IN TOUCH ISSUE 06 SUMMER 2021 - 'ONCE A HIGH SCHOOL GIRL, ALWAYS A HIGH SCHOOL GIRL' - WGHS In Touch
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IN TOUCH
ISSUE 06 SUMMER 2021
www.wghsintouch.org.uk
FOR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS OF WAKEFIELD GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL
‘ONCE A HIGH SCHOOL GIRL, ALWAYS A HIGH SCHOOL GIRL’
Contents
05
08 11
03 HEAD’S WELCOME
04 CLASS OF 2020
06 CLASS OF 2021
12 GIVING BACK
18 HEAD GIRLS -
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
22 OG IN THE ARTS
22
26 OG NEWS
32 OG MEMORIES
36 STAFF LEAVERS
40 LIVES REMEMBERED
27
A welcome note from the Editor
Welcome to the WGHS IN Touch magazine 2021! I hope that you enjoy reading
the magazine, especially how some of you are helping, through our Giving Back
programme, to inspire the girls as they navigate their future career paths.
The past 18 months have been unusual and challenging for us all. School closures,
STAY IN TOUCH
remote learning, and Covid protocols have all brought their challenges. However, we
managed to make the transition to remote learning swiftly to ensure continuity of Join the WGHS Old Girls’ Facebook Group to keep
education and pastoral care. The Development Office staff were furloughed which, up to date with event and reunion information,
of course, resulted in no magazine last year. WGHS news and memories.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed time and articles to help create this Search for ‘Wakefield Girls’ High School -
magazine. It is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on your achievements, memories Official Old Girls’ Page
and news. It is only possible to put together such a magazine with your help, Connect and network with fellow WGHS Old Girls
involvement and the reporting of your activities to us. Please do continue to send on LinkedIn by joining the WGHS Group.
in your news, comments and announcements throughout the year. Search for ‘Wakefield Girls’ High School In Touch’
Make sure that you have a look at the Giving Back feature and should you wish to
volunteer for the IGTV live interview with Mr Eggleston then do get in touch!
The usual Old Girl events have been put in the calendar in the hope that we will be Visit the Official WGHS Old Girls’ website for all
alumnae profiles, news, events calendar and
able to get together this year. As I write (June 2021), the first event planned is the
event booking information.
Old Girl Reunion which is booked for Saturday lunchtime 18 September 2021,
followed by the London Dinner on 12 November 2021. You can also claim your own Old Girl profile and
Please do book early to secure your place. update your information and contact details.
Once a High School Girl, always a High School Girl! Visit: www.wghsintouch.org.uk
Catherine Worsley, Development Director cworsley@wgsf.net
2
DEAR ALUMNAE: Heidi-Jayne Boyes
Welcome
This last academic year - 2020-21 - has been quite a I hope you have found time to catch Mr Eggleston
year for us all and I sincerely hope this finds you and on a Thursday afternoon on Instagram Live
your loved ones safe and in good health. as he interviews a past student or indeed that you
were able to tune into the ‘Wakefield Girls’ Matters’
This year has thrust us all into a vortex of uncertainty webinar where we were joined by ten amazing and
that, at times, felt as if it would never stop spinning. inspirational Wakefield Girls’ women.
However, amidst this uncertainty, I am incredibly proud
that the unstoppable thirst for learning and love of There are many ways in which you can keep in touch
teaching has continued to be demonstrated at Wakefield with us or offer your support; we are always looking
Girls’ High School. In true Wakefield Girls’ spirit, we have for speakers who are keen to contribute to the school
not been outdone by restrictions and bubbles and we experience. The sharing of your knowledge, experience
have ensured that our students' learning has been rich and skills is invaluable, motivational and extremely
and diverse. Wakefield Girls’ students not only have powerful. Therefore, if you would like to be more
the passion for lifelong learning but also the need engaged with current school life, please do let us know
to be outward looking and supportive of others. through our active LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter
As a school community our daily practice reflects groups. The diversity and size of our community are
these key values and we strive to ensure that all our what help to make it so special and we greatly value
students are empowered, aware and work together. the legacy of our women of the past – but also - of the
future. I am confident from working with the young
At this time of year, as senior students move women at Wakefield Girls’ that the future is very bright.
on to the next stage of their life, we have been
sure to celebrate their contributions and very
much hope we shall keep in touch over the coming
years. Keeping in touch and reaching out to
our alumnae is something we are very proud of.
Ms Heidi-Jayne Boyes - Head
wghsIntouch.org.uk 3
CLASS OF 2020
Abigail Ackroyd
Welcome to the Mariah Ahmed
Hafsah Aksar
Ruby Allen
Taryn Allen
Class of 2020
Lola Allison
Imaan Asif
Safa Azam
Georgia Bainbridge
Ellen Barraclough
Katharine Belfield
Catherine Berridge
Aimee Blake
Molly Boulton
Abbey Brooke
Erin Budge
Saffron Butler
Chloe Chandra
Hasnaa Choudry
Chloe Chow
Rebecca Coe
Ella Craven
Leah Crisp
Charlene Dews
Imogen Duncan
Eleanor Egan
Fatimah Fasil
Joanna Fearnehough
Niamh Grafton
Sana Haider
Olivia Heywood
Louisa Hutchinson
Romy Jackson
Lillie Jones
Anisha Kamath
Thushiga Karunanithy
Jasmine Kaur
Eleanor Kaye
Sophie Knowles
Loretta Krasniqi
The School career of the Class of 2020, sadly came to an abrupt end at Eilidh Lee
the end of March; no exams, no fancy dress final assembly or leavers’ ball. Kate Leonard
However, the stoical way you approached these disappointments was Izzy Macklin
Rosalind Maddan
testament to your maturity and character and we’d like to give you all a Geeta Mahapatra
special welcome to WGHS In Touch. Nikhita Majumder
Phoebe Marsh-Muir
WGHS In Touch is a community of over 5,000 Old Girls, living all over the Lily Mathieson
Tarynn McWilliam
world, doing all manner of jobs, each with their own experiences, but bound Scout Mehr
by the same foundation- an education at WGHS. As you move onto the next Alex Middleton
chapter of your lives, we hope you will stay true to the friendships you’ve Hannah Minifie
made, cherish the many experiences you’ve had along the way and Lucy Morrell
Megan Morris
remember that whilst you are no longer entering through the School gates Shaima Mughees
every day, you are still very much part of WGHS. Ella Northern
Vimbai Nyachuru
In Touch is a community with an abundance of experience, goodwill, skills Molly Parker
Juliet Pepper
and resources and I am sure that you will both benefit and contribute to Olivia Pye
it in the coming months and years. Ayesha Qarshi
Ella Riding
The Old Girls’ Reunion is the highlight of the Old Girl calendar. Katie Roberts
Megan Schofield
This year the Reunion is taking place on Saturday 18th September 2021 Katy Shearman
in the Quad and Jubilee Hall. Book your place at WGHSInTouch.org.uk. Alice Shelbourne
We look forward to welcoming you back to school! Olivia Shuter
We wish you all the best in your life after WGHS. Neha Sinha
Liv Smith
Please do stay in touch. Charlotte Stead
Izzy Taylor
Anshini Thakur
Remember... Mal Tulwin
Sangeeta Unnikrishnan
“Once a High School girl, always a High School girl” Sophie Wainwright
Sophia Walker
Chanais Wharton
Eve Wickham
Olivia Wilson
Maya Woodcock
Olivia Woodhead
Hana Yaqoob
4 Raian Yousif
Head Girl 2020 Review
Sangeeta Unnikrishnan
It has been an absolute honour to serve as challenges we are offered to take - this school
Wakefield Girls’ High School Head Girl is, in part, responsible for the people we are
2019/20. Though this year may have when we leave at 18. That’s a huge task,
ended in a way that none of us could and Wakefield Girls’ excels at this. My
have seen coming, the wonderful peers have been a joy to know, and I
experiences that I had in this role are can’t wait to see what the future holds
in no way tarnished. Along with the for them.
