We are delighted with the diversity and breadth of experience, empathy and entrepreneurialism which exudes from our contributors in this latest edition of The Dragon. The openness and honesty are refreshing and important as we look around our community and recognise the need for us all to work together and really support the generations of today and tomorrow.
This summer saw the departure of Head Alex Hems after five and half years guiding St George’s, and particularly leading with composure and relentless commitment during the pandemic. We are extremely grateful to Alex and wish her all the very best in her new role as Head at the Aldenham Foundation in Hertfordshire.
As Alex moves on we welcome wholeheartedly our new Head Carol Chandler-Thompson, who joins from her role as Head of Blackheath High School; a very successful independent girls’ school in London with an impressive record of academic success and an ethos in tune with St George’s. We look forward to including a welcome feature with our new Head in the next edition.
And last, but not least, we have been delighted to see the return of the OGA Summer Lunch and the London Reunion. They really are marker points in the year and give a proper chance to reunite with the school to meet old friends and make new ones. Both events were so well attended and the sense of delight for a chance to get together again was palpable.
We hope you enjoy reading this edition of The Dragon and, as always, we welcome your feedback.
With best wishes
The Foundation Office
Please do keep your feedback and suggestions coming –the Foundation Office always welcomes your input.
WORD OF WELCOME
From the Foundation Office
NOTE OF FAREWELL
Former Head Alex Hems shares her memories from her years at St George’s
SPARKS TO FLAMES
Celebrating success and sharing news within the St George’s Community
ROYAL REMEMBRANCE
Remembering HRH Queen Elizabeth II
FROM MURRAYFIELD TO MILAN Interview with fashion designer Imogen Evans
BRINGING IT FULL CIRCLE
Interview and insights from Mary Michel and Marian Brown of Ostrero
OGA PRESIDENT’S REFLECTIONS
A welcome and thoughts from the OGA
MAKING AN IMPACT
St George’s leadership event with Judy Murray OBE and Allistair McCaw
A ROAD LESS TRAVELLED Reflectsions from Dr Lucy Cockayne
UNLOCKING TREASURES FOR YOUNG MINDS
Interview with author Joan Haig
TO MY FUTURE SELF Letter for the future from Saskia Buitendijk
THE LANGUAGE OF POLITICS Interview with Josephine Cochrane
KEEP IN TOUCH
Ways to stay in touch with the St George’s Community
The Dragon Editorial Team
Editor Kate Forster St George’s Editorial liaison Mairi McNaughton
OGA Editorial liaison Elizabeth Bruce Design and Print thedragonflyagency.co.uk
Beingappointed to be a Head is an extraordinary privilege. One is handed a school – something that starts as a name on a page in an advertisement, but is actually a living organism comprising hundreds of young lives, parents’ hopes and dreams, people’s careers and ambitions, buildings ancient and modern, the memories of former students and staff, and in the case of St George’s, a city’s worth of perceptions, misconceptions and rumours. If you stop to think about it for too long, it is terrifying, but thankfully one is always so busy that there is not too much time for that sort of reflection. Very quickly the sea of faces starts to separate out into the lives and histories of individuals.
My family and I were made to feel so welcome here from the start; I thank the whole community for that. I have been especially privileged to have been both Head and a St George’s parent. Seeing my own girls grow in confidence in their schooling here was such a joy – their time here has been such a gift to them and again I want to thank all my colleagues for creating an environment in which children can find themselves, can find a belief and an identity to be proud of; I know that has changed my girls and
Living in Scotland has been a very special experience for me and my family, but I had not realised how much the connection with my roots meant to me until I found myself there again.
My family and I were made to feel so welcome here from the start; I thank the whole community for that. I have been especially privileged to have been both Head and a St George’s parent. Seeing my own girls grow in confidence in their time here was such a joy.
will have shaped them in ways that are indefinable and beyond measurement, but are deeply important. For both of them it was sport and the co-curriculum which most changed them, but I have seen the confidence that they have acquired through the joy they have found on the pitches, spill over into their work. As teachers we never know what it is that will light that fire in a child’s heart, but I know that St George’s is truly a place where that happens every day.
Since March 2020 we have all been through an especially challenging period. When I think of all the ways that the staff pulled together to ensure that St George’s students had the best possible experience, both educationally and pastorally, that we could give them during such uncertain and confusing times, I am humbled. As a Head one is privileged to know the detail of so much of the work that goes on quietly and discreetly behind the scenes. What I see, day in day out, is the evidence of truly bespoke care; the phone calls home; finding opportunities for a child to feel good about something;
staff making time to listen or to support not only students but also parents and one another.
I have some wonderful memories of the last five and a half years: the 130th birthday celebrations which gave rise to such exciting, creative endeavours across the whole school; concerts that have made me cry at the beauty of the music and the potential in every performer, memorably Fauré’s Requiem at Greyfriar’s Kirk, but also the lovely Cantate performances and the gorgeous Nativities; Speech Day at St Mary’s; plays – Mary Poppins, Sister Act and The Tempest stand out, but more recently the very moving Lower School Showcase Unheard Voices was a very special event. Watching the then Lower 5 A Hockey team (who will be Upper 6 when this is published) winning the Scottish Cup in Glasgow was a fabulous moment. On a day-to-day basis the conversations with students of all ages almost always lift me up and at the same time keep one
grounded; they remind one what the job is really all about. There have been of course much darker moments as well – sadly no school year is without these.
People say that Headship is a lonely role, but I have been so lucky because I have never felt lonely doing my job. There is a bond forged in working through those darker times that is so special and quite irreplaceable and I have been fortunate to work with an extraordinarily dedicated group of school governors, senior leaders and support staff during my time here. I am grateful to them all for their wisdom, sense of humour, chocolate supplies, patience, phenomenal work ethic, for being willing to believe in me, and also for being able to tell me if I was getting things wrong.
I am leaving here to take up the post of Head of the Aldenham Foundation. Aldenham was founded in 1597 and I shall be their first female Head. My role will be to oversee a co-ed, day and boarding upper school, two prep schools - one co-ed and one all girls, and two nurseries, plus their new overseas school. It will be
a very different role, but I know that the ethos is very much the same as the one that I have valued so much here – of a genuine all-round education in which the co-curriculum and strong pastoral care sit at the heart. St George’s has set the bar high though. I shall be returning to live within a few miles of where I grew up, just outside London. Living in Scotland has been a very special experience for me and my family, but I had not realized how much the connection with my roots meant to me until I found myself there again.
St George’s is in excellent hands with Carol Chandler-Thompson. The school will march on – changing, adapting to the needs of a new generation of young women I am sure, and I am immensely proud to have played a small part in its history.
