1st July 2016 - Issue 11
HEAD’S
WEEKLY REVIEW
Head’s Introduction
In Final Chapel today, we marked the 100th anniversary of Battle of the Somme in World War I, and also remembered the founding Lawrence sisters in the Head Girl’s prayers. Our founders would have been so proud to see the girls this week, throwing themselves into so many different activities as part of the Roedean Festival, from Music to Bollywood, and huge murals to sea-swimming. The showcase event on Wednesday evening was great, and the Bollywood dancing definitely captured the girls’ imaginations – it was great that staff and girls joined in the encore! The week’s finale saw a convoy of six coaches take over 250 girls and 35 staff to Thorpe Park yesterday, a huge undertaking, but the rain held off and everyone had a great time. Thank you to Miss Boobis for masterminding the week, and I am grateful to my colleagues for getting involved in the activities, for leading them, and for enriching the girls’ experiences.
We say farewell to a number of girls today; some have been at Roedean for just year to perfect their English and return to schools in Europe, and others go further afield – good luck, definitely keep in touch, and come back to see us soon. Thank you too to Louise Lawrence, who is stepping down as Chair of the Parents’ Guild, which supports the school in many ways, but in particular raises funds at events to purchase things for the girls’ benefit and enjoyment, such as the benches in the Cloisters and the outdoor games for the Houses – I am sure that the Guild will continue its excellent work. We are also saying goodbye to some of our colleagues, and I would like to thank them all for their wonderful contributions to the school. Two, however, deserve a special mention and what they have given to Roedean is immeasurable: Miss Alison Fraser and Mrs Sue Stanway. Miss Fraser has taught Biology here for 33 years, and has, no doubt, inspired many budding
Biologists and made a strong impression on many current and former Roedeanians. Mrs Stanway has dedicated even more years to Roedean, having begun working here in 1970, 46 years ago. It is impossible to quantify her contribution over that period; it is testament to her passion for Art and her compassion for the girls that so many current students will miss her teaching and support, and returning ORs always make certain to catch up with her to share fond memories. Thank you both, and good luck in your retirement. This has been a wonderful year at Roedean, with many, many highlights – thank you all for the part you play in the life of the school, because what we have achieved has been the result of a combined effort from girls, staff, and the entire Roedean community. Good luck to those going to Florida and Nepal. It only remains for me to wish you all a wonderful summer holiday.
Tea for war veterans at Roedean The community action tea went beautifully this week – it was a privilege to do it. The girls were superb, every single one and the veterans were charming! One of them was stationed at Roedean during the war, 80 years ago. A few fun facts from him: the school was dilapidated when they arrived and they spent a lot of time doing it up! They never used the tunnel, never ever! The seagulls were still a menace then and the highlight of his stay was sneaking out into Brighton!!!! He was stationed in House 1.