Senior Prefect Team, Rebecca and
I have been very lucky to represent Now that my time in the Foundation is
the school at various functions, coming to an end, I am very sorry to
including Parents’ Evenings, say goodbye to all of the incredible
Founders’ Day and so many more. people this school has allowed me to
It has been a privilege to work
meet, from the students and staff. We
alongside this group; they are
may not have received the farewell that
responsible, thoughtful, and always
we were expecting, but our makeshift
take initiative.
celebration on our last day (singing Jerusalem
and the school song in Jubilee Hall as a year
The biggest project for any Head Girl Team is
likely the Christmas Revue - the weight of the amazing group, followed by us opening our letters from our
productions we have seen over the years hangs very heavily Year 7 selves) highlighted the strength of the community spirit
on us! Our plot was that two girls were trapped in the tunnels we share.
under the Sixth Form Centre and required their friends above
ground to go to every department in school to retrieve a key The message that I take with me is that this community isn’t
for them. Of course, in typical Christmas Revue fashion, this defined by the four walls that surround us while we are in
involved them getting into lots of hijinks - putting on a proud school. If the last few months are anything to go by, it’s clear
display of our staff and Year 13 students’ skill and that our school spirit cannot be diminished easily - the
showmanship. phrase, ‘Once a High School Girl, always a High School Girl’,
resonates louder than ever.
Our school environment is very unique. Reflecting on our time
here, it’s striking how lucky we have been to grow up in a I wish you all the best and hope to stay in touch.
place that encourages us in so many ways. Whether that’s
in our learning, our extracurriculars, the opportunities and Sangeeta Unnikrishnan, Head Girl (OG 2020)
wghsIntouch.org.uk 5
Welcome to the CLASS OF 2021
Malika Bhamji
Annabel Bond-Sampson
Class of 2021 Kyne Bordon
Anna Chew
Huda Chowdhery
Lucy Cockayne
Ellie Farrar
Leah Galdas-Smith
Emma Gallagher
Ruth Gardiner
Aymah Haleem
Alisha Hameed
Qurat Hayat
Ebony Hempsell
Grace Herrington
Rosie Higgins
Sasha Hildyard
Hannah Hussain
Inaya Hussain
Sophia Hussain
Brooke Inglesfield
Daisy Inglesfield
Ella Jackman
Tanatswa Jaison
Tara Jayawardena
Farai Kanyimo
We are delighted to welcome the Class of 2021 to our WGHS In Touch Annie Kelly
alumnae community which stands at 5,000 strong. Zaina Khan
Poppy Layden-Fritz
You have experienced a year like no other; with a mixture of ‘Home School’ Jennifer Li
and ‘In School’ learning. You will have been busy revising for the assessments Madison Marner
and securing your future beyond WGHS.
Millie McDade
Lucy McKinlay
Whilst your final year has been disrupted, we hope that you have enjoyed your
time at WGHS and that you take with you on your journey beyond these gates, Felicity Milner
the many lessons learned here and that the friendships you have made will remain Alanis Milner-Moore
strong in the future. As you prepare to embark on the next phase of your life, Sanya Mirza
know that you are one of many ‘Old Girls’ who are making their mark on the world. Niamh Morris
Mariam Mubeen
As you leave WGHS you become an Old Girl. We are here to help you share your Nandi Ncube
news, welcome you to events and offer any advice and help from other Old Girls. Abigail Neilson
We hope that you will continue to be part of our wider school community and Cara Prasad
return to school to share your own journey beyond WGHS.
Ananya Randhawa
Hope Reynolds
Please do ensure that you have claimed your Old Girl online record
(at WGHSintouch.org.uk) and keep your contact details up to date. Sienna Sekhon
Sarah Shah
The Old Girls’ Reunion is the highlight of the Old Girl calendar; Daiya Shergill
we look forward to welcoming you back to school in the future. Georgia Stone
Poppy Thun
We wish you all the best in your life after WGHS. Charlotte Tyzzer-Smith
Nyle Usman
Please do stay in touch. Keep your details up to date www.wghsintouch.org.uk Aminta Utting-Simon
Amna Waqar
Remember...
Heather Watson
“Once a High School girl, always a High School girl” Eloise Woolley
6
Head Girl 2021 Review
Sarah Shah
I cannot express how much of a privilege it future generations of High School Girls to walk
has been to have the opportunity to serve out just as strong and confident as the women
Wakefield Girls’ High School as the Head Girl who came before them, as we are all able to
of 2020-2021. It has undoubtedly been a look up to inspirational female role models.
challenging year for everyone, but I am Whether it is as a celebrity or as an alumna,
so proud of the Senior Prefect Team for there is not just one standard to be able to
stepping up to these traditional roles in succeed as a woman. This school equips us
quite untraditional times. Their love for and with the skills and ambition necessary to carve
commitment to the school has always been our own futures and to chase success for
inspiring as we have worked alongside each ourselves; I cannot wait to see which new paths
other to think outside the box and leave legacies will be made in the years ahead!
in our own unique ways. Although it has been
different, Anna and I both agree that these roles have I am incredibly grateful to have been a member of such a
been extremely fulfilling as we were able to represent the community, and am looking forward to continue to be one as
school virtually in assemblies, at the Cathedral on Founders’ an Old Girl. When reading our letters from our Year 7 selves,
Day, as well as on Social Media platforms to audiences much we all noticed just how much we have grown over our years at
wider than we could have previously imagined. this school, both as individuals, and as a year group. While it
seems obvious now, I cannot help but reflect upon how
When the Head Girl Team and I were first awarded our gradually these changes occurred at the time. From each
positions, we were all very curious as to what our roles would sentence written during lessons, to each trip to the Tuck Shop
look like in the year ahead. However, we were all certain that and each EDGE activity, we keep learning and growing in
the Christmas Revue was a must! Having been given the every way: academically, emotionally, introspectively and
opportunity to present the school’s first virtual Revue, Year 13
much more. There has not been a single moment wasted and
worked together (over multiple Zoom meetings and Google
I believe that my Year 7 self would look at my current self with
Documents) to transform our diverse interests and ideas into a
pride and excitement (as well as disbelief!). WGHS has
‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ story following a time machine.