Right: Carol and Alex
People say that Headship is a lonely role, but I have been so lucky because I have never felt lonely doing my job at St. George’s.Above: Alex and her learners Top: Alex and Judy Murray Left: Alex visiting Santa Claus
Since the last edition we have been so pleased to receive more news from Old Girls within the St George’s community, highlighting how they are embracing new experiences, business ventures and hobbies or achieving personal recognition. We share below some updates updates from this powerful and widespread group.
From small sparks come big flames – we want to hear how the fire is burning bright across our St George’s community. We would love to hear from you, whatever you are up to and whenever you left the school. Please do get in touch with The Foundation Office to share news or more general updates, or with any suggestions or comments about The Dragon.
Another successful Tassie golf tournament took place on 23rd May at the Berkshire Golf Club, Ascot. It was a great turnout with 24 teams taking part over both the blue and red courses. St George’s School was represented by four Old Girls. Alison Gibb (Class of 1983), Alison Mayne (née Irvine, Class of 1982), Catriona Farquharson (Class of 1982) and Jane Somerset (née Gordon, Class of 1981) came third equal. Alison Gibb and Catriona Farquharson won the best combination on the Blue Course. The team was very grateful to the St George’s Foundation Office for sponsoring the participation in this event for another year.
We are delighted to feature the latest work of Old Girl Wendy Barrie (Class of 1975) in collaboration with her Swedish husband Bosse Dahlgren. A collaboration based on a love of food and farming developed with sustainability and self-sufficiency in mind. Their book ‘Meadows, The Swedish Farmer & The Scottish Cook’ is available to buy online.
Sustainable recipes, self-sufficiency, biodiversity, food security, growing and conservation doesn’t even come close to describing the topics covered in our 424 page fully illustrated book. Exploring Scottish and Nordic food culture with over 100 recipes, this hardback is the result of
years of research and practical experience. It highlights serious issues seasoned with light-hearted anecdotes from farming life to inform and entertain.
We want to recognise and congratulate former pupil Emily Wood (Class of 2000), who was appointed as a Queen’s Counsel (now King’s Counsel) from the Essex Court Chambers on 22 December 2021. This appointment was made by Her Majesty The Queen on the advice of the Lord Chancellor following consideration by the independent Queen’s Counsel Selection Panel.
In June there were several celebrations held in and around school for Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Our Nursery pupils had much fun discussing this historical event, talking about what a Jubilee is, the role of The Queen and how many years she had reigned. They enjoyed a wonderful garden party together and the Nursery garden was specially decorated for the occasion. The food was delicious and enjoyed by all. They made crowns and listened to The Queen’s Hat story.
Above L-R: Catriona Farquharson (née Rose) class of 82, Jane Somerset (née Gordon) Class of 81, Alison Gibb Class 83 and not pictured Alison Mayne (née Irvine) Class of 82.
Sincethose Jubilee events we have heard the incredibly sad news of the death of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth ll. Our thoughts are with all members of the Royal Family at this time of sorrow. Her Majesty embodied many virtues, and will always be remembered for her selfless service, her warmth, and her gentle strength in leading the nation for over seven decades. Her life was an example to us all and she was a constant source of unity and reassurance.
Emily and her sister Michaela Wood (Class of 2002)
The sustainable fashion industry has a new star - Imi Studios - taking the catwalks in Canada and New York by storm and bringing a new and fresh perspective to size-inclusive clothing. Former St George’s pupil Imogen Evans (Class of 2017) is the talented designer behind Imi Studios and a passionate advocate of following dreams, even if the path getting there is not always the conventional or easy one.
Imogen is a great example of commitment and creativity, and has been candid and generous in sharing her own experiences. The Dragon team was delighted to have the chance to talk to her.
What stood out for you most about the education experience at St George’s?
I really enjoyed being at a same sex school. I felt like I was allowed to take up spaces that would usually be reserved for boys at mixed schools.
What were your preferred subjects?
Art and textiles were undoubtedly my favourite subjects. However I also enjoyed French, English and Music.
What sort of influence did St George’s have on you as you look back now?
St George’s gave me the confidence to take up space and strive for ambitious goals.
Was there a teacher who inspired you at school?
Mr Leask really broadened my mind and sparked my interest in social issues, something which has influenced a lot of my design work today.
I want to scale Imi Studios without compromising the ethics of the brand.
Do you remain connected to the St G’s community and your friends you made there?
I’m still close with my St George’s friends. They’re all amazing!
You always had an ambition to go into the fashion industry but haven’t taken a seemingly ‘traditional’ route. Can you tell us about how you have approached it?
I decided I wanted to be a designer when I was about 15. The route that led me there has definitely been different to what a 15 year old me expected. At school, I rarely experienced failure so I assumed that conquering the fashion industry by the age of 25 would be relatively easy. In my adult life I quickly realised that this was far from true.
I dreamt of attending Central Saint Martins and studying Womenswear since I was very young. I was so single minded about this goal that I actually didn’t want to put down any other university choices on my UCAS. Arrogantly, I kind of just assumed I would be accepted as I was so passionate about my work and had spent hundreds of hours perfecting my portfolio.
When I received the rejection email, I was absolutely devastated. I then went online
to find universities that were still accepting applications and ended up applying to a Milanese fashion school. I attended a one year course there whilst redoing my entire portfolio in the hopes of applying to Central Saint Martins for a second time.
Shortly after receiving my second rejection, I was contacted by Vancouver Fashion Week who had noticed my work
on Instagram and wanted me to showcase a collection. Despite having never made a full collection and not being able to sew that well, I said yes. After the show I was approached by Council of Aspiring American Fashion Designers (CAAFS) who wanted me to apply for a sponsored show at New York Fashion Week. I ended up showcasing in New York in February 2019. Although I received good press from both shows, I didn’t have an online website where people could actually buy my garments as I wanted to get my work manufactured but didn’t have the capital to do so. I therefore decided that to start the brand, I would have to improve my sewing skills. I then interned at Richard Quinn before lockdown hit. During lockdown I practiced garment construction everyday and then started the brand in December 2020!
Have you been surprised by any of your experiences in the fashion industry?
I was really surprised by how kind the majority of people are. Fashion’s bad reputation is definitely warranted in some ways - but I’ve had extremely positive experiences with fellow students, interns and designers.
Imi Studios – can you tell us more about your brand and its ethos?
Imi Studios is a size inclusive brand that also champions sustainability. We promote the “buy less, chose well” ethos and stock sizes UK 6 to UK 20. We hope to expand this size range further in the near future.
How is Imi Studios tackling issues such as sustainability, staff welfare, product sourcing, which are challenging the fashion industry?
