A look at some of the strong family links to Roedean across the decades.
Pathways Lectures 2025
Our first set of talks this year saw an incredible group of women inspiring our Year 12s.
School News
1. Carol Service
2. GCSE WW1 Visit
3. Oedipus Theatre Classics Trip
4. Snow at Roedean
5. Staff vs Student Hockey
6. Roedean’s Got Talent Alumnae News
1. Grace Ridout (No.3, 2014-2020) Returns to Roedean
2. ORA Christmas Drinks
3. Jan Harbison (No.1, 1967-69) and Nina Nethercote (Kool, No.1.1968-71)
ALUMNAE NEWS
We were delighted to welcome back our students and staff after a well-deserved Christmas break, and the first week of term saw Roedean covered in a blanket of snow. For some of our students this was their first time experiencing snow and it was wonderful to see everyone dash out to make snowballs and dust off the sledges.
This year we have enjoyed collaborating with other schools, and in an exciting development for our Cadet Force, we were thrilled to begin our partnership with Lancing College. This collaboration adds new opportunities and experiences for our cadets as they participate in joint training sessions, competitions, and leadership development initiatives. The students have also enjoyed several socials with Tonbridge School, and recently challenged them to a charity netball match on home turf. There was brilliant support from a vocal crowd, and we were delighted that our Year 13s won 13-7 all while raising £800 for the charity we support in Moldova.
Thank you to the speakers who came to talk to our Sixth Form students during our first series of Pathway Lectures. The lectures give the students the opportunity to hear from experts in a range of different careers as they start to explore their own pathways for the future. It was particularly inspirational that most of our speakers were ORs and so started in the same place as the students who sat before them.
Roedean’s very first student-led production, Alice by Heart, was a huge triumph as a creative team of nine students turned months of planning and hard work into reality with a cast of twelve executing their creative vision. The dedication and teamwork really brought the story to life and highlighted the remarkable talent of everyone involved. Equally, the Dreams and Nightmares Gala Concert was a seamless mix of orchestral, vocal, and band pieces, and was the perfect balance of light and dark – it was hard to believe that some of the students were only in Year 7.
As always, it is lovely that so many of our OR community continue to connect with one another not only in the UK but globally. In the coming months there are a fantastic number of School and OR events with highlights including the Futures Fair, International Women’s Day, ORA Heritage Projects Tour, the OR Spring Networker and of course, Roedean Day. You can find details about these and other upcoming events on the Dates for your Diary page.
Best wishes
Niamh Green Headmistress
CCF at Roedean – An Exciting Collaboration with Lancing College
In an exciting development for our Cadet Force, we are thrilled to announce our partnership with Lancing College, which has added new opportunities and experiences for our cadets. This collaboration is a key highlight of our school’s extracurricular program and enables our cadets to participate in joint training sessions, competitions, and leadership development initiatives.
The Combined Cadet Force at our school and Lancing College combines a shared commitment to developing leadership skills, discipline, and resilience in our students. Through this partnership, cadets have the unique opportunity to train alongside peers from another prestigious institution, participating in activities such as adventure training, fieldcraft, marksmanship, and ceremonial events.
One of the most exciting aspects of this collaboration is the enhanced training and leadership exposure that students gain from working in a larger, more diverse group. Our cadets have the chance to engage in highquality training that challenges them while encouraging teamwork, camaraderie, and personal growth. The partnership also opens doors to a wider range of activities, such as regional and national competitions, where our cadets can represent the school.
We look forward to many more opportunities for our cadets to grow, learn, and excel.
Our cadets have the chance to engage in high-quality training that challenges them while encouraging teamwork, camaraderie, and personal growth.
House Hockey
This year’s House Hockey saw a brilliant battle on the astro with each house winning a respective age group.
House 2 dominated the Year 7 games with strong and consistent performances on both pitches, both teams remaining unbeaten with an impressive +8 goal difference. 2nd, 3rd and 4th places were incredibly tight all within only two points of each other.
In Year 8, it was even tighter at the top of the table with the top two teams only two points apart. However, it was House 4 that came out triumphant, beating House 2.
Year 9 saw the most girls taking part with three teams from each House, all competing for glory. Every game was dominated by a fierce House 3, and they won all but one match achieving an outstanding goal difference of +17. There was only 3 points between House 1 and 4 in a close battle for 2nd place.
House 1 and House 3 battled hard for victory in the final Year 10 match with House 1 prevailing over their rivals House 3 by just 1 point. The race to 3rd place was also extremely competitive with just 2 points between House 2 and 4.
Finally, in Year 11, after all Houses finishing on 12 points each, the winners were decided by goal difference. House 1 were victorious with a +9 goal difference ahead of House 3’s +4 goal difference.
Congratulations to all the girls who took part in this exciting competition.