shaped us throughout lower school, throughout our GCSEs
This allowed us to keep the interactive charm of the Revue as
and throughout lockdown; I know these experiences will
students were able to vote on which routes to take while
continue to shape us throughout our futures. I would like to
watching from their form rooms. Seeing everyone’s efforts
thank Ms Boyes and all the staff for creating and nourishing
come together to produce this was definitely the highlight of
such an environment, as well as my peers and every student
my year: from the acting team, prop and wardrobe teams,
editing teams, directing teams and of course, all the teachers, for supporting and animating it. Although we will all continue
the Revue was not only a welcome celebration for the to grow in ways we cannot predict, we will always share a
Christmas Holidays, but also a reflection of the resilience and connection as High School Girls. I am proud to have been
camaraderie I have always admired in the people around me. able to represent such a brilliant year group and such an
outstanding school community as Head Girl; I hope that
We have been very lucky to have been involved in the my work was able to reflect this well and sincerely convey
beginnings of new projects by working alongside the new my gratitude.
Assistant Head and Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing,
Mrs Ladds. Her contributions to the school and introduction Thank you, I am optimistic about what the future will hold
of The Female Lead have already defined her role within our and I am looking forward to keeping in touch!
community and we cannot wait to see how they develop
further in the future. I know that such initiatives will allow Sarah Shah, Head Girl (OG 2021)
wghsIntouch.org.uk 7
UPDATES
CLAYTON HOSPITAL SITE,
DEMOLITION HAS FINALLY STARTED
Demolition View June 2021 View from Wentworth Street
View from Northgate View towards WGHS
A considerable amount of time has passed since we first building but it does sit within the
communicated our exciting plans for the former Clayton St John's Conservation Area so great
Hospital site to you. The Governors and our consultants attention has been given to ensuring
have been busy in the background negotiating with the development is sympathetic to
Wakefield Council about our plans for the site. its surroundings.
I am therefore delighted to confirm that the Foundation The "enabling" phase, as it is referred
received permission on 15 April 2021 to undertake the to, comprises the demolition of
first part of the redevelopment scheme for the benefit buildings, retention and repair of
of WGHS and QEGS and to be able to offer some the central pavilion, creation of a
community uses. landscaped boulevard through the centre of the site,
creation of a MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) and associated
Planning permissions will be required to continue with parking. The rest of the site will be grassed in preparation
the future phases but this step forward is very much for future phases. We were delighted that the demolition
welcomed for the investment made so far. contractors started on the site in June 2021 and are making
good progress. We have installed a time lapse camera to
As background, Wakefield Grammar School Foundation record the demolition so we will have a permanent record of
purchased the Clayton Hospital site from the NHS in 2018 the work undertaken. These works should be completed
having successfully obtained Outline Planning permission before the end of this calendar year.
in the previous year. The buildings had stood empty for six
years prior to this and the Foundation have made the site Fundraising for this scheme is underway to enable future
secure, removed the asbestos, and engaged with phases and we continue to explore funding options for the
stakeholders (staff, parents and alumni) to create the vision. scheme. Please contact the Foundation Development
Director, Cath Worsley, in our Development Office if you are
With that we have pursued the planning and now can
able to assist us with this in any way or if you would like any
progress the demolition and create the first part of the
details of how you can support the building project
development. The land sits strategically between both
financially. cworsley@wgsf.net
school campuses and presents an opportunity to create
new facilities for the benefit of all children within our
We hope you will support us as we continue with our efforts.
Foundation. It will be known as the Clayton Campus.
Helen Massey (OG, 1998)
The discussions with Wakefield Council have been long and
protracted, however they support us in our endeavours, as Deputy Chair of Governors and Chair of Land and Buildings
do Wakefield Civic Society. Clayton Hospital is not a listed Committee, Wakefield Grammar School Foundation.
8
WGHS
Scrub Hub
How WGHS helped fight
the pandemic
During the first lockdown, with school quiet as
students learned safely at home, The Design and A lockdown
Technology Workshop at Wakefield Girls' High
School continued to buzz with the efforts of our poem...
dedicated teachers manufacturing PPE.
Brent Carlin, Head of Design & Technology, A cosy cuppa
improved production efficiency by producing two
different kinds of face shields; one type was made When will we meet again for tea?
using the department's CNC laser cutter and the It won’t be soon that’s clear to see,
other was printed on the department's 3D printer. We’ll have to do it virtually
Whilst slower to produce the visors, the 3D printer Helped by the new technology.
could be left running almost 24/7, unlike the laser
cutter. Brent was also aided by a team of WGHS We’ll still enjoy our tea and scone
staff who gave up evenings and weekends to
manufacture, assemble and distribute over
2,000 visors. “ One type
was made
using the
By Skype or Facebook or the phone,
We’ll chat and laugh and have a moan
As we all face the great unknown.
Alongside visor production, Biddy Maher department's There’s nothing like a cup of tea
(OG 1989) and D&T teacher established the CNC laser To calm and soothe anxiety,
WGHS Scrub Hub, with 15 sewers all making cutter and And bring to us tranquillity
sets of scrubs for Pinderfields Hospital, dental the other In these times of adversity.
surgeries, vets and GP practices. Scrubs that went
to Pinderfields were checked for quality, stamped
was printed Barbara Hunt (OG, 1969)
with NHS Mid Yorkshire Trust and then sent for on the
heavy laundry. They were used as the base department's Barbara was delighted that her poem was
3D printer chosen to be published in Dancing by the
”
layer next to the skin and under the disposable
gown of health care workers. Light of the Moon: A collection of poems to
read, relish & recite by Giles Brandreth.
wghsIntouch.org.uk 9
EVENTS
Looking back...
Understandably, we have not been able to run events
since March 2020 and we have missed two Summer ASK PAT LANGHAM
Reunions, two London Drinks, a London Dinner, a
Wakefield Drinks and a Bake Off. So we have much Back in November, as we were
to catch up on! working towards the shortest day,
during the middle of an on-off
Rest assured we have been planning our events for lockdown, this virtual event was
the remainder of this year. We have rescheduled the a lovely getting together of
Summer Reunion to 18 September 2021 and have set Old Girls spanning the whole
the date of the London Dinner for Friday evening 12 of Mrs Langham's tenure as
November. Headmistress. They are spread far
and wide; as close as Wakefield and as
Book your place at www.wghsintouch.org.uk far away as the USA and South Africa! It was a
As a reminder of the happy times of reminiscing and pleasure to see you all. All the feedback was positive
catching up with old friends over a drink or two. and everyone had fun!
