It was a joy to see so many former pupils and staff coming together in the Gateway foyer to celebrate our newly-updated and expanded Alumnae Wall, and to raise a toast to all former LEH pupils who go on to become such incredible people.

Many of the alumnae whose photos are now up on the wall were able to attend and several of them brought family members along too, to see the portraits and to share their pride.

“We are absolutely delighted to have doubled the number of alumnae on display,” Head Mistress Heather Hanbury told guests. “It’s a wonderful chance to raise the profile of our alumnae community and to inspire the next generation of pupils. We are very proud of each and every one of our alumnae and the great diversity of life choices and professions that they represent. They are part of the very fabric of the school and we are grateful for the many ways they continue to support us and give back to LEH.”

There are now 52 alumnae photos on the wall, ranging in age from 19 to 90, and representing an eclectic mix of careers from a High Court judge to a foster carer extraordinare, and from an Olympic athlete to charity fundraisers. Mrs Hanbury explained the plan was to update the pictures from time to time and invited nominations for future additions.

Current members of the Sixth Form then took guests on guided tours of the school and it was clear to see that the memories just came flooding back as past pupils walked the familiar corridors and sat again in their old desks and remembered their time here.

LEH friends for life, Nicola Farrow (Burgess) and Emma Cremin (Frazer), both Class of 1994, shuddered as they remembered a 'special' summer uniform worn during the 1980s. "It really was quite distinctive," laughed Nicola.  "I'd love to see a photo of it if anyone still has one." If you can help, please email you picture to: alumnae@lehs.org.uk.

Retired Chemistry teacher Ruth Parker, who was one of several former members of staff eager to catch up with their old students, said: “It was wonderful to celebrate the achievements of alumnae in so many fields of endeavour and, indeed, to meet a good many of them in such a convivial setting.”

Lieutenant Commander Louise Wooller, Class of 1995, who brought her father along, said: “After 27 years, it was lovely to come and see the school.  I didn’t expect to see so many familiar and welcoming faces from the staff from my time there.  That really was a fantastic surprise. The highlight for me was wandering around the school and satisfying my curiosity.  LEH is clearly still a wonderfully happy place.  Thank you for such a great day.”

Julia Finch, Class of 2000, who is now Director of Skills for the Future at Barclays was accompanied by her five-year old son Jasper.  She said: “Thanks so much for having us.  It was wonderful to visit the school and amazing to see all the changes that have happened over the years.”

If you would like to come and see the wall for yourself and take a tour of the school too, please book your ticket for the Alumnae Reunion on Saturday 1st October now: https://www.hollesconnect.org.uk/event/alumnae-reunion-2022.

If you are logged into your Holles Connect account, you will be able to see the photo gallery below with a selection of the photos taken at the event.