We currently make the majority of pieces to order. We do this to minimise waste as we have a large size range and don’t want to keep stock in eight different sizes. We have five part time, paid interns. Paying interns is extremely important to me as the majority of fashion internships are unpaid and therefore elitist. We’re currently scaling and outsourcing our most popular pieces to a sustainable manufacturing facility in Portugal.
You are a young entrepreneur – what advice would you offer to other people considering their own business ventures?
I have three pieces of advice for anyone looking to start a business:
1. Social media is a free tool - use it! I started a fashion blog when I was 15 as I knew I would launch a brand one day and recognised that having pre-existing online followers would help me when starting a business.
2. Be a “do-er” not a “say-er”. Have you always wanted to start a company? Do it! Taking the first step is often the hardest but no one is going to show up at your door and force you to start your business. It has to come from you! There’s a Chinese proverb I love that states “the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the second best time is now.”
3. Say yes to every opportunity. When you’re starting out, say yes to absolutely everything - even if you’re completely out of your depth. You will figure it out and quickly realise that hardly anyone actually knows what they’re doing. Fake it til you make it!
Do you have a motto or mantra that you live and work by?
If you don’t ask, you don’t get. We recently collaborated with Depop which was huge! I literally just found the person in charge of their brand partnerships on Instagram and messaged them asking if they’d be interested in partnering on a project. I never expected them to say yes! Always put yourself out there and don’t be afraid to ask.
What are your ambitions for your business over the next 2-5 years?
I want to scale Imi Studios without compromising the ethics of the brand. Within the next two years I hope that the majority of our pieces will be outsourced sustainably and stocked with various retailers as well as sold through our website. I hope to collaborate with more brands, influencers and designers!
The pandemic brought very different times for so many of us across the world? How did it impact your day-today living, as well as your working life?
The pandemic allowed me to take a step back and re-evaluate the path I was on. Whilst interning I was applying for design jobs despite knowing deep down I wanted to start my brand. This was because I knew I’d have to move back to my parents house if I started a brand and to be completely honest, I felt embarrassed doing so. When lockdown hit I decided to move back to Edinburgh and it really gave me the time and space to plan my next steps.
Did it bring any opportunities for you to try and explore anything new?
At the beginning of lockdown, I started a Scrub making group which ended up expanding. We had seamstresses making scrubs across the whole of Scotland. Organising funding, pattern and fabric distribution as well as managing orders from hospitals gave me and insight into how a business would actually run. Building a network of seamstresses has also been beneficial to my brand.
Mr Leask really broadened my mind and sparked my interest in social issues, something which has influenced a lot of my design work today.
When two friends, still very much connected by the roots formed in the Boarding House at St George’s, decided to challenge the approach to environmental education and action in schools and businesses Ostrero was born. Mary Michel (née Grotrian) and Marian Brown (née Haig), both Class of 1996 were inspired to act after listening to a radio interview featuring yachtswoman Ellen McArthur. The Ellen McArthur Foundation works to accelerate the transition to a circular economy.
“When you’re grown up, you can’t say you didn’t know.” This really stuck with me.
What was the driving desire or vision with establishing Ostrero?
MB: The vision was to create an organisation that would grow the Circular
Akeypart of the Ostrero mission is to provide information, guidance and interactive workshops in education, industry and business so more people understand the problems of the Climate Emergency and have workable solutions to do something about it. This encourages young people to engage with environmental issues and help to build the skills and understanding needed in a green workforce.
A perfect example of our edition theme and the reality that we all have our part to play to proactively engage, encourage and equip current and future generations to bring about positive action for our planet. Ostrero is challenging mindsets and encouraging changes amongst our communities. We are so pleased to include them in this edition.
Was sustainability or environmental impacts something you were aware of or focused on at school?
MM: Generally, no! The exception to this was Mrs Davidson, my P4 teacher. I remember her talking to us about using cars less and showing us a film about global warming. At the end she said,
The Circular Economy is a really great framework for approaching environmental issues. We currently live in a Linear Economy, where we take materials out of the ground, make something with them, use them (often only once or twice) and then chuck them away without worrying too much about where they end up.
In contrast, in a Circular Economy the whole life cycle of the product or service is taken into account. Waste is designed out from the earliest design stages and things are designed so that the materials are kept at their highest value for as long as possible. It’s all about recognising that the world’s resources are finite, and are becoming increasingly rare and hard to extract. It’s about rethinking how we design, make, use and dispose of things so that waste becomes a thing of the past.
Take gold, for example, that most precious of resources. Between 2016-2020 in Scotland, an estimated £50million of gold ended up on our rubbish heaps in our electronic waste. This doesn’t make economic or environmental sense. But you could redesign phones so that they are built to last (ie you are not encouraged to buy a new one each year), design them for disassembly so they can be easily fixed and all the precious resources, like that gold, can be easily extracted and re-used at the end of their life.
Fairphone (www.fairphone.com) is a great example of this approach and they show us that this new circular business model has huge potential for business start-ups who want to do things better for the environment.
For more information on the circular economy model visit www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org
education programme, and Yoyo Cups, a reusable cup service that addresses the problem of single-use cups. In addition to this, over the last year we’ve worked on various projects including material flows at COP26; researching shared materials and resources for cultural organisations; and working with Edinburgh and Napier Universities on Creative Cred, an alternative currency for the Creative Industries that incentivises a Circular Economy approach.
Economy in Scotland. We were both aware of the increasing urgency of the Climate Crisis and wanted our work to address this issue in a meaningful way that would bring about real change. We’d had enough of tinkering at the edges – of being careful about recycling but living and working in a system that is so damaging to the environment. We recognised the need for more fundamental change to the system we live in and Ostrero was our response to this.
Can you tell us more about what you do at Ostrero?
MM: The unifying theme to all of our work at Ostrero is growing the Circular Economy in Scotland. Our two flagship enterprises are Making Circles, our
Which areas of your work do you enjoy most?
MM: Seeing the penny drop. Usually people are aware of the issues but all too often they feel paralysed by the enormity of the situation and don’t know how to act or where to start. Talking them through the problem, then giving them ways they can approach it, is really satisfying. For example we are currently working on a “Go Circular” guide to cutting out waste with 20 schools, which will then be shared with schools throughout Scotland. So we talk about the big problems, but then look at workable, everyday solutions the school can adopt to effect that change.
MM: We have yet to meet a child who doesn’t understand the seriousness of the situation and isn’t open to taking action on this, but sadly this isn’t always the case in business and other organisations. The biggest challenge lies in the systemic problems of our current economic system. On one hand we are told to help grow the economy by buying and doing more; on the other hand we are told to consume less to help the planet. It’s difficult for people who are working hard, busy and bombarded with information to make sense of all this. At Ostrero we aim to inform people about the issues and give them solutions that will work for their school, home or business day to day.
