Alumnae Stories
RMS for Girls is thrilled that alumna Barbara Mills KC has made history as the first Black woman to be appointed Chair of the Bar Council.
This historic appointment marks a turning point for the Bar Council and reflects Barbara’s exceptional legal career.
The Bar Council of England and Wales is the professional body that represents and supports barristers, promoting high standards of advocacy, ethics, and professional conduct. It also serves as a voice for the Bar, working to influence law and policy, while safeguarding access to justice.
Barbara, who left RMS in 1986, is one of only eight Black female King’s Counsel (KC) in the country and the first specialist family practitioner to lead the Bar Council since 1988.
In her recent inaugural address, Barbara outlined her priorities for 2025 as Chair. These include raising the profile of the family Bar, tackling violence against women and girls, enhancing the well-being of barristers, advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), and advocating for the resources necessary to restore the justice system. Her commitment to these pressing issues demonstrates her drive to make a lasting impact on both her profession and society
In a recent Channel 4 News interview, Barbara discussed her historic appointment and her vision for the justice system.
Her connection to RMS remains strong, and we were honoured to welcome Barbara back to school in October 2022 as the Guest Speaker at our Senior School and Sixth Form Prize Day. She inspired our pupils with her unique story, embodying the essence of our mission, that every pupil thrives and is prepared to shape their future.
Earlier this term, Jade Goulden, RMS alumna and creator of Jaded London, returned to RMS to visit our Sixth Form students.
Jade launched Jaded London alongside her brother in 2013 and has since grown the brand into a global fashion sensation, worn by the likes of Taylor Swift and Beyoncé.
Now the CEO of womenswear at Jaded, Jade engaged with our textiles and business students, offering valuable insights and practical advice on the intricacies of starting a fashion brand. Jade also provided our A-level business students with her expertise in branding and marketing, discussing how to transition from a startup to a global brand.
Barbara at her inaugural address at Chair.
Barbara (r) at RMS Prize Day 2022.
Jade with RMS students during her visit.
Mirabelle, Class of 2021, swapped a path toward medicine for a thriving career in fashion.
With a Biomedical Sciences degree, she now excels as a Women’s Model Booker at Story Model Management, as well modelling herself.
Combining science with creativity, she’s worked on major campaigns with the likes of Apple and LVMH, and aims to lead, mentor, and expand her career internationally in high fashion.
Read more: rmsforgirls.com/news
Faith, Class of 2020, is completing her integrated Master’s in Civil Engineering at the University of Surrey.
Her journey includes a transformative placement year managing £1.12M in projects and leading successful teams. A South East Women in Property award winner and national finalist, Faith blends technical expertise, leadership, and passion for infrastructure to shape a resilient, inclusive built environment.
Read more: rmsforgirls.com/news
Eleanor, Class of 2023, is now a Veterinary Medicine student at Cambridge and a recipient of the prestigious Corfield Scholarship at Selwyn College.
Passionate about equine and exotic animal medicine, Eleanor balances her studies with rowing and dressage.
Her academic curiosity, sparked at RMS, continues to flourish through topics like metabolic regulation and cardiac physiology.
Read more: rmsforgirls.com/news
Miranda, former Head Pupil and class of 2021, is now in her master’s year studying Maths and Computer Science at Oxford.
She earned a First Class degree, scoring 95% in Databases, and credits her success to resilience, effective revision, and learning to thrive in uncertainty—skills first shaped at RMS.
Outside academics, Miranda dances regularly with Oxford’s team and believes balancing interests boosts motivation.
Read more: rmsforgirls.com/news
Mirabelle featuring in a recent campaign with Apple.
Faith with her South East Women in Property award.
Eleanor, class of 2023.
Miranda, class of 2021.
Earlier this term, we had the pleasure of reconnecting with actress and RMS alumna Margaret Clunie, the radiant star of this year’s John Lewis Christmas advert, The Gifting Hour.
In a special episode of our school podcast, Stirred By The Sun — recorded with Headteacher Mr Carson and Head Pupil Sarisha — Margaret takes a heartwarming trip down memory lane, sharing fond memories of her time at RMS.
She also reflects on her acting journey and gives us an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into what it was like to star in one of the most eagerly anticipated TV moments of the festive season.
