovered that day never ceases to amaze me!

“It was a natural progression to study an Art Foundation at MMU, a fantastic course that really leant on the principles of the Bauhaus school of thought, allowing me to experiment with a range of different materials.

Textiles have always been a strong point of mine: I loved mixing the precise and more traditional methods of sewing learnt at Bolton School, which gave me a strong love and striving for neatness in my work, with the more experimental textile education I received at Runshaw College. London then beckoned, and I was accepted onto the renowned Textile Design course at Chelsea College of Arts, specialising in woven design.

“The opportunities offered here were fantastic, from being taken to the Première vision textile exhibition and selling two of my woven designs (inspired by scientific maps showing dark matter explosions) to an incredibly eccentric Italian costumier, to being one of eight finalists of the ‘I Love Linen’ campaign by CELC, which culminated in a one-day exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum. The course at Chelsea was extremely fine art led and it was here that I realised my love for drawing, painting would override any ideas I had of working in the fashion industry.

“After university I spent two months in Lisbon before deciding that I wanted to do a Masters. I returned home and began working for a painting class events company, something that is great fun and which I still do today. I chose to do Design: Craft, as I really like the principles of design education and the academic side of this. My thesis was on mindfulness in craft, something that became extremely relevant when the pandemic came and later disrupted my studies.

“This disruption, however, set me on a new path that has been the most pivotal in my education in the arts. Searching for an art residency – a dedicated time for artists in an environment free from the usual distractions

of daily life – I received an invitation to spend a month on a funded residency at The Arctic Hideaway, a Scandinavian design-lovers' delight on a small fishing island in the Northern Norwegian sea: Sørvær, Fleinvær. Despite my mum’s nervousness, I set off on my journey: a train, two flights and eventually a boat. The month I spent there was lifechanging. I went with no clear plan of what I wanted to achieve; in fact, the lack of clarity was the plan. I let nature envelop me with nothing else to distract me, the whole focus of that month was on the joy of creation, of sitting and taking in the area’s inspiring landscape, being captivated by the Aurora Borealis, the polar skies and, most importantly, connecting with other artists and locals.

“The end of my stay resulted in an exhibition, where locals attended and purchased most of my work; this gave me faith as an artist, knowing that I, as an outsider, can capture the essence of someone’s home and landscape and even move them to strong emotions. It reinforced the importance that environment has on me and allowed me to understand better my methodology of working, confirming that it is the love of the process that drives and leads my work.

“Then ... more lockdowns, less chances of travel. I lost my job as an art teacher, began working in a bar – then out of the blue the founder of the residency invited me to come and look after the complex as a ‘caretaker’. I spent two months there at the start of 2022, then went back last Summer. It was during this third stay that I realised it is in Sørvær that I feel my most at home, and my inherent love for the people, nature and project began to shine its brightest. It shone so bright that a role has been created for me: I am now the artistic manager of The Arctic Hideaway. Being the company’s first employee has provided some setbacks – negotiating Norway’s rather strict visa laws and creating contracts and so forth – but it has been worth the wait. Being here at the start of such a fantastic project (it is just reaching its seventh year) the ground is fertile and rich with so many exciting prospects.

“I see a world where spaces like this give artists the capacity to think on a global, life-changing scale, for the ideas sparked in this small paradise are monumental. It is a world where the arts in education is cherished, encouraged and funded. Artists can lead the way, offer creative thinking that is valuable to the scientist or the engineer. Here at The Arctic Hideaway, all these interdisciplinary crossovers, through parallel working at shared spaces and beautiful conversations at dinner times, show how important it is to take time in nature to reflect and make clear what is already within us all.”

Natasha is the Artistic Manager of The Arctic Hideaway

The natural world provides inspiration

The Arctic Hideaway

Natasha’s art on display

Natasha at work

Varley, Veni, Vici

Little did Emily Varley (Class of 2012) know that when she led the School swimming team to victory in the town championships in 2012 she would be on the podium again a decade later, this time as European Multi Sport Champion. Here Emily describes her road to glory.

“September 2022 feels like a long time ago, but for me it has been hard to forget, as it included one of the highlights of my sporting career so far! At the end of September, I went to Bilbao for the European Multisport Championships. I was the overall female winner for the Sprint Duathlon (run 5k, cycle 25k, run 5k) and came third in the Aquathon (swim 2k, run 5k). This was the biggest race of my season: all the training, all the other races, all the half-hearted attempts at improving my diet … came down to this.

“Whilst at Bolton School I was part of the swimming team and also swam competitively for Bolton Metro Swim Squad. In my last year I was Captain of the School team, a role shared with Katie Clark; this was slightly strange considering Emma Saunders was also in our year and swam at the Commonwealth Games whilst we were still at School – presumably she had bigger fish to fry! We were a good team, winning the town championships multiple years in a row. Sitting poolside at races was always fun with the rest of the team. But other than swimming I wasn’t particularly sporty; like most people, cross country around the playing fields in the winter months was one of my least favourite activities, even if it was ‘character-building’!

“After university I met my now husband, who was very into cycling, and I decided to take it up so that we could do the activity together. We joined our local cycling club and swimming club. These commitments were all fairly laid back until the pandemic. During the various lockdowns, along with many other people, I found I had a huge amount of extra time on my hands and started doing sport more seriously. After the pandemic I managed to win a couple of local races, and then I really got the bug … I did more competitions until I was recognised at a national level and qualified to race for the British team in international events.

“I travelled to Bilbao for the European Championships in September 2022 with my family. The first event was first thing on Saturday morning, an out and back 5k along the river in Bilbao, from the Ship Building Museum, past the Guggenheim, to the Old Quarter (Casco Viejo) and back again. I knew there were some strong runners, so I had to dig deep just to keep my eyes on them!

“Luckily, the cycling suited me well; the course went up and out of Bilbao along a road that even featured in the 2022 Vuelta! It was a long uphill drag, and I picked my way past the other women until I was at the front. I could push myself on the uphill knowing I could get my breath back on the descent. All the practice hurtling up and down Rivington Pike paid off!

“By now, as you can imagine, I was starting to hurt. I had one more run along the river, past the Guggenheim, where there were now some unsuspecting tourists milling around and getting involved in cheering. Finally, I saw my sister, Daisy, waiting for me on the final bridge going up and over to the finish line. A beacon of blonde curly hair screamed that I was going to be the overall winner. The relief and the celebration were euphoric! The rest of the day involved drinking cava and mulling over how the hard work had paid off.

“The next race was just next to the coast in a town called Portugalete. The race organisers were very excited that we got to swim under the Vizcaya Bridge, which is a World Heritage Site. This would have been great, except the current was very strong and made it quite difficult to swim, let alone appreciate the industrial era architecture!

“I did not enjoy the swim and had managed to drink most of the bay whilst trying to complete it. I had a lot of catching up to do, and I set off on the run feeling dizzy and a bit seasick! Luckily the adrenaline and hunger to win overpowered me and I managed to scrape my way back to third place! More cava please!

“The World Championships are in Ibiza in April this year, so I am hoping to perform well in those. In the long run I am hoping to do some longer distances and eventually do Bolton Iron Man and qualify for the World Championships in Kona! If you’d like to chat to me more about triathlon I can be found on LinkedIn and Instagram

“I would be very grateful for any support from fellow alumni or businesses to help me continue training and competing – please contact me at triathlete@tilde.co.uk.”

Team Varley, including Daisy (Class of 2014) and Rupert (Class of 2019)

Being crowned European Champion

Jaiminee’s Mountainous Trek for Charity

Last October Jaiminee Patel (Class of 2011) trekked to Everest Base Camp in aid of two charities supporting young people in both Nepal and the UK. Here she describes the ups and downs of the challenge.

“In 2019, I was given the chance to trek to Everest Base Camp with 15 of my colleagues. I had to undergo a rigorous application process, including interviews and a physical selection weekend, just to be considered. Thankfully I was selected and excited to complete the trek in 2020! Then, of course, we were hit with two years of delays due to Covid.

“Everest Base Camp (EBC) had been an iconic expedition on my bucket list for some time. Whilst at Bolton School, I took part in World Challenge and travelled to Ladakh, India, for a hiking trip. This was my first insight into trekking at altitude, where I’d fallen in love with the Himalayas and always wanted to return.

“Reaching heights of nearly 6,000m above sea level, EBC throws cold, tough terrain and altitude sickness at trekkers. The trek itself is almost three weeks and around 80 miles in total, so I was hoping I’d still have feet at the end of this!

“Our expedition fundraising was to help build and equip a Vocational Training Centre in Kathmandu, Nepal, for young people furthering their education and skills upon leaving school. As a bonus, all the money I raised here would be matched by St James’s Place where I work as a Financial Adviser, and they kindly offered to double every penny raised to benefit OnSide UK.