From an organisational point of view, the main challenge lies in funding our work in schools. We have been lucky to get sponsorship to help towards the costs of this and are trying to secure more sustainable funding to ensure we can continue with this programme.
We’d like to see the Circular Economy embedded in the Scottish curriculum, and we are campaigning for this to happen. We would like every child in Scotland to come out of school with a clear understanding of the environmental issues facing us and the skills to address them.
Can you tell us about the Yoyo Cups project?
MB: Yoyo Cups is a reusable cup service we are currently trialling in the south of Scotland. Every year, over 200 million single use cups get thrown away in Scotland and it’s estimated that only 1 in 400 of these ever gets recycled or composted. So, we’ve come up with a beautifully designed stainless steel Yoyo Cup that can be used in cafes all over Scotland. Customers pay a deposit on the cup when they buy their coffee and can then return the cup to any participating café or venue, at which point they are given a fresh cup in exchange or their deposit is returned. The idea is to keep the cups in circulation and do away with the need for single-use items.
You focus on sustainable design and innovation – how do you do this in an education and a business setting?
MM: Since 2018 we have run our Making Circles programme, working with over 70 schools across Scotland, delivering Circular Economy Design workshops. Pupils aged between 7-15 learn how circular design can cut out up to 80 per cent of waste in a product or service.
Working with a professional designer they design and create their own products and through the act of doing it themselves, they learn all about the Circular Economy and have fun in the process. Pupils are also learning important repair skills that will be all the more important in a Circular Economy.
We also run workshops in universities and businesses to unravel what the Circular Economy is, how it can be good for the environment and good for your organisation, for example by decreasing reliance on the global supply chain, improving efficiency and demonstrating that you are taking meaningful environmental action, not just greenwashing.
How can we all take a bit more responsibility for our own approach to the environment?
MB: The first thing is just to start and not worry about trying to do it all at once. Picking one thing a month to change, e.g. cutting down on packaging in your shopping; using reusable wraps for kids’ packed lunches or moving to glass milk bottles, has a huge collective impact and the more you do the easier it gets. But the single most important thing is to try and buy less stuff – convenience and speed make it so easy just to order new but making things last is key to protecting our global resources. Every time you are about to buy something new, think do I really need or want this? Is there a way I could fix or find or what I have already?
school with a clear understanding of the environmental issues facing us and the skills to address them. We would like to see Scotland embrace reuse and for single-use throwaway items to become a thing of the past. For everyone to be drinking from reusables like Yoyo Cups!
Can you each pick your favourite place to share with us?
MM: Mine would have to be Tiree, an island on the west coast of Scotland. We go every year on holiday with the children and it’s bliss – white sands, turquoise waters teeming with seals, and amazing birdlife. It can also be extremely windy and cold but we love it.
Welcometo this edition of The Dragon. Time seems to be moving on apace, away from the pandemic and all its contortions towards….what? Perhaps it is possible now to look back on it all and view it through wiser eyes, but whatever our experience of the last few years has been, it cannot be denied that it has been the strangest of times.
It is my view that the key to coping with a world which sometimes doesn’t make sense requires us to focus on what we do understand - our own local world, our networks and our community. When we contribute positively towards the micro, the macro will not seem as daunting. To that end the St George’s community is getting better organised all the time. Our Foundation Office is the administrative
base for all life after leaving school, and within that lives Network St G’s, a sort of LinkedIn for Old Girls.
We have seen the return of the Summer Lunch, which felt full of loving connection, as well as the London Reunion at the Caledonian Club. It was so nice to meet some of the recent leavers and to compare stories and hear about their launch into the uncertain job market, a journey my own Upper Six daughter will make soon. I feel that the leavers could not be better equipped as a result of their St George’s education, but there is always room for improvement.
To that end I am excited to be part of a development committee dedicated to the creation of funds with which to build a 21st Century Learning Environment - with
better bursaries, buildings and equipment so we can prepare our daughters for the shifting sands ahead. I’m also pleased to say that the next edition of The Dragon will be in an eco-friendly digital format (with an option to buy a hard copy).
And finally, a heartfelt thank you to Alex Hems, who has left St George’s to take on her next role and a huge welcome to Carol Chandler-Thompson who, for the foreseeable future, will steer us through this peculiar world.
With best wishes
Emma Welsh (née Currie, Class of 1983)
ambitions for Ostrero
MB: It’s very hard to pick one, but the place that I always think of when I need a bit of tranquility is a beautiful black sand volcanic beach fringed by tropical forest in Vanuatu in the South Pacific, where my parents were living when I was sent to be a boarder at St George’s. I used to go there with my mum and sister and it seemed magical.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the Circular Economy or would like to help make this happen, please get in touch.
embedded in the Scottish happen. We would like every child in Scotland
info@ostrero.com www.ostrero.com
The return of live events has allowed the St George’s community to reintroduce passionate and thoughtprovoking sessions with world class speakers. We were absolutely delighted to welcome sporting and femalesupporting legend Judy Murray OBE to the school in April this year. She joined us to talk about developing female leaders in sport, and beyond, with Allistair McCaw – best-selling author and foremost expert in team culture, performance and leadership.
was a vibrant event with an engaged audience of present and former pupils and parents. The session was lively and created lots of discussion during and afterwards. The Dragon team was lucky enough to follow this up with some of our own questions to which Judy and Allistair both kindly shared their answers and insights. Thank you very much to them both.
Are you ever too young to think about being a leader?
Judy: We are all products of our environments. What and who we are surrounded by at a young age creates our opportunities to learn and develop skills. We all learn best by copying and emulating, so positive role model leaders within the family and school are important. If you can see it, you have way more chance to be it.
How are you working with young people and particularly young women to think about being leaders of the future?
Judy: I’ve done a lot of work with sports leaders in schools, training them to deliver starter tennis in whatever space is available. I focus not just on ‘what’ to do – the content - but on understanding why specific games and exercises develop a skill that’s needed to be able to play tennis. But, what is also as important is showing them ‘how to do’ – planning and organising – and ‘how to be’ – communicating and leading. The key to this is teaching the teachers to work with the sports leaders within the school environment and encourage them to work together in pairs to plan sessions, organise equipment, practice the demonstrations and the presentation
of each activity. When they are confident enough to do so, they can first assist the teacher and then move towards leading sessions themselves with the primary school pupils.
The life membership fee is £180, payable in 3 equal instalments of £60 across 3 terms during the first year of joining the school from Lower 4 or as one full payment instalment. Family discount applies.
When it comes to self-leadership, we need to be able to manage our energy and drive so that we can stay motivated to operate and perform at our highest level. It encompasses everything from how we wake up and conduct our morning routine to the strategies we use to keep our daily lives organized and flowing. As a leader, when we are able to take better care of ourselves, we are then able to take better care of those in our charge.