An accomplished actress, Margaret is best known for her role as Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland, in ITV’s historical drama Victoria (2016–2017).
Her impressive credits also include A Young Doctor’s Notebook alongside Daniel Radcliffe and Jon Hamm, as well as guest appearances in Death in Paradise, Disney+’s Andor, and Channel 5’s Dalgliesh.
Stirred By The Sun is a brand new fortnightly Podcast hosted by Headteacher Mr Carson and Head Pupils Sarisha and Aleesa.
The name comes from a popular line in our school’s hymn and introduces you to the many voices and great stories of our wonderful school.
In our fourth episode we hear from Zara, Year 13, and Ela, Year 9, as they give us a pupils’ insight into one of the most well-loved traditions at RMS - Drill (listen from 1:56).
Scan the QR code to listen or search for Stirred By The Sun on Spotify.
Listen here
Margaret in John Lewis’s The Gifting Hour, 2024.
Margaret in ITV’s Victoria, 2016-2017.
Margaret with Headteacher, Mr Carson, and Head Pupil, Sarisha.
We had a fantastic day welcoming back the leavers from the class of 2000-2005 earlier this March. Our alumnae enjoyed a wonderful day of catching up, reconnecting, and reminiscing on school memories. It was so lovely to see everyone.
We were honoured to have Chloe Edwards, an RMS alumna and former semi-professional rugby player, as our guest speaker at the recent Celebration of Sport.
Chloe represented both Harlequins and England, playing at the highest levels of women’s rugby. Throughout her career, she achieved multiple Premiership titles and earned recognition for her incredible skill, leadership, and dedication to the sport.
Chloe’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and a relentless drive to succeed—qualities that she shared with our athletes during her inspiring speech. Her story, both on and off the field, serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through hard work and passion.
We are proud to have had Chloe join us for this special evening, where her insights into the world of sport and her personal experiences left a lasting impact on everyone in attendance.
Chloe with Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Clare Freeman. Chloe giving out awards on the night.
School News
The start of this school year was marked by a memorable occasion as we proudly reopened The Great Hall for the first time since November 2021.
Senior and Sixth Form students gathered for the first assembly of the new term in this grand, historic space. Headteacher Mr Carson delivered inspiring words, using the opportunity to remind each and every pupil that RMS is a place where they belong and are valued.
The assembly also featured the premiere of Fanfare for the reopening of the Great Hall, a stirring composition by Mr Werner, Director of Music at RMS, and performed beautifully by Senior School pupils.
You may remember that the hall was also a filming location for the iconic film Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), adding a touch of cinematic history to its already legendary status.
Congratulations to Hazel!
Hazel, Year 12, is the youngest player selected for the England U19 Women’s Futsal squad.
She began with football and quickly loved futsal’s fast, technical style. Now fully focused on the sport, she trains with an adult team to keep developing.
After two trial camps, Hazel was thrilled to make the squad. Her first camp was inspiring—high-level, intense, and full of learning.
She says futsal has boosted her confidence, resilience, and teamwork. Her advice? ‘Take every chance, don’t fear failure. More opportunities will come.’
Mr Carson addressing pupils in The Great Hall, Sept 2024.
Year 12 students took part in their first Leiths Academy practical this term, held in the School’s brand-new, state-of-the-art kitchen.
This practical session marked the beginning of an exciting journey for the students, who will continue to refine their skills as they progress through the Leiths Academy syllabus.
Leiths Academy, established by renowned chef and food writer Prue Leith, gives school-age students across the UK access to high quality cookery lessons and qualifications.
We’re thrilled that Melania, Sarisha, Scarlett, and Alissa, all Year 13, have recently been offered places at Oxford and Cambridge University.
Alissa has been offered a place at Oxford to study Chemistry. Scarlett has secured an offer from Cambridge to study Asian and Middle Eastern Studies. Melania has received an offer from Cambridge to study Human, Social, and Political Sciences. Sarisha has been offered a place at Cambridge to study Mathematics.
Zoe, Year 13, is heading to Harrow International School in Hong Kong, taking up an exciting gap year opportunity.
Inspired by the GAP students she has met at RMS, and seeking life experience before university, she applied after spotting the role in the school’s careers bulletin.