Dreams and Nightmares Gala Concert
The scene was set from the very first moment of entering the bar, with a skeleton playing the violin, for the theme of our Autumn Term Gala Concert – Dreams and Nightmares
The evening was filled with symphonic surprises, and was a perfect balance of light and dark. The pieces spanned a breadth of styles, starting with the uplifting A Million Dreams from The Greatest Showman. The evening moved seamlessly from dreams to nightmares with Danse Macabre by SaintSaëns which brilliantly conjured a world of shadowy dance and unsettling nightmares.
There were pieces from the Year 7 and 8 Singers – who followed the Dreams theme with I have a Dream and Any Dream Will Do, before the String Orchestra returned us to a darker feel with Jack’s Lament from A
Nightmare Before Christmas. This contrast of light and dark, and traditional and modern pieces continued throughout as the stage was given to the Orchestra, Band and Senior Singers in turn.
The highlight of the night was the final captivating piece from the opera Hänsel und Gretel, with a phenomenal operatic section by Candis, and charming cameos from Hänsel and Gretel played by Esme and Jemima in Year 9. The choir and orchestra performed together beautifully with incredible vocal talent and a dynamic orchestral accompaniment.
Our next concert will be the Brighton Fringe Festival Concert in May, we highly recommend you keep an eye out for booking to open.
The evening was filled with symphonic surprises, and was a perfect balance of light and dark.
Alice by Heart – A Roedean Student-Led Production
A creative team of nine Sixth Form students turned months of planning, hard work, and pure imagination, into reality, as a cast of twelve executed their creative vision with passion and dedication in their production of Alice by Heart, our first student-led production.
Merla expertly led the cast as Producer and Artistic Director and helped get the project off the ground with her unwavering determination, passion and collaborative style. There was whimsical and expressive choreography and beautiful musical direction from members of the Creative Team and the strong stage management helped keep everyone on track.
Our professional technical staff did a great job of teaching the backstage students the ropes, and passed on their knowledge
covering everything from sound, lighting, costume and make up to art and design, marketing, and front of house.
The story follows Alice, a teenage girl stuck in an air-raid shelter in World War II trying to survive the bleak realities of conflict. Tegan, who played Alice, didn’t leave the stage for the entire 90 minutes of the performance and her heartfelt portrayal of Alice was playful and moving. Accompanying Alice on her journey is her close friend Alfred, played with heartfelt authenticity by Anna. When Alfred falls ill, Alice retreats into her imagination, finding herself in the fantastical world of Wonderland. Here, the story mirrors Alice’s personal journey through fear, loss, and the transition from childhood to adulthood. On her travels through Wonderland, Alice encounters the iconic characters from the original story, including
the Cheshire Cat, the Caterpillar, the Mad Hatter, and the Queen of Hearts to name a few, all of which were executed wonderfully by the students who played them.
The creativity, dedication, and teamwork brought this magical story to life, showcasing the remarkable talent of everyone involved.
Roedean take on Tonbridge for a Charity Netball Match
Following a series of social events with Tonbridge School, our Sports Prefects, Zara and Elodie, challenged them to a charity Netball match on home turf. There was brilliant support from a very vocal crowd, and we are delighted that, despite a distinct height advantage to Tonbridge, our Year 13s won 13-7 all while raising over £800 for the charity we support in Moldova!
Players of the match were Onose and Mbali – congratulations.
There was brilliant support from a very vocal crowd
Pathways Lectures
This year’s first set of Pathway Lectures featured a range of inspirational speakers from a diverse mixture of industries. The Lectures are a series of careers talks open to our Year 12 and 13 students giving them the opportunity to learn about different career options and hear first hand experience of them.
The first round of lectures took place on the 3rd February with 5 speakers including 4 ORs from the fields of Medicine, Data Science, Arts, Finance and Foreign Policy.
The first round of speakers included:
Lila Rose No.4, 2009-2013
Lead Data Scientist & Development Lead at Leonardo
Lila’s work involves creating and managing teams producing innovative AI solutions that are used by business and government. She shared her top tips for getting into data science, including to “back yourself”.
Cristal Downing No.1, 1995-2002
Project Director of the Gender and Conflict Project at International Crisis Group
Cristal has 15 years of foreign policy, research and advocacy experience including working at the UN University Centre. She shared with the girls her journey to a career in international affairs and the different pathways into that sector.
Shannon George
Head Writer, Series Developer, Producer
Shannon started her animation career as a production assistant on shows such as The Simpsons then went on to work for Nickelodeon, NBC, Universal and Disney. She’s received two Emmy nominations and now writes and creates her own shows. Her newest show Goat Girl is set in a boarding school and will be released by the Cartoon Network later this year.
Samantha Page No.1, 1980-1983
London Branch Manager at ABN AMRO Clearing Bank
With a long career in Financial Markets working for institutions such as Merrill Lynch, RBS and the FCA, Samantha was the perfect speaker to talk about being a woman in finance. A recognised leader in Market structure Samantha now balances her work with being a Non-Executive Director and a trustee of the charity Three Wings Trust.