Mrs Langham enjoyed seeing 'her girls' and answering
their questions, which ranged from whom she
CAMBRIDGE 2020 admires; who inspires her; to what makes her laugh
(it's the minions if you didn't know!).
Thank you Mrs Langham!
CLASS OF 1972 MINI REUNION
CLASS OF 96 MINI REUNION
These photos act
e
as a reminder of th
happy times of
reminiscing and
catching up with
old friends over
a drink or two
10LONDON DINNER NOV 2019 SUMMER REUNION 2019
EVENTS ARE BACK!
With the removal of restrictions, together with the
vaccine rollout, we are looking forward with optimism
to planning and running events.
With this in mind, we have arranged
the following events.
Summer reunion (18th September 2021)
London Dinner (12th November 2021)
Cambridge Dinner (29th January 2022)
We are all looking forward to seeing as many
of you as possible!
wghsIntouch.org.uk 11GIVING BACK
WGHS -
Still in
touch
and
giving
back
The covid pandemic made it virtually impossible for people
to visit school in person, including our esteemed alumna.
However this did not prevent some alumnae from making a
major contribution remotely, both in Yr 11 Futures Thinking
lessons, school events including Junior School Speech Day
“ Your back stories, successes
and achievements are both
informative and inspirational
and the Yr 10 Work Experience Conference and particularly
through the new medium of Instagram TV Live. to the current generation of
Furthermore, a growing number of our alumnae adorn the students and often their parents
walls around the school - with inspirational images and
messages. ”
Yr 11 Futures Thinking serves as a valuable introduction Last but not least, Instagram TV live has in many ways been
and insight into careers that the current students may or a revelation. Not only in showcasing an increasingly diverse
may not be aware of. Therefore if you would be willing and range of jobs and professions, but in reconnecting many
able to contribute to a 50 minute lesson in person or alumna with school and reflecting on the foundations for
remotely, it would be greatly appreciated. The more diverse their success. If you are willing and able to share your story
the careers on show, the more informed the students are with the current generation of students at 4pm one
likely to be of their possible future choices. Thursday afternoon, it would be our pleasure to welcome
you as a speaker.
Alternatively if you would like to be part of a careers panel
then the Year 9 and 10 events that take place throughout In summary your back stories, successes and
the academic year may appeal to you. These are interactive achievements are both informative and inspirational to
sessions in Jubilee Hall, primarily guided by questions from the current generation of students and often their parents.
the audience. Therefore if you are willing and able to get “in touch”
and give something back you are likely to facilitate even
In the spring term of next academic year, the Foundation is more students achieving the same heights as yourself.
due to hold a “careers insight” event. As we plan this event, The mosaic/photo wall of Instagram TV should serve to
we are particularly interested in contributions from alumnae illustrate the breadth and diversity of what the WGHS
in less typical occupations and professions. The primary alumnae have done so far - with hopefully much more
focus of the event is to highlight long standing and well to come.
established careers alongside new and emerging ones.
In other words, how “jobs for life” are likely to be replaced Thank you for your support.
by a “life of jobs”, underpinned by transferable skills, as
the norm for future generations of students. Mr David Eggleston (DJE)
12THE GIFT OF A
WGHS EDUCATION
Why I give...
“ As we look back at the creation of WGHS in 1878, which led to educating women,
which led to women gaining the vote; that wasn’t indulgent. It was visionary and
farsighted. It was about creating the kind of country we all want to be part of.
The reason I support the school is because I want future generations of the very
”
brightest girls to enjoy the very finest education regardless of their backgrounds.
Amanda Mackenzie OBE DL, Old Girl 1982
Our commitment to help with fees
We are committed to ensuring that girls from all backgrounds can benefit from a WGHS education
and we offer means-tested bursaries to help. However, we need your help to ensure that we can
continue to offer this vital financial support.
£
125 21% 20 4
Number of WGHS Senior Percentage of WGHS Number of year 7 entrants Number of 100% +
School pupils supported Senior School pupils supported by a bursary bursaries
by a bursary supported by a bursary Sept 2020 intake
Total bursary funding awarded by Wakefield Grammar School Foundation to pupils at WGHS... £1,042,000
PLAY YOUR PART
If all Old Girls reading this magazine were to give a single
donation of £25 we would raise over £60,000 in support
of our bursary programme.
To make your donation please complete the form at
https://WGHSIntouch.org.uk/wghsbursaryfund
Leaving a legacy
Some Old Girls may choose to leave a gift in their will to WGHS.
If you would like to discuss leaving a legacy, please contact
Catherine Worsley, Development Director, cworsley@wgsf.net
01924 231642
wghsIntouch.org.uk 13GIVING BACK
ALUMNAE VISItS
The interview-style assemblies led by Mr Eggleston (Deputy Head) continued
to be popular during 2019. However, when the world changed in March 2020,
we were unable to welcome you back to school in person, so, like everybody
else, we have used technology to continue keep in touch!
Instagram live interviews
At the start of term, in September 2020, Mr Eggleston introduced his
INSTAGRAM Instagram live interviews. It’s been a real bonus for the girls to continue
INTERVIEWEES to be able to hear from you and because it is online, geography is no
boundary! Thank you to everyone who has volunteered to be
OIivia Hunt interviewed live over Instagram; you have all been superb.
Sam Wynn
Your support and commitment to these programmes is invaluable and
Lizz Wainwright
imparting your knowledge and sharing your individual journeys across
Gemma Sykes all our Giving Back Programmes, helps our girls to see their
Simone Allum possibilities as limitless and go out into the world with a ‘I can do this’
Jo Stewart attitude and we are proud and thankful in equal measure.
Fiona New (née Robertson)
Sophie Ogg If you are interested in any of these initiatives, and would like further
Charlotte Smith (née Youngs) information, please contact cworsley@wgsf.net.
Sophie Isaacs
Holly Walters
Francesa Rukin
Emily Crowson
Emma Brindley
Alexis Barr
Sanna Ahmad
Alicia Collinson
Amy Rennison
Neena Dugar
Sophie Carrigill
Natalie Wright
Kate McCabe
Hayley Marsden
Laura Siddall
Alex Green
Francesca Waugh
Zoe Grunewald
Louise O'Shea
Heidi Allen
Sophie Lowe
Laura Gibb
Whilst every endeavour has been made to ensure that all Instagram
interviewees are named, we apologise if there are any inaccuracies.
Please let us know if this is the case.
14All Instagram interviews can be seen on IGTV, search for WGHSYorkshire IGTV
wghsIntouch.org.uk 15GIVING BACK
Careers Convention
March 2020
In March 2020 it was QEGS turn to host the biennial
Foundation Careers Convention. This is a significant
event in the Foundation Calendar and is an integral part
of the careers support offered to our students with the
aim of providing information and insight into their future
careers.