After a competitive interview process, she was accepted. Her advice? ‘Embrace extracurriculars, be open to new opportunities, and be yourself.’
Cadogan House welcomed an inspiring visit from Commando Joe’s, a team dedicated to empowering young people by encouraging resilience, self-confidence, and character.
Their visit launched the Let’s Play programme, a pupil-led initiative fostering teamwork and positive behaviour through structured, fun activities.
Central to the launch was a Resource Box with tools for over 72 engaging games, enriching our prep pupils’ break and lunchtime experiences.
Read
Mrs Mackey, Head of Food and Nutriton, with pupils in our brand new kitchen.
Congratulations to Melania (l), Sarisha (c), Scarlett (r) and Alissa (not pictured).
Congratulations and best of luck to Zoe in Hong Kong.
Our pupils have been loving these new, fun activities!
RMS concluded a stunning three-night run of Six the Musical, performed by the Senior School in The Space, last November.
The production was a resounding success, with all three shows selling out and over 600 people attending to witness the spectacular performances. The talented cast really brought the story of Henry VIII’s six wives to life.
The impressive production quality, including stunning costumes, lighting, and sound, added to the immersive experience, leaving the audience truly impressed each night.
A huge thank you goes to the cast, crew, volunteers, and the Drama and Music Departments for their tireless work in bringing this incredible production to the stage.
March 12th marked National School Archives Day, and we celebrated the occasion by posting some photos from our archives on social media.
From the bicentenary celebrations to the Machio magazine, and even a 1915 school photo, our archives are packed with facinating memories.
Do you recognise anything - or anyone - in the photos below?
On Sunday, 10th November, the RMS for Girls community gathered in the Great Hall for a poignant Remembrance Sunday service, honouring the sacrifices made by our armed forces
The event served as a powerful moment of reflection, unity, and gratitude, bringing together students, staff, and alumnae in solemn remembrance. Led by Mrs. Elder, the service featured readings from both current students and alumnae, accompanied by moving hymns that created an atmosphere of deep respect and reverence.
Following the traditional two-minute silence, wreaths were laid in the Quad, providing a touching tribute to those courageous individuals who gave their lives in service.
A special Drill performance in the Great Hall concluded the service, with attendees watching the display with pride and admiration. The event not only honoured the past but also reinforced a strong sense of community and shared gratitude within RMS.
This memorable day served as a poignant reminder of the enduring respect and appreciation held by the RMS community for all those who served and sacrificed.
RMShostedtwoSpringConcertsinrecentweeks,botharesoundingsuccess,withpupilsandparents alikeenjoyinganincredibleeveningofdiverseandinspiringmusic.
Firstly,showcasingourCadoganpupils,followedbytheseniorconcertatourstate-of-the-artperforming artsvenue,TheSpace.
TheeventsshowcasedtheimpressivetalentsoftheRMScommunity,withawiderangeofmusical ensemblestakingtothestage.
UnderthedirectionofMiss Townend,Cadoganpupilsimpressedparentswithperformancesfromthe CadoganHouseSambaBand,WindandBrassOrchestra,StringOrchestra,andtheCadoganHouseChoir.
The second Spring concert of the night, led by Mr. Werner and Mrs. McNally-Mayne, included performances of Jonathan Larson’s ‘Seasons of Love’, Johnnie Vinson’s ‘St. Petersburg March’, and many more.
Under the direction of talented music teachers, pupils in the RMS Chorus, Cello Ensemble, Flute Ensemble, Violin Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, RMS Voices, RMSO, Concert Band, Sinfonia, and the Jazz Ensemble wowed the audience with their performances. The Senior and Prep pupils' hard work and dedication to their craft were evident in every note they played and sang.
Congratulations to all the pupils, teachers, and staff who made this fantastic evening of music possible.
Obituaries
Ann Lucas, née Hughes, 1949
Margaret Strong, née Hughes, (Cumberland 1947) writes:
It is with great sadness that I tell you my sister Ann died on 16th July 2024. Ann passed away in her sleep and was found by her carer the following morning.
It would appear that she died peacefully which was a blessing for the family, as Ann’s health had not been good for the past year as she suffered from severe asthma for some time and had spells in hospital during the last year of her life.