“It was so interesting and it was a great opportunity”
Dr Annabel Wong
Wheatley, No.1, 1984-1990
Speciality Doctor of Oral Surgery, Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth
Annabel is a 2nd generation Roedeanian who spent time at both Roedean South Africa and Brighton. She went on to study at Guy’s and St Thomas’s Hospitals and is president of the British Dental Association, Wessex.
Our next set of Pathway Lectures will take place on the 24th March and feature Dr Hannah White, Director and CEO of the Institute for Government and Maria Ling OR who balances a career in law with being an acclaimed soprano.
Lunar New Year Celebrations
To celebrate the Lunar New Year, a wide range of fun and engaging activities for both staff and students were organised by Kaitlin, one of our Heads of School. It was fantastic to see so many of our community getting involved in the activities which included Chinese calligraphy with ink and brushes, Mah Jong, origami, and paper decorations.
The lively celebrations filled our campus, and it was wonderful to pause and reflect on the significance and traditions that this special occasion brings to our community. Here, students share their personal insights, offering a window into the diverse cultural practices and family bonds that make Lunar New Year so special.
“For me, Lunar New Year is all about family quality time…”
Elisa (China & Austria) “For me, Lunar New Year is all about family quality time, good food, and the excitement of receiving red packets. We wear red for good luck, and although my mum is Austrian, she joins in wholeheartedly by wearing a qipao and playing mahjong with us. It’s wonderful to see how our traditions bring us closer, even as a multicultural family.”
Kaitlin (Hong Kong, living in Singapore) “Living in Singapore, Lunar New Year is a blend of two cultures for me. I begin the day by serving tea to my parents and receiving ang pao (red packets). We eat Lou Hei (prosperity salad in Singapore) and my grandma’s turnip cake, a cherished family recipe I hope to pass on one day. For me, Lunar New Year is about embracing my family’s unique traditions while celebrating new beginnings and the joy of reunion.”
Yujin (Thailand) “In Thailand, Lunar New Year is a religious and familial festival. We visit the temple, pray to the Buddha, check our zodiac signs, and give red packets. It’s a time for family reunions and new beginnings, steeped in both spiritual and cultural significance.”
Melissa (Vietnam) “In Vietnam, Lunar New Year means gathering at the temple to pray for our ancestors and for a prosperous year ahead. Each family has its unique dishes, like Banh Chung, and our family calls spring rolls ‘Nem’. Each house has its own name for this dish that cannot be replaced. The evenings are filled with fireworks, dragon dances, and visiting friends and relatives, spreading joy throughout the week.”
Roedean South Africa Exchange
Following Roedean South Africa’s visit to us here in Brighton last year, discussions have been taking place about arranging an exchange programme between our two schools to further strengthen our historic ties with each other.
It was therefore such a delight when at the start of February six intrepid Year 9s travelled to Johannesburg to spend three weeks at our sister school.
During their exchange, the girls (Sorcha, Saffron, Bella, Greta, Georgia and Andrea) will stay in the Boarding House there. They received a wonderfully warm welcome, which helped them settle in quickly.
Whilst in South Africa, the girls have been learning about the many similarities between our schools, particularly our ethos and belief in every girl standing out, but also the differences such as the much earlier start for them – lessons start at 7.30am and sports practice at 5.45am!
Traditions are central to school life, and a statue of the school emblem is the focal point. They also do hand-shaking, but in addition, at the start and end of every day the school bell is rung 22 times to mark the original number of students.
The South African students will return with the exchange partners after half-term.
“There is a strong sense of community and house spirit running at the heart of both schools.” – Sorcha
“It is lovely how kind everyone is! When we pass girls in the corridors, they always stop and wave with a nice welcoming smile.” –Georgia
“When we arrived at Roedean, I was completely blown away at how stunning the School is!” – Greta
From Dorm Room to Boardroom: The Supersmith Story
Emily Morgan (Sayce, No.3, 1990-95) and Frankie Campbell (Galvanoni, No.3, 1992-97) first met in 1992. Both members of House 3, they bonded over shared dormitories and green Doc Martens. Emily was a keen sports woman who was part of all the teams, whilst Frankie could be found in the art room.
Fast forward over 30 years and Emily, a problem solver with a keen eye for efficiency, and Frankie, an empathetic marketing strategist, are working together on a pioneering innovation to transform lives through Emily’s company Supersmith.
Supersmith has developed the 3Scooter, a revolutionary type of mobility scooter. It combines cutting-edge robotics with sleek design, aiming to empower those with walking difficulties to reclaim their independence and mobility. The need is staggering: more than 6.3 million people in the UK experience walking difficulties, yet less than 7% use mobility scooters. Research shows this is due to the negative perceptions associated with mobility scooters and the fact that they have 5x the death rate of motorbikes per km travelled. Supersmith’s mission is to change that by making mobility aids not just functional, but safe and desirable.
