The following account is by Katie Wilmot (OP 2002)
A celebration of ‘60 years of Girls’ at St Benedict’s School was held on 23rd June 2016. It was a fantastic event that brought together around 50 Old Priorians from across the last 50 years, including men and women, as well as current students, teachers and staff. Father Alexander led an opening prayer and the event was hosted by school Governor Philly Codrington, who made a heart-felt speech following Headmaster Chris Cleugh, who reflected humbly and passionately on his time at St Benedict’s over the last 15 years. Those who attended were treated to Prosecco and canapés, and the ladies all received a lovely little silver charm as a gift – the men cuff-links.
It was a wonderful event to attend, not only as an Old Priorian but also as the very first Head Girl, appointed back in 2001 – an honour and a privilege, and at that time my appointment marked an incredibly positive and progressive shift in the ethos of the school. Since then, that same ethos has continued to evolve and mature as the school has blossomed into a completely co-educational environment – for the benefit of the pupils and the school as a whole; genuinely teaching a way of living, within a modern Catholic community.
This event was an excellent opportunity to reflect on changes at the school, with old friends and staff, and to share our experiences and advocate our support for the development of the school in the coming years, within new buildings and under new leadership.