As we move out of the pandemic period what lessons have been learned about leadership?
Allistair: First and foremost, we learned that leadership had to change because the demands and requirements of the workplace had changed. We learned that compassion, empathy and the ability to adapt were crucial leadership skills. We also learned that the leaders and cultures who thrived during this challenging period were those who were able to adapt quickly, as well as collaborate and listen well.
How is leadership changing in the future?
Allistair: When the pandemic hit, the greatest concern for leaders and
managers within the workplace was on how they would manage their workers and employees working remotely. Would productivity and workplace culture suffer? What we learned from the pandemic was that a vast majority of the jobs and services could still operate without having employees present at the office. We also learned the importance of mental health and the work/life balance.
What is important for future leaders to focus on?
Allistair: Today's workplace seeks modern leadership. I would say that the focus for today’s leaders should primarily be on great communication, compassion and an ability to adapt well to change. Also, an ability to better understand their people’s concerns and needs when it comes to the workplace and home.
If you would like to learn more about this topic Allistair McCaw has recently launched his new book: Lead with Purpose, Make an Impact, which is available to order on Amazon.
The ‘OGA’ is a Network for Life, geared towards developing and nurturing life-long relationships across the whole St George’s Community.
All members of the OGA, through their school years and to older generations of alumnae, should feel a great sense of belonging and connection to St George’s.
This has worked very well at St George’s; little girls love being around the older girls.
The Association offers an opportunity to ‘give back’ to others, for example by providing career advice, mentoring, work experience and internships.
Application form to join the Old Girls’ Association
The OGA is supported by St George's Foundation Office.
I would like to become a member of the OGA.
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world is a small place, and you will always be a St George’s girl. I was introduced as such at an Army Headquarters 30 years
How has COVID impacted teamwork and leadership development with young people and what lessons are being learned from it?
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Judy: Covid has made us all adapt to ever-changing situations and find new ways to work and to learn. In many ways it has made us work more closely together to find solutions in challenging circumstances. It has certainly opened my eyes and my mind to finding different ways to deliver activity without my physical presence. However, life is all
about relationships and leadership is all about great communication. Screens will never replace face-to-face contact but it’s easier than ever to stay connected with people.
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Allistair: To lead others effectively, we first must be able to lead ourselves. I've always believed that our ability to get the best from ourselves comes down to how we manage our energy and time.
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Reflections of Dr Lucy Cockayne (née Peake)
This edition’s theme is ‘Future in our Hands’ and this is reflected sincerely by Lucy Cockayne – an example of someone who has dedicated much of her professional and personal life to improving the future for other people. We were delighted to hear from Lucy and to share her experiences as she tells of how helping to change the lives of others has brought her a fascinating and rewarding career and created the family life she always wanted.
Lucy and her husband Alan adopted two sons – Tom and Ben – who arrived with them aged four and four months old respectively.
LucyCockayne left St George’s in 1979 with an ambition and determination to become a doctor, more specifically a surgeon, influenced by needing surgery as a child. However, unable to follow the traditional route into medicine Lucy studied psychology at St Andrew’s University which ultimately influenced her move into psychiatry. When she gained her medical qualifications Lucy spent five years as a
It encompassed all my interests: physical and psychological medicine and a spiritual element. I stayed in addiction psychiatry for 20 years and I progressed to Lead Clinician for addiction in Fife. My biggest frustrations were the management aspects of the NHS and the difficulties getting new treatments incorporated into practice.
GP planning to move towards disaster relief work with Alan, her husband, who is a civil engineer. However following his experiences during the Rwanda crisis and the evolving needs of their children this was put on hold and Lucy eventually moved back to psychiatry and ultimately found her passion in addiction psychiatry. She reflects on finding her specialism: “It encompassed all my interests: physical and psychological medicine and a spiritual element. I stayed in addiction psychiatry for 20 years and I progressed to Lead Clinician for addiction in Fife. My biggest frustrations were the management aspects of the NHS and the difficulties getting new treatments incorporated into practice.”
In 2018 Lucy took a break from medicine to look after her father who was suffering from dementia. She returned very part time to psychiatry, covering vacancies in Liaison, Perinatal and General adult psychiatry, but the pandemic then took over and created many more demands on her time and job as she comments: “I had restarted at one day per week but it was soon apparent that I was needed more and I stepped up to two days plus on call, leading the adult
up working more than full time hours at the height of the pandemic. It was really stressful due to never knowing what support staff would be present and the constant reallocation of staff. It was awful for patients to be without their family and friends.” Lucy finally retired from the NHS in June 2021 and now undertakes medicolegal work which she says is fascinating.
Alongside her ambition for a medical career Lucy’s overwhelming passions were travel and family. She spent three months in India with BMMF, a woman’s mission. She comments: “I think I was unusual in always wanting a big family. My parents were both powerful individuals who put work first and I was determined to try to find a better work and family balance in my own life.”
Lucy explains: “Our sons Tom and Ben have been such a joy. Half siblings, but very different: Tom was a ballet dancer and figure skater, Ben was into football and ice hockey. They both had mild learning differences due to their early lives and it was an adjustment for me to guide them through to adult life. They are now 30 and 26. Ben became a father in 2020, so we now have our grandson Cason regularly. He is wonderful. I am so proud of them all.”
When prayerfully considering options as they neared retiral Lucy and her husband began to reflect on what more they could offer to others, rather than a life of holidays and concerts, and they decided to become foster parents for
a few years. Initially they were approved for three children, aged between 0-18 and were expecting to wait a few months to be matched with older children but three days later Nayte, then 7, and Maya, then 20 months, arrived. This positive experience has evolved as Lucy tells us: “Unsurprisingly we fell in love with them and are now looking at permanence. They have both settled and thrived. Nayte is at Merchiston and Maya is now a St George’s girl, and has just started Primary 2.”
Talking of her family Lucy observes: “Adoption and fostering has been a great privilege and I have learned so much and developed an understanding of the extra patience and care they need. It has been wonderful to see them grow and thrive.”
Lucy and her husband have travelled extensively, both professionally and personally, and enjoy holidays as an extended family with Nayte, Maya, Tom, Ben and their partners and Cason.
Adoption and fostering has been a great privilege and I have learned so much and developed an understanding of the extra patience and care they need. It has been wonderful to see them grow and thrive.
Lucy has re-engaged with Network St G’s after 20 years saying she “regrets not joining earlier”. We are delighted to have Lucy in the OG community and are so grateful to her for sharing her life experiences with us so openly and honestly. It is wonderful to welcome her next generation to St George’s with Maya and see the connections continue to thrive in our community.