“People shouldn’t have to choose between practicality and pride,” Emily says “The 3Scooter is about enabling people to live the life they want, with a device they’re proud to ride”
The product has already won several accolades – Royal College of Art funding through the Design Age Institute, start up support through SetSquared Bristol and the Natwest Accelerator Programme, and design input from SeymourPowell – the company involved in Virgin Intergalactic. The 3Scooter also has a patent for its unique technology.
Supersmith’s story is one of resilience and purpose. Emily’s journey to co-founding the company began with a deeply personal mission: supporting family members who faced mobility challenges. Frankie also has firsthand experience of the medical world. She was a carer for her late Father and has a son with complex needs.
Launching Supersmith is not without its challenges. Breaking into the mobility market and redefining perceptions requires grit, strategy, and vision. Yet, the response so far has been overwhelmingly positive, with early adopters praising the 3Scooter for its practicality and style and Supersmith currently has a wait list of nearly 200 people keen for their product.
Looking back at their school days Frankie remembers,
“Roedean instilled in us the belief that we could do anything. I remember the girls in the sixth form making their own car. Being part of an all-girls school gave us the confidence to push boundaries, even in industries traditionally dominated by men.”
Emily recognises that as a female founder in a STEM sector she now has a part to play as a role model to the younger generation.
As Supersmith prepares to scale, the team is seeking partners who share their vision. For those who believe in the 3Scooter’s potential, investment opportunities are available. And for those who could benefit from the 3Scooter, the early access list is open. Whether for yourself, a loved one, or someone in your network, signing up means being among the first to experience this game-changing product.
Emily and Frankie’s shared mission today in many ways reflects the values they developed at Roedean: the courage to innovate, the determination to make a difference, and the belief that true success comes from uplifting others.
To learn more about the 3Scooter, collaborate, or join the early access list, visit www.supersmith.co
10 Questions with… Chantelle-Shakila Tiagi
Chantelle-Shakila Tiagi (No.1, 2002-09) is the founder and director at Tiagi, the global creative production agency specialising in producing bespoke events, fashion shows, stills and moving image shoots around the world.
She is passionate about representing creative talent and helping them achieve their goals while bringing their creative vision to life. Over the past eight years Chantelle has grown Tiagi into the global business it is today with offices in London, LA and Mumbai.
1. What is your favourite memory of Roedean?
Winning best actress in house plays and best singer in house music in the same year!
2. What was the best piece of advice you were given whilst at School?
I always felt very supported by my teachers and leaders at school, particularly in the drama department. They consistently encouraged me to follow my passions and reminded me that I could achieve whatever I set my mind to. This advice instilled a strong work ethic in me early on, teaching me the value of determination and always pushing to achieve a goal once I had my mind set on it.
3. When you were at Roedean, what did you want to be when you ‘grew-up’? I wanted to be a singer and an actress when I grew up.
4. What are you now you’ve grown up?
I’m the founder and director of Tiagi, a creative production company and artist consultancy. I’ve built a global business with offices in London, Los Angeles, and Mumbai, helping brands and talent bring their creative visions to life. I’m also passionate about representing creative talent as their agent, helping them navigate the industry and achieve their goals.
5. What does your job involve?
My role as founder and director of Tiagi is diverse and dynamic. I lead global teams
and oversee the operations of our offices, ensuring that everything runs smoothly across London, Los Angeles, and Mumbai. I manage end-to-end production for shoots, ensuring the highest standards are met for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle projects. A significant part of my work involves traveling to different markets, building relationships, and exploring opportunities to expand Tiagi’s reach. Whether it’s scouting locations, working with talent, or refining strategies for global campaigns, no two days are the same, which keeps the job exciting and rewarding.
6. What have you done that you are most proud of?
Founding and building Tiagi from the ground up, we’re a bootstrapped entity constantly reinvesting to grow and expand, and have never taken external investment, it is one of my biggest achievements. Over the last eight years, the business has grown into a global creative powerhouse. Launching the Mumbai office was particularly special, not only as a milestone for the company but also as a personal nod to my South Asian heritage.
7. What are the three objects you would take with you to a desert island?
An old iPod loaded with my all-time favourite songs—because I couldn’t live without music.
A camera—to document the experience and capture any creative idea sparked by the scenery.
A solar-powered charger—because being practical is essential when there’s no power supply.
8. What books have had a significant influence on you and why?
Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton: A heartfelt exploration of growth, life, and love that resonates deeply on a personal level.
Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull: An inspiring guide on fostering innovation and managing a creative business.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: A timeless lesson on following your dreams and trusting the journey, which resonates deeply with my entrepreneurial spirit.
9. What is on your bucket list?
Growing Tiagi to the point where it can be sold on, and then focusing on becoming an angel investor to support upcoming entrepreneurs. I’d also love to write a book, start a family, and eventually open a boutique hotel with my fiancé, who is a chef and runs his own culinary businesses. Building a legacy of creativity and support for others is key for me. I also dream of taking time off to visit every U.S. state—it’s an adventure I’d love to tick off my list.