“OnSide UK was the charity sitting behind Bolton Lads and Girls Club, somewhere I volunteered for several years whilst at School. I saw first-hand the difference exceptional youth work can make to disadvantaged young people and wanted to help provide access to this kind of space for more.

“In preparation for the trip, my time was spent juggling training physically and fundraising in any way I could, from endurance training in the Lake District, to hosting events to raise funds – apparently speed dating was a favourite!

“In October 2022, we finally touched down in Nepal. What followed was a challenging trek and further setbacks that were unexpected and only added to the battering we were to endure. Bad weather meant days of delays even to start the trek. We were stuck with cabin fever creeping in. Four days passed with no progress.

If we didn’t leave then, we would not have sufficient time to reach EBC. So much disappointment at going nowhere; then it all changed overnight. We galloped to the airport in complete chaos and were finally off!

“We marched with some urgency as there were no spare or gentle days, but a full-on assault with little margin for error. What followed was a beautiful but demanding trail boasting lush greenery, waterfalls, mega footbridges, and stunning mountain views.

“We passed all kinds of things on our trail – from sherpas and yaks carrying 50kg on their backs, to seeing the oldest monastery in the world, as well as Buddhist chortens and Mani stones with prayers inscribed on them. The next few days were more of the same, bistari bistari (slowly slowly) up hill and then lots of ‘Nepali flat’ (definitely not flat).

“Suddenly the landscape changed, and it was like being on the moon. Deep glaciated valleys, lateral moraine and a monochrome landscape took over. Our pace had slowed to a crawl. It was altitude sickness territory, with headaches, lack of sleep, sickness and vomiting for me.

“Then we were there to see the Everest Base Camp boulder. It was an immense relief – tears, hugs, rushed group photographs, excited chatter and some quiet reflection for some. This had been a long, long haul and one hell of a ride!

“Now the trail up, was exactly the trail down. Continuous days of sickness, whilst trekking for hours each day at altitude had caught up with me. The call was made for me to be evacuated off the mountain with a helicopter rescue – an adventure in itself. Despite feeling the most ill I’ve ever been, my helicopter ride chopping in and out of the mountains was incredible, a once in a lifetime experience.

“Our team raised a staggering £261,000 which is funding the Vocational Centre in Kathmandu, with St James’s Place matching those funds to benefit OnSide Youth Zones in the UK.

“My thanks to all who sponsored and supported me, including several Old Girls and teachers – even after ten years since leaving Bolton School! Looking back on the trip, I don’t think I appreciated the patience, resourcefulness and endurance I had to get through the trek at the time, and ultimately a drive to succeed that brings me back to my time at School. There are so many friends and teachers who inspired me to strive for more and always stood me proud, so I tried my very best to do the same. One more off the bucket list!”

Blood, sweat and tears later –finally made it to Everest Base Camp!

The final (apocalyptic like) push to Everest Base Camp

The ‘awful’ view from Jaiminee’s helicopter rescue!

One of many footbridges up to Namche Bazaar

Old Girls Go Global

The Old Girls’ Association has over 5,000 members living and working not just in the UK, but across the globe. Here we catch up with three Old Girls who have relocated overseas, find out what motivated them to move abroad, what they enjoy about their lives there … and what they still miss about the UK!

Gabriella Wilkins (Class of 2011)

Gabriella’s school friends made a surprise visit to Amsterdam to celebrate her 30th birthday – L-R: Holly Pasquill, Emma Harrison, Katherine Liversedge, Gabriella, Elizabeth Maloney, Annabel Leather (all Class of 2011)

Gabriella has been living in Amsterdam, Netherlands, for over two years, working in fashion marketing. She had the opportunity to move during the pandemic, so she and her partner packed their bags and moved via the Eurostar (luckily there are no luggage restraints!) – looking back now, it seems a little crazy. Gabriella had always wanted to live in Amsterdam, although she can’t put her finger on a specific reason why. She definitely felt drawn to the city and spoke to her friends and family about wanting to move there years before.

The big difference is the main mode of transport. You cycle whether the sun is shining or the rain is pouring. No one seems to care if your clothes or shoes are wet – that part is still taking some getting used to. Gabriella enjoys her daily bike commute, and she likes the relaxed ethos, the healthy lifestyle and meeting people from completely different backgrounds. What does she miss about the UK? Family and friends, the sense of humour and the countryside. You realise how influential British culture is when you move abroad!

Sumitra Moeller (née Datta, Class of 2000)

Sumitra has been living in Amsterdam for three and a half years. She had never contemplated leaving London, but a job offer came from nowhere and within 24 hours she and her family decided to go. With everything happening so quickly, she had no expectations of life in Amsterdam – but completely jumping in and letting go made the adventure all the more exciting!

So many things are completely different to the UK: the architecture, the pace and ease of life, and the ability to cycle everywhere in a cycle lane! Also, the directness of the Dutch can be a bit of a shock in the beginning, but after time it becomes far more efficient to adopt this way of communication than the more polite British way …

The best thing was arriving as a family – not knowing anyone meant clubbing together as a team to build a new life together. Sumitra loves that friends and family can visit, but most of all loves truly experiencing the feeling of ‘going home for Christmas’ whenever they return to the UK.

She misses friends and family, the news, the diversity of food and restaurants, being on home turf where people have known you since your childhood – and, occasionally, the sense of belonging!

Carol hosted a farewell dinner in March 2019 with former classmates, L-R: Liz Wingham (née Willcox)

Pippa Robertson (née Greenhalgh)

Bev Roocroft (née Thornley), Caroline Topham (née Horrocks), Carol, Jackie Mason (née Wane), Karen Partridge (née Wotherspoon), June Hurst and Susan McGuiness (née Hackett) (all Class of 1976)

Carol Estava (née Riding, Class of 1976)

After 61 years of living in Bolton, Carol decided to move to Gozo, a tiny Island off the coast of Malta. It is eight miles by four and has 46 churches and a population of about 30,000 – smaller than Bolton! Carol holidayed there in 2015; during a second visit in 2018 she felt as though she was ‘coming home’ and made the decision to move. She cleared her house, loaded her two dogs, Fizzy and Vimto into her car, and off they set.

Gozo is linked to the UK via the Commonwealth and there is a tax and health agreement in place which makes things very easy. They speak Maltese, but many also speak English. Carol wakes up to sunshine and blue skies every day. She loves walking her dogs in the beautiful countryside and because it does not rain very often it is easy to plan walks, barbecues and boat trips. Street hawkers drive round the streets everyday selling fresh fruit and vegetables, household items, bread and fish. The gas and water trucks come once a week and the bottle truck selling soft drinks and beer comes three times a week.

Gozo has some downsides, such as corruption, bad roads and shocking drivers, mass construction and poor air from exhaust fumes, but out in the fields it is calm, peaceful and beautiful. The community spirit is infectious, the culture amazing and each week during the Summer there is a festa in a village somewhere.

Carol visits the UK regularly and always looks forward to returning to Gozo. However, she does miss drinking water from the tap, the smell of dew on the grass in the mornings and being able to get anything you want from the shops. She does not miss the rain – waking up to sunshine each day does wonders for the soul!

Liberating Languages

Georgina Irvine (Class of 1989; Girls’ Division Staff 2008-2018)

“I loved all my subjects at School, but nothing could compete with languages for my affection and dedication. Like all pupils in those days, I started with French, then opted to take German in Lower Fourth. Miss Kelly joined Bolton School in the same year as me and I was the second class to take a fast-track course in Spanish at O Level. I took French, German and Spanish at O Level and French, Spanish and English Literature at A Level and went on to study for an MA degree in French and Spanish at St Anne’s College, Oxford. In the final year of my degree I was courted by the banks and after graduation I started a Graduate Management Programme in retail banking in the City of London with NatWest. Within a couple of months I had been headhunted by the International Businesses branch of the bank and moved to NatWest Tower to work in Human Resources, dealing with the heads of the businesses across Europe. I worked directly with the Head of Banco NatWest España and when the opportunity arose I accepted a position at the head office in Madrid. All of this was great for my Spanish, but I wasn’t really loving the banking side of the job!

“After three years of high-flying business and banking I took the decision to return to the UK and retrain as a teacher and when I was offered my first teaching job at Arnold School in Blackpool they valued my years in industry and experience living and working abroad. I loved teaching and especially enjoyed organising the

Grace Brookes (Class of 2014)

"During my tenure at Bolton School Girls Division, Economics and Spanish were my favourite subjects. The esteemed Miss Jones remains indelibly imprinted in my memory as my favourite teacher. I fondly recall our Economics classes and the wealth of knowledge she imparted, both academically and personally, as well as the joyous camaraderie we shared within our intimate A Level cohort.