I saw first-hand the destruction of tiger territories. The next story planned is set in a fictionalised island in the South West Pacific against a backdrop of increasing erratic cyclone activity caused by climate change. Growing up in extreme environments gave me a strong sense of respect and awe for our planet.
Joan Haig began her career as an academic teaching African History at the University of Edinburgh and then the University of Warwick. She wrote about Zambian history and society, focusing on minority identities and ideas of home and belonging and, later, motherhood. After a health scare in 2015 Joan chose to pursue an ambition of becoming an author, and is now set to publish her fourth book.
A boarder at St George’s from 1992-1997 Joan and her sister Marian (also featured in this edition) had grown up in Africa and then on the island of Vanuatu in the South West Pacific. During her time at school Joan remembers being encouraged to debate and question, rather than being told what to think. Her form teacher Miss Lancaster had a very positive influence on her and it was her kindness, encouragement and talent for reading poetry which influenced Joan’s belief in her own creative writing.
Joan appeared this year at the Edinburgh Book Festival and is currently promoting her new book Tiger Skin Rug as well as finalising her latest collaborative work. We were so pleased that she could talk to The Dragon and share her continued passion and enthusiasm for literature with the next generations. We wish her all continued success for the future.
When did you decide to start writing books?
When I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2015. A cancer diagnosis does funny things to a person. I’d always wanted to write fiction but lost confidence along the way. There was a ‘now or never’ feeling after my diagnosis. I only really set out to write one story and then, as I was writing it, let myself imagine it was possible to have it published and write some more.
Why did you decide to focus on children’s literature?
My initial ideas for stories were not for children. But as a mum of two bedtimestory loving boys, I had been reading a lot of children’s books. I wanted to write something for my own kids and for my nephews.
How do you pick the topics or themes for your books?
With fiction, I don’t know if I do pick the themes. They sort of emerge from an initial scene of idea and as I write. Tiger Skin Rug emerged from an idea my aunt had had for a story – a magical tiger skin rug that comes to life to keep an old promise. I don’t plot out a story before I start it – I just start writing and see where it goes.
Can you share a bit of insight about the inspiration for each of your books?
Tiger Skin Rug was inspired by my aunt, who sadly did not write her story down. My version was inspired by my own childhood moving countries and feeling homesick – a feeling I have learned to live with. I didn’t finish sixth form – instead, I volunteered in India, and later worked for many years writing the histories of the Hindu minority in Zambia. So when I started to write, the central character emerged as a young Indian boy.
Talking History: 150 Years of Speakers and Speeches is a non-fiction book and is made up of the life stories of incredible men and women from around the world. The inspiration for this one was Mrs. Chamberlain, the RE teacher when I was
at St George’s. She taught us to knit, and as we knitted we listened to LPs of famous speeches. It had a lasting impact on me! I looked for a book on speeches to share with my kids and when I didn’t find what I was after, I decided – with Joan Lennon – to create one.
You have lived in Africa and in the South Pacific. Does this experience feature in your writing with an emphasis on the planet and biodiversity?
Yes! Tiger Skin Rug has conservation at its core. It is partly set in India, where
Can you give us a sneak peak into your next project?
I can’t give too much away, but Joan Lennon, André Ducci and I have teamed up again and are working on our second non-fiction title with Templar Books, due out in 2023.
With your very strong international experience where are you happiest in the world?
Oh, save the trickiest question for last! Am I allowed to say open water? It doesn’t matter where, and I’ll take saltwater or fresh – just give me some togs and I’ll dive in.
We have lived through an unusual period of transition and change, and that has been so particularly apparent in education from nursery right through to university as the disruption and readjustment has impacted so many. Resilience has been essential, but not always easy to find or retain, but there is much optimism that resides in the young minds looking to the future and thinking more carefully and considerately towards their own paths and the impacts that will have on others and the planet. How better to demonstrate this than with ‘a letter to myself’ in the future and we are very lucky that Saskia Buitendijk in Upper Six was happy to share hers.
Whilst I at present can’t wait to get out into the world and say goodbye to St George’s, I’m sure that you’ll look back on our time here with great nostalgia. The giggling and complaining about boys in the common room will now have been replaced by tiresomely reverent conversations about husbands over coffee, and instead of Form PSE on Fridays to catch-up, there’ll be 10-year reunions with champagne and small sandwiches. You’ll never have to roll-up the same scratchy kilt every day, or wear thick, white lower-school stockings again, but perhaps you’ll look back on pictures of you and I in them and think they look sweet rather than simply unflattering.
I’m sure there are things you would do differently if you had the chance (style-wise or not), but truthfully, all that matters
is that you remain kind to both yourself and others, remembering that this is everyone’s first run-through of life, not just yours.
We’re lucky to have had such a lovely beginning to ours at St George’s, and that we can apply the three most important things we’ve learnt here to the rest of it: find humour in everything; push the boundaries of conformity; and work hard. Not so to serve the desires of others, but to prove to yourself that you can. These
make up who I am now and hopefully will continue to be.
It’s up to you to maintain that, but I know that you will if you’re anything like the St George’s girl you were before.
Leaving behind the halls of St George’s and taking to the corridors of Whitehall, we were very pleased to have the chance to talk to Josephine Cochrane (Class of 2015), Former Deputy Head Girl about her educational experiences and the influence this has had on her new and developing career in the Civil Service.
What stood out for you most about the education experience at St George’s?
I always had the sense of being incredibly well supported academically throughout my time at St George’s. Whether that was extra reading lessons when I was in Lower School, or allowing me to take an extra Advanced Higher in Upper 6, the school was very adaptable to every pupil’s specific needs. For example, when a small group of us wanted to take Ancient Greek at Standard Grade but there was no teacher available, a teacher who had formerly taught at the school came out of retirement to take our class after the school day had ended. It was a special dedication to our learning that I particularly appreciate looking back.
Similarly, I had one on one Advanced Higher Latin lessons in my upper sixth year as I was the only pupil taking the subject, which was an experience that prepared me for the tutorial style of teaching at university. As a result of this tailored style of learning, we benefited from good
St George’s made me a confident, well rounded and respectful individual. We had a lot of freedom to be ourselves, however it was still a fairly traditional and academic school experience.
relationships with many of our teachers. I remember my lessons being, for the most part, enjoyable interactive discussions, rather than boring teachers droning on about something I didn’t want to listen to!
What activities or clubs were you involved in at school?
I was involved in a lot of music at school. I played clarinet and piano, and played in the senior school orchestra, as well as wind band, clarinet club, and I sang in the choir. I participated in countless school concerts, carol services and open days.
I was also one of the secretary generals of Model UN in sixth form. That club was particularly helpful in improving confidence in public speaking, learning to shape arguments and debating skills, and learning about world affairs.
As Deputy Head Girl in my final year, I also spent a lot of time in the Lower School participating in their assemblies and clubs, which was one of my responsibilities.