10. If you had one year and unlimited funds, what would you do?
I’d invest in nurturing the next generation of creatives from underrepresented backgrounds, helping them break into the industry. I’d also create a global platform for cultural exchange through fashion and art, connecting cities like London, Mumbai, and LA. On a personal note, I’d explore the world with my family and start laying the groundwork for that boutique hotel dream with my fiancé.
You can hear more from Chantelle at our OR Spring Event on Thursday 8th May where she will be our guest speaker. Find out more by visiting our events page: https://community.roedean.co.uk/events
Multigenerational Families at Roedean
Family connections have always been strong at Roedean since the three Lawrence sisters founded the School in 1885. Many of their siblings went on to teach at the school with the younger members of the family also attending as students.
Throughout the history of the School multigenerational families have continued to attend and work at Roedean and for some there was never any question that they wouldn’t attend.
Teresa Outhwaite (Brach, No.1, 1985-91)
Nellie Guaedalla (Reitlinger, No.1, 1906-09)
Lily Reitlinger (Brach, No.1, 1942-51)
Tilly Outhwaite (No.1, 2019-current)
Thekla Brach (Former staff – pianist for ballet class)
Dr Paul Brach (Former staff – German teacher)
Lily Reitinger (Brach) was born in Austria in 1933 as a younger sister to my father William and was the longed-for sibling to complete Paul and Thekla Brach’s family.
She first attended Roedean when she and her family had moved to Keswick during the war and her mother became the piano accompanist for the ballet and dance classes taught by Miss Joan Baron at a girls’ school which had been evacuated from the coast to Keswick…Roedean School. Due to a lack of beds Lily would have to return home to her mother’s every night…effectively making her one of Roedean’s first ever ‘day girls’ in 1943 at the age of 9.
When Roedean returned to Brighton, Lily and her family also moved back to Hove,
and Lily became a full boarder – first in Junior House and then in No.1. The family’s relationship with Roedean was cemented further when the German teacher had to go on maternity leave and no replacement could be found – Lily’s father was asked if he could step in and teach the girls German. Lily loved her time at Roedean and had many happy memories and stories of her time at school which she told often.
My bond to my only aunt was strengthened when I too became a Roedeanian joining House 1 in 1985. Lily brought me to my interviews, my open days, attended parents’ evenings and came to my speech days.
Lily took a great interest in all things Roedean and was supportive and delighted when I joined the Council of Trustees at Roedean in 2016. She was overjoyed when my daughter Tilly was accepted at Roedean in February 2019 with an Art and Sport Scholarship to boot. Sadly, she was never to see Tilly in her Roedean uniform with her green and navy House 1 tie…joining the ranks of the House 1 Roedeanians in the family.
Mary Henderson (No.3, 1971-76)
Agnes Marshall (Former Staff, 1902-1932)
Annis Langton-Cole (Former Staff, 1911-12)
Gwen Blair (Hind, No.3, 1926-32)
Helen Pugson (Hind, No.3, 1929-36)
Joan Henderson (Marshall, No.3, 1936-42)
Loetitia Stone (Marshall, No.3, 1939-45)
Great Aunt Agnes was a constant feature in my life growing up and would send tins of clotted cream to us in the post. Even though well into her nineties, she was a very perceptive correspondent while I was at school. She celebrated her 100th birthday in 1978. (Attached is a photograph taken on the day showing from L-R myself, Agnes Marshall, Loetitia Stone, and behind, Joan Henderson).
As well as receiving a telegram from the Queen, Aunt Agnes received telegrams from the Headmaster John Hunt, the Chair of Council Sir Michael Perrin and the President of the Corporation Dame Lucy Sutherland. Prominent amongst the many flowers she received was a bouquet of roses from the school and a bowl of African violets from the ORA. She received over 90 cards, many from ORs (to “A M” as she was known) and was particularly delighted with a large hand painted one signed by the girls in No.3. I think I am holding it in the photograph.
The photo was taken by my father, unfortunately he managed to have his finger partially over the lens on all the photos he took that day, my mother was not pleased! In addition to the four of us in the photo there were two cousins from another branch of the family in No.3 at the same time as my great aunt, and for a short period of time a cousin from another branch joined the staff teaching elocution.
I don’t think there was ever any question that I wouldn’t go to Roedean!
Sheila and I were one year apart and started in the Junior House together. It was still the time of clothes coupons, so my parents had to beg and borrow other’s coupons to complete the clothes lists… and several items were never needed in the end. Sewing Cash’s name tapes onto everything took hours.
Sheila always remained in touch with the school after she left and served on the Council and the ORA for many years until illness prevented her from contributing further.
Patricia was several years younger, so we really did not see much of her at school.
The family house was close by in Brighton and after every gale we used to look out of the only window – on the way into the Chapel – from which we could see that the house still had its roof on!
My father was the local GP and looked after many members of staff – (who apparently all adored him!)
My mother became school doctor after we had all left and served the school for longer than any of us had been pupils there.
