Old Girls gather for SHSK Society Annual Reunion 2018

Over 60 leavers from 1978, 1988, 1993, 1998 and 2008 were joined by former staff for our annual reunion event at the School on 9 June. Amongst the attendees we welcomed Old Girls travelling from Norway and France, two former Head Girls and a mother and daughter duo.

The morning began with a reflective Chapel service led by Reverend Elizabeth Birch who welcomed everyone back to the serene calmness of the Chapel. 1978 leaver Beatrix Hopkins read from Deuteronomy and Chapel Choir sang beautifully.

Guests gathered in the Science Atrium, greeting each other with huge smiles and giggles of recognition. Archive displays from across the decades were enjoyed with much debate coming from the ‘guess the year’ montage of photographs.
After welcome drinks and the opportunity to reminisce and meet up with friends, Headmistress Mrs Dougall gave updates on developments within the School and alumnae community. She spoke about the growing momentum of our professional networking events for alumnae and how these are now a key feature of our programme of events. She also spoke about our mentoring programme The Kate Scheme going from strength to strength as we now enter our third year with a huge amount of expertise and willingness from alumnae to support current students.

A delicious buffet lunch was laid on and enjoyed by all with many stories of the School lunches from yesteryear being shared.
The prefect team led by Head Girl Ellie Stubley ended the day with guided tours of the buildings and facilities. The 1978 group were amazed to see that the original wooden classroom desks were still in place. “Some things never change,” said one Old Girl nostalgically. On visiting YPH, one of the 1988 group took the opportunity to take the stage and give a spontaneous rendition of the St Kate’s Day hymn on the piano which was followed by rapturous applause.

We concluded the day with group photos and of course lots of laughter. Many alumnae stayed late into the afternoon enjoying the warm summer and sunshine with tea and cake in the quad. It was truly a fantastic day.