Students from Years 9-13, were given the opportunity
to tour the exhibitors’ stands during their afternoon
lessons. Alongside the main convention Years
11 and 12 were able to access an extensive
programme of seminars and these were
available to the rest of our students and
their parents in the evening.
This year marked the 15th Foundation
Careers Convention and saw
representatives from over 50 different
exhibitors; including employers such as
KPMG, Rolls Royce and West Yorkshire Police
as well as a wide range of colleges and universities.
We were particularly delighted to be supported by our
alumni and would like to thank the following for giving
their time to contribute to this initiative:
Laura Cox (OG, 2013) Addleshaw Goddard
Lauren Will-Dixon (OG, 2012) Addleshaw Goddard
David Jenkinson (OS, 2009) Atkins
Alastair Morris (OS, 1998) Pryor Marking technology
Nick Thornton (OS, 2006) Rolls Royce
Matthew Smith (OS, 2008) Donaldson’s Vets
Chris Langrick (OS, 1997) Langricks Limited
Adrian Spawforth (OS,1981) Spawforths
If you would like to exhibit at our next careers
convention in 2022, or can offer internships, work
placements to current and past students, please
contact cworsley@wgsf.net for further information.
16tO ALL OF OUR AMBASSADORS...
tHANK yOU
FINANCIAL GIFTS
All the gifts we receive, whether large or small, help us.
They help us to provide better facilities and extra-curricular
opportunities to broaden girls’ horizons. Most importantly
they help us to continue to provide bursaries to bright
young girls who would benefit from our specialist brand of
education, but otherwise wouldn’t be able to access it due
to family circumstances. As you will know, nurturing our
girls, providing a first class education and equipping them
with the life skills to go out into the world and challenge
themselves is what we do. Together with your help, we
can continue this tradition for many more years to come.
Thank you to those alumni, parents, and friends of the Financial gifts aren’t the only way that you are helping.
Foundation Schools, for all your gifts. As a community you Your gifts of time and experience to our Giving Back
are making a difference to future generations and for that, Programme are enriching our girls’ experiences and instilling
we are eternally grateful. in them a sense of community and a culture of giving back.
DONORS 100 donors wished to remain annonymous
Julia Bradshaw & Patrick Addinall Mr Jeremy Crompton Mr Christopher Knowles Mr Sarwjit Sambhi
Ms Melissa Addy Dr Anna Crossley Mr & Mrs S Krasniqi Mrs Nicola Sephton
Dr Katherine Adler Ms Heather Danyluk Mrs Pat Langham Ms Shuchi Shah
Mr Vinaykumar Ahir Mr Robert Davidson Ms Katrina Law Mr Michael Shaw
Mr William Asquith Mr David Elliston Mrs Claire Lawrence Dr James Shawcross
Mr Andrew Beales Captain & Mrs G English Mr Simon Leach Mr John Shirtliff
Mr Donald Beardshall Miss Julie Evans Mr & Mrs J Longo Mr Geoffrey Skenfield
Mr Stephen Beaumont Mrs Claire Fairclough Mr Iain MacDonald Ms Helen Slinger
Mrs Helen Bennett Mrs Catherine Featherstone Mrs Amanda Mackenzie Ms Rosalind Stead
Mr & Mrs N Best Mr & Mrs M Fergusson Mr & Mrs S Manoharan Mr Paul Sykes
Mr Paul Blakeborough Ms Louise Foster Mr John McLeod Ms Chantal Szymanska
Mr Roger Blakemore Mr & Mrs G Gilfeather Mrs Laura McNeillie Dr James Tabner
Dr Gerald Bloomfield Mr Simon Godley Mr Steven McTiernan Ms Alison Tetley
Mr Jonathan Brain Mr Malcolm Golightly Mr Christopher Millington Ms Ruth Tetley
Mr William Bramley Mrs Caroline Gorton Mr Ian Minards Mr & Mrs P Thompson
Dr Tim Brears Mr Nigel Gray Mr Alastair Morris Mr John Thorp
Mr David Brindley Mrs Jayne Grigg Mr & Mrs J Nakuti Mr Christopher Toone
Mrs Bronwyn Broadhurst Mrs Joan Guénault Mr & Mrs J Nutton Mr & Mrs D Towler
Ms Judith Brown Mr Rajiv Gupta Miss Louise O'Hare Ms Leah Tsirigotis
Mr Samuel Butterworth Mr Geoffrey Haigh Mr Paul Oakley Mr Michael Varley
Ms Joanna Carlisle Mr Phillip Hodson Dr & Mrs R Oba Mr Philip Way
Dr Michael Cheesbrough Mrs Ann Holmes Mrs Mary Oldham Mr Timothy Welton
Ms Stephanie Chui Ms Patricia Howarth Mrs Barbara Panton Mrs Shirley Wigglesworth
Miss Mildred Clark Ms Heather Hughes Mr Wayne Parkinson Mr James Wild
Mrs Jane Clarke Mr Andrew Hunt Mr Andrew Pelkiewicz William Lamb Group Ltd
Mrs Margaret Clayson Ms Barbara Hunt Ms Natalie Petyt Ms Bridget Wirtz
Ms Penelope Cliffe Ms Georgina Hyde Ms Jean Piper Mr David Woodhead
Ms Lisa Colledge Mr & Mrs S Ingram Mr & Mrs C Plumpton Mrs Glenys Woods
Mr Anthony Collett Dr Meena Jain Mr Srikanth Rajgopal Ms Anna Woolley
Mrs Geraldine Collie Mrs Janine Johnson Miss Louise Reeve Ms Catherine Worsley
The Reverend Mrs Cecilia Conwaye-Wright Mr Christopher Jones Mr Richard Roberts Mr & Mrs E Young
Dr Richard Coppack Mr David Keighley Ms Jill Roe Mr Peter Young
Mrs Pat Craven Mr Saqib Khan Ms Sarah Rushton WGHS PTA
Mrs Karen Crockford Ms Michelle Kirschner
The Foundation Ambassadors listed have pledged or made a gift to the Foundation schools. Whilst we endeavour to ensure that these lists are correct,
we apologise if there are any inaccuracies. Please do let us know if this is the case.
wghsIntouch.org.uk 17HEAD GIRLS
Where are they now?
We asked our former Head Girls to tell us what careers they have had and where they live and to describe
their experiences of WGHS in three words. This is what they said... who do you recognise?