Josephine Beynon was my brother’s daughter and was a member of staff for several years recently. I understand that she helped set up the School Farm which appears to continue to be a great success.
Rowena Rowley
(Austin, No.2, 1987-92)
Izzi Austin (No.2, 1985-93)
Fenella Rowley (No.2, 2019-present)
Mabel Rowley (No.2, 2023-present)
I joined L3 in 1987 with, I think, ten other girls, to be with my sister two years above me. Looking back, we were absolutely tiny and very little to be away from home, but after the excitement of the hurricane in October, a few months after we started, and having to be evacuated, we soon bonded! Three years of Junior House passed quickly – skating in the hall, trying to avoid boiled tomatoes for breakfast, and walking backwards down the stairs on the first day of the month.
JH was followed by House 2, getting to grips with the huge building, the bunny runs, clearing the tables for the older girls, Brighton on a Saturday afternoon. By the time I left, I had cemented friendships that have lasted til now.
Seeing my two daughters join and flourish at Roedean has been amazing – and very poignant at times – not least because of the comparative luxury they enjoy at school. When my elder daughter started sixth form this year, boarding in what was JH, it truly felt like a full circle.
It will be amazing to meet up with all the 1995 leavers this summer at Roedean Day, our 30 year reunion.
Our family has mixed experiences at Roedean. In the 50s it was quite a different school from the one that I experienced in the 80s. Mum (Patsy) had not been a fan of her school days, though she always had some fun tales of misdemeanours and made some wonderful friends. On the other hand, I could not have had a better experience in the 80s, and as a result have vibrant memories, and also wonderful friendships; most certainly a running theme at Roedean!
When it came to choosing a school for Phoebe, Roedean was initially not on the selection list. It was early/mid 2000s, school was not in its best shape, and was not up to par with my experience and what we were looking for, for Phoebe. As the time drew closer to applications, we saw that the school was under a new Head (Oliver Blond) and that he and his team were delivering an overwhelmingly positive impact on the school.
Did you know?
If you are an Old Roedeanian who is considering a Roedean education for your daughter, you can receive a 10% fee remission. For more information, please contact our Admissions team either by email admissions@roedean.co.uk or by calling 01273 667370.
There was a renewed energy and the opportunities for the students were strong. As a result, the collective decision was made for Phoebe to also attend. Now at University, Phoebe also echoes her time with immense satisfaction and pride. Her experience was outstanding, particularly in today’s educational climate where competition is high, expectations are higher, and social pressures both challenging and omnipresent.
As a parent, our decision was always focused on the best education for Phoebe rather than choice by sentimentality, and we all believe she has had the very best opportunity and experience. And for our family?
Whilst all of our experiences have been unique in themselves, knowing that our female footsteps over 70 years or so have walked (not run!) through the corridors, houses, pitches and grounds adds that extra thread between us, that connects us invisibly, intangibly, yet with profound emotion, pride and a knowing smile.
Mary Goddard (Scott, No.3, 1984-89)
Mollie Hawkins (No.3, 1926-31)
Josephine Brick (May, No.3, 1932-37)
Sheila Ekins (May, No.3, 1937-44)
Rosemary Cannon (May, No.3, 1944-48)
Sue Scott (May, No.3, 1947-53)
Helen Wagstaffe (May, No.3, 1959-64)
Patricia Lloyd (May, No.3, 1965-69)
Eloise Goddard (No.3, 2016-21)
Jemima Goddard (No.4, 2016-2021)
It’s a privilege to have a Roedean thread running through our family.
Sport was a favourite theme for all of us –particularly hockey and tennis. The constant views of the sea are very special – whatever the weather.
We think that the aspect that has changed most over the last 60 years is the boarding regime.
Favourite motto:
G 2D – Grit, Guts and determination! –
Mary Goddard
I followed my older sister Rosemary to Roedean and started in the Junior House with Miss Leigh (a good soprano in the choir). My years at Roedean revolved mostly about sport and playing tennis
on those windy courts. I also made some lifelong friends. I was delighted when my granddaughters followed the tradition and I was able to revisit my old haunts and rekindle many happy memories. – Sue Scott
Eight of the fourteen Lawrence siblings. From left to right: Sylvia, Agatha, Millicent, Penelope, Dorothy, Theresa, Ruth and Christabel
Founders’ Day
On Wednesday 12th February our Founders’ Day and Commemoration Service returned to the Chapel.
During the service we took the time to remember and give thanks to our Founders, The Lawrence Sisters, and our previous Heads. We also remembered the members of our community who have passed away over the past two years. Current students placed a flower on the altar as each name was read out by ORA President, Noëlle Chase.
As friends and family members of those who have passed away joined our current students, the Chapel was full for this poignant service. The sound was wonderful as we all joined together to start the service by singing Praise my Soul, the King of Heaven. During the service we were also treated to wonderful music pieces performed by the String Orchestra (Adagio in G Minor for Strings – Albinoni) and the Senior Choir (In Paradisum from Requiem – Fauré). The Reading and prayers were beautifully read out by our two Heads of School, Kaitlin and Galina.