What are your strongest memories from St George’s?
I have lots of wonderful memories from school. Some things I remember particularly fondly were the socials, such as our leavers’ ball. We all got very good at
ceilidh dancing by the time we got to sixth form – something I really miss now I live in London - and those nights were always a lot of fun. Another special memory is the leavers’ concert. I played the piano in in my final year. I played the first movement of Schumann’s piano concerto with the St George’s orchestra – it was equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. I am very grateful to the music department for giving me that special opportunity and memory. I also went to Philadelphia on a month-long exchange trip when I was 13, where I went to a Quaker school and stayed with a host family. Wearing our own clothes, calling the teachers by their first names, American school lunches – it was all a shock to me and very memorable.
What sort of influence did St George’s have on you as you look back now?
I like to think St George’s made me a confident, well rounded and respectful individual. We had a lot of freedom to be ourselves, however it was still a fairly traditional and academic school experience, the structure of which suited me. I felt secure and supported enough to be myself, and I think this sure sense of self contributed to my decision to leave the comfortable environs of Edinburgh and move to London on my own for university.
What did you study at University and where? How has this impacted your career choices?
I studied languages at university. I did a BA in French and Russian (with a year abroad spent living in Paris and St Petersburg), and an MA in Russian Studies. These degrees gave me a broader outlook on the world and taught me practical skills such as new, complex languages.
What did you enjoy most about studying abroad – in Paris and in Russia?
Being thrust into an unknown environment where you know few people and don’t speak the language fluently can be disconcerting – but it is also an opportunity to challenge yourself. I think I got to know myself a lot better during my time abroad, and learnt that I could adapt to difficult situations and look after myself when things
weren’t as easy as they might be back home. I made a diverse and interesting set of friends from all over the world, who I am still in touch with. It was also an incredible privilege to be able to call cities like Paris and St Petersburg – two of the most beautiful cities in the world - home.
You started off your governmental career in a political internship – can you tell us about this and how it shaped your next career steps?
I worked for an MP in his parliamentary office for a few months before I started in the civil service. I learnt very quickly about the intricacies of parliament, the varied and vast workload that MPs have and how parliamentary offices are run. I also had a wonderful view over Westminster Bridge from his office! However, I decided that a ‘political’ role did not suit me as much as a more varied, generalist career in the civil service. I have not yet found out what that career will look like as I’m only just starting out – but so far, so good!
You are now a civil servant in the Department for Transport. Can you tell us a bit about your role?
I work in a civil contingencies type of role in the government. This involves planning for and responding to crises all over the country. It’s very fast paced which I enjoy, and I am learning a lot about how government and the strange world of Whitehall works.
In the last six months how has the working day changed for you?
I have been lucky in that my working life has not been massively affected by the pandemic and I have always had the option of going into the office. This suits me better, as I find it a lot easier to communicate and learn from my colleagues when we are in person. We are now fully hybrid in my department, and I tend to spend 3-4 days a week in the office.
The pandemic brought very different times for so many of us across the world? How did it impact your day-today living?
The beginning of the pandemic struck at the time I was writing my Master’s dissertation. In a way I was lucky, because I had been able to attend the majority of my courses in person before the lockdown began, and the most serious in-depth research period of writing up my dissertation quite suited the environment of lockdown. I wrote it in my old bedroom at my parents’ house in Edinburgh, and did a lot of my reading from the sunny garden.
In your free time what are you happiest doing?
In my downtime I usually socialise with friends, either in the evenings after work in central London, on walks around Battersea Park or just at our flats. I also appreciate time on my own to fully relax and am very happy reading a book on my balcony in the sunshine.
Where is your favourite place on the planet? (now that we are allowed to go there again!)
Every summer since I was a toddler, my family and I go and stay with close friends in the south of France, in a region called the Ardeche. The river Ardeche runs through the region, and there are beautiful canyons and riverbeds. It’s also in the middle of nowhere, with very few British tourists – and is always guaranteed to be a place of relaxation and sanctuary, with the added bonus of reliably hot weather!
Some things I remember particularly fondly were the socials, such as our leavers’ ball. We all got very good at ceilidh dancing by the time we got to sixth form –something I really miss now I live in London.
Across our communities, wherever we live, there have been considerable changes and sacrifices made in the past two years. While there has been sadness and disappointment, the joyful news of births has continued. In the past year, as restrictions have lifted, we are hearing more and more news of wedding and civil partnerships. It is wonderful to fill these pages with celebration – of life, new beginnings and with tributes to lives lived and love which continues on.
This news is very important, and we are grateful to those who take the time to share it. We warmly encourage many others to share their news of pupils and staff and we will continue to share in upcoming editions.
It’s a family affair: We are delighted to share the news of two OG engagements from the same family. Sophie Renton (Class of 2008) became engaged to Ewan Petrie on 23rd April 2021 and her sister Rona Renton (Class of 2011) became engaged to Ian Cross on the 18th of April 2022. We wish them lots of luck and fun in the preparations for the weddings and look forward to sharing news and pictures in future editions.
Philip John Carter Greene
Former Music teacher
Died 21 December 2020, age 85
Angela Rosamund Hardman (née Noble)
Former Music teacher
Died 4 June 2022, age 83
Jill Knox (née Mackness)
Former Primary teacher Died 6 May 2022, age 82
Ann Macdonald
Deputy Head of Primary School and Class teacher Died 20 December 2021
Jean McNab
Former Head of English and Administration Died February 2022, age 95
Kathleen Elaine Rankin
Former Primary teacher (1962-1989) Died 2 February 2022
Anne Robson
Former English, Latin and History teacher (1976 – 1992)
Died on 18th September 2021, age 89
Chloe Scott (née Rhodes)
Former maths teacher and tutor. Former Wimbledon singles and doubles participant
Elizabeth ‘Bud’ Beattie (née Robarts) Class of 1941 Died 7 February 2021, age 99
Margaret Burton (née Cramb) Class of 1947 Died June 2022, age 92
Anne Gibb Class of 1950 Died 25 December 2021, age 91
Ella Graham (née MacGregor) Class of 1952
Died June 2022, age 88
Joyce MacEwan (née Dunbar) Class of 1952 Died October 2021, age 87
Eileen Waddell (née Sturrock) Class of 1954 Died 6 April 2021
Edna Mitchell Walker (née Paterson) Class of 1942 Died 13 November 2021, age 97
Died January 2022, age 94
Heather Shipman
Former Primary teacher Died 25 July 2022, Age 96
Muriel Elizabeth Sword (née Coghill) Former Administration staff Died 4 June 2022
Smith – a son, Spencer, born to Stephanie (née Murray, Class of 2004) and Allan on 10 December 2021 Sayles – a son, Magnus James, born to Emma (née Fenwick, Class of 2002) and Sam on 24 February 2021, with his big brother Finlay, who has just started school Hannah – a daughter, Aria, born to Sophia Bell (Class of 2013) and Kyle on 16 December 2021 Burnett – a son, Theodore Calum Archie, born to Laurie Scott (Class of 2008) and partner Ross Burnett on 21 October 2021 Messent – a son, Arlo James, born to Lisa (née Charlotte, Class of 2002) and James on 16 December 2021, a brother for AvaAnn was already a well-established member of the Primary Department when I joined in 1972. She was a Primary 5 teacher like myself and we shared our teaching years very happily together. Our P5 group frequently went on educational outings in connection with our P5 focus on Scottish Studies and working alongside Ann in these activities was always a pleasure. She shared her considerable knowledge and love of the Scottish natural world with great enthusiasm in her teaching. Her commitment, patience and support to her students were clearly recognised by the warm respect displayed by her classes. Her quiet way was perhaps of the old style, but nevertheless, it always proved to be a happy year for her many P5 forms.