After completing my studies at Bolton School, I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at IE University in Madrid, along with an exchange semester at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics (SUFE). This opportunity allowed me to hone my Spanish language abilities in real-world settings and put the lessons learned during my time at Bolton School into practice. One of the most significant challenges I faced was mustering the courage to embrace my language mistakes and cultivate a receptive, learning-oriented

trips and extra-curricular cultural activities for my students. However, within five years I had itchy feet again, so after three years at Arnold, and two years as Head of Spanish in Alderley Edge, I packed my bags again and jetted off to The Bahamas to take up the role of Head of MFL at St Andrew’s International School. I loved my three years there, teaching International Baccalaureate, and returned to the North West to teach at St Bede’s in Manchester before returning home to Bolton School for a further ten years, teaching in a wonderful department with superb colleagues and girls.

“But … I needed another challenge so I gave up my lovely job and set up my own business in 2018. Profesora Irvine allows me to do everything I love as a teacher, but also to indulge my love of culture and travel. I offer online private tuition as well as GCSE and A Level courses for schools, teachers and exam students. It has been an unexpected success and I have won several national business and teaching awards for my work. I have always been inspired by such amazing and dedicated teachers and I truly hope that I have inspired my pupils to pursue their love for languages. Nothing makes me happier that to hear from an ex-student who is living in Spain or France, or beyond, travelling the world and enjoying life as a linguist! I am so grateful that the love I had for languages as a young girl endures and that I can speak Spanish and French every day. The best part of my current ‘job’ is escaping the cold dark days of winter in Bolton to live and work in Spain every January and February. I am writing this from Valencia and I have to go home soon, but I have a healthy glow on my face and a renewed motivation for the coming exam season!”

mindset, a skill that was nurtured during my time at School where I was taught the importance of taking things one step at a time.

I launched my career as an Analyst at a boutique consulting firm in Madrid and later transitioned to London in 2019, joining an Adtech Startup in the Client Solutions team. My Spanish language proficiency was instrumental in expanding my client portfolio across the EMEA region. Currently, I work at TikTok’s London office, specialising in launching beauty brands on the platform, overseeing their paid advertising and creative strategies.

One of the defining characteristics of the tech industry, and of my role at TikTok, is its rapid pace of change. Thus, having a growth mindset, being adaptable and embracing change are essential traits to succeed in this industry.

Bolton School, from Nursery to Sixth Form, instilled in me resilience, adaptability, curiosity, and, most importantly, gave me friends for life. The women I met at Bolton School continue to inspire me daily with their achievements and serve as a significant source of inspiration in my professional life."

Learning languages can open so many doors – here we hear from four Old Girls whose lives have been enriched by a love of languages.

Monica Sobrero (Class of 1990)

“I moved from Italy to England in 1984, just as I was about to turn 13, and joined Bolton School in Year 8 (then called Lower Fourth) – not the easiest of things for a teenage girl who looked and sounded so very different to the Spandau and Duran fans, but within months at Bolton School I was ‘home’. English soon became my ‘other language’ and I was keeping up with my peers (except in Maths, but you can’t be good at everything, can you?!). I still have my secret diary from that time which reminds me of the special friends and amazing teachers who provided me with a great environment and the platform to propel me to where I am today.

“I thrived on the encouragement and praise from my teachers: Mrs Green and Mrs Hutchings, with their energy and infectious enthusiasm for all things European, as well as Mrs Fisher, Dr Brown and Mrs Carr – totally different from one another, but equally important in shaping me, and all fondly remembered.

“After my degree from the University of Sussex (1994) and my first job with a marketing communications agency, the regular liaison with client, translator and trade press editors abroad inspired me to make the bold decision to set up as a Freelance Translator and Interpreter in 1999.

Ruth Davies (née Harrison, Class of 1985; Beech House Staff, 2001-2006)

“It would be very safe to say that my performance in languages at School was less than stellar! After two years of Latin, the legend that was Mrs Tate referred to me as ‘a struggler’ so I didn’t continue to O Level. At that time, there was no option to drop French and I went on to fail my exam … twice!

I can well believe the patience of Mrs Garthwaite and Miss Nulty was tried to extremes.

“Fortunately, my husband was applying himself more effectively on the other side of the centre arch. His love of the German language continued after his studies had finished and when, in 2006, an opportunity for a threeyear adventure in Germany presented itself, we were off!

“Living in the country and meeting the locals inspired me to throw myself wholeheartedly into learning the language. I had expected to return to the UK at this point and was determined to return home with at least one new skill.

I studied for the DPSI exam (Diploma in Public Service Interpreting) and haven’t looked back.

“For over two decades I have been helping people with in-person and remote interpreting. I interpret simultaneously or consecutively at court and tribunal hearings, police stations, prisons, medical conventions, football press conferences, business meetings, mental health assessments, counselling sessions and more.

“Interpreting requires far more than transposing words from one language into another. It is a complex process; it involves extracting the meaning behind the words in the source language (decoding), transferring that meaning from one linguistic context to another, and expressing it in the words of the target language (encoding). At the same time, you have to be on the lookout for any meaning expressed by tone of voice, intonation, facial gestures, body language, etc. The aim is not to lose any of the meaning whilst expressing the message in natural-sounding language. And all of this has to happen instantaneously!

“I guess what I’m saying is that it is not just about the languages I speak or learned at School – it is about all of these other skills, and the foundations were definitely laid at Bolton School with the help of every single one of my teachers (and Mrs Spurr, who from time to time felt the need to remind me about rules!).”

“What I loved about learning the language was the very tangible progress I was making. Initially I could just about understand the weather forecast, then the traffic reports and eventually the news. I liked that I could almost feel my brain having a workout as I tried to find ways to express myself.

“In 2009 we had the choice to return to the UK or to move from Heidelberg to Munich. We felt that our whole family was benefiting from the European experience and so decided to stay in Germany. In 2017 we became the proud holders of German passports (they even let us keep our UK ones!).

“My German continues to improve; I even sing in a German choir, although I still am not always certain I’ve used the correct ‘the’!”

Alumni of the Year Awards

Alumni of the Year Awards 2022

Last May, members of the School community were asked to nominate Alumni whom they felt were deserving of the Awards for Old Girl and Old Boy of the Year.

in recognition of her distinguished career as the UK's first female maxillofacial surgeon and her voluntary service within her local community.

Sir Philip Craven, MBE (Class of 1968) was chosen as the inaugural recipient of the Old Boy of the Year Award, in recognition of his outstanding sporting achievements and his lifelong dedication to the development of Paralympic sports.

The close nature of this pupil vote, combined with the strength of Alumni support for the nominees and their achievements, led the School to present two further awards, for Outstanding Achievement. Rebecca Turner (née Maudsley, Class of 2006) was the recipient of the Old Girls’ Outstanding Achievement Award, in recognition of her extensive fundraising in aid of the Blue Skies Hospital Fund, undertaken in memory of her younger brother, Tom, who passed away in May 2020 following a short but brave battle with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Max Griffiths and Sam Yates (both Class of 2001) were the joint winners of the Old Boys’ Outstanding Achievement Award, in recognition of the impact of LivLife, the charity they founded 16 years ago to enrich the lives of economically disadvantaged people in North Tanzania.

Pupils from across the Junior and Senior Schools in both Divisions were then invited to choose, from a shortlist, the nominee they felt was the most deserving winner of each of the two Awards, in a vote conducted at the end of the Summer Term.

Dr Sheila Fisher (née Platt, Class of 1970) was chosen as the inaugural recipient of the Old Girl of the Year Award,

Rebecca, Sheila and Sir Philip were presented with their Awards at a special assembly for pupils from both Divisions, while Max and Sam addressed the assembly via a pre-recorded message in which they explained how their experiences at Bolton School had inspired a passion for the world which in turn motivated them to set up LivLife.

Who Will You Nominate This Year?

The myriad contributions made to society by Bolton School’s Old Girls and Old Boys are a source of continued pride and inspiration to the current generation of girls and boys currently studying here on Chorley New Road.

In celebration of these many and varied achievements, last year the School launched its Alumni of the Year Awards, which seek to recognise Alumni who embody the School’s ethos of producing people who go out into the world and make a difference for good, and have thus delivered upon the famous exhortation of the Girls’ Division prayer, that “much will be expected of those to whom much is given”. Nominations for this year’s Awards are now open, and

members of the School community are invited to nominate Alumni who they feel are deserving of the 2023 Old Girl of the Year and Old Boy of the Year Awards by 12pm on Friday 26th May. After that deadline, a shortlist of candidates for the two awards will be decided by the Heads of Foundation, Girls’ Division, Boys’ Division and Primary Division, before pupils from across the Junior and Senior Schools are invited to vote for their favoured candidate at the end of the Summer Term. The winners of the two awards will be announced publicly in September 2023, at the start of the new academic year.

