Oxygen Magazine 2019

News

THE LIME KILN GARDEN

As part of the Shaping the Future enjoying a moment in the epadcenbueaoNaiSpnclStpitaahatupulytctearadiuinoettciaroyc:eneas,iisansnlccwlcEugrotoereonnnbeaulgdnleCattleieaanscvorsnicoeinntttdfmiagynimwkt,esesaaephcitsnntorott.hdoefwabnvoboynitetntudihhoigrneeLngreliaifnern-
programme, we are creating a new garden at sun. One can imagine an
the heart of the school campus. Designed award ceremony here, or garden set to be
and project-managed by parent and Garden evening drinks, but also girls officially opened in
Designer, Sally Harley-Martin, this garden will and staff sitting after lunch September 2020. We are extremely grateful
transform our environment, creating social enjoying the sun. Walking to all who have contributed to this amazing
spaces and quiet places, places to play or East through two gaps in an project, and look forward to sharing the
learn and places to just be, some in sunshine, espalier wall of Pear trees garden with everyone.
some in shade. It will also be a garden for we reach The Hive.
entertaining, whether parents, guests or staff.
The Hive
With more than 20 new trees, and enclosed The Hive is a large community
with Yew hedging, the garden is divided into space divided into individual places
two distinct areas: the Green to the West, for socialising, for lessons or just
and the Hive to the East.
for a quiet moment.
The Green At the heart of this
The first garden is the most area will be an oak
traditional in style and framed outdoor classroom –
structure. The Green is a ideal for shade and shelter all
multifunctional space, like a year round.
village green for the school.
It is suitable for entertaining, The first phase of the garden
presentations or just construction commenced in
July 2019, with the finished

TEACHING IN MALAWI

We were delighted to welcome back I taught English, Maths and from an
2018 Leaver, Serena Sawyer, who gave PE, and Daisy taught Music. undoubtedly
a talk in Chapel about her experiences Afternoons privileged
as a volunteer teacher in Malawi, involved education
South East Africa. us reading and shared
stories to it with them
With the generous help of the CFT, my friend the village in the form
Daisy and I completed a six week volunteer children and of lessons,
project teaching children in Malawi, South then playing sports, art and
East Africa. rounders, stories; but
cricket and they also taught us to realise how truly lucky
We were immediately welcomed as part of ‘sharkie we both are. We acquired life skills that one
the Nkope Village family. Our weekly routine sharkie’. The kids had never played rounders cannot learn until one is out of one's comfort
consisted of three mornings at Nakundu so it was probably one of the most rewarding zone.  The children taught us to appreciate
Primary School followed by Thursdays and things about the trip: seeing them improve everything, to smile at the little things and
Fridays at Nkope Forest Pre-School. Daisy every day, boys of 14 bowling to little girls of to live life to the full. Thank you CFT - the
and I taught in classrooms of 80+ children, three with everyone and anyone joining in. magical memories of my experiences will stay
often with no desks, chairs or even a pen. We’d brought our knowledge acquired with me forever.

49

BATTLEFIELDSHISTORY TRIP TO THE...
‘This tmerviipelirtwyaaroysnaefanfmoeuxilnpydesroiitetmnhciosevtIirnwigpilamlnnedeavneentrjaofylooartbgtleoet..’mIeaamnd
from a

Phoebe Matten, UIV

In October, during Donaldson Week, the Over the next two days,
UIV visited the Battlefields of World War we visited a number of
One in Northern France and Belgium. memorials in France
Over the course of three days, they went to around Arras; here we
a number of different, important cemeteries focused on the final
and memorials to gain a better understanding push of 1918.

of the events and impact of this ‘Going to all of
monumental war. these cemeteries
and memorials
After an early start on the We also touched upon military discipline in really impacted us
Monday, we spent the day in the Great War, the role of Courts Martial, and drove home
Belgium. There, we started off at as well as punishment and executions. the fact that millions of people
Hyde Park Corner Cemetery, discussing Following this, we visited Spanbroekmolen died. It was astounding how
the causes of the Great War, the youth of Crater, which gave the girls an opportunity many names did not have a body
some of the soldiers and looked at men to see the impact of mining warfare. and how many bodies did not
who had achieved the Victoria Cross. have a name.’ Phoebe

After a brief stop for chocolate shopping, we We visited the cemetery of Vis-en-Artois,
visited the largest British and Commonwealth where I told the students about one of my
War Grave in the world,Tyne Cot. The girls relatives who is remembered on the wall
then had a chance to see the polar opposite there, having died one month before the
to the white headstones of Tyne Cot when end of World War One.
we visited the German war cemetery of
Langemarck.

‘The small German cemetery
was particularly moving; it was
very sad and dark, all the trees
were oak, the national tree of
Germany.’ Phoebe

50

Trips & Expeditions

The girls got to see the French cemetery We did have the opportunity for some
of Notre Dame de Lorette, as well as walk lighter moments on what is quite a sombre
around some preserved French trenches. trip - in addition to the chocolate shopping,
After visiting the poignant memorial to the the girls also enjoyed bowling on the
Canadian dead at Vimy Ridge, the girls were second day of the trip.
then able to go down into Wellington Quarry
under Arras, which was used in mining warfare. It was a very busy three days for the
The tour continued with a visit to the Villers- girls, to round off their History studies
Bretonneux Australian National Memorial: of World War One.

‘Here we placed a wreath and Mrs Samantha Handy
had a minute of silence. We Head of History and Politics
then laid an individual cross on a
grave of our choosing, I chose the The final stop of the tour was Le Hamel,
grave of an unidentified soldier. where the tide of the war began to turn
It was interesting to see that the against Germany and the girls learnt more
memorial was covered in small about the end of the war.
holes. These holes were caused
by guns in WW2 as the Germans
marched through France.’ Phoebe

51

News

THE DONALDSON PROGRAMME

All students in LIV to UV take part in, and contribute to, the Donaldson Programme.
Named after Rachael Donaldson, an inspirational St Mary’s Headmistress during the
Second World War, the programme encourages personal development along six strands -
Scholarship, Wellbeing, Character, Cultural Awareness, Global Citizenship and Community, and Futures.

The Donaldson Programme permeates all facets of school life and is a unique experience for every girl.
It is delivered through our clubs and societies, volunteering, careers programme, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
scheme, speaker programme, debate days, trips and for the Fourth Form, our termly Donaldson Weeks.

AUTUMNDONALDSON WEEK
Our first Donaldson
Week for the year
was an enjoyable week
focussed on diversity.

The week started with an intriguing The session taught us to be wildly creative from the author herself. Tamara
workshop, which linked our RS studies and also gave us an eye-opener to the mix of gave an excellent talk and gave each of
with Art. We were asked to bring in a art and fashion in the fashion industry. us a signed copy of her book!
special treasured item, such as a necklace,
a teddy, photos or other item we loved, Our musical abilities were enhanced on Faith Beya
which would then be the inspiration for our Wednesday at a songwriting workshop. MIV Form
clothing designs. The first stage was drawing This was exciting as we worked together
and writing about our special items. We then to create a song. We worked in groups and ‘I was particularly excited,
made beautiful family crests and finished by used our instruments to collaborate and because I had read a couple
incorporating all designs into one trendy, produce a melody with lyrics. Soon, we had of Tamara’s books and I loved
fashionable piece! generated a song about diversity, using parts them!’ Tilly Vernon, MIV
from each group’s work, called All for One.

On Thursday, we took an educational
trip to the Aerospace Museum in Bristol.
We made a model airplane, and then
viewed the museum’s collection, which
included the Concorde.

On Tuesday, we had a special guest artist On Friday, we assembled in Chapel to
from America who came in to help us to meet Tamara Macfarlane, author of the
make our very own, uniquely styled, paper Uncracked Code. This was exciting as we
skirts! This was very exciting as not many had special insight into the book
of us had ever designed anything before.

52

SPRI NGDONALDSON WEEK

The LIV girls received The UIV girls spent their
a very warm welcome time in Art concentrating
at the Sikh Shri Guru on Life Drawing. Led by
Nanak Gurdwara in our Artist in Residence,
Swindon, to learn about Miss Litvack, the girls
Sikhism, the fifth largest practised drawing portraits
world religion. from life.

Our girls were taught very effectively by our Spring Donaldson Positioned opposite a partner, they made
host, the Guru Granth Sahib, who took them Week kicked off with some quick five-minute sketches, practising
through the main beliefs and teachings of an introduction to placing the facial features correctly and
this fascinating faith, particularly the equality fencing for the MIV girls. applying the rules of proportions to the
between the genders and their enormous face. The focus in the session was on using
respect shown towards their holy scriptures. We were lucky enough to have Tim Miles, the drawing materials to build up tone,
We enjoyed their kind hospitality in the U20 GB Coach, return to St Mary’s to deliver texture and volume, rather than looking
communal kitchen, the langar, before we left the session. The girls enjoyed learning the only at outlines, to create three-dimensional
for Royal Wootton Bassett. basics from footwork, lunges and parrying drawings. We experimented with pencil,
with a foil. They then proceeded to have conté crayon and charcoal to test the
small bouts with opposition to fine tune different qualities of the materials. The
what they had learnt in a competitive setting. girls learnt a lot, particularly to be patient
Their energy and enthusiasm was infectious when building up their drawings to achieve
and we look forward to the girls developing a realistic, multi-tonal effect, and the results
this further in their sport. were fantastic!

Mrs Heidi Marvin Mrs Kimberley Appleyard Pallott
Director of Sport Director of Art

On arrival, the girls had lunch in the café run
by St Bartholemew and All Saints Church,
before entering and exploring this ancient
Anglican Church, led ably by its vicar, Jane.
The girls asked many questions, showing
that they were as keen to learn about our
national religion as well as Eastern Faiths.
The girls were led from the font to the
stained glass windows, to the lectern, pulpit
and altar in the nave before being led through
the choir stalls to the reredos above the high
altar and the Lady’s Chapel.

One girl commented on the way home that
her brain was exploding from receiving so
much information! This wasn’t quite the
expected effect, but shows how informative
the day had been!

Mr Marc Thomas
Head of Religious Studies & Critical Thinking

53

News

SUMMERDONALDSON WEEK

In the Summer Term, Donaldson Week
is all about exploring and getting out
of your comfort zone!