Experience
Current or Place of of WGHS in
Head Girl name Year former occupation Residence three words
Rebecca Beaconsfield 1943 Retired long since ; London Academically
(née Rainsbury) formerly medical excellent;
Known in School as Rebe practitioner as well happy
as medical journalist
Carol Otley 1952 Retired Horbury Excellent
(née Nettleton) Wakefield life
foundation
Jill Hamblin 1964 Retired Ardleigh, Supportive,
(née Barnes) (Granny, Village Historian near encouraging,
& Poo-Bah) Colchester confidence-building
Hilary Sullivan 1965 Retired New Great foundation
(née thorp) york for life
Christine Verity 1966 Retired Maths thornton, Opportunity,
teacher/Finance Officer Cleveleys friendship,
all-round
Angela Lishman 1966 Retired Physician South Educational,
Shields encouraging,
enabling
Usha Prashar 1967 Cross Bench Peer, Englefield Supportive,
House of Lords Green, inspiring,
Surrey excellent
18Julia Watson 1971 Retired European Uppingham, Supportive,
(née Lawson) Director Inspiring Rutland safe,
Futures (Careers) springboard
Val Harpin 1971 Consultant Paediatrician Hathersage Nurturing,
(née Robinson) enjoyable,
enabling
Jennifer Robson 1974 Retired Leeds Education for life
(née Verity)
Joyce Oliner 1975 Employment law Baltimore, Empowering,
(née Coleman) consultant USA wonderful
education
Shirley Clarkson 1976 Retired medical Wakefield Laughter,
(née tabner) practitioner friendship,
learning
Helen Flynn 1981 Executive Director Darley, Stimulating,
(née Wilcock) of local charity Harrogate friendly,
memorable
Louise Hough 1983 Head of International Dhahran, Fun, friends,
Investor Relations Saudi and of course
at Saudi Aramco Arabia education!
Claire Mallinson 1985 Doctor, London Life changing
consultant anaesthetist opportunity
Helen Bray 1988 teacher, Altrincham Exceptional,
(née Dawson) Head of Performing Arts unforgettable
education
wghsIntouch.org.uk 19HEAD GIRLS
Experience
Current or Place of of WGHS in
Head Girl name Year former occupation Residence three words
Katie Turner 1990 Teacher Wimborne, Formative,
(née Pollock) Dorset foundational,
friendly
Tamsin 1991 Financial Adviser Bedford Challenging,
Bromley-Rahlke learning,
(née Bromley) friendships
Sally Appleton 1993 Partner in a national firm Leeds Inspirational,
(née Whitehead) of chartered accountants treasured,
enduring
Natasha Midgley 1997 Flower farmer-florist Linton, Nurturing,
(née Oliver) North challenging,
Yorkshire achieving
Georgina Powling 1999 Lawyer Harrogate Inspiring,
(née Warnett) rewarding,
challenging
Devika Unnikrishnan 2000 General Practioner London Unforgettable
experiences &
friendships
Charlotte Crick 2001 Barrister Huddersfield Lots of laughter
(née Brown)
Victoria Bromley 2002 Solicitor Clapham, Best possible start
(née Sugden) London
20Ruth Ithurralde 2003 Translator for National Bank of Canada. Now a full time mum!
(née Helme)
Bethany Zanatta 2004 Doctor East Fortunate,
(née Bradshaw) Yorkshire unbounded and
fortunate
Rebecca Asquith 2006 Psychiatrist Wakefield The greatest
(née Wathen) foundation
Chandini Misra 2007 Headteacher Dubai Fun,
(née Mallick) inspirational,
challenge
India Heaversedge 2013 Savile Row Coatmaker London Happy,
(tailor) challenging,
life-affirming
Disha Shetty 2015 Medical Student Birmingham Each for all!!!
(née Bradshaw)
Vivi Way 2017 Student Wakefield/ An enjoyable
Cambridge journey
Kyra Balmforth 2018 Student, Huddersfield Defining,
Loughborough special,
University memorable
Elspeth Lee 2019 Law Student, South Just about
Newcastle Yorkshire survived
University
Former WGHS Head Girls...
Sangeeta 2020 PPE student, Dubai Rewarding,
Unnikrishnan Durham exciting
University and treasured
wghsIntouch.org.uk 21Old Girls in the Arts
CHRISTINE CURTIS (OG, 1980)
Graphic design
“Let’s start at the very beginning. For it’s a very good This achievement opened
place to start...” many doors and I accepted
an offer made by Allied
The Sound of Music is one of my favourite musicals which is International Designers in
also an inspiration to me, as we often change career paths London in the Corporate
which, through transformation, can be an unpredicted success. Design department and
later in the New Product
Presently I live in Sydney, Australia. My journey has been Development department.
long, varied and exciting. I later went to Abu Dhabi as
my father was working
In order to be the person I am today I encountered many there and worked in an
challenges and times where I felt confused and despondent advertising agency there.
but I found the resilience to persevere, to follow my dreams
and enjoy life. Cut to Germany where I worked in Aachen and Düsseldorf
in advertising and design for international agency BBDO.
WGHS was always a school I admired and although I only As you will have noticed, my other passion is travel!
attended from 1977-1978 my final ‘O’ Level year, I felt so
proud being able to wear that uniform. Family arrived and I freelanced for many years before moving
over to the Middle East once again only this time as a teacher.
A careers talk led me to I later specialised in art and taught the whole of Primary
think that Graphic Design School and later High School. I can happily say many of my
was the better option over students have gone on to study Art and Design and I am
languages and it became proud to lay claim to having some influence in their lives.
my chosen path. I chose
the subject I loved and I am now living in Sydney, Australia where I teach children
excelled at. art after school, give private lessons and when I can find
the time, plunge myself into my private world of Art where
After completing a year I paint commissions, usually dog portraits, and produce
at Wakefield Art College a body of work for exhibitions and competitions.
doing a Foundation Course
I was keen to do a degree I enter competitions wherever I can and receive awards after
in Graphic Design and went award but the gratification is in knowing that my art has sold
to Coventry Polytechnic. and has an admirer.
I felt the course was too
technical however and My career path involved many twists and turns but like
transferred to Newcastle a tree, it had strong roots. It has a solid trunk which is
upon Tyne where I loved obviously creative and branches and twigs that complete
the Geordie humour, the picture in their individual yet similar way.
warmth and the illustrative
based degree course. My advice to anyone at school today is to follow your
dreams, listen to your heart and as the aboriginals say
It wasn’t easy. I had some here ‘feel it in your gut.’
private issues to deal with
and almost gave it away You know when it is right for you. Change is inevitable in life
in my final year. However, and to be embraced and as challenging as it may be, it will
I think hurdles are there make you stronger.
to make us stronger and
I won the National Sign I am happy to share with you some recent works I have
Centre Awards and created and hope you will enjoy the viewing.
received first prize and five
hundred pounds presented Christine J Curtis
by the then Lord Mayor of B.A. Graphic Design
London Sir Anthony Joliffe.
22Creative minds...
ROWENA BEIGHTON-DYKES (OG, 1975)
The creative and cultural industries are a huge, often
untold, success story in the UK in the last 20 years.
I am happy to say I have enjoyed not several jobs, but
several careers as I have navigated through the sector.