ORA Regional Representatives
Our OR community spans so many countries globally and it is fantastic that we have a team of ORA Regional Representative volunteers that can help ORs in various countries stay connected.
USA – Diana Oreck-Webster: usa@oldroedeanians.co.uk
Malaysia – Natasha Tan: myror@oldroedeanians.co.uk
Following the service guests enjoyed refreshments in the Library and it was lovely to be able to catch up with ORs and guests of those remembered who talked of their fond memories.
“The service was beautiful and I was so grateful to be part of it. The music was exquisite.”
Middle East – Suzie Sheehan: middle-east@oldroedeanians.co.uk
China – Di Wu: china@oldroedeanians.co.uk
Hong Kong – Jenny Wong: hk@oldroedeanians.co.uk
Scandinavia – Sara Al-Barazi: scandinavia@oldroedeanians.co.uk
France and Switzerland – Tsiory Andriamanerasoa (newly appointed)
Channel Islands – Louise Cotton: ci@oldroedeanians.co.uk
Greece, Cyprus and Turkey –Alexandra Laffon: greece@oldroedeanians.co.uk
We are delighted that Nigeria, USA and Malaysia are actively planning events so do keep an eye out for those.
If you are interested in becoming an ORA Regional Representative and would like to find out more, please contact Noëlle Chase: president@oldroedeanians.co.uk
Dates for your Diary
OR Golf Day 2025
Wednesday 12 March 2025
Time: TBC
Windlesham Golf Club, Bagshot, Surrey, GU19 5HY
Are you a golfer? The OR Golf Day is on Wednesday 12th March at Windlesham Golf Club. All OR golfers are welcome to play. Please contact: Phoebe Daws (Hughes, No.3, 1971-73) golf@oldroedeanians.co.uk for more details. Even if you can’t make it this year – do make contact with Phoebe anyway so that she can grow our golfing group.
Heritage
Projects Tour
Saturday 15 March 2025
Time: 10:30am-1:45pm
Roedean School
Join ORA President, Noëlle Chase, for a tour of the Heritage Projects, including the Sundial, Friezes, Chapel, and Tiles. During the tour you will be taken around each project and you will also hear about the appeal to raise funds for the conservation/restoration of these projects and the progress that has been made so far. For further information and to book please visit https://community. roedean.co.uk/event/ora-heritage-projectstour-1 Alternatively, you can book by emailing alumnae@roedean.co.uk or by writing to The ORA c/o The Roedeanian Office, Roedean School, Roedean Way, Brighton, BN2 5RQ.
ORs vs the Students Netball
Saturday 26 April 2025
Time: 10:30am-1:00pm
Roedean School
The ORs vs Students Netball and match tea will be on Saturday 26th April. If you are interested in playing on the OR team, or attending as a spectator, please email netball@oldroedeanians.co.uk or register at https://community.roedean.co.uk/ event/or-vs-students-netball-match-2025
OR Tennis Afternoon 2025
Saturday 17th May 2025
Time: 2:30pm-5:00pm The Roehampton Club, London
Join fellow ORs for an afternoon of tennis followed by a BBQ. To reserve a place book by 1st May 2025. Tickets (to include BBQ and drinks): Players £60, Players under 25 £40, Spectators £35. Roehampton Club members – players or spectators -special rate £35. More information can be found at https://community.roedean.co.uk/event/ortennis-afternoon-2025
OR Spring Networker with Special Guest
Thursday 8 May 2025
Time: 6:30pm-9:30pm Venue TBC – London
We will be hosting an exciting new networking event in London, and we are thrilled that we will have OR Chantelle Tiagi as our guest speaker. For more information head over to https://community.roedean. co.uk/event/or-spring-event-2025
Roedean Day
Saturday 21 June 2025
Time: All Day Roedean School
ORs, former Staff, and guests are invited to join us for our main reunion day. Further details are to be confirmed but please do save the date, especially if you’re in a Class Of ending in ‘5!
ORA Heritage Projects Talk –Parent Event
Thursday 20 March 2025
Time: 7:30pm-9:30pm
Roedean School
Roedean Parents are warmly invited to join us for an evening to learn about the Old Roedeanians’ Association’s (ORA) Heritage Projects Appeal, as well as to meet other parents and enjoy delicious canapés and drinks. Following the talk, there will be time to chat with your fellow parents, including representatives of the Roedean Parents’ Guild. For more information and to book your place please visit: https://community. roedean.co.uk/event/ora-heritage-projectstalk
Class of 2005 Reunion
Saturday 10 May 2025
Time: Afternoon – TBC Venue TBC – London
We are holding a reunion in London for the Class of 2005 on Saturday 10th May and are working with Tsiory Kabath, Louise Royer, and Francesca Spoerry from the Class of 2005 to help organise the event. If you are interested in attending, please do let us know by emailing us at alumnae@roedean. co.uk – booking will open soon.