This year, the girls ventured off to Bude’s Outdoor Activity
Centre (LIV), the Isle of Wight (MIV), France (UIV French
students), the Mendip Activity Centre for a Leadership
Workshop and Paulton’s Park (rest of UIV).
Mr Dan Curran
Donaldson Week
Co-ordinator

54

News

Young Enterprise

Help the world breathe a
little bit better with every pot

Sustainability was the We set to work sourcing our The judges were
main focus of Bella Gaia, materials, avoiding the use of single- impressed by
our Young Enterprise use plastics and trying to source our enthusiasm,
company, both for our locally (a big thanks to Whitehall passion and
product and in the way Garden Centre!). We ensured that professionalism. We also received lots of
we ran our company. our boxes, seed envelopes and soil bags were positive feedback about the quality of our
all completely biodegradable, meaning over marketing and the strength of the Bella
In our very first meeting, we held a vote 90% of our product was recyclable. Gaia brand.
as our method to allocate roles and
responsibilities, based on a short speech Next, we set up our social media pages, a We were so excited to win the award for
given by each person. We used this a website and began preparing our product Best Finances and the overall trophy for the
decision-making technique often, particularly for the PGSM Christmas Fair. The fair was Best Company in Wiltshire! Praise must also
when deciding on our product and company very successful and we sold most of our go to Rose Hastie who won an Outstanding
name. After much discussion and market stock – which was a huge confidence boost! Individual Contribution award as Managing
research, we decided to create a range of We would like to thank parents, girls and the Director of the team.
sustainable gift sets including ‘healthy herbs community for being so supportive of our
and surprise succulents’. business in its early stages. Next, it was the County
Final at Kings Weston
All three variations of our product centred The revenue from the Christmas Fair was House, near Bristol,
on the same basic concept of a plant (herb used to reinvest into more stock and to for another round of
or succulent) in a box, packed with a spray update our packaging into a more cylindrical presentations, questions
bottle and an information booklet. Due to design, which opened up the possibility from judges and meeting
the large size of our team, it was difficult to of being able to mail our products. The students from other
ensure that everyone had a voice, so we used term flew by and, before we knew it, it was schools. The judges
an online company management platform competition time! were full of praise for
called Trello in order to keep our ideas our efforts, saying that
organised. At first, making decisions with On Thursday 2nd May, six members of our we had performed to
such a large group of people was one of the Bella Gaia team represented the school an exceptional standard
biggest challenges we faced, however, we have at the Wiltshire County Final, held at the and awarded us the Best Customer Service in
now all mastered the art of compromise. Wiltshire Hotel in Royal Wootton Bassett. the South West award.
We set up an attractive trade stand,
answered questions from a wide range of Overall,Young Enterprise has been an
judges and gave an engaging presentation extremely valuable experience and unlike
telling the story of our company. anything else I’ve ever done before. Running
a company with my friends, aged just 17, has
certainly been both a challenge and a pleasure!
We have all learnt and strengthened so many
skills, such as teamwork, communication and
public speaking. If you are considering taking
part, I would definitely suggest that you take
the plunge!

Amena Boyd
Company Director

55

On Monday 10th June, the MIV left Calne to Oliver showed us a dinosaur
go to the Isle of Wight. The bus journey was footprint - it was amazing to
filled with chatting, the eating of food and lots see a footprint that was left
of singing - much to the teachers’ delight! almost 70 million years ago!
It was an experience I will
Once we arrived at the port, we boarded the never forget.
boat – a Red Funnel – and explored, ate and By Tilly
bought souvenirs. The view was lovely, but the
weather, unfortunately, was not! We finally Both were fun and, soon enough, the quiz
reached our destination and disembarked all winner was announced and was presented
feeling very excited about the week ahead. with a cute toy donkey.
By Izzy By Grace

THE DONKEY SANCTUARY TENPIN BOWLING MRS PILKINGTON & OSBORNE HOUSE
We arrived at the donkey sanctuary and were On our first night, we went bowling! We were We arrived at Osborne House and were
split into four groups before working our sorted into groups and then we played our first met by Mrs Pilkington. At first, we were all
way around the four activity stations: donkey game. Laura won and I came a close second; I shocked at how strict she was with us, until
grooming, Shetland pony obstacle course, even got my first strike! In our second game, we realised that this was how the servants
feeding the donkeys and caring for the donkeys. competition was tough; Laura came first again, were treated in the Victorian times. We found
Amy second and I came third. After a really fun all the activities very eye-opening because all
At the donkey grooming station we met two night, we were all very excited to go back to the duties took more time than they would
beautiful donkeys, Belle and Blossom. We the hotel on a double-decker bus! today. We also learnt about the wages of the
were taught about the different brushes used By Hebe servants and it was astounding to hear how
to groom horses and donkeys. Belle and little they earned. Once we had finished our
Blossom soon looked extremely clean and had 11th June 2019 unforgettable experience with Mrs Pilkington,
very shiny coats. Next, we learnt all about FOSSILS WITH OLIVER we walked around Osborne House. Whilst
caring for donkeys. The staff teaching us were We arrived at Dinosaur Farm and were met walking through the house, we learnt about
extremely friendly and ready to answer all our by Oliver who took us into a barn filled with the meaning of each room and how they were
questions. Afterwards, we went onwards to fossils, models and displays about dinosaurs. used. Each room was very extravagant and
the Shetland pony obstacle course. We were We split into two groups and half of us went you could clearly see how much time and
greeted by two adorable Shetland ponies, to dig up dinosaur teeth in little trays, while effort had been taken to decorate them.
Wispa and Angus, and we were shown how to the other half went to learn more about By Thea
lead them around an obstacle course. dinosaur teeth. Afterwards, we went to the
beach where, after learning what to look
We were then split into two groups for our for, we went searching for dinosaur bones,
final session. One group fed and stroked the fossilised wood, sponges and dinosaur poo!
donkeys, while the other group filled out a
quiz sheet.

56

Trips & Expeditions

SURFING At lunch, we sat outside on picnic 13th June 2019
SCHOOL tables, enjoyed the sunshine while ROBIN HILL
We arrived at the eating and, afterwards, we had a We arrived at Robin Hill Country Park filled
Surf School and were look in the gift shop. Finally, we did with excitement and adrenaline. The first
slightly worried how an activity on artefacts, matching ride we went on was the Pirate Ship. We
we were going to descriptive cards to the correct spent over an hour on this ride; it was so
surf on waves that artefact. After all that, it was time addictive! We then explored the rest of Robin
were only about 5cm to go. The experience was very Hill, such as the Maze, the Squirrel Tower and
tall. After changing interesting and we all learnt a lot. trampoline nets. We also had a fun experience
into (thankfully) dry By Laura at the falconry show and were facinated by all
wetsuits, the very the birds. It was then back to the Pirate Ship
kind instructors listened to our concerns TAPNELL FARM before we stopped for lunch!
about surfing on such tiny waves, so Tapnell Farm uses renewable energy, such as By Ines
suggested that we used two large inflatable solar panels and a ‘biogas digester’, a system
surf boards instead. BEACH FUN
that uses mulch After our fun
We were put into two groups digested by at Robin Hill,
(Pirates and Sharks) and all hopped a special kind we went back
on our boards. We then paddled of bacteria to to the hotel.
out and around an instructor but, produce methane We packed our
as Mrs Baldwin was here, it had to gas! We started things and went
be a race! The Pirates won because off with a talk to the arcade,
of their perfectly synchronised from the leaders beach and shop
paddling. Next, we joined the two boards who explained with Mrs Baldwin, Mrs Hardy and Father
together and made an awesome slide. Then Tapnell Farm’s history of dairy farming and J. The arcade was so much fun and the ‘2p
came the relay race, so the boards were split how it has evolved to become a sustainable machine’ caused a lot of excitement! After
and the Pirates and the Sharks battled it out; tourist attraction. We were then given free the arcade, we went to a souvenir shop that
the Pirates won again! time to explore and meet the wallabies, sold 50p rock in loads of different flavours. I
By Iris alpacas, sheep, meerkats, goats and much chose sherbet lemon and Isle of Wight fruit.
more! There was a special barn for smaller We then walked to the beach where we had
12th June 2019 animals, including bunnies that were less some fun splashing and paddling in the water.
BRADING ROMAN VILLA than six weeks old, which were my personal By Tilly
Our second day started at Brading Roman favourite. Next, we tried go-karting and the
Villa. We were split into two groups; one amazing zip wire! ISLE JUMP
started with making mosaic coasters while By Annabelle On our last evening, we went to Isle Jump,
the other group had a guided tour, and then a giant trampoline park, for a brilliant night
we swapped around. JR ZONE of jumping and games. Isle Jump was split
On Wednesday evening we all went to JR into three sections: the mini trampolines, the
I made a mosaic coaster first. We used Zone for a fun night of laser tag and a disco. air bag and the dodgeball. Each area was so
different coloured tiles to create a pattern At the end we all had a group dance to the much fun! It was an amazing night and I wish
for a coaster. It was really fun and I was songs Macarena and Gangnam Style. We I could do it all again.
pleased with my finished coaster. We then would love to do this again! By Hannah
started our tour; the guide was amazing! By Elea
We saw lots of mosaics and listened to the
stories behind them. Co-written by the MIV

57

SIXTH FORM AND BEYOND

This year’s Charity Week, led by the LVI On Friday, the UV girls provided us with an
Charity Week team, was a brilliant success! amazing homemade smoothie stall, under the
Over £3,000 was raised for Justice and excellent supervision of Isla Campbell. This
Care, a global partnership of charities that proved very popular with both girls and staff.
help to rescue victims of slavery and human
trafficking. On Friday night, the girls’ Charity Week concluded with the LV’s
many talents were on show in Rockin’ Diner in Florence Dyas House
From bake sales and smoothie sales, our Evening of Talent. Acts - a complete triumph! With traditional
to our live band evening, there was ranged from a stunning ballet American diner dishes such as waffles,
an activity for everyone! routine and spectacular singing pancakes and milkshakes, the girls not only
soloists and a trio, to Chamber utilised their cooking skills, but also learnt
Orchestra’s Pirates of the how to work effectively in a well-managed
Caribbean and a trio of actresses team, ensuring quick service to eagerly-
performing an excerpt from

One Man,Two Guvnors. At the
end of the evening, after the
sensational reprise of Opera
Ensemble’s rendition of Sing
(Gary Barlow), we drew the long-awaited
Raffle, with winners being delighted to
receive their prizes, that included a case of
wine, a home-baked cake, locally-produced
beverages and many more items, which had
been generously donated by members of the
school community.