For further details, including the Awards’ rules, and to make your nomination, please visit the ‘Alumni and Giving Back’ section of the School website.

Rebecca Turner, Sheila Fisher, Philip Britton and Sir Philip Craven at the special assembly for the award winners

Old Girl of the Year: Dr Sheila Fisher

Sixth Formers Ella Davey and Alexander McKie spoke to Sheila about her long, varied and successful career.

Sheila initially studied Dentistry at university, during which she was introduced to facial surgery, and this motivated her to undertake a second degree in Medicine. She also completed a PhD in Philosophy about patient experience of head and neck cancer.

Sheila’s love of working with people and her desire to improve their lives spurred her into becoming the world’s first woman to undertake full training as a maxillofacial surgeon. For those who have suffered facial trauma or cancer, the aftermath of treatment can be devastating, as they are denied the pleasures of eating and drinking, and even communicating orally. Being able to help such people regain some normality remains a source of great satisfaction for Sheila. Through her research she came into contact with patients whose lives were limited by their treatment and this led her to incorporate spiritual care into her therapy, for which her Theology degree (she recently gained a postgraduate certificate in Theology and Ministry from York St John University) was great preparation.

Sheila loved both the practical surgeries and the intricate research practices of her job; she was also keen to be part of the integration of new technologies to keep maxillofacial surgery at the cutting-edge of medicine. She has learned that there are things that are right at certain points in one’s life and it is important to “do them, enjoy them, love them, get the very best out of them” whilst remembering to look out for other things that can be enjoyed in life.

Juggling her research and hospital work with bringing up her two sons was not easy. This was one of the greatest challenges of her career, but Sheila overcame it using “Determination and energy – you’ve just got to say, ‘I’m going to do this’.” She maintains the belief that anyone can do anything they wish to achieve – the key is having the right mindset: “If you want it enough, and it’s right for you, you will make it happen.” Nevertheless, she cautions aspiring medics that the career takes its toll psychologically; anyone going into her field must be aware and accepting of the fact that not everyone will get a happy ending, and that some people’s journeys will end in disappointment.

Despite this, Sheila finds her work exponentially fulfilling, and the values Bolton School taught her have stayed alongside her during the ups and downs of her career. Her unwavering Christian faith has also held her hand throughout her life and she believes it has allowed her to be more than she would have been without it.

Old Girls’ Outstanding Achievement Award: Rebecca Turner

Deputy Head Girl Ananya Ajit and Boys’ Division Sixth Former Harry Adams quizzed Rebecca about her time at School, her career and her dedication to the Blue Skies Hospitals Fund.

Rebecca’s favourite subject at School was Product Design and this shaped her career. After taking what she described as the ‘traditional’ path to becoming a teacher, she worked her way up to become Head of Product Design at her school. She soon gained a sense of belonging in her full-time teaching job, having felt ‘at home’ in the Product Design department at Bolton School. However, in May 2020 her brother, Tom, passed away from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and everything changed.

Having spoken with Tom about the funds he had wanted to raise for others in his position, Rebecca was determined to make a difference and began a fundraising campaign to honour his memory and his final wishes. She went part-time at her school and used her small-business making colourful

wool and rope rainbows to raise money for the Blue Skies Hospitals Fund. She began, along with her mum and Tom’s friends, to fundraise with raffles and events. Their combined efforts have led to over £25,000 being raised, allowing for the creation of hand-painted murals in patient side rooms and three ‘at-home’ chemotherapy machines. The greatest advice Rebecca can give is to do what makes you happiest. She recalls that after going part-time at her first school, she was given an ultimatum either to go back full-time or not to return. She chose to move to another school, focusing on her fundraising work and other interests, and is now able to balance her teaching job with running her business, Fred and Pearl. This decision was based solely on what she thought would make her happiest, and it has overwhelmingly benefited her since she is now able to speak about her brother and share his message and his memory.

Going forward Rebecca plans to leave her job as a teacher and open a play café, in which she will teach young children the basics of design technology. We wish her all the best with this endeavour as she has truly inspired us with the work she does to support those who need it the most.

Head of Girls’ Division Lynne Kyle presented Sheila with her well-deserved award

The full interviews with Sheila and Rebecca can be read on the School’s website.

Rebecca (right) was delighted to be presented with her award by Sue Faulkner, Head of Primary Division

Story of a Gown

The Prefects’ gowns are one of the enduring symbols of the Girls’ Division, and the Gowning of the Prefects, held in the Great Hall each May, has become one of its most special traditions. Here Dawn Stainer (née Taylor, Class of 1995) and Natalie Lewis (née Caldwell, Class of 2007) describe wearing their gowns with pride.

What was your favourite moment whilst wearing your gown?

Dawn: My favourite moment wearing my gown was walking down the aisle at the Ceremony of Carols under the gaze of the angels, with the whoosh of the chairs as everyone stood, the festive atmosphere and the incredible singing. Christmas always felt like a special time at School.

Natalie: I always loved wearing my gown, but I think my favourite moment has to be the first time. I had always enjoyed watching the Prefects Gowning Ceremony and so when my turn came and I got to walk out of assembly in the Great Hall, Harry Potter-style with gown swishing, I felt so much pride! The Prefects’ Panto is definitely a close second!

What were your hopes/plans for the future, as you passed on your gown?

Dawn: As I passed on my gown and moved on from Bolton School I had exciting plans. I was looking forward to my year out where I would be living in the French Alps. Although I had a distinct lack of long-term plans, I had a deferred place to study Law at Oxford Brookes and this was something that I was also looking forward to.

Natalie: I was always ambitious and more than anything I hoped to make my family proud and not waste the opportunity they had given me by going to such an amazing school.

What did you do after leaving School?

Dawn: I spent a wonderful Winter, Spring and Summer in the mountains, glad of my A Level French (I am sure Mrs Kolot and Mme Hutchings would have been proud!). I returned to take up my place studying Law and began the job of settling into university life. After leaving university, I took up the role of Deputy Centre Manager at Patterdale Hall whilst contemplating what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. I enjoyed living in the mountain environment, albeit slightly smaller than the Alps, and decided that the Lake District was where I wanted to grow my roots and make my forever home. I completed my PGCE at Lancaster and moved into the education sector, working for Cumbria County Council in several settings for over 15 years.

Natalie: I read Law at Cambridge University and then went on to become a solicitor in London. I am now a Partner at Travers Smith LLP and lead the firm’s Fintech, Market Infrastructure and Payments practice. What are you doing now?

Dawn: A road accident, cycling home from work one day, left me with a head injury and symptoms that made life challenging for a while. I made the difficult decision to move into FE/HE, sharing my skills with upcoming teachers. A chance sighting of a poster in a local university, where I was present for training, pointed me in a new direction; I followed this up and trained firstly as a Civil and Commercial Mediator and then as a Workplace Mediator where I feel like I have finally found my niche. I founded Lakeland Mediation Solutions, based in Kendal, Cumbria, and offer workplace mediation services across the North West and further afield. I have a growing client base and really love what I do: helping those in dispute in the workplace to find a way forward. I get to work with some fantastic people.

Natalie: As well as my job as a lawyer (which I love!) I have moved to Harpenden in Hertfordshire with my husband and our little Shih Tzu, Lola. We are also expecting our first child in June! What one piece of advice would you give to this year’s Year 13 pupils?

Dawn: Be open minded. Your career may deviate from where you expected it to go and you may take a path that you had not initially anticipated. For me, however, this has brought great professional and personal satisfaction that I had not planned on either!

Natalie: The best piece of advice I have been given, and which I’d like to pass on, is “You can do absolutely anything you put your mind to”. No challenge is insurmountable, particularly if you want it enough and are willing to work for it. Hard work, dedication and (crucially) self-belief are what you need to succeed.

Are you still in touch with friends from School?

Dawn: I am still in contact with a number of people from school and have had the pleasure working with Old Girls from other year groups. The network of Old Boltanians stretches far and wide.

Natalie: Yes! We are very active over email and social media and it’s always great to see how well everyone is doing!