Under the inspirational Barbara Wyles we were able to
study costume history for A level art, meeting museum
professionals as part of our studies. I gained a BA in
Textile Design at the University of Leeds, and on graduating
TARA AVEYARD (OG, 2014)
I worked in a costumiers in London. I then moved to
Yorkshire Television (now part of ITV), specialising in
costume for period drama and
educational television.
I completed my Master of Architecture at the Manchester
Recognising that the TV School of Architecture in June 2020. During my five years
industry was changing at university, I explored a wide range of topics, including
adaptive design, conservation, social housing design and
and with a family history
architecture in film.
in the decorating trade,
I set up an interior
At master’s level, you pick what area of architecture you’d
decorating business,
like to specialise in, ranging from landscape architecture,
designing and supplying futuristic design, feminist architecture or conservation.
schemes for clients. With I chose conservation as it has always been of huge
a growing family and a interest to me. We looked at real life issues for small
relocation, I transferred my towns and cities. In my masters first year, I proposed
experience and skills, qualified as a lecturer, and embarked changes for Rochdale’s Victorian train station and the
on a career in education. I taught design history, media surrounding area to give it a new lease of life, with a huge
studies, interior design and professional practice for sweeping canopy, improved facilities and public green
creatives. Before long I was working on the development spaces. For my final thesis, I looked at an
of degree courses across creative industries subjects. architectural theory that proposes
making small changes to improve a
Having taken up a university post I gained a University city’s existing buildings and
of Leicester MA in The English Country House. I continued spaces, to create a better city
to develop creative industries degree courses with overall. I proposed interventions
Staffordshire University’s partners across the country, throughout Shrewsbury and
and later internationally, travelling all over the world. I have used my findings to update its
old swimming pool. Updating
now returned to interior decorating, and am the editor of
and reusing existing buildings
the Review, the journal of the Wallpaper History Society.
allows us to remember the
past, reveal both the positive
The creative and cultural industries are not necessarily for
and negative aspects and
those who seek stability and predictability, but for anyone construct considered, quality
who likes a challenge and enjoys variety, it’s a sector with buildings for the future.
many exciting opportunities, and can evolve as you
navigate through life. I always tried to incorporate hand drawing
and model-making into my projects where
Rowena Beighton-Dykes possible. Although not essential, these skills can be
(née Janet Rowena Dykes) incredibly useful and a lot
of fun when designing.
“ I am happy to say I have
enjoyed not several jobs,
Studying architecture has allowed me to travel a lot.
Each year there is a study trip to a different city,
my trips included Venice, Berlin, Paris, a weeklong
model-making course in Spain, and Triennale
but several careers
” Architecture festival in Oslo.
Tara Aveyard
wghsIntouch.org.uk 23Old Girls in the Arts
Opera singer
extraordinaire!
GILLIAN BRIERLEY (OG, 1961)
I left WGHS in 1961 to study singing and piano at the
Royal College of Music in London.
A petite 4’11’’ is not the usual build for an opera singer
and at my first audition after leaving college, a voice
called out “Too small,” before I sang a note. Undeterred
and with a love of acting, I applied to the Royal
Opera House, Covent Garden, for an
audition.
I was successful and joined the Extra
Chorus, but was quickly invited to
audition for the permanent chorus.
The new contract included small
parts and understudy work and there
followed six years singing alongside
many international singers, conductors
and directors.
The Performing Arts take resilience and courage
which were both needed when I masqueraded as a boy
treble, auditioning amongst a group of children for the
role of Yniold in Debussy’s “Pelleas et Melisande”.
Selected by Pierre Boulez I had to admit to my
deception and was devastated when Boulez said
“I want a boy,” and ran a re-audition. However he
made me the official understudy and awarded me one
performance in my own right. When the boy succumbed
to ‘flu I also sang the first two performances. This lucky
break catapulted me into repeating the same role in
Switzerland, then with Scottish Opera and later the
Hessische Staatsoper in Wiesbaden.
“Too small,” they said! This made my career. I left the
chorus to freelance in this and similar ‘boy’ roles until
retirement.
Retirement? Oh no! Singing teacher, choir director,
after dinner speaker.
Gillian Brierley
(née Ramsden)
“ A voice called out “Too small,”
before I sang a note
”
24Ballet Teacher and Fellow ISTD
MADDY JACQUES (OG, 1992)
I started WGHS in 1985, the same year Mrs Langham joined
as headmistress, leaving in 1992 to further my dance
education at Northern Ballet School in Manchester.
All the staff, especially Mrs Langham were supportive of my
career choice. I remember being asked to perform in
assemblies and even having a photo placed in the glass
cabinet outside Mrs Langham’s office (I was a very proud
student that day!)
Now, many years on, I am a Ballet teacher and Ballet
Examiner for the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance
(ISTD). I teach at Renaissance Arts, a professional
dance college based in Leeds, and Ellite Studios in
Wakefield where I’m head of ballet and a tutor for the
teacher training course. I am also a lecturer for the
ISTD CPD courses and have taught and adjudicated
at the Imperial Ballet Awards.
I consider myself lucky. I get to work with some
amazing children and students and spend the day
doing what I love. School allowed me to pursue my
passion alongside my academic studies and I am forever
grateful for the support I received whilst at WGHS.
Maddy Jacques (née Samwell)
SUSANNAH HOMER (OG, 2002)
Art was always a favourite subject at school. I took a gap furnished and ornamented
year after A-levels during which I had work experiences as well as exploring the
at Wakefield Art Gallery and Christie’s in London: both significance and function of
valuable not only for learning about the different sectors these properties for owners
but also for including in later applications. I went to and their families; this was
Nottingham University to study Architecture (BArch) but actually very close to the
midway switched to a BA(Hons) course, letting me study subject of my PhD research.
Art History modules. I gained a place to study for an MA Following the conference, a number
at the Courtauld Institute of Art. Compared to undergrad, of speakers, including me, were asked to
this one-year course was very demanding but immensely contribute to an edited volume on the subject.
rewarding and fulfilling. The Georgian London Town House: Building, Collecting
Not sure what to do afterwards, I took another gap year and Display was published by Bloomsbury in July 2019.
with work experience at Sotheby’s and the MCC Museum My chapter 'The Display and Reception of Private Picture
at Lord’s. Collections in London Town Houses, 1780–1830’
Still slightly unsure of my path, I applied for a PhD at introduces the second part of the book which is on buying,
Cambridge University to develop my MA research. collecting and display. The URL for the book is:
The three years at Cambridge varied from self-doubt as https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/the-georgian-london-
I navigated self-led research to pride and satisfaction when town-house-9781501337314/
I presented research to experts in my field from around the I finally got a job: a heritage consultant in London, taking
world. In 2012 I was Junior Research Fellow at the Frick me back to my architectural roots.
in New York which was a great experience. I am now the Senior Conservation Officer for Sevenoaks
In 2016 I was invited to take part in a conference on the District Council; a role that incorporates theoretical aspects
London town house that was organised by the National of historic building conservation, architectural history and
Gallery, Paul Mellon Centre, London, and Birkbeck practical construction knowledge. I enjoy the varied work
College, University of London. The conference discussed and that I am still developing my knowledge. I am also a
both famed and little-known London town houses, Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars.
considering how these residences were designed,
Susannah Homer (née Brooke)
wghsIntouch.org.uk 25OG NEWS
A RELUCTANT
CHOICE!