Throughout the week, we held our Silent
Auction on the online platform Jumblebee,
with a huge range of wonderful lots, including
a four-night stay in Barcelona! We are so
grateful for the immense generosity of
parents and the local community for our

To start the fun, on Thursday 28th fantastic range of auction lots, and we are waiting customers. Under the outstanding
February the school community very appreciative of the huge effort that has supervision of Grace Law, Head of Joyce
came together to participate in a been made by everyone to support us in our Walters House, the afternoon was a
12-hour Sponsored Relay Run target of raising £3,100 to fund the rescue of wonderful way to end the week, not least
between 9am-9pm. The relay a trafficked woman or child. due to the brilliant array of 50s diner-style
highlighted the school’s super props and decorations used to embellish the
team spirit and willingness to Florence Dyas Common Room.
come together as a community
to raise awareness for such a Yu Ying Sy and Iona Aylwin
deserving cause. In the evening, the Live LVI Form
Music Night had a local band, The Jacks,
playing in the theatre. The girls had a great
time singing and dancing to a wide-range of
pop and rock songs.

58

SIXTH FORM AND BEYOND

INSPIRING
WOMEN

‘The conference did exactly what it Sarah Pinch (Communications) and Sarah be kind and open-minded, being prepared
said it would - inspire!’ Mya Penny Soar (Finance). The girls took full advantage to take risks and to ‘push the door’.
of these smaller sessions, learning more about
In February, we were delighted to welcome each career field and asking plenty of questions Asking for help was something that all of our
seven highly successful women to our annual along the way. guests advised and they talked about mentors,
LVI Form Careers Conference, Inspiring friends and advocates, both in the workplace
Women. After an insightful welcome from Throughout the day, several themes emerged. and beyond, who had shaped their career paths.
Dr Kirk, reflecting on the important landmarks The first was the need to identify what you
of women in work, proceedings were handed love doing and to go after it with everything ‘I had a wonderful time, all
over to Chairwoman, Lynne Copp, the that you have got. the speakers were so kind and
Managing Director of The Worklife Company. encouraging.’ Rose Morley
‘The speakers inspired us to follow
During a panel discussion, our guest speakers our passions, be true to ourselves and It was evident that girls, as they look ahead
spoke frankly about their workplace develop a strong sense of emotional to life after Sixth Form, were indeed inspired
experiences and the challenges they had intelligence.’ Iona Aylwin by our guests and learnt the value of being
encountered along the way. Breakout sessions ‘authentically you’.
were then hosted by Anushka Chaudhry There was also lots of discussion about how to
(Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon), advance your career, reflecting on the need to Mrs Kate Mastin-Lee
Lisa Mann (Fashion), Catherine Mealing-Jones Sixth Form Lectures and Futures Co-ordinator
(UK Space Agency), Lucinda Orr (Law),

CALNE GIRLS TALKS On Tuesday 5th February, Robin Heber-Percy the contenders to a rousing applause. 
joined us to chat about her fascinating life’s Headmistress, Dr Kirk, then spoke of the
We were delighted to welcome back work.  Robin, also a 1987 Leaver, read Zoology crucial importance of having female role
1987 Leavers, Clare Ward and Rachel at Edinburgh and began her career as a models in our lives, before announcing the
Drummond-Hay, to speak to the Sixth research assistant in Namibia before spending winner, Sarah Byatt.  Sarah, a 1980 Leaver
Form on Tuesday 18th September.  They eight years in Uganda studying the behaviour who has battled MS for over 20 years,
both enjoyed their tour of the school, of Chimpanzees and Gorillas.  She is now was nominated by four Calne girls, for the
involved with development projects relating incredible impact she makes on the lives
marvelling over the many changes that had to international eye health using mobile of everyone who knows her and for her
taken place since they had left, followed by phone technology. massive commitment to ACE Africa as an
a very animated supper with some of the   Ambassador and tireless fundraiser. 
girls.  Then, in Chapel, Clare spoke about
her life after Calne and explained how she ALUMNA OF
found her dream job as a Specialist Speech THE YEAR
and Language Therapist.  Rachel
then spoke about her company, On Wednesday 8th May, the CGA She was thrilled to receive the award.  It
Drummer TV, which produces celebrated the 2019 Alumna of the was a truly inspirational and deeply humbling
fascinating TV programmes Year Award at the Sloane Club in evening with a fabulous atmosphere.
and documentaries and, in London.  Launched in 2018 by Dr Kirk,  
both cases, the audience were the award recognises and honours the Lady Arabella Unwin
absolutely captivated by their achievements and triumphs of a well- Alumnae Relations Manager
career journeys. deserving CGA member.  Candidates
are selected by fellow alumnae and,

this year, a total of
12 Calne Girls were
put forward. 

CGA Chairman,
Cate Bell, welcomed
everyone and
introduced

59

HISTORYTrips & Expeditions

BERLIN&
KRAKOW

On Friday 15th February, 22 LV-UVI girls and three members of staff departed
from school for Berlin. On arrival in Berlin Tegel Airport, we took a transfer
coach to our hotel, followed by dinner in a local German restaurant.

We spent our first full deportation of We had an early start on Monday morning
day on a tour of Berlin, Berlin’s Jewish for the coach journey to Auschwitz I. There,
led by our guide, Roger. Community. On we met our guide for Auschwitz and Birkenau
By walking, train and each side of the who, throughout the day, provided us with
tram, we visited many railway track there insightful and comprehensive information, as
historically significant were metal grates well as affecting accounts of individuals and
sites, including the that were engraved survivors. We spent the most part of the
Reichstag Building, the with the numbers morning in Auschwitz I and the afternoon in
Brandenburg Gate, the of Jewish people Auschwitz-Birkenau where, through various
Topography of Terror deported to various exhibitions and places, we learnt much about
Museum, parts of the ghettos and camps. the camps, including: the camp history, living
Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie, as well conditions, punishments and executions,
as many thought-provoking memorials. We Jumping forward to the Cold War, we then resistance and escapes, individuals’ accounts
were provided with much information at headed off to the main Stasi Prison, the and the evidence of the atrocities committed
each site, generic and individual, and were prison of the secret police of East Germany. and the perpetrators who committed them.
given opportunities to ask questions, which Here we learnt about the Stasi purpose
helped to give us a detailed insight into the and methods of interrogation. We were At the English memorial, situated next to
events of Weimar, Nazi Germany and the also told accounts from individuals, which those of many other countries, we were given
Cold War. clearly emphasised the contrast between time for reflection as a candle was lit and laid
the falsehoods told, and believed, and truth down. Later that evening, we returned to
On Sunday morning, having packed and and reality during the Cold War. At around Krakow’s city centre and had dinner in a Jewish
checked out of our accommodation, we midday, we headed back onto the coach restaurant in the old Jewish Quarter. The food
headed by coach to Grunewald Bahnhof to leave Berlin, and started the eight-hour was spectacular and we greatly enjoyed the live
station, which is a memorial to the journey to Krakow. music of a group of three musicians.

60

ITINERARY

FRIDAY 15TH FEBRUARY
Depart Heathrow for Berlin
Check-in at hotel
Dinner at traditional German restaurant

SATURDAY 16TH FEBRUARY
Walking tour of Berlin, including:
Reichstag Building
Brandenburg Gate
Topography of Terror Museum
Berlin Wall
Checkpoint Charlie

SUNDAY 17TH FEBRUARY
Grunewald Bahnhof
Stasi Prison
Travel to Krakow
Check in at hotel

MONDAY 18TH FEBRUARY
Guided tour of Auschwitz I
Guided tour of Auschwitz II Birkenau
Dinner and entertainment in old Jewish Quarter

TUESDAY 19TH FEBRUARY
Wieliczka Salt Mines
Old Synagogue
Remah Synagogue
Podgorze
Plaszow
Krakow Cloth Hall
Depart Krakow to London Stansted

On our final day of the trip, we checked out conditions in the ghettos and heard stories In the evening, we spent some free time in
of our hotel and headed for the Wieliczka of the people who helped many Jews escape the astonishingly beautiful Krakow centre,
Salt Mines, one of the oldest salt mines in the imprisonment in the ghettos and camps. before having to head back on the coach
world; it certainly lived up to its reputation These ranged from lesser-known individuals, to go to Krakow Airport and say goodbye
and was an extraordinarily impressive and such as Irena Sendlerowa, a social worker to Poland. We arrived back at school
stunning site. After the mines, we went back who saved 2,500 Jewish babies and children having enjoyed a truly outstanding trip and,
to Krakow’s Jewish Quarter, where we visited from the Nazi death camps by secretly taking in addition to the perfect weather, it was
a synagogue and cemetery. We then walked them out of Warsaw Ghetto, to well-known definitely an extremely diverse, engaging and
to the ghetto of Podgorze and travelled to people like Oskar Schindler, who is credited unforgettable experience.
the former camp of Plaszow, despite it having with saving the lives of 1,200 Jews during
been obliterated by the Nazis. On this the Holocaust by employing them in his Annabel Pedgley
journey, we became aware of the appalling enamelware and ammunitions factories. UV Form

61

LSEECRITEUSRE The St Mary's Lecture Series in the Autumn and Spring
Terms give our students an early taste of university life.
Our inspiring guest speakers are invited into school to
present on a wide range of interesting topics which aim
to broaden the girls’ outlook beyond the curriculum.
The lectures are open to students, staff and the local
Calne community, creating an inclusive all-ages audience,
similar to the university experience.