Ann joined the Royal Masonic School in January 1941 at the age of seven 7 ½ years. Ann found it very difficult to settle as a boarder and was extremely homesick, but with the patience, understanding and extreme kindness of the staff, Ann eventually settled into her new life and was popular. Ann excelled in sports, particularly swimming where she won many prizes.
Ann was in the commercials prior to leaving school where she excelled in typing. When Ann left school she worked for BEA for some years and then with her local council in Pinner. Some years ago, Ann and her partner moved to Hordle where they settled very happily.
And leaves a son Graham and grandson Benjamin and daughter-in-law Lindsey who, like myself, will miss Ann very much, but we will be comforted by the fact that Ann is no longer suffering and is now at peace.
Jacqueline Plewes, née Legge, Alexandra 1947
Heather Plewes (Jacqueline’s daughter) writes:
My mother, Jacqueline Plewes (née Legge) passed away on November 20, 2023 in Barrie, Ontario, Canada. Jackie was an alumna of the Royal Masonic School for Girls in Alexandra House from 1939- 47.
RMS was very important to Jackie - she became a pupil at the outbreak of WWII following the death of her father. Jackie left RMS in 1947 and emigrated to Canada in 1949. She married John Plewes in 1957 in Hamilton, Ontario and they eventually moved to the Ottawa area where they raised their two children, Robin and Heather.
Jackie worked for Canadian Pacific Railway in the telegraph department upon first arriving in Canada and, later in her career, worked in the office of an elementary school in the Ottawa area. Upon retirement, Jackie enjoyed gardening and genealogy and spending time with her family and friends.
She always enjoyed reading Masonica and completed a lovely needlework (see photo) as a keepsake of her time at RMS for Girls.
Sandra Partridge, née Davies, Zetland 1963
Written by Nikki (Marion Cranston, née Nickson), Atholl 1963
Our dear friend, Sandra, was a member of Zetland House. My sister Pat and I were 'inhabitants' of Atholl, but Sandra and I were in the same year at school and attended Weybridge together. We knew each other well, and later in life, both found ourselves residing in Australia: she in Sydney, New South Wales, and I in Melbourne, Victoria.
I believe Sandra had been a boarder at Weybridge since she was only seven or eight years old, as her father passed away quite young. She was, in fact, the very first girl I met in the drill room, amidst all the other confused and timid new arrivals. Sandra seemed so self-assured, as she had already been at the school for a couple of years. I remember her as a cheeky, organized, and somewhat sporty girl, whose friends, if my memory serves me correctly, were Stella, Elaine, and Sally.
In Australia, Sandra was friends with expatriates and, I believe, organised reunion events. She frequently visited Victoria to meet up with our expats and enjoy lunch at the pub with us. I'm grateful that she stayed with me on those occasions. In fact, I met up with Sandra (in Australia) by pure chance, really. Her husband had worked with friends of mine, who happened to be parents at the primary school where I was working, and her name was mentioned. Karma!
We'll all miss Sandra within our small ex- masonian community. She contributed a lot.
Rest in Peace, Sandra.
Dorothy Jane Harris, née Hillyer, Zetland 1949
Dorothy sadly passed away on 17th October 2024.
Dorothy used to be a Regional Representative for OMGA, and had kept in touch with our Development Office over recent years. We know that Dorothy attended Sports Day in 1999, 50 years after she left RMS as a pupil!
We hope to resume contact with her son so that we can share more information.
Jane Reed CBE, 1956.
Jane sadly passed away in February 2025.
A distinguished alumna of RMS for Girls, Jane was a pioneering magazine editor and media executive.
As editor of Woman’s Own in the 1970s, she reshaped women's journalism, blending entertainment with bold social commentary and launching lasting initiatives like the Children of Courage awards.
She later held senior roles at Times Newspapers and News International, earning a CBE in 2000.
Known for her fearless leadership, wit, and vision, Jane inspired generations of women to dream bigger.
Her legacy in journalism and public service remains profound. You can read a full length obituary via The Guardian by scanning the QR code below.
Jane Reed, in 1979, when she was editor of Woman's Own Photograph: Peter Johns/The Guardian