Dawn has found her niche as a workplace mediator

Prefects 1994-95 – Dawn is second from the right on the front row

Natalie proudly wearing her Prefect’s gown

Natalie loves her job as a lawyer

NEWS OF OLD GIRLS

MATCHES AND HATCHES

Lauren Alergant (Class of 2001)

Congratulations to Lauren who married Paul Garrity on 27th January 2023 at The Albert Halls here in Bolton. Happy couple Paul and Lauren

Cherie Hall (née Cunningham, Class of 2005)

Congratulations to Cherie who married Stuart Hall on 26th October. The wedding took place on a vineyard in Stellenbosch South Africa, just outside Cape Town. Naturally there were a number of Old Girls in attendance: Cherie’s sisters Deanne (Class of 2001) and Philippa (Class of 2009), plus Danielle Riley (née Wallwork) and Nicole Whitehead (both Class of 2005).

Laura Hudson (née Marginson, Class of 2008)

Congratulations to Laura who married Sam Hudson on 1st October 2022. The couple first met at university and reconnected later in life when Sam appeared at Laura’s law firm. They tied the knot at the beautiful Dorfold Hall in Nantwich, Cheshire. Among the wedding guests were a number of Bolton School Alumni, including Laura’s father, John Marginson (Class of 1971), her brothers Nick (Class of 2005) and Anthony (Class of 2003), her cousin Joanne Cooper (née Redford, Class of 2006) who was a bridesmaid, and Georgina Marks (Class of 2008), whose daughter was a flower girl alongside Laura’s niece. Laura’s godson – the son of Jo and Matt Cooper (Class of 2006) was a page boy.

Fellow Old Girl Jo (second right) was

MINI REUNIONS

Legal Gathering

Elaine Chan (Class of 1995) is a Partner specialising in Commercial and Insurance Litigation at international law firm Keystone Law. It was a real surprise and pleasure to discover that there are several Bolton School Alumni in the firm also who are all successful lawyers in their own specialist fields.

Kate Fawell-Comley

(Class

of 2010)

Congratulations to Kate who married Matthew Thomas on 3rd September at Elmley Nature Reserve in Kent. In true Bolton School girl style, Kate climbed Kilimanjaro within a week of getting married (leaving her new husband behind to complete it solo after he succumbed to altitude sickness)!

Amelia Stevenson (née Howe, Class of 2016)

Congratulations to Amelia who has married Ryan Stevenson (Class of 2014). The pair met while still at School and tied the knot on 15th October last year in Glenridding, next door to Patterdale Hall. A number of Old Girls and Old Boys were in attendance: Isabella Howe (2020), Holly Stevenson (2022), Molly Heron (2016), Claudia Turner (2015), Lizzy Glover (2020), Peter Russell (2014), Adam Cauchi (2014), Rory Milne (2014), Ellis Bunney (2016) and Charles Howe (2018).

There were plenty of Alumni in attendance

Natalie Clarke (née Charlton, Class of 2010)

Congratulations to Natalie, husband Stuart and daughter Pepa on the arrival of Nico in November – a welcome addition to the family.

Natalie and Stuart with Nico and his proud big sister Pepa

one of Laura’s bridesmaids

This photo, taken at the Legal 500 Northern Powerhouse Awards in Manchester in March, shows Elaine (centre) with

family lawyer Sarah Thompson (née Burn, Class of 1989) and gambling and licensing lawyer Richard Williams (Class of 1990). Also in the firm is employment lawyer Keely Rushmore (Class of 1994).

Cherie Cunningham wedding

Laura’s Dad, Old Boy John Marginson, gave her away

The happy couple, Amelia and Ryan

DESTINATIONS OF LEAVERS 2022

Isma Ahmad Gap Year

Fatimah Ahmed Gap Year

Imaan Ahmed King’s College London, University of London

Sarah Al-Falahi Gap Year

Laweeza Ali University of Liverpool

Millie Ashton University of Exeter

Ellen Baines University of Liverpool

Georgia Barnes University of Bristol

Mia Bennett University of Nottingham

Hannah Berisford University of Kent

Imaan Bhad Queen’s University Belfast

Syeda Binte Fahad Leeds Art University

Poppy Blackhurst Employment

Phoebe Booth University of Warwick

Isabel Brennand University of Liverpool

Natalia Bromilow Leeds Beckett University

Katie Burgess Leeds Beckett University

Zaynab Bux Gap Year

Sofia Carrera-Knowles BAE Engineering Apprenticeship

Eli Collins Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts

Tahira Collins Gap Year

Victoria Cook Gap Year

Isabelle Corrigan Sheffield Hallam University

Lucy Crabtree University of Bristol

Audrisha De Queen’s University Belfast

Amy Doyle Northumbria University

Liyana Dudhia Gap Year

Sophie Edwards University of Liverpool

Lillian Featham University of Leeds

Chloe Ferguson Loughborough University

Clarissa Forster University of York

Eve Gould University of Liverpool

Elysia Greenwood Lancaster University

Gracie Grundy University of Leeds

Elizabeth Harkness Canisius College, Buffalo, USA

Bethan Hill Northumbria University

Lauren Hilton Gap Year

Suzi Howell Newcastle University

Amerleen Hundle University of Oxford

Phoebe Hurt Florida Institute of Technology, USA

Iqra Hussain Gap Year

Madiha Hussain Gap Year

Tuba Ibrahim Gap Year

Aimen Iqbal Lancaster University

Madihah Jiva University of Bolton

Summer Kay University of St Andrews

Mia Langtree University of Cambridge

Shilpa Lapsia Gap Year

Maia Latchford Newcastle University

Sophia Liang Lancaster University

Management and Modern Languages

Mechatronics and Robotics Systems

Modern Languages and Latin

Communication and Media

Law

Microbiology

Psychology

Pharmaceutical Sciences

Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

English Literature

Architecture

Psychology

Architecture

Song Writing and Performance

International Business with Spanish

Economics and Politics

Medicine

Geography

Computer Science

Medicine

Accounting and Financial Management

Law

Psychology

Accounting and Finance

Fashion Design Innovation

Business and Management Foundation Year

Dentistry

Economics and Management

Biochemistry

Law

Physiotherapy

Economics and Management

Modern and Medieval Languages

Medicine

Accounting and Finance

Helena Lintott

University of Nottingham

Celia Logan Hull York Medical School

Xena Logan

Charlotte Martin

Bangor University

University of Liverpool

Manahil Masood University of Edinburgh

Olivia Matthews-Berry Newcastle University

Eloise McDermott Newcastle University

Millie Mercer

Feryal Mirza

Aisha Mogradia

University of Huddersfield

University of Warwick

University of Salford

Molly Morrow Gap Year

Ajwa Mukhtar

Amelia Myall

University of Central Lancashire

Northumbria University

Aliza Nirodi Gap Year

Isha Nunkoo University of Leeds

Angela Okeke Royal Holloway, University of London

Taya Panter Royal Holloway, University of London

Ella-Rose Parkin Royal Holloway, University of London

Estelle Pass Royal Holloway, University of London

Sanjanaben Patel Gap Year

Kaitlyn Paton

Emma Payne

Louise Perry

Lucy Pixton

Chung Yin Marie Poon

Megan Potter

Newcastle University

University of York

University of Northampton

University of Leeds

University of Manchester

University of Reading

Dhanishta Puveenthirarajan Newcastle University

Yuxuan Qu

Yasmin Rose

Olivia Sample

King’s College London, University of London

University of Birmingham

University of Edinburgh

Ani Sastry University of Leeds

Katie Schaffel

Amy Scoble

Loughborough University

University of Sussex

Fabeha Shafaat Gap Year

Aaliyah Shah

Isabella Silvano

Gloria Steer

Swansea University

Liverpool John Moores University

University of Worcester

Holly Stevenson Gap Year

Genevieve Storey Gap Year

Fizaa Valli Gap Year

Josephina Varghese University of Glasgow

Hui Shan Wen

Katie Wild

Vanessa Wong

Victoria Wong

Biochemistry

Medicine

English Literature and Creative Writing

Law with Business

History

English Literature with Creative Writing

Geography

Interior Design

Physics with Astrophysics

Psychology

Neuroscience

Geography and Environmental Sciences

Foundation Year

Chemistry

Law

Politics and International Relations

English

Geoscience

Physics with Astrophysics

Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Economics

English Language and Linguistics

Music

Business and Management

Pharmacology

Accounting and Finance

Chemistry

Religious Studies

Modern Languages

Architecture

American Studies and History

Computer Science

Adult Nursing

Accounting and Finance

Medicine

King’s College London, University of London English

University of Leeds

Newcastle University

Cardiff University

Raheen Zahra Gap Year

Religion, Politics and Society

Architecture and Urban Planning

Pharmacy

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Ask

the

Archivist

How did the Girls’ Division Celebrate its Centenary?

The year 1977 was a notable year for a number of reasons. It was the year of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, it was the first year of Bolton School’s life as an independent school, it was the tenth anniversary of the acquisition of the outward pursuits centre at Cautley and it was also the centenary of Bolton Wanderers. For all involved with Bolton School Girls’ Division, however, it was their centenary and all sections of the School community ensured that it was a year to remember.