Ann was a very private person but a greatly liked colleague within our Primary Department. When Alison Craddock was appointed Head of Primary, Ann was her Deputy, and they shared a form class.
To me Ann was a true ‘Highlander’, shy and reserved and also utterly reliable. Devoted to her nieces and nephew, she was a loyal and active member of Greyfriars church. I think especially of her love of the countryside and remember happy days climbing the hills of Skye with her, followed by her faithful and beloved spaniels.
As a Gold Badge holder Ann added the OGA to her many retirement interests, constantly renewing her many St George’s friendships.
Jean McNab’s dedication and loyalty to St George’s were absolute and unwavering. She touched on so many aspects of the running of the school, as Head of English, librarian, editor of The Chronicle, timetable, keeper of Aladdin’s cave of drama costumes. Some of her notices, written in black ink (as she always insisted for the girls’ written work could still be found around the school years after her retirement.
Her eye for detail was astonishing. She even suggested that I might change my name, as my initials, NHS, might lead to confusion.
If I were to be asked what Jean did NOT do for St George’s, I would hard put to find an answer. When I first joined the staff, Jean took me under her wing and explained how everything worked. She was always the person who could sort out your problems and give you the help and advice you needed. Jean knew all members of staff personally and several generations of students. Her interest and knowledge continued after retirement making her an ideal person to co-author the famous and invaluable Centenary Register 1888-1988.
Outside school, Jean had a host of interests. Many of us enjoyed her generous hospitality at Douglas Crescent. An active supporter of the RSNO, she was a devoted member of Palmerston Place church and sang in the choir.
We all have our own happy memories of Jean and we all know that St George’s owes a huge debt of gratitude to her.
Eileen MackintoshJean was a stickler for accurate punctuation which earned her a formidable reputation in church, choir and dramatical circles as she was called to proofread administrative documentation. I believe her timetabling at St George’s will have left its mark on the memories of staff during Joan Clancy’s time as Head.
Ex pupils have also commented on her organisation of Aladdin’s Cave of props and costumes under the stage.
Peter McNab (second cousin)
Anne was dear friend and colleague who took a delight in so much, from cherry blossom on a spring walk to a meal shared with friends. The depth and breadth of her knowledge made conversation with her an enriching pleasure. St George’s was lucky to have her.
Anne appeared to have read everything. From the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle to contemporary fiction she was always a reliable source of information. There was no internet when I began teaching and, so long as she was around, no need of it. A conversation with her was always so much more rewarding than a trawl through online searches.
Anne was based in Lansdowne and was part of Irene Thomson’s wonderful Middle School team. She taught English, History and Latin and seemed equally at home in all her subjects. She sometimes looked alarmed when I suggested new topics in history, and I knew, and it was because she would feel obliged to spend many hours doing far more detailed research than necessary. Before teaching she had been a journalist, working for Tyne Tees local news in its early days. I can think of no contemporary journalist who is as erudite and well informed as Anne.
The Middle School staff room was always a haven, a happy, lively place and Anne Robson, with her wisdom and sunny temperament, helped to shape it and the Lansdowne campus in the late 1970’s and 1980s.
Nigel ShepleyAnne was a warm, caring teacher and colleague who was always ready to lend a sympathetic ear to a pupil or friend.
Although very erudite she was extremely unassuming. Anne had a wonderful sense of humour and while appearing very reserved she had hidden talents, one of which we discovered when at a lunchtime disco, Anne started to dance. She was so good the pupils and staff left the floor to watch Anne with amazement and admiration. Her performance will never be forgotten nor will her impact on the school as a whole.
It was a pleasure and a privilege to work with her.
Elizabeth MarshallA more delightful colleague than Anne could not be found. Anne was a member of the History department for many years: a distinguished scholar, she could make history come alive for junior classes. Her commitment did not stop at the classroom. Anne enthusiastically joined in all projects, be they indoor or outdoor expeditions facing the most unkind weather. Anne remained calm and smiling, always. I remember her with gratitude, admiration and affection.
Eileen MacIntoshOurcommunity thrives through communication. Old and new connections, we like to keep in touch, celebrate success and happy news and support each other during sad and challenging times. To keep our community connected, we warmly invite you to share your news and those of other alumnae.
Please do also share tributes to those friends, peers or colleagues who are sadly no longer with us. This recognition of lives lived is a hugely important part of the OG philosophy and we want to remember and recognise all those that we can.
on foundation@stge.org.uk
George’s
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On Saturday 18 June 2022 the reunions continued with the return of the St George’s OGA Summer Lunch. It was a fantastic gathering with Class representation from 1964 to 2020 who enjoyed a tour of the school and welcome from departing Head Alex Hems. The catering team produced a fabulous lunch and President Emma Welsh welcomed and entertained guests with a marvellously candid and life-affirming address. We were so pleased to be back in a school setting and to have so many friends of the School to celebrate with. We look forward to the Summer lunch of 2023 already.
Wewere delighted to welcome 50 alumnae to the return of our Biannual London Reunion which took place in May. It was a glorious evening, and the Caledonian Club was not only a perfect setting, but the staff were perfect hosts. Drinks and canapes were taken outside into the garden area and the mingling started. It was lovely to see such a wide range of ages at the event and all with one thing in common: St George's. Well done to the class of 2015 who had a fabulous turn out.
Stories were told, memories shared, connections made, and experiences discussed. The laughter was loud and great fun was had by all. Our Deputy Head, Jill Bryce and the president of the OGA, Emma Welsh welcomed our alumnae and our new Head Carol Chandler-Thompson introduced herself and spoke to the guests.
Thank you to everyone who came along and made it such a special night.