I started at WGHS in Year 5. I loved the School and all
it had to offer and I have certainly made friends for life.
However, in Year 12, I found myself not enjoying studying
and feeling quite unhappy. After much discussion and
deliberation between myself, my parents and teachers,
I reluctantly left WGHS and enrolled at Leeds Art University,
to undertake a BTec Level 3 course in Art and Design.
I was full of trepidation and wondered whether I had done
the right thing. However, despite my initial reticence, I was
taken completely under the wing by the staff and students
there, which helped me to settle in quickly and throw
myself into the work.
In January 2019 I chose to specialise in fine art, (I’m sure
this will have shocked Mrs Varley!!). It allowed me to create
large pieces of expressive art work whilst still using my
written techniques for research and analysis throughout.
However, after some debate regarding my preferred subject
choice for university, my tutors and I decided I would be
better placed on the 3D design course. After the summer
break, I joined the 3D course. The briefs were far more I am now undertaking my final major project at Leeds which
interesting and required much more analytical thought is entirely self-designed and which will be in an exhibition
and brain power which I enjoyed! later on year.
I am pleased to say, I have received the highest marks My time at WGHS genuinely made me who I am today.
possible for all my work and the photos of my penultimate Whilst I didn’t really want to leave WGHS, I now know it
project were showcased in a short pop up exhibition. was the right decision. The support, understanding and
advice I received from my teachers, especially Mrs Varley,
During the past few months I have been researching Ms Doyle and Mme Djokovic (or Djoko) were second to
university courses and putting together my application. none and also the reasons I enjoyed Art, English and
I narrowed down my course choices to interior architecture French so much. Whilst it took me some time to figure
or just architecture and my universities to Derby and out exactly what area I wanted to focus on, the belief the
Lincoln. teachers had in my ability has given me confidence to try
different things and I am now excited to be finishing my
After visiting and falling in love with Lincoln, I didn’t visit Art Foundation Course and looking forward to what Lincoln
Derby, however, I received unconditional offers from both University brings.
but chose to accept a place at Lincoln to study interior Thank you WGHS.
architecture starting September 2020.
Francesca Mills (OG, 2018)
“ The belief the teachers had in my ability has
given me confidence to try different things
”
26In Memory of Minha THE
RUNNERS
Boys from QEGS
who ran - all are
Hi, my name is Faiq and I had the pleasure of from the Class
joining QEGS in the Upper 6th years. Living in of 2020
Bradford, I can certainly say the early morning
trains to Westgate were worth it! I was Adam Priest
fortunate enough to enjoy 1st XV rugby, (Head Boy)
Mr Mason's ‘interesting’ but well thought out Patrick Maher
analogies when explaining A level Chemistry Amai Ganjam
Oliver Appleyard
to us, but most importantly, I have made some
Ed Booth
friends for life along the way. It truly is an
Luke Smith
honour to be a part of such an esteemed Harry Duke
community. Harry Longworth
Jack Cherry
As I venture onto start Medical School at the Ryan Taylor
University of Liverpool, I have the pleasure of Tom Noble
recalling some great camaraderie between the From left to right Aminah (Minha’s cousin), Minha, Faiq with Ryan, Will Gatus
QEGS and WGHS boys and girls in what was (Minha’s brother Ahad), Faiq’s brother holding Amaan, (Minha’s brother) Ibrahim Shamchiyev
(left in year 11)
already tough times due to the pandemic.
Stevan Balac
Last year on the 16th of April, my family
wanted to also participate and take part. Max Wotton
suffered a tragedy in the loss of my cousin,
Before I knew it, I had 57 runners/walkers/ Tobi Irelewuyi
to cancer at the tender age of 18. Minha was
cyclers doing 5km a day for a whole month. Will Joyce
diagnosed with a rare form of cancer two years
This included friends, family and teachers (left in year 11)
ago and despite many challenges during her
also! I remember on day 3, having my body
journey, she faced them with optimism, riddled with aches and pains, but
fearlessness and most importantly, always remembering the importance of driving Girls from WGHS
smiling. She was ready to tackle her university through, just as Minha did. With an initial who ran - are all
years despite her deteriorating health. target of raising £750, this was achieved from the Class
A moment that stands out for me is finding her of 2020
within 2 hours of the challenge starting, and
looking for portable oxygen cylinders to aid her it eventually picked up regional attention on Abbey Brooke
breathing. She never thought she wouldn’t the news, making it to the BBC! After a long, Ella Riding
make it to September. After her death, the gruelling, but rewarding 30 days, we ended Lola Allison
impact she left on me was immeasurable. up raising £12,067, and running over Rebecca Coe
I decided it was only right if I honoured her life. 8000km! It was truly a humbling experience. Alex Middleton
Macmillan Cancer Support were integral in her Eilidh Lee
palliative care at home. Especially during a A year on from her death, I am still Lucy Morrell
pandemic, they were essential in providing reminded of how importance resilience is, Olivia Shuter
Minha's medication, her oxygen support, and and how far positivity can take you. It also Sophia Walker
answering any queries her Mum Sadia had made me realise how important the QEGS
when she was worried for her health. Their community is. Without it, this amazing feat
presence was emphasised during the national we have achieved would not have been Teachers
lockdown. possible. I don’t think words will suffice how Mr Rees
grateful I am to the help I had from all the Mr Pesterfield
I decided running would be a fantastic method teachers, boys and girls who ran and Mr Higgins
of honouring her life and raising money for helped in raising an amazing amount for Mr Barker
Macmillan. There had been a social media such an amazing organisation! Minhas Dr Clark
trend during the national lockdown to run 5km legacy has become a focal point in Mr Fraser
and donate £5 to a charity of your choice. Macmillan’s Cash Appeal sent out at the Mrs Palin
I decided to take a little twist on that and make start of this year, in hopes more money will Mrs Armson
a challenge for me and a couple of friends. be raised to go towards bettering the lives Mrs Eggleston
Minha's battle with Cancer lasted 734 days of people who suffer with this terrible Mrs Fitzsimons
to be exact. It was then I posed the idea to 5 disease. Once again, I thank this amazing Mr Stiff
close friends to run 5km every day for a whole community, and look forward to seeing it Mrs Allen
month in hopes of raising money for flourish even further in the future. Dr Brunt
Macmillan. After the news spread, I was Mr Becker
overwhelmed with support, and many friends Faiq Aziz (OS, 2020) Mr Head
wghsIntouch.org.uk 27You can also read