Tuesday 9th October Tuesday 2nd October Tuesday 27th November
PROFESSOR LUCINDA BILLINGHAM RORY BREMNER WITH SOPHIE ELWES
Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, DR KARIN VON HIPPEL Team GB Athlete and aspiring Winter
University of Birmingham. Paralympian.‘Reigniting a Passion for Sport’
‘Changing Cancer Outcomes with Trials’ We were pleased to welcome renowned
political satirist and impressionist, Rory Following
Professor Billingham Bremner, and Dr Karin von Hippel, an enjoyably
spoke about her Director-General of The Royal United chatty supper
involvement in cancer Services Institute (RUSI). Mr Bremner with Sophie
trials and the various took on a serious role for the evening’s Elwes, which
phases that each one event, interviewing Dr von Hippel about was attended
entails. The ways in by a number of our A Level PE students and
which cancer develops her experience of working inside political Sixth Form sports teams, we gathered in
in a patient was clearly institutions and think tanks.The RUSI is the Chapel for Sophie’s talk. Hanging on her every
explained and it was fascinating to learn world’s oldest defence and security think tank word, we were absolutely enthralled by her
about the timescale of cancer detection; and she is the first woman and non-British remarkable story. At 22, having just graduated
from the first cancer cell being produced national to lead RUSI in its nearly 200 year from university, Sophie’s life was altered
in the body, it can be 10 years before the history, and only the second civilian to do so. drastically when she sustained a spinal cord
cells are detectable. She outlined the It was a fantastic evening which covered a injury after a fall, leaving her paralysed from
two most crucial developments needed in huge variety of political concepts and events. the chest down. Her life took a new direction
cancer treatment: better detection methods when, during her recovery, the charity, Back
and more effective treatments. Professor Up, suggested a Sit Ski course in America.
Billingham finished her lecture by talking
about her career pathway and delighted many ‘It was such an inspiring talk and really
teachers by saying that she uses her maths amazing to hear about such a different
skills from school every single day! side of sport,’ Amelia Hatlapa, UVI Form.

Sophie Mallinson Mrs Samantha Handy Tuesday 4th December
UVI Form Head of History and Politics DR JAMES RYAN
Russian Historian, Cardiff University.
Tuesday 16th October Tuesday 13th November
JASON LEWIS DAVID DAWSON AND TONY HACK ‘Lenin and the Bolshevik Revolution’
Author,explorer and environmentalist. Wiltshire Museum and Wiltshire
‘Lessons in Sustainability: An Explorer’s Tale’ Archaeology Field Group.
‘The Calne Fates’
Jason Lewis,
the first man to The ‘Calne Fates’ was formerly just a block of Dr Ryan’s published work focuses mainly
circumnavigate stone found within the grounds of St Mary’s on the area of political violence and the
the world relying by our Estate Bursar, but detecting it could intellectual history of Russia, looking at why
solely on human be of historical significance, he enlisted the the USSR proved to be the most violent
power, gave a help of the Wiltshire Museum, who identified and destructive state system in modern
fascinating talk it as possibly coming from an important European history during peacetime. The
about his 13-year lecture showcased Dr Ryan’s amazing, in-
trip, which included obstacles such as Roman funerary depth knowledge of Lenin as well as the
saltwater crocodiles attempting to eat his monument. It period of the Russian Revolution. Despite
canoe in Australia and life-threatening storms turned out that the the complexity of the topic, James was able to
across the Atlantic Ocean. Jason is also find was particularly break down and explain the different aspects
a sustainability campaigner, so during the significant as it is of his lecture so they were understandable. At
supper beforehand, the girls had a chance the only example of the same time, the content and delivery of his
to discuss changes being made at school, its kind discovered work was illuminating for even those whose
including the phasing out of single-use within England and one of only five throughout expertise is in Russian History - including me!
plastics. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the the Roman Empire. It was wonderful to
evening and felt inspired to make a difference hear such passionate speakers discuss this Mrs Samantha Handy
around school and at home. significant object found within our own school Head of History and Politics
grounds and the lecture was enjoyed by both
Bella Seymour the girls and many of Calne’s residents.
UVI Form
Miss Louise Cavanagh
Classics Teacher

62 Background artwork by Ivy Au-Yeung, UVI Form

News

Tuesday 15th January Tuesday 5th February Tuesday 5th March
JUSTIN WATERIDGE DR SUSANNAH CORNWALL ANNE SEBBA
Steppes Travel. Senior Lecturer, University of Exeter. Author, Presenter and Lecturer.

‘The Art of Travel’ ‘What is Queer Theology’ ‘Les Parisiennes’

Justin Wateridge, who grew up in Zambia, Dr Cornwall’s lecture gave us an insight As part of their French A Level, the girls
has visited over 80 countries in the world into issues facing the LGBTQ+ Christian have to study the theme of ‘L’Occupation,
and used his cumulated knowledge to speak community, and the ways that people have La Résistance et le régime de Vichy’ so it was
to us about his experiences and some of his sought to overcome such issues. The both fascinating and useful to hear Anne’s
favourite moments in travel, which included question of how one can be a Christian stories about women, and what happened
hunting with eagles near the Kazakh boarder and Queer is more frequently asked then to them during the Occupation of France
in Mongolia and experiencing the Gerewol I previously would have imagined. In the in 1940-1944.
Festival in Niger. He also spoke about the
Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, Kodiak Island off lecture we discussed ‘As an A Level French
the Alaskan coast and his time in Pakistan. I the different student, this lecture
know that after the lecture I, along with many meanings of the was hugely engaging.
others, were motivated to go and explore word ‘Queer’ and We learn about France
opportunities to travel! how this has during the Second World
changed over War and particularly
Rose Morley time. This was the French Occupation,
LVI Form an engaging and however, unfortunately we are unable to go
thought provoking into huge detail (as there are so many topics
Tuesday 22nd January lecture, and we to cover!) but Les Parisiennes helps to give a
ANGELA FINDLAY are enormously grateful to Dr Cornwall for more intimate insight into individuals’ lives,
Artist, Lecturer and Writer. sharing her expertise with us. It has led to specifically women.’
‘Art Behind Bars’ many interesting discussions, both in and out
of the classroom, and was a memorable and Maya Wilson
Artist,Angela Findlay, gave a fascinating insight enriching evening for all. UVI Form
into the positive role the Arts can play in the
rehabilitation of prisoners. After taking an Mr Andrew Colquhoun Tuesday 12th March
early interest in the benefits of Art Therapy, Religious Studies Teacher LIBBY JACKSON
Angela worked with inmates in Australia Human Spaceflight Expert.
and Germany, before taking on the role of Tuesday 26th February ‘Destination Flight’
Arts Coordinator at the internationally ISOBEL MUIR
recognised Koestler Trust in London. Angela Assistant to the Surveyor of The Queen’s We were delighted to welcome Libby Jackson
Pictures.‘The Royal Collection’ as our keynote speaker for British Science
spoke about her work and it was inspiring Week 2019. Libby came to our attention
to hear the positive effect Art lessons have The Royal Collection during the lead-up to Tim Peake’s trip to
had on prisoners in terms of self-confidence Trust, which the International Space Station - she was in
and as a springboard to other educational is a charitable charge of the education programme for his
programmes. Some have even gone on to organisation, looks flight, but it was not until I picked up a copy
be artists in their own right. Angela has after one of the of her book A Galaxy of Her Own did I realise
contributed to Government initiatives on largest and most the extraordinary career that she has had.
prison reform and, once she has finished important art
writing her first book, will return to this collections in the After a degree in
challenge. We wish her well! world and manages Physics and a Masters
the public opening in Space Engineering,
Mrs Kate Mastin-Lee of the official residences of Her Majesty The she worked her way
Sixth Form Lectures & Futures Coordinator Queen. Isobel gave a whistle-stop tour of the up, often as the only
history of the collection, including its early female, to working
beginnings in the 17th century, when King in Mission Control for the European Space
Charles I accumulated a hugely impressive Agency in Munich. She was an instructor, a
collection of artwork, including paintings flight controller and finally a Columbus flight
from some of the greatest early Renaissance director on missions to the International
masters, Dürer,Titian and Holbein. The Space Station. Now the programme manager
collection now comprises more than a million for Human Space Flight and Microgravity
works of art, including: paintings, sculptures, for the UK Space Agency, she had a wealth
silver, porcelain, furnishings, books, clothing of experience to share with the girls and
and even the carriages housed at the Royal delivered a very positive message about
Mews. This was a fascinating insight into the trying your hardest and giving things a go.
world of art collection management.
Mrs Alexandra Haydon
Mrs Kate Mastin-Lee Head of Science and Senior Teacher
Sixth Form Lectures & Futures Coordinator

63

News

MY AMERICAN EXCHANGE

As soon as an American exchange was
mentioned, I immediately knew that I
wanted to apply. I have extended family
in the US and, although I have only visited
Washington once before, the thought
of attending an American school and
immersing myself in American culture felt
both incredibly exciting and also, if I’m
completely honest, slightly intimidating.

Fortunately, I already knew my exchange The tallest building, They are fairly relaxed on uniform, probably
student, Amy Kight, as she had come over to the Bank of America due to the heat; I spent most of my time
the UK first. We immediately ‘clicked’ and I Plaza, dominates the in a grey skirt, white shirt and, much to my
loved showing her around London and the skyline; however, it delight, ‘sneakers’.
Cotswolds, and introducing her to my friends also feels very green.
Amy’s mother, Lora, Apart from a different slant on lessons,
from home and at school. She was also able told me later that American history was both illuminating and
to join me on the Geography field trip, which Atlanta is known frightening (I was singled out for crimes
was a great bonding experience. So, when as ‘the city in the previously committed by the British Empire!)
it came to my turn, I was excited to see her forest’, which makes and there was also a huge emphasis on all
again and also keen to meet all the friends complete sense. things ‘tech’.
she had told me so much about.
After an eight-hour flight, I landed in Atlanta School started on Sport was a big change too;American football
at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport the 14th August, and as I arrived on the 11th, and basketball dominate in the Autumn Term
and was met by the Kight family. we had a couple of days to take in the world and I was fortunate enough to be asked to
What struck me initially, apart from the famous Atlanta Aquarium and hit Walmart. referee a football game in my second week!
humidity, was the sheer scale of the place. As completely expected, my accent was a
huge hit, but it wasn’t long before I was using So, in summary - did I love it? Yes, absolutely!
the word ‘y’all’ in most conversations! The exchange experience taught me
independence and confidence in my own
The Lovett School is located in North Atlanta abilities, such as travelling alone and fitting
and is a mixed independent school for just in with a new family. It also gave me a
over 1,500 students. Their academic year different perspective on school life and
starts in August and I was entering the 11th American culture. I am very grateful for
grade, also known as the sophomore year. this opportunity and plan to revisit my new
friends in Atlanta next summer.

Daisy Gough
LV Form

64

Trips & Expeditions

DartmoorLV GEOGRAPHY FIELDWORK TRIP
The LV Geographers left school on Monday 10th June bound for Exeter.
Here, they completed the human fieldwork element of the GCSE course.