When the School first opened on 1st October 1877 in a room in the Mechanics’ Institute, Mawdsley Street, it had 22 pupils and Miss Kean was the only teacher. Fast forward 100 years and the School, now led by Headmistress Margaret Higginson, had 900 pupils on the roll (of which 655 were in the Senior School).

Celebratory events occurred throughout the year, with the first major event being the Governors’ Reception which was held in the Great Hall on 12th May for 600 guests comprised of present girls, Old Girls, staff, parents and support staff, not to mention many friends from the Boys’ Division.

The main celebrations, however, were centred on the weekend of 15th-17th July following the Bolton Holidays at the end of the Summer term. The week began with an Art Exhibition in the Lower Sixth Common Room organised by Mrs Shuttleworth who presented the School with the two panels that record the history of the School from 1877 to 1977 and which hung until very recently on B Corridor near the office of the Headmistress. Framed in plain gold, they are masterpieces of illuminated calligraphy.

On Friday 15th July there was an Open Day when visitors were able to enjoy an extensive programme of displays, exhibitions and demonstrations with all year groups playing their part, from Beech House through to the Sixth Form. Also on display were the dolls and other objets d’art made by the Junior girls to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee. Souvenirs were on sale, including centenary bookmarks, designed by Mrs Shuttlewoth, copies of From Learning to Living, which had been produced by the Old Girls’ Association based on a questionnaire sent to Old

Girls in 1976, and copies too of a recording made at the 1976 Summer Concert, which included the School Song. In the evening around 400 staff and Old Girls gathered in the Great Hall for the Centenary Concert that had been arranged by Mrs Long.

The School, including Beech House, was again open on the Saturday morning for parents and Old Girls. This was very much a social morning and a time for reminiscing as many old friendships were rekindled over a cup of coffee and husbands and children were introduced to former School friends. In the afternoon the School played the Old Girls at Lacrosse, with the Old Girls taking the honours. One of those watching was Miss Phylis Spafford, now aged 88, who began to teach gymnastics at the Bolton High School in 1910.

In the evening the Great Hall was a magnificent sight when 400 sat down for the 100th Birthday Dinner, with the seating arranged in decades. The toast and responses were delivered by Betty Vause, Margaret Knot, Judith Judd and Elsie Peel. It was clearly a great success as many were in no hurry to go home and instead retired to the Lower Sixth Form Common Room after the Dinner where their conversations continued until late into the evening.

The weekend was concluded by an Anniversary Service in the Great Hall on the Sunday afternoon. The Bolton High School for Girls had been founded mainly by members of the Bank Street Unitarian Chapel and it was therefore appropriate that the service should be led by Miss Rosamund Taylor, who was not only a former Chairman of the Girls’ Division Committee, but also a member of Bank Street Chapel and, in 1976-77, President of the Unitarian Provincial Assembly. The preacher was Una Kroll, a tireless campaigner for women and minorities and for the ordination of women in the Church of England.

On 11th November the Parents’ Association held its Centenary Dinner in the Great Hall, the last major celebration in a momentous year. Despite gale force winds and the threat of a power strike more than 300 members, past members and guests braved the elements to enjoy a memorable evening with the two guest speakers being Roy Fisher JP (former Chairman of the PA) and Michael Lever QC (1936-1946; Governor 1972-2003). So ended the first 100 years of the former Bolton High School for Girls and in several years’ time we will be celebrating the 150th Anniversary – proof, indeed, that ‘mighty oaks from little acorns grow’.

Meet the Archivist

Eric Fairweather

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

Miss Higginson

Miss Higginson and staff at the Centenary Revue

Miss Rosamund Taylor

Centenary edition of the School Magazine

Looking Back

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

If you have any photos of your time at School which you would like to share, please email them to development@boltonschool.org

Miss Higginson’s retirement with Miss Boston, 1979

In the Common Room, c 1960

Year 10 Netball Team, 2006

Science Room, 1986

Emma Foxall (1987), centre, with Pam Johnson (Girls’ Division Staff, 1963-1998) and Pat Bellis (née Topping, 1945; Former Girls’ Division Staff)

Pirates of Penzance, 1987

Thank you to Janice Drake (1977) for this photo taken in July 1976 of Miss Bowman’s class at a party for her before she left to get married.

Memories of School

Anglesey Adventure

Susan Hurst (née Fogg, Class of 1967) recalls a Geography A Level trip to Anglesey in 1966. The group of about half a dozen pupils travelled with Mrs Adams and Miss Hilton for a geology tour of the island. They stayed at a cottage in Church Bay. Sue remembers Miss Hilton being a very good cook, whilst the girls did all the preparing and washing-up etc. She also remembers many of the places they visited: Newborough, Moelfre, Cemaes and Parys Mountain, which is now within walking distance of where Sue and her husband John (Boys’ Division, Class of 1970) now live in Amlwch. The couple are very happy there, and Sue is trying to learn Welsh – with the stress on ‘trying’!

If any of our readers were on this trip and have photographs to share, please contact the Development Office.

A Family Affair

“I started at Beech House in 1975 and left in 1989. Like most Old Girls I had a fabulous time which provided me with so many opportunities.

“However, I know that my love for Bolton School was also shared by my father, John Tyldsley. My family had a bakery in Farnworth. From the minute I joined the School, my father was an active part of the Parents’ Association. Any School fair, he did a barbecue for it. For the opening of the tennis pavilion he was there doing the barbecue. At the bonfire nights at the pavilion he was crawling along the grass on his belly lighting the fireworks (before health and safety!). For the Parents’ Association he planned and organised car treasure hunts. followed by meat and potato pie suppers.

“My father was often seen entering Bolton School in his grotty overalls covered in flour to have meetings with Mrs Spurr and Mrs Vause about the next fundraising event. A strange sight, but they all seemed to love him. He was even Chair of the Committee when I was in Year 10.

“Whenever my class went off on their annual jaunt to Cautley, my father would provide endless cakes, breads and pies to keep the class going for the time we were away. For the harvest festival assembly he

New Digital Archive

would make a harvest wreath, with a little mouse climbing up the bundle of corn. At one summer fair he brought along one of his shop workers who was a fortune teller; she was such a big hit that Bolton School mothers used to then hire her for their own personal parties.

“However, I think his proudest achievement was when one year the School was, surprisingly, struggling to get pupils to go on Operation Raleigh. Mrs Spurr persuaded the Head Girl to go, but that was it. My father convinced Mrs Spurr to fund his 17-year-old ‘pie girl’ (she made pies in the bakery) to take part! I remember my father frantically sorting out passports and equipment for her in a matter of a few weeks. It was a great opportunity for someone disadvantaged to have. They went to India. The experience changed her life. She met her husband and went to London and trained as a chef.

“My parents retired to the Highlands of Scotland and spent 15 happy years there. They have recently moved to Cumbria to be nearer family. At the age of 80 my father is now winding down, but I know he remembers Bolton School with as much fondness as I do.”

The new, searchable digital archive for Bolton School is now available for Alumni to explore. The archives hold a wealth of material including editions of the School magazine and newsletters dating back to the 1890s. We hope you enjoy this new feature which can be found at www.boltonschool.org/about-us/digital-archive.

Lucy McGinness (née Tyldsley, Class of 1989) notes the importance of Bolton School not only to its former pupils, but for their families as well.

Lucy relished her time at School

Lucy’s father and mother are great supporters of Bolton School

The School Prayer

In the previous edition of this Newsletter we asked if any of our readers could throw some light on the provenance of the Girls’ Division prayer. It appears that Miss Higginson introduced it and generations of Old Girls have since aspired to fulfil the ambition of the often-quoted phrase “Much will be expected of those to whom much is given”.

God, who has taught us that Thou will require much of those to whom much is given, grant that we, whose lot is cast in so goodly a heritage, may strive together, the more abundantly, by whatsoever means Thou shalt ordain, to extend to others that which we so richly enjoy; and as we have entered into the labours of others, so to labour that in their turn others may enter into ours, to the fulfilment of Thy holy will and the salvation of all mankind.

Amen

“I remember the School prayer very well. It is from St Augustine (of Hippo, I presume) - Elizabeth Plant would have known that! I also remember the Prayer of General Thanksgiving (BCP), one of the most perfect renderings of the Christian message anywhere. My brother, who was also at Bolton School, uses it every day. I use it frequently.

Anne Roberts (née Richardson, 1955-1962)

“In answer to the query about the original introduction of the School Prayer, it was Margaret Higginson. It is a famous prayer of St Francis of Assisi, but Miss Higginson, ever the realist, modified the phrase about 'striving together by prayer and fasting’ to 'by whatsoever means Thou shalt ordain’. She felt this did not detract from the original meaning and was more suitable to the 20th Century.”