ORA Heritage Projects Appeal
Roedean has many wonderful heritage artefacts, which tell the story of its history. The Heritage Projects are an Old Roedeanians’ Association initiative, to restore and conserve these important parts of the School. Since the Appeal was launched, the generosity of ORs and friends of Roedean has been overwhelming. Many of the projects are already completed.
We now need to make a final push to complete the fundraising for the remaining projects, to ensure that they are conserved for future generations of Roedeanians to enjoy and appreciate.
The ORA presented the conserved HMS Vernon Ensign back to the School during the D Day anniversary service last year.
The remaining four historic ensigns, originally flown at the Battle of Jutland in 1916 await conservation. Many ORs will remember fondly sitting underneath them in Chapel. To complete their conservation to a level where they could be re hung in the Chapel, we need to raise £46,050.
The Art Studio holds many happy memories for ORs and current students alike. The beautiful tiles which adorn the walls were created by students in the 1930s and ‘40s. Detailed trials have been carried out, the cost of which was sponsored by donation. The conservation/restoration will cost £38,300. To help reach this goal, you can sponsor different size panels or individual tiles.
Large Panel
Medium Panel
Small Panel
Tile Triptych
Intaglio Tile
£5,000
£1,000
£500
£250
£150
The final project yet to be completed is the Fountain in the Cloister Garth which is in a state of disrepair. The fountain is the centre piece in a much-loved area and the location of many house, form and team photographs over the years. Sadly, time, weather and some earlier less sensitive repairs, now mean that the fountain needs a substantial amount of work to return it to its former glory. To complete this work, we need to raise £27,800. We’re aiming to raise
You can read more detail about each project in the appeal brochure here: https:// community.roedean.co.uk/resources/oraresources/47/ora-heritage-projects-brochureor join us for one of the following events in March.
Saturday 15th March
OR Heritage Projects Tour. 10:30am for an 11:00am start. All ORs, parents, former staff and their guests are welcome. To book please go to: https://community.roedean. co.uk/event/ora-heritage-projects-tour-1. Or write to us at the School address.
Thursday 20th March:
ORA Heritage Projects Talk. 7:00pm arrival for 7:30pm start. Open to current parents. After the talk, there will be time to chat with your fellow Roedean parents. To book please go to: https://community.roedean.co.uk/ event/ora-heritage-projects-talk
How to Donate
Donate via JustGiving: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ ora-heritage-projects
Donate via the Roedean Community Network: https://community.roedean. co.uk/fundraising/donation/23
Donate by Cheque: Please send a cheque payable to ‘Roedean School’ to The Development Office, Roedean School, Roedean Way, Brighton, BN2 5RQ.
If you would like to talk further about the appeal, please call us on 01273 667363 or email heritage@oldroedeanians.co.uk
Jane Osborne (Boutwood, No.3, 1959-64)
Janie Boutwood was brought up in West Wittering, Sussex and born in a nursing home in Bognor Regis. 2 1/2 years before I was in the same home with the same midwife. We met 18 years later. After Roedean she went to London and trained as a secretary and became the secretary to the Keeper of the Privy Purse (Sir Rennie Maudsley) and worked for him for 5 years at Buckingham Palace.
We married at Chichester Cathedral in 1971 and had 53 years of marital bliss. I was running Howletts Wild Animal Park near Canterbury, and our first child was a chimpanzee called Yonkers whose mother had died giving birth. She used to take her in a carry cot into the palace in days when security was rather less stringent than today. In 1972 we moved to Port Lympne which was to become another Wild Animal Park, and we lived there for 24 years, Janie gave up working at the palace and became part of the safari team.
Roedean Merchandise Shop
Have you visited our online merchandise shop? We have a fantastic range of Roedean merchandise available at www.community. roedean.co.uk/shop
The range includes Roedean umbrellas, keyrings, tote bags, notepads, and more, along with a Roedean X Chilly’s water bottle and Roedean pyjama bottoms. We also have beautiful prints and greetings cards featuring an illustration of the School by artist Katie Cardew.
Most products can be shipped anywhere in the world, and we also offer a free ‘Click and Collect’ service from the School.
We will also have a stall at Roedean Day if you would like to shop on the day, alternatively, you can order online and arrange click and collect if you are coming to an event.
In 1987 my job required me to go to Darwin in the Northern Territory of Australia for 2 years, she was not thrilled but we stayed 5 years before I had to return to London to manage the Aspinall Gaming Club. She didn’t want to leave.
After Yonkers we had twin boys born in 1978 and then finally another boy in 1988.
Janie had a ruthless sense of humour and used to tease me as I went to a very minor public school called Seaford College (it was nowhere near Seaford) and if we were disagreeing on a subject she would just say ‘Roedean’ and I shut up!
I am unbelievably lucky to have had Janie as my soulmate and lover for all those years. She died of a rare cancer (neuroendocrine) which she fought for 11 years but finally died in January last year.