They worked in five of a distinctive we were able to see how the shape and speed of
groups to survey landscape and a the river changed as you advance downstream
how environmental formation that they from the source.’ Rosie
quality decreased must be able to
with distance from explain. We had been very fortunate to escape the
the redeveloped heavy rain during our week, until Thursday!
centre of the city. We set off for Dawlish Warren clad in our
This allowed them waterproofs and wellingtons to survey
to get to grips with the coastal defences, view the geology of
sampling techniques Langstone Rock and witness the impact of
and the use of Survey
1,2,3 a Geographical
Information Systems (GIS) app.

We then continued onto Dartmoor with a
stop at Haytor to discuss and observe the
granite formation before arriving at our
accommodation to settle in.

‘We spent four nights in a lodge at Bovey Wednesday was our longshore drift. The girls were excellent
Castle in Dartmoor. It was a lovely location river survey day, throughout the week and worked incredibly
with an amazing view of the Dartmoor hills. which formed the hard to ensure they had accurate results.
We loved the hotel, especially the swimming basis of the girls’ The follow up work we will now complete
pool and sauna! While physical fieldwork. will involve presenting and analysing the
we were there, we were We were lucky data collected before answering exam-style
responsible for cooking enough to locate the questions in preparation for the exams
our own dinners, which source of our chosen next summer.
were mostly very yummy!’’ river,The Lemon,
Rosie Graham- which was, on this ‘We are all very grateful to all the teachers
Campbell day, below Haytor. We who were able to make this trip possible and
surveyed three sites made this school trip one of the best which
The next day, we visited before returning to we have ever been on. A special shout out to
Boscastle which is the collate the results and Miss Aherne who was the best lodge teacher -
location of one of the discuss our findings. especially when we almost poisoned her with
GCSE case studies. our revolting tofu!’ Rosie
It was great for the ‘I found the geography work was really
girls to see this small interesting and one of my favourite days was Miss Sarah Wright
former fishing village noting down the results from different courses of Geography Teacher
first hand. Survey 1,2,3 allowed them to the river. I found this particularly interesting as
locate the flood defences established since
the devastating flood and assess how these
have improved the area's chances of escaping
such a disaster again. This was followed
by a walk at Lydford Gorge, an example

65

Sports Reports

SHARING THE LOVE OF SPORT

Whilst we have enjoyed our own sport this year, we can be equally proud that we
have given generously of our time, resources, energy and position of privilege to
allow others to enjoy and grow through sport.

In October, we hosted the girls from the (both LVI) also travelled out to Our U12
OSCAR Foundation Football team from India Canada to play for England B in Lacrosse Team
on their #kicklikeagirl UK Tour. The USA a Festival Tournament alongside won the South
Lacrosse Tour team sponsored a Kenyan the main World Cup competition. West Schools
player to get to the U19 World Cup while, With several younger players Lacrosse
closer to home, our LV Sports Leaders on the National and Regional Tournament, for
organised an Athletics Festival for local Pathway, I have no doubt that this the third time
primary schools and, throughout the year, strong and growing tradition of international in five years, while our U14 Hockey Team
girls have assisted with PE lessons and team representation will continue to flourish. enjoyed qualifying for the West Finals for the
practice at St Margaret’s. second year running, beating Dauntsey’s in
In Cross Country, three girls - Lucy the finals of the County Tournament. Our
Fitzpatrick (LVI) Susannah Hirst and Lara U13 4 x 25m Medley Relay Team won Gold
Smyth-Osbourne (both UV) - represented at the Independent Schools Swimming Relays
Wiltshire at the National Cross Country competition and swimming records tumbled
Championships in Leeds, while Dora West at Millfield, in the ESSA Relays, and our strong
(LIV) showed her potential when she won team spirit shone through.
the Minors Area and County Cross Country
Championships. On the tennis court, team selection becomes
harder than ever, enjoying considerable depth
Sharing a love of sport and the generous Our Equestrian Team had a very impressive of talent. At full strength, we can compete
giving of time and energy has been of growing year with 11 Team and Individual qualifications with the very best of school teams. Our
importance to many of the girls; clearly to the National Schools NSEA championships Cricket programme developed further and
influenced by the hugely enthusiastic and in Addington last October. Lila Bremner (UV) we played our first ever home badminton
committed outgoing UVI. Throughout their and Lappi continuing to prove themselves match in the Simon Knight Sports Hall - and
time at St Mary’s, this year group has been a at the highest level, representing GB in the won, of course!
real source of talent and force for good across Nations Cup and
all the sports. Under the passionate leadership winning Gold in At our Sports Presentation Dinner
of Amelia Hatlapa (Head of Sport), 21 UVI have Belgium, and Lily in April, we welcomed Sarah
continued to represent the school in their final Ryder (UV) was Bern, England Rugby’s promising
year. With a wonderful sense of camaraderie, selected for the U18 young prop forward to present
they have supported, inspired and encouraged South West winning the awards. After an inspiring talk
each other, and I thank them for their BE Eventing Team. about her personal challenges and
enormous and generous contribution. journey to the Six Nations, we
As teams, St Mary’s recognised our own Individual
Across the school, we have also enjoyed continue to be more Players of the Year and Most
another year of varied and high-level individual than competitive. Our 1st Netball VII has Improved in each age group in every sport.
sporting achievement. It was exciting to have arguably never been as strong; qualifying for
our first U19 World Cup Lacrosse player in the South West Regional Finals in January Mrs Heidi Marvin
Caroline Brenchley (UVI), co-vice captain for for the first time in memory. The U15 Track Director of Sport
Wales. Three other England players - Amelia and Field Team qualified for regional finals,
Hatlapa (UVI),Annabel Fenton and Ella Malik finishing as runners-up (ahead of Downe
House and Canford).

JUNIOR JEMIMA RUNDELL JUNIOR SPORTSMANSHIP FARLEY PFITZNER OUTSTANDING JUNIOR LILY MALLINSON
ENDEAVOUR AWARD INTERMEDIATE SUSANNAH HIRST OUTSTANDING ELIZABETH RUTHERFORD
INTERMEDIATE FENELLA CHALLINOR SPORTSMANSHIP FLORA GUY INTERMEDIATE ELLA MALIK
ENDEAVOUR AWARD TATIANA PARR AND SENIOR SPORTSMANSHIP OUTSTANDING SENIOR
SENIOR GEORGINA MCLINTOCK
ENDEAVOUR AWARD

66

Sports Reports

EQUESTRIAN

There are 45 girls from across the school to test both horse and rider. It was a Windsor Horse Show is set with the
who are members of the St Mary’s fantastic day with the girls producing fabulous backdrop of Windsor Castle, so it would be
Equestrian Club. In recent years, riding rounds, but with the odd pole down we were easy to get distracted from the competition.
at St Mary’s has gone from strength to out of the top placings. The girls, however, were true professionals,
strength and it is open to anyone, no
matter what level they are. The emphasis Lila Bremner had qualified for the especially as they were
is on the girls enjoying their experiences 1.10 individual championship on drawn the third team to
with horses and ponies alongside both of her ponies, Lady and Lappi. jump from over 30 teams.
developing their riding potential, whether Lila’s young pony Lappi produced a Every team member jumped
it be through riding lessons or competition. fantastic round to finish in 2nd place just 0.2 a foot perfect clear round
seconds behind the winner. Lila went on to and we held the lead for
Throughout the school year, St Mary’s is win the hotly contested 1.20 Elite class on over three hours with just
represented at the majority of the NSEA Lady with Lappi also finishing in 3rd place. the final three teams pushing
(National Schools Equestrian Games) us to 4th place. It was a
and SEG (Schools Equestrian Games) Alice Gates also rode fantastically well and fantastic result and a true
competitions that are held in our area in won the 90/95cm Hickstead Arena Eventing highlight of the school year.
Show Jumping, Eventing and Dressage. Qualifier at West Wilts in January, Alice then
went on to compete at the Championships at HICKSTEAD NSEA
NSEA CHAMPIONSHIPS, OCTOBER Hickstead in the May Half Term to finish 4th in SHOW JUMPING, JUNE
The NSEA championships took place at a very competitive Championship Class. Over the summer holidays, Hickstead runs a
Keysoe Equestrian Centre in Bedfordshire. school jumping competition which gives the
The qualifying places for the Championships girls the opportunity to jump in the famous
are always are hotly contested so it is an International Arena at the All England Jumping
achievement in itself to be awarded with the Ground. It’s a long drive to Hickstead but
chance to compete. well worth it when you get there as it is one
of the most beautiful competition venues in
the country.

Our team of Alice Gates, Lily Ergatoudis, WINDSOR SHOW JUMPING, MAY Lots of teams take part and only the top ten
Millie Wakeham and Tilly Moore represented Just before Christmas, Emily Lavelle,Tilly teams go through to jump in the International
St Mary’s in the 90/95cm JwS class. It was a Moore, Bea Peeters and Lily Ergatoudis Arena to compete for the title. The team of
tough technical track that was really going competed at West Wilts for a chance to Alice Gates, Emily Lavelle, Lottie Royle and
compete at Windsor. There were only two Pippa Royle narrowly missed out on a top ten
team spaces on offer to compete at the finish after a nail-biting jump off round.
prestigious Windsor International Horse
Show and the girls successfully secured one Miss Kerry Emms
of the golden tickets. Equestrian Co-ordinator

LILA FOR TEAM GB!

Lila Bremner was part of the GB European Pony Show
Jumping Team that won a Silver medal this summer at
the Pony European Championships that took place in
Strzegom, Poland.  Lila has competed very successfully
for the St Mary’s Equestrian Teams, winning several
national school titles before earning her place on the
British Pony Team.  Congratulations Lila!

67

Sports Reports

antahdpwge,oraio2tnbVhg0yoirc1vaeat8eonsh-sdra2u,yl0gcld,e1oaee9nmsandpmjlmoaatcoiyrirrtmuimouanemsletosnnpenotth;gf ,
season had it all!