Elaine Lever, (née Kelsey, Class of 1957)

“There is a version in A Book of Prayers for Schools: A Collection of Litanies and Prayers, Ancient and Modern, Suitable for Use in All Assemblies published by SCM Press in 1936. It must have been popular; it went into Third Impression in 1949 – provenance given there, though, is just ‘Fourth Century’. The mystery deepens!

“My late father, Jack Cottam, formerly Headmaster of Dearnley and then Leigh Church of England Schools, had a copy, with asterisking and underlining relating to his time in the RAF, in the Second World War and as a 1930s teenager. He was called up in 1941 whilst at Chester C of E Teacher Training College, now the University.

“It was attached to the Cathedral. The experience led him to write How to Teach the Christian Faith: An Official Scheme of Work for Schools (The Faith Press, 1961) whilst chairing the Manchester Diocesan Panel of Education. A range of organisations and individuals were involved or consulted. Maybe that is how the School Prayer became adopted?

Christine Cottam (Class of 1968)

O

LIVES REMEMBERED

(Kathleen) Mary Armstrong (1940-1947)

My godmother, Kathleen Mary Armstrong, was born in Bartonupon-Irwell. She was the second of four children. Her father, Alfred, was an Elementary Headteacher and her mother Edna (née Partington) worked as a secretary for the London, Midland and Scottish Railway before her marriage. Her grandparents had been master builders and many of the local streets were named after family members. Mary attended Bolton School during the war when the Girls’ and Boys’ Divisions shared the same premises. She remembered being late 40 times because the train timetable was affected by the bombing of Manchester and walking across the park to School with a group of pupils. One of the boys, Irving Wardle (Class of 1947) went to see all the films and would regale the group with the plots en route He later went on to become a wellknown film critic.

Mary won a scholarship to Newnham College, Cambridge, and gained a degree in Mathematics in 1950. She had always wanted to be a nurse, but her parents thought this was a waste of a Maths degree so she trained to be a solicitor. She joined a firm of solicitors in Minehead and was only the second woman to be registered as a solicitor in Somerset. Mary worked for several firms of solicitors in Cambridge and London before joining Harbottle and Lewis in 1962. This firm did a lot of work with film and theatre companies and she helped to draw up a contract for one of the early Bond films.

However, Mary still wanted to be a nurse and in 1964 she took the bold step of resigning as a solicitor and joining St Thomas’ Hospital as a trainee nurse. Once qualified, she was quickly promoted to Sister and from there moved to be Matron of Newmarket Hospital. She worked as a Nursing Officer at the Department

of Health and Social Security. In 1975 she became the District Nursing Officer for the City and East London based at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, responsible for a group of hospitals in what was one of the poorest areas of London.

Mary enjoyed life. In her youth she had many happy skiing holidays and later went sailing with the Offshore Cruising Club, in Overlord a 1936 Bermudan sloop. She was particularly fond of Shetland and spent several holidays visiting friends there. In retirement Mary moved to a cottage she had previously bought in Beaminster, Dorset, where she was involved in many local organisations. Mary was a Quaker and was a Director of two of their schools, Leighton Park and then Sibford, for several years. She moved to a flat in sheltered accommodation in Sherborne in 2002 and once again joined many local groups. Latterly she found it increasingly hard to care for herself and spent her last year in a care home where she died peacefully. She will be much missed by her many friends.

Ruth Crabb

Frances Barlow (née Isherwood, 1951-1958)

Died 8th October 2022

Frances moved to Shrewsbury after Salisbury Training College then taught at Condover Hall RNIB School for young blind adults with additional difficulties. She joined the Adult Literacy Unit in Shrewsbury and took relevant courses to widen her knowledge and skills. She introduced strategies that gained countrywide adoption. 1,500 adults were tutored to read and write – essential for life at all levels.

Leaving to marry a local man, Frances gained a BA and MBA with the Open University at Birmingham. For fifteen years she took sole care of her widowed father. She was clerk at a nearby parish, a member of Shrewsbury

Archaeological Society, helped The Samaritans, the Millichope Foundation and was active with the Macular Society.

A recurrence of breast cancer left her in a nursing home for six months with a full diary of friends visiting.

John Isherwood (Boys’ Division, 1957-1964)

Joan Benson (née Brookes, 1953-1960) Joan died peacefully in the Glen Nursing Home, Baildon, on 22nd October 2022. Joan was admitted to the Glen in December 2019, having been diagnosed with dementia in February 2015.

Joan was wife to John (Boys’ Division, 1952-1960) and mother to Andrew and Helen.

Eddie Benson (1948-1956) and his wife Eileen (née Eddleston, 19491956) and Peter Benson (1956-1963) and his wife Margery (née Hardman, 1954-1964) were brothers and sisters-in-law.

John Benson

Janet Broughton (née Silveston, Girls’ Division Staff 1968-1971)

Jan commenced teaching Physics up to A Level standard at Bolton School Girls’ Division in September 1968. She worked for Miss Anne Pugsley, who was Head of Physics in the School at that time. Jan and her family moved South in November 1971 in order that her husband could take up employment in the offshore

Mary at her graduation in 1950

Peter and Jan

oil and gas industry in the North Sea. During Jan’s time at the School her first son, Jonathan, was born in May 1971 and Jan continued working until the end of the Summer term 1971 (with the necessary nursing help). Jan was very happy at Bolton School and really enjoyed teaching in the Physics Department.

Jan and her family finally settled in Camberley, Surrey, and she continued to teach Maths at a girls’ preparatory school in Camberley for many years.

Jan leaves behind her devoted husband, Peter, and two sons, Jonathan and Nick, as well as two grandsons, Paul and Max, and one granddaughter, Laila.

Jan and I often felt very much indebted to Bolton School for that short period in our lives.

Peter Broughton

Enid Craven (née Farrington, 1953-1958)

Enid, daughter of Fred and Annie Farrington, was born in Bolton in 1942. She entered School in the Autumn term of 1953, following the award of a Reserved Place, and became a member of Skiddaw House. She was a keen Netball and Rounders player, becoming House Junior Netball Captain in 1955-56 and House Junior Rounders Captain the following year. She was also a member of the School U14 Rounders team in 1956-57. Her involvement in House activities was recognised by her being awarded House girdles in each of 1955, 1957 and 1958.

The Magazine records that in 1957, the School’s 80th birthday year, she was a member of Form LV, with Miss Shaw being her Form Teacher. In her GCE Examinations at Ordinary Level in 1958, Enid passed in English, English Literature, Geography, French, Maths and Physics with Science.

Enid left School in 1958 and continued her studies at Bolton Technical College passing additional O Levels in Economics and Commerce in 1959, and gained further qualifications there in Shorthand and Typing, passing with Distinction. She was initially

employed at Bolton Town Hall in the Education and then Treasury department.

Enid met Old Boy Roger Lee Craven (1952-1959) at the joint Dance Club. They married in August 1962 and moved to London. There, before the birth of her two sons, Michael in 1965 and Paul in 1967, Enid worked at Caribonum and later continued with agency work. Roger worked for IBM which took the family to several other corners of England, plus periods of several years abroad in France and the USA. On his retirement they settled in Southsea and later relocated to Nantwich, Cheshire. Roger died in February 2012.

Whilst living in Southsea, Enid revitalised her sporting prowess and won trophies in the Canoe Lake Bowling Association

Ladies’ Club and also played ten-pin bowling. In Nantwich she joined Willaston and Wistaston Bowling Clubs where she continued to win trophies and became Secretary at Willaston. She was also active in the Ramblers Association and U3A. For all of her adult life Enid was a Jehovah’s Witness, latterly in the Crewe South Congregation.

Enid died in November 2022 aged 80 at St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice following a bowel cancer diagnosis a few weeks before at Leighton Hospital. Enid is missed by her family including daughters-in-law Claire and Christine and Paul and Christine’s two daughters Isabel and Anna, and by her many friends in the community.

Many thanks to the Development team and School Archivist for providing the words about mum’s time at School that are included

here, especially about her captaining positions and House awards that she was too modest to ever tell her family about. We are immensely proud of her care and for her varied achievements.

Dr Michael Philip Craven

Stella Barbara Green Machado (née Green, 1957-1965)

My sister, Stella, passed away aged 75, in Maryland USA, after a long battle with Parkinson’s.