From the start of the season, it was clear They relished a match against the 1st XII (LEH) and Berkhamsted, but just missed out
how much talent and potential the 1st XII in training, which grew their determination on a quarter-final place on goal average, with
possessed; regularly playing fluent, skillful to succeed and ability to excel when Millie Wakeham kindly stepping in, and up, to
and outstanding lacrosse, which was a joy to under pressure. play in goal.
watch. Results were impressive, however, the
two major tournaments left us feeling like The strength and depth of the UVI this year It is increasingly hard to find sufficient
we had fallen short. Runners-up at the South resulted in a very decent 3rd XII, full of rising matches for our very competitive 4th
West Schools Lacrosse Tournament, having U15A Team players. With Olivia Ekins and Team, but the squad enjoyed six fixtures,
beaten the winners in the opening match, Celia Ellis (UVI) leading the way, we lost to culminating in a fantastic performance to beat
and losing our last 16 knockout match on only two 3rd Teams all year, with the majority Downe House, 9-2, to finish the season.
the second day at National Schools Lacrosse of fixtures against 2nd and even 1st Teams
Championships, 0-1, to Benenden, who we from other schools. Excitingly, this season At a time where most schools start
had beaten convincingly earlier in the season, saw the first official National Schools for 3rd specialising in one sport, our teams always
was not the game plan. Teams and, with only the top lacrosse schools have to step up a level when they reach
represented, it was going to be tough. On U15. Blessed with a huge amount of speed
The 2nd XII enjoyed a wealth of UVI the day, we turned around our earlier defeat in the midfield and growing in individual
experience and camaraderie within the team. to Wycombe Abbey, beat Lady Eleanor Hollis and collective confidence, the U15A Team
County Champions, Runners-up in the South started and ended the season in fine style;
West and one of the top eight schools in winners of the County Tournament in
the quarter-finals at the National Schools September and bringing home the trophy
Lacrosse Championship, the 2nd XII should from the Marlborough Invitational in March.
feel very proud of their achievements In between, there was a lot of determination
this season. and effort and, although results and
performances varied, skills and understanding
have clearly developed.

68

The U15Bs were a sizeable team of and the LEH goal It was not long before we recognised the
committed and loyal players. Enjoyment keeper cleared the promising strength and depth of sporting
and support for each other was clear and, ball and LEH ended talent within the U12s, coupled with a decent
under the positive influence of captain Lydia up scoring to advance amount of tenacity and grit. In their opening
Metaxa, they had a tough season in terms of to the semi-finals. fixture, the Joker Draw Tournament, we
results, but these were offset by consistent This was not what the beat St Paul’s, 4-3, in the semi-final before
effort and huge team deserved after such a overcoming a physical and skilful Claremont
progress. promising day of play and, team, 3-2, in the final to win the trophy.
indeed, season. Unbeaten in school matches, our hopes were
Downe House building for the South West Schools Lacrosse
has been the The U14Bs gelled well from Tournament at the end of the season. After
U14A’s nemesis the outset, combining raw, a nervous start, we enjoyed an unbeaten
for the last athletic talent with some day, narrowly beating Downe House, 1-0, in
three years. So steady, level-headed lacrosse experience, the semi-final and Queen Anne’s, 3-2, after
after our two earning some very commendable results. It extra time and on golden goal. Excitingly,
9-10 defeats this took three weeks of defeats, as the majority they showed that they have the nerve and
season, a last 16 of the team were new to lacrosse, before determination to perform when it matters and
knockout match they quickly picked up the basic skills and fully deserved being South West Champions.
against Downe started to take advantage of natural speed
House at National Schools could not have With the strength of our lacrosse looking
been more inevitable and nail-biting, but and agility, beating good across all age groups, we continue to
made all the more potent when we won Wycombe Abbey, build our momentum and compete with the
2-1! The players then had a tough lesson Downe House very best. This certainly would not have been
in the quarter-final against LEH. After a 3-3 and St Helen possible without the support and experience
draw, and with extra time, the match went to and St Katharine, of the coaches, enthusiasm of the captains,
golden goal. Captain, Lily Mallinson, shot and amongst others. determination of all the players and, of course,
a few players saw the ball go over the line; Next season’s the loyalty of our parents. We are sincerely
however, it was missed by the umpires U15 Team thankful for our impressive parental support;
selection will be from fixture commitment, transport to camps,
very competitive. Regional and National Academy training in the
holidays, to fantastic food supplies and support
With a few new at matches and tournaments.
additions to the
U13s, it took a while to settle and work out Mrs Heidi Marvin
our best line-up. A clear abundance of speed, Director of Sport
athleticism and versatility, demonstrated real
potential. Huge progress was made in terms of
individual skill, whether a goal keeper, defender
or attacker. We now have to work better as
a team so the girls can make the most of each
other’s strengths.

69

Sports Reports

REPRESENTATIVE HONOURS 2018-2019

U19 WALES U19 ENGLAND U17 REGIONAL U15 REGIONAL
WORLD CUP SQUAD NATIONAL ACADEMY ACADEMY ACADEMY

Caroline Brenchley Annabel Fenton Fenella Challinor Amy Bolton
Amelia Hatlapa Susannah Hirst Rosie Craven
Belinda Harrison Elizabeth Rutherford Eva-Rose Ferguson
Ella Malik Eloise Franks
Tessa Harrison
Harriet Hillman
Lily Mallinson
Rose Strutt

COLOURS INTERMEDIATE JUNIOR

SENIOR Amy Bolton Lucy Crone
Rosie Craven Sadie Enthoven
FULL Saskia Darling Alice Gates
Caroline Brenchley Sandy Du Tessa Harrison
Hebe Edgar Josephine Newcombe Leah Hosten-Silva
Bella Fane Daisy James Lily Mallinson
Annabel Fenton Rose Strutt Phoebe Matten
Annabel Gouriet Daniella Okunbor
Flora Guy Amalie Olsoff
Amelia Hatlapa Celeste Olsoff
Harriet Jackson Farley Pfitzner
Camilla Lewin Martha Rowell
Ella Malik Jemima Rundell
Georgina McLintock
Tatiana Parr
Sylvia Rutherford
Emily Smyth-Osbourne
Charka Stout

HALF
Hannah Barber
Effie Dollar
Olivia Ekins
Celia Ellis
Sophie Mallinson
Bella Seymour
Bella Sharp

70

Sports Reports

SWFOIRMSHMIEILNDSG!

It’s been a very successful year All the schools enjoyed wins throughout and Georgina Bartlett – Freestyle, finished
for St Mary’s swimmers, finishing the event and nobody knew what the final in a tight 4th place which, considering their
with our best-ever results at the outcome was going to be – the points young years in this competitive age group,
Independent Boarding Schools had to be counted twice just to make was excellent.
Swimming Relays! sure! We were delighted when the final
announcement was made; St Mary’s were The next races were the Freestyle Relays. 
The Junior Squad has been named as winners in both age groups! The U13s fought hard but were pipped at
incredibly strong with a large the finish by Wycombe Abbey.  The U15s
selection of keen and talented INDEPENDENT BOARDING gave a strong performance and finished
pupils from both LIV and MIV. SCHOOLS SWIMMING RELAYS in 3rd place, just behind Wycombe Abbey
All these girls are capable of Our success continued at the Independent and Cheltenham LC.  It was another
competing in any event, which Boarding Schools Swimming Relays agonisingly close 4th place finish for the
has added great depth to the Competition, held at Downe House Seniors team, this time with Fenella
team and has allowed St Mary’s School in May, where we achieved our Challinor swimming in place of Jenna.
to swim three competitive teams best-ever results.
against other schools in home galas. There were some truly outstanding swims
With 15 schools competing, we knew throughout the event, with the girls
The Intermediate Squad also had an it would be a tough competition.  The posting some very fast times.  After a nail-
excellent year, perhaps not in the number overall result would be decided by the biting wait, the results were announced. 
of swimmers, but certainly in talent. age groups collated points, and our girls We are now the proud recipients of the
did not disappoint! Winners Shield!  Since 2000, the shield
The Senior Squad have worked hard has only been won by Downe House,
to keep improving, staying dedicated The U13 team were first up in the Wycombe Abbey and Cheltenham LC so,
to training even with their ever 4 x 25m Medley Relay with the team of understandably, we are very proud of the
increasing study commitments. They Harriet Hillman - Backstroke, Eva-Rose girls.  Happy girls, ecstatic coaches!
have set an excellent example to the Ferguson - Breaststroke, Brianna Tang
younger swimmers. - Butterfly and Belle Chang – Freestyle, COLOURS
who won by two seconds! Juniors
There have been numerous achievements Mimi Bracegirdle, Belle Chang,
in 2018/19, both individually and as a Continuing the winning streak were the Eva-Rose Ferguson, Harriet Hillman,
team. The girls will have to continue U15s 4 x 50m Medley Relay swimmers, Ashley Lam, Brianna Tang.
training hard to improve on this year’s Sophie Kitson - Backstroke, India Boyd -
successes and, hopefully, the winning Breaststroke, Ashley Lam - Butterfly and Intermediate
streak will continue into next year. Dawn Chang, who stood in last minute Georgina Bartlett, Lily Bryant, India Boyd,
and had a super swim in the Freestyle. Fenella Challinor, Jenna Dickin, Isabella
WINTER SWIM MEET Fielden-Page, Gwen Fournier,
In January, the U12 and U14 Swim Teams Daisy James, Susannah Hirst, Lizzie
were invited to Downe House for a Winter Roughton and Lara Smyth-Osbourne.
Swim Meet, competing against Downe
House, St Swithun’s and Queen Anne’s. Individual Summer Term Trophies
The Riley Cup for the most improved
swimmer: Bea Fox

The Jane Barlee Cup for commitment to
and excellence in swimming throughout
the year: Ashley Lam

Congratulations to all girls that are a part
of St Mary’s swimming!

Both our teams gave their all in their The Senior Medley Team of Isabella Ms Nicola Harris
individual and relay races, with some Fielden-Page - Backstroke, Jenna Dickin - Swimming Coach
exceptionally close finishes. Breaststroke, Lizzie Roughton - Butterfly

71

Hockey

wH1io0thc0k1fei5xytthuearaEesmnsc,gsoalannsnttdeidnptuHwpeioondcgttkeooeauymgtoNsafanprtdoeiomrrfneoapsrltmrrCeeisnunegpgntatchitontrgmoetgpshietoertneistanicolghnlteoh.voetlhliinisnoytevhaeerr,

For the first time, we have also been The U13s worked hard from A-C Team,
able to introduce indoor hockey to competing against a wide range of
the PE programme, thanks to the new schools. All teams had strong fixtures
Simon Knight Sports Hall. Indoor against Bruton School for Girls and
hockey has provided girls with the U13 A and Bs produced strong results
opportunity to develop their skills in against Warminster.
a fast-paced, all-weather environment,
which has helped their skills to flourish. The U14s took the jump up to 11
aside, after the A Team stepped up to
regional performance, and saw many
girls picking up a hockey stick for the
first time. Focused and determined to
learn new skills, the U14s were able
to push themselves and their hockey
to the next level; tactical awareness,
aerial skills and short corner routines
developed by students, took precedent
over traditional styles of play.