Our school days were blighted by the death of our father in 1961, but Stella applied herself, got very good A Levels and won a place at Newnham College, Cambridge, in 1965. After graduating she did an MSc and then a PhD at the University of Chicago, interspersed with marriage and several years in Brazil teaching at the University of Belo Horizonte. Then followed jobs with various pharmaceutical firms, Abbott Labs included, before joining the US Food and Drug Administration where she remained for the rest of her career as a senior statistician and team leader.

Apart from holidays she never returned to England to live or work after 1968, but was enormously proud of her Cambridge blue for lacrosse – time on the Levels well spent!

She leaves behind me, her former husband, Mario, and her adopted son, Alex Green.

Peter Green (Boy’s Division, Class of 1968)

Janis Rosemary Adelaide

McGowan (née Kay, 1966-1969) Died 17th September 2022

Janis was always a free spirit, but very well organised and used every minute of every day.

Janis’s parents, Fred and Marjorie Kay, were from Bolton. Janis was born in Stanmore and moved initially to Warwick in 1961 where she attended King's High School. When Fred’s job took him to Warrington, in the summer of 1966, they moved to Bolton where Janis and her younger

Enid at Caribonum

Enid and Roger

brother, Robert (Class of 1971), both went to Bolton School.

While in Bolton, Janis read many books, watched many films, became an excellent seamstress making many of her own clothes, had a very serious boyfriend and still had time to achieve academic success leading to an Exhibition to St Hugh’s, Oxford, to read Physics. Janis became a School Prefect and a Deputy Head Girl which for somebody coming new to the School in the Sixth Form was quite unusual.

At Oxford, Janis worked and played hard. She helped form a folk group, Morgana, with various performances, including a complete set at a Worcester College Ball in December 1971. Janis tried various sports and helped organise a football match in which the ladies of St Hugh’s won 2-1 against Jesus College Men’s 2nd XI. Janis recorded that, just maybe, the referee was a little biased! Having declined an offer to take a PhD, Janis began an accountancy career with Thomson McLintock, Manchester, now part of KPMG, and then to the London office where I worked. We were married in March 1975 and qualified together later that year.

Janis briefly stopped paid work on the birth of our firstborn, but began to build up her own client group before returning to full-time work in 1985. This continued until MS reared its ugly head. Janis’s organisational skills were crucial in her being able to combine work, while greatly contributing to running the household, raising our boys and spending 11 years on the school PTA as Chair and then Treasurer. Without doubt, Janis’s greatest legacy is our three boys and five grandchildren.

For 25 years, Janis’s life was blighted by multiple sclerosis. She hated being the person in the wheelchair, but still managed to write several books for the family including a 260-page family cookery book and two offshoots, a book on party games and two on numbers. Janis then masterminded our building project which was only successful because of her attention to detail. Janis loved puzzles and continued to improve her general and word knowledge with several successes at quiz evenings.

Janis’s last three years became steadily more difficult. Covid also prevented us seeing our two New Zealand-based families, but when our middle son’s family finally came in July 2022, they said that they had the best conversations with Janis ever.

Finally, there is no greater tribute to Janis than the words of Elizabeth Robson (née Fairless, Class of 1968), Head Girl when Janis was one of the Deputies:

“We all wondered whether Janis could really integrate into the Sixth Form when she first arrived in the Lower Sixth, but she became firm friends with all of us in no time. I can imagine that she dealt with MS with great courage. Her cheerful nature, sense of humour and strength of character will have all helped her and those around her enormously.”

Robert McGowan

Janis had saved a School magazine called Candida which was a joint production between the staff and girls. It included a good deal of School information, but also poetry and prose written by the girls. There are no copies of this publication in the School archives, so if any Old Girls have copies they would like to donate, please get in touch with the Development Office.

Barbara Morley (Girls’ Division Staff, 1954-1983) Friends and former students of Miss Barbara Morley will have been saddened to hear of her death at the age of 99. Whenever we spoke of her reaching her century, Barbara always said, “Don’t hold your breath!” and sadly that particularly significant birthday was not reached.

Barbara was born in Castleford, West Yorkshire, and attended Pontefract Girls’ High School from where she went to the University of Birmingham. She graduated in 1944 with a First Class Honours degree in French. She then acquired a Diploma in Education at Homerton College, Cambridge, and moved to her first teaching post in 1945 at Bolling Girls’ Grammar School, where she stayed for two years. Since most of her education had taken place

during the Second World War, Barbara had not been able to spend time in France during her university years and so took the initiative to spend a year in France in 1947-48. In 1948 she returned to Bolling Girls’ Grammar School where she stayed for a further six years. In 1954 she came to Bolton School and spent the rest of her teaching life there as Head of Modern Languages. As a teacher she was much respected for her no-nonsense approach to work and for her academic competence. Many of her students were inspired to build on the foundations she had laid and to go on to university to study French. As a colleague she was extremely supportive in all circumstances and showed sensitivity and understanding when problems arose. She gave the members of her department free rein (within reason, of course!) to follow their particular bent, particularly in the Sixth Form, and this was much appreciated.

Barbara was a very resilient person. She was a child when the First World War ended, had experienced the Depression and then the Second World War, with all its implications, and it may be that these experiences had helped her to develop a certain stoicism in the face of all that came her way. She was a very selfcontained person, upheld by her Christian faith and determined not to let the bad things that happened (including cancer) ‘beat’ her. She remained stoical to the end and until her health began to fail was able to enjoy most of the things which had given her pleasure.

She had always enjoyed going to the theatre (Stratford was a favourite) and to concerts, and was a regular visitor to the Edinburgh Festival. School holidays were a time to travel and she made the most of this. Reading, of course, was a special pleasure for her and above all she revelled in crossword solving, in particular The Times' daily cryptic crossword. She won a prize for this when well into her nineties.

First and foremost she loved contact with her friends and family. She had connections which went back many decades and was very appreciative of the former students who kept in touch with her.

Elsie Peel (née Addison, Class of 1956; Girls’ Division Staff 1962-1970)

It was in the 1950s that Gladys won a scholarship to Bolton School Girls’ Division. She came to Bolton from Adlington National School, a Church of England school affiliated to St Paul’s Church, Adlington. This was the first time that she had ever had to travel out of Adlington on her own! Gladys came to thoroughly enjoy School, and she had various responsibilities over the years, including Form Captain and Vice Captain of the Lacrosse Team. On leaving School, Gladys became an Apprentice Mechanical Engineer at local firm De Havilland Propellers at Lostock – the only woman amongst 104 young men! On completing her apprenticeship she led a small team to plan the company’s future business needs

more accurately, and she continued to develop her qualifications in Engineering and Business. Gladys went on to have a distinguished career with De Havilland. She became an expert in Human Relations.

During this time, Gladys met her future husband Brian Sidebottom who was a Civil Servant working for the Ministry of Defence. They were married at St Paul’s, Adlington, in 1965.

Alongside her career at De Havilland, Gladys was ‘coming back into School’! Miss Higginson invited her to become a member of the Old Girls’ Association Committee, a role to which she was totally dedicated, and she remained on the Committee for the rest of her life.

IN MEMORIAM

In 1985 she was invited by the then Headmistress, Margaret Spurr, to become a member of the School’s Governing Body. Gladys held many specific roles and was the instigator of several developments, from improving School buildings and facilities to raising awareness of Health and Safety issues. She worked tirelessly for the Foundation and was a Governor for 25 years, retiring quietly in 2010.

Gladys Sidebottom undoubtedly made a very special contribution to Bolton School and the Old Girls’ Association. She served the School with passion and dedication and she gave freely and generously of her time throughout her life.

Gladys made a difference and she will be greatly missed.

Carol Haslam (née Bonser, Class of 1966; Girls’ Division Staff, 1987-2009) and Laura Henthorn (née Carless, Class of 1977; Chairman of the Old Girls’ Association)

Marion Corkill (Girls’ Division Staff, 1970-2003) - Died 5th February 2023

Sheila Hardy (née McMillan, 1949-1957) - Died 17th February 2022

Katy Hibbert (1973-1980) - Died 13th February 2023

Stella Barbara Green Machado (née Green, 1957-1965) - Died 30th December 2022

Audrey Robinson (née Hammond, 1944-1949) - Died 31st October 2022

Angela Parker (née Platt, 1973-1980) - Died 8th August 2022

Winifred Rushton (née Fletcher, 1939-1947) - Died 6th February 2023

(Maureen) Ann Sparrow (née Berry, 1947-1954) - Died January 2023

Judith Stirzaker (née Waring, 1960-1967) - Died November 2022

Valerie Wilson (1967-1974) - Died 11th November 2022

Angela with her mother, Kath, and son, Henry

Gladys Sidebottom (née Ormesher, 1952-1959)

Andrea Laithwaite (née Allen) and Sharon Harley (née Orton) (both Class of 1992) at the ‘2’ Class Reunion in October 2022