ENGLAND HOCKEY programme, they played close games
NATIONAL CUP against Sherborne and Bryanston, which

The U14s took the county went into extra time
qualifiers by storm, with a fast- and, impressively, they
paced games against Dauntsey’s did not give up until
and Marlborough College, and the final whistle.
winning against Dauntsey’s
to qualify for the next stage, JUNIORS
which was an impressive feat
for a team that had never Our Juniors
played together before. They went through competed in full
to the regionals where they faced fierce force this year, with
competition and, although they didn’t make every single student
it through to the area competition, it was a in LIV representing the school and over
fantastic learning experience for the team. 25 students representing the MIV. Right
from the start, the U12s worked hard
The U16s took part in the new style to develop their skill set. A strong year
cup competition. Entering into a Tier 2 group, the U12As won all their fixtures,
competition, which provided the opportunity with impressive wins against Pinewood
to play schools outside of our normal fixture and Warminster, and a 2nd placing in the
U13B Team Farleigh Tournament, only
just losing in a close game against Farleigh.

72

Sports Reports

INTERS MT13 Hockey is moving away from traditional
coaching styles and the girls’ response to the
The U15s and U16s trained The U15 and new modern approach was spectacular to
as one group this year, U16 squad had a see, with every girl visibly improving within
creating a competitive brilliant training the session.
atmosphere which pushed all session with Matt
students to the top of their Taylor from the Miss Sorcha Brivio-Stone
game. The U16s provided hockey company Teacher of PE
entertaining fixtures, although MT13. Matt boasts
a tough season for the girls on a brilliant set of
results alone. The standard of credentials, most
play and the creativity shown notably 19 caps at
was second to none, with international level
dangerous attacks putting the opposition for Great Britain. Matt spent the afternoon
under pressure at all times. The U15s have developing the girls
continued to develop their style of play ‘first touch’, an
as a team, with defence improving their essential skill, as well
communication and support of attacking as creating game-like
drives. Midfield and attack have shone when scenarios for the
trying to create goal scoring opportunities girls to solve.
with many being executed.

Sddetrhrhnoioioivvcociiikrnknnsesgegypyhiffrapooperrvrrcoecoaegegnrcrdafofaonmomrbrtmmienteteuh,ha. eeed

SENIORS

Seniors have continued to inspire and be a
driving force for the hockey programme, with
all girls working hard both in the sports hall
and on the astro. Having the indoor sports
hall has provided a brilliant training space for
the girls, benefiting both technique and pace,
resulting in a noticeable change in the Seniors’
style of play. A fast-paced attacking team,
the 1st Team created brilliant opportunities
for themselves, noticeably a 3-3 draw against
Downe House and a 4-0 win over Sheldon.

73

Sports Reports

Cross Country continues to be one of County Championships of runners and saw our
our most successful sports, with a large in January. In addition, athletes competing against
number of girls representing the School, the Inter Girls and the best in England; their
Area and County. Junior Girls Teams both resulting performances were
achieved 1st placings commendable in, what were,
The 2018/19 season saw significant success and the Minor Girls very challenging conditions.
for both our teams and individuals. The year Team finished 2nd
commenced in September with the Inter out of eight schools. It is a real pleasure to see so
Company competition where the Junior Girls At the County many St Mary’s runners training
put in some very impressive performances. Championships, hard, enjoying their sport and
At the popular Leweston Girls Cross we had some significant success, with one competing in a broad range
Country Relay meet, we are now considered Area Champion, two runners-up and three of events across the season. The training
serious opposition. Amongst a very large additional podium finishes with six girls sessions have been led by a highly experienced
field of schools from around the South West, gaining selection to compete for Wiltshire. coaching team and a number of girls are now
our continued success was exciting, with the Unfortunately, the South West Championships, following personalised programmes which
Inter Girls Team finishing 2nd and the Junior which was to be held at Bath Racecourse, will allow them to build on their individual
Girls Team coming in at 4th – which were were cancelled due to significant snowfall. successes. We look forward to continuing to
fantastic results. grow and develop our programme and talent
The highlight of the season was the ESAA over the coming years.
18 girls competed at the Area Trials with 13 National Cross Country Finals in Leeds.
of these qualifying to compete at the WSAA This testing course attracted a large field

ESAA Cross Country
Schools Cup 2018

74

a“Sreomsteonseessas,niboduntws ieanrbtuehiseltdaenurdpsotanhnetdyhesamorm.e”easlelsrsoiocnkss

Inter Company Cross Country Chrissie Wellington, OBE and four-time Ironman World Champion
LIV - 1st - Dora West,

2nd - Amira Ivankova, 3rd - Ruby Guy

MIV - 1st - Eva-Rose Ferguson, Leweston Relays

2nd - Helena Stahl, 3rd - Alanah Keane Junior Girls

UIV - 1st - Lara Marsh, 2nd - Lily Mallinson, Runner 1: Eva-Rose Ferguson

3rd - Jemima Rundell 10.28.0 - 25th overall

Winning Company – Grosstête Runner 2: Helena Stahl

10.47.6 - 34th overall

ESAA Cross Country Schools Cup 2018 Runner 3: Dora West

Round 1, Laverstock Campus 10.00.1 - 10th overall

Junior Girls Runner 4: Harriet Hillman
6th - Eva-Rose Ferguson, 10th - Dora West, 10.03.6 - 13th overall
27th - Helena Stahl, 29th - Lucy de Rin, Team Result: 4th

35th - Ruby Guy, 39th - Amira Ivankova

Team Result: 4th/6 Schools

Inter Girls WSAA County Cross Country
5th - Lara Marsh, 14th - Lily Mallinson, Championships, Sheldon School
16th - Jemima Rundell, 20th - India Boyd,
27th - Olivia Clark, 32nd - Rosie Craven. Minor Girls
Team Result: 3rd/6 Schools 1st - Dora West

WSAA North Wiltshire Area Junior Girls
Cross Country Championships, 12th - Lily Mallinson, 13th - Harriet Hillman
Grittleton House

Minor Girls Inter Girls Inter Girls
1st - Dora West, 7th - Honor Bell, Runner 1: Fenella Challinor 3rd - Susannah Hirst,
15th - Alice du Roy de Blicquy, 9.44.38 - 10th overall 6th - Lara Smyth-Osbourne,
20th - Amira Ivankova, Runner 2: Lara Smyth-Osbourne 9th - Fenella Challinor
25th - Ruby Guy, 31st - Claire Dodd, 9.34.85 - 8th overall
32nd - Isabel Reis Runner 3: Lara Marsh Senior Girls
10.22.44 - 26th overall 2nd - Caroline Brenchley, 3rd - Lucy Fitzpatrick
Runner 4: Susannah Hirst
9.20.14 - 5th overall To represent Wiltshire at the South
Team Result: 2nd West Schools and English Schools
Cross Country
Junior Girls Caroline Brenchley, Fenella Challinor,
2nd - Lily Mallinson, 4th - Lara Marsh, Lucy Fitzpatrick, Susannah Hirst and
5th - Harriet Hillman, Lara Smyth-Osbourne.
11th - Eva-Rose Ferguson, 14th - Helena Stahl,
15th - Olivia Clark, 23rd - Amy Sneller, ESAA National Cross Country
45th - India Campbell Finals, Leeds

Inter Girls Inter Girls
2nd - Susannah Hirst, 3rd - Lara Smyth-Osbourne, 152nd - Lara Smyth-Osbourne,
5th - Fenella Challinor, 7th- Indie Boyd, 192nd - Susannah Hirst
9th - Rose Strutt, 21st - Rosie Craven
Senior Girls
184th - Lucy Fitzpatrick

Congratulations to all those who have
trained and competed this season.

Mrs Caroline Heathorn
PE Teacher

75

TennisA Top Week of

During the first week of the Easter Holidays,
16 girls travelled to Palma to start pre-season
tennis training at Vilas Tennis Academy.

We stayed in a different hotel this year and the competed for the infamous Milka Cup, which has
facilities were amazing! We had the choice of now become a serious tradition of the trip. The
enjoying the beautiful infinity pool, awesome winners this year were Rose Strutt and Talitha
jacuzzi or sauna and steam rooms after a hot Powell, Miss Setterington and Josh B, Rosie
afternoon session of tennis training on the clay Graham-Campbell and Chloe Wright-Haynie
courts. What a perfect way to relax! and finally, Lily Mallinson and Farley Fitzner.
There was a lot of chocolate to be eaten!
The girls were split into groups of four and had
one coach between them. Once the girls had got We also had a mass game of 'Around the World'
used to playing on clay, they were on fire! The and the overall champion was Isabella Donaldon;
day was split into morning and afternoon sessions, she managed to hold her nerve and hit the
with each session focusing on different aspects of winning shot.
the game. For the last hour of each day, the girls

76

Sports Reports

After every session we walked past the ice for lunch and had the chance to see the U14
cream parlour and the biggest decision of the European Cup Competition that was being
day would be what flavour to choose! hosted by Vilas. There were some amazing
players from all over Europe and they were an
At night time, the girls played cricket on the inspiration to watch. It was a fabulous week of
beach and one night we watched a Flamenco non-stop tennis and it was exciting to see how
dancing display at the hotel, which was both much the girls improved over the intensive
fascinating and hypnotising. week of training.

On the final day, we ventured into Palma Mrs Natalie Baldwin
on the local bus and had a cultural and shopping Head of Extra-Curricular Activities
experience. We returned to the tennis centre and PE Teacher

77

NETBFAELVELR!

After England won a tightly full-size court in the strong Marlborough
fought Gold medal at the 2018 worst of weather College team in an
Commonwealth Games, it was has ensured exciting, tight, fast
fitting that Liverpool was to continuity of paced game.
host the Netball World Cup. training. In addition,
Netball fever took over the 1st Team matches Not to be outdone,
city; the match atmosphere can be played the 2nd VII won
and the netball played was indoors, enabling a five of their eight
truly outstanding and the faster, more skilled matches with some
camaraderie was magic! game that is less particularly strong
influenced by the defence play. The
elements. 3rd VII, with so many
new combinations,
SENIOR NETBALL – ELITE took a little longer to settle and develop
that cohesive team play, but they worked
The new season began with 35 Sixth Form to develop their skills and game play which,
girls attending Senior netball trials. We ultimately, gave them the edge in two of
were delighted to see so many talented their first five matches. The second half of
and enthusiastic girls keen to play, but the season was always going to be more
it undoubtedly presented us with some demanding, but the standard and quality
extremely difficult decisions in the initial of the netball that the teams were now
selection process. We ran three Senior playing had certainly risen, revealing the
squads, who across the season played 39 progress players had made
matches and scored a total of 808 goals. in developing their individual
This was, undeniably, an able skills alongside their tactical
and team play. Games were
Netball is fast becoming one of the group, prepared to extremely fast plus physically
nation’s most popular sports with work hard at their and mentally demanding.
more than 1.4 million women and netball and the
girls taking to the court each season. teams had some It was undoubtedly
Media coverage undoubtedly assists early success before frustrating if a game was
the growth of any sport, and now Christmas. The 1st lost, but whether a loss
that Sky and the BBC broadcast the Team beat Downe or a win, it was a pleasure to see the
game, netball can be viewed in homes across House in a close first match and followed level of netball being played by all three
the country. Of course, at St Mary’s we are that with wins against South Wilts Grammar teams, which at times was outstanding.
doing our part to encourage participation School for Girls (SWGS), Dauntsey’s and Undoubtedly the icing on the cake this
with the hope that the skills developed, and Cheltenham Ladies College (CLC). In season was the success of the 1st VII at
the fun and enjoyment derived, will promote addition, they lost by just two goals to a the County Tournament where they
participation long into the future. finished 2nd. For the first time, St Mary’s
qualified for the South West Regional
More girls than ever are playing in teams, Tournament in the U19 age group.
with more than 185 girls involved in matches
this year. The new Sports Hall has been an It was a baptism of fire when we played
incredibly valuable asset. We may be a hardy in Bournemouth but more importantly it
bunch, but the ability to train inside on a revealed how close we now are in our ability
to match some of the best school and college
teams in the region.

78

Sports Reports

U16 & U15 NETBALL – JUNIOR NETBALL – DEVELOPMENT at the top of their prep schools. All four
PERFORMANCE teams worked to improve their skills and
The U14, U13 & U12 Teams have worked match play and their progress was evident.
The U16 Teams had a disrupted determinedly this season to develop their There were some notable successes,
season of netball with a number skills and enhance their match play. With
of matches cancelled, which 13 teams playing across three age groups, particularly for the U13B Team who won
was very frustrating. They are it was wonderful to see so many girls six of their eight matches, including games
an able group of players and involved. It was particularly pleasing to see against Farleigh, Pinewood, Prior Park and
the loss of fixtures did have an girls who have never played netball enhance Dauntsey’s. The U12 Teams made a very
impact. They had some very their skills, ultimately matching and, in some pleasing start this season. They are a keen
pleasing wins but also some disappointing cases, challenging those more experienced and competitive year group with a real desire
losses in matches where they knew they players. The U14 age group had tremendous to learn and develop their skills, which is
should have come out on top. depth of talent throughout the year. The excellent. All four teams made significant
five teams played 32 matches and won 22 progress with only the U12A Team losing
A lack of match practice meant they were of them. Of note was the success against one match.
not being able to fully develop the necessary Sherborne where we won four matches Mrs Sally Hornby
strategies essential in a competitive situation. and drew. During a busy season, the U14B Head of Netball
Their enthusiasm for the game, however, was
undaunted and the U16A and U16B Teams
each went on to win four of their six games.
The U16A also competed in the County
Tournament where they finished 5th/8 teams. It
was a particularly busy season for the four U15
Netball Teams. They played 29 matches in total
and teams competed in both the Area and
County Tournaments. There was a high level
of netball played and some pleasing results,
particularly for the U15A Team who won six
and drew one of their 10 matches, and the
U15B Team who won six of their nine matches.

In addition, the U15B Team finished 1st in and U14C Teams only lost one match and
their Area Tournament with the U15C the U14A Team won the North Wiltshire
Team finishing 3rd. The U15A Team had a Area Tournament, qualifying for the County
significantly disruptive lead into their Area Tournament where they finished 4th. There
Tournament with injuries galore. This meant were mixed fortunes for the U13 squads
positional and player changes, including with some tough matches against teams
the call up of two players from the U14
Team. Despite the changes, the team played
extremely well to finish 2nd, qualifying for
the School Games. Here they met some
strong competition from around the County
but played some excellent netball to make
it through to the semi-finals and eventually
finished 4th.

TEAM CAPTAIN MOST IMPROVED PLAYER OF
PLAYER THE YEAR
1st VII Arabella Fane Arabella Fane Maisie Medcalf
Caroline Brenchley
2nd VII Amelia Jardine-Paterson Flora Guy
3rd VII Hannah Barber Momo Adebayo Grace Oge-Evans
U16A Flo de Selliers de Moranville Flo de Selliers de Moranville
U15A Rose Strutt Georgina Auvray Rose Strutt
U14A Amelia Hicks Lily Mallinson
U13A Laura Edwards Nell Boobbyer Laura Edwards
U12A Dora West Dora West
India Boyd

Rose Byng

Brianna Tang

Claire Dodd

79

ATHLETICS

The word athletics derives and developing mental strength is something win at the early Marlborough College Meet
St Mary's athletes have been focusing on and excellent individual performances at
from the Ancient Greek throughout the Summer Term. the County Championships. The talent of
ἀθλητής (athlētēs, ‘combatant our Senior Girls means we now have some
in public games’) In training, whether it be in a timetabled lesson significant role models for younger athletes
or team practice, our athletes have been who have been able to witness some stand
To some, it would appear that Athletics is working hard to raise their level of fitness, out performances.
an easy and natural activity that requires develop their event specific technique and
you to simply run, jump and throw; skills ultimately improve performance in competition. It has been extremely pleasing to see the positive
which are in essence a part of life from our progress and witness each individual’s capacity
earliest years. The reality, however, is it There have been inevitable ups and downs to grow and develop as an athlete.
requires far more than these simple skills but, with an increasing number of girls
to become a good athlete. High performing training, our individual and team success at To all our athletes - congratulations
athletes require physical strength, power, high level competitions continues to improve. on an excellent season!
endurance, speed, coordination, agility and Notable achievements included the Inter
great mental strength; fine tuning these skills Girls 2nd place at the Regional Round of the Mrs Sally Hornby
ESAA Track and Field Cup, the Junior Team Head of Athletics

80

Sports Reports

FRIENDLY MEETS ESAA TRACK AND FIELD SW Regional B Final
Event 1 - Marlborough 10 Schools Meet: CHAMPIONSHIPS 2019 The Inter Girls Team
Senior Girls - 4th, Inter Girls - 3rd, Junior Girls - 1st qualified to compete
Event 2 - Dauntsey’s 6 Schools May Meet: North Wiltshire Area Trials at the Regional B
U14 Team - 1st, U13 Team - 3rd, U12 Team - 3rd 31 St Mary’s athletes competed at Final held at Down
Event 3 - Sheldon: U14/U13 Team - 2nd the North Wiltshire Area Athletics Grange Athletics
Event 4 - Dauntsey’s 6 Schools Meet: Trials with 20 girls successfully Track Basingstoke. They finished 2nd with 329pts,
Inter Girls - 4th securing a place to represent North Wiltshire just behind St Bartholomew’s School who won
Event 5 - Kingswood: U13/U12 Team - 2nd at the WSAA County Championships. with 336pts. A very pleasing result and our highest
Event 6 - Dauntsey’s June Jamboree 5 Schools in this competition. Individual athletes scoring 20
Meet: Junior Girls - 2nd, Minor Girls - 2nd WSAA County Championships or more points included India Boyd (24pts, 200m),
With 20 athletes competing at the County Jemima Rundell (20pts, Shot) and Rose Strutt (27
ESAA COMBINED EVENT Championships, St Mary’s was well represented points, Javelin).
CHAMPIONSHIPS 2019 across both Track and Field events. There were some
excellent individual performances and many PB’s on COLOURS
WSAA County Pentathlon & Quadrathlon the day. Most notable performances included: Junior
Rose Byng
Year 7 Results Senior Girls Eva-Rose Ferguson
Team - A Team - 1st, B Team - 7th Hum Hunt-Davis - 400m - 2nd Harriet Hillman
Leah Hosten-Silva
Individual Quadrathlon Results: Inter Girls Tallulah Mackenzie Smith
Dora West - 1st, Claire Dodd - 4th, Ruby Guy - 9th, India Boyd - 200m - 3rd, Long Jump - 4th Lily Mallinson
Isabel Reis - 12th, Emily Scrimgeour - 17th, Rosie Craven - 300m - 3rd Lara Marsh
Libby Graham-Campbell - 20th Saskia Darling - High Jump - 2nd Farley Pfitzner
Daisy James - Triple Jump - 1st Jemima Rundell
Year 8 Results Grace Oge-Evans - Shot - 3rd
Team - A Team - 1st, B Team - 2nd Rose Strutt - Javelin - 4th Inters
India Boyd
Individual Pentathlon Results: Junior Girls Fenella Challinor
Harriet Hillman - 2nd, Hebe Hine - 4th, Marybi Ashu - Discus - 3rd Rosie Craven
Helena Stahl - 7th, Eva-Rose Ferguson - 8th, Harriet Hillman - 800m - 4th Saskia Darling
Faith Beya - 10th,Alanah Keane - 16th. Lily Mallinson - 75m Hurdles - 3rd Susannah Hirst
Tallulah Mackenzie Smith - High Jump - 3rd Daisy James
Year 9 Results Farley Pfitzner - Discus - 2nd Emma Okunbor
Team - 1st Jemima Rundell - Javelin - 3rd Rose Strutt

Individual Pentathlon Results: Minor Girls Seniors
Lily Mallinson - 2nd, Lara Marsh - 7th, Claire Dodd - 70m Hurdles - 2nd Caroline Brenchley
Jemima Rundell - 8th Abi Fletcher - Shot - 2nd Lucy Fitzpatrick
Dora West - Long Jump - 1st Hum Hunt-Davis
SW REGIONAL COMBINED EVENT
CHAMPIONSHIPS ESAA 2019 TRACK & FIELD CUP Scott Athletics Trophy for outstanding
Lily Mallinson was selected to represent Wiltshire Round 1:Wiltshire County Athletics Track Swindon athletics achievement
in the Pentathlon at the South West Combined Inter Girls Team finished 2nd with 313pts India Boyd
Event in Exeter where she finished 17th overall with Junior Girls Team finished 2nd with 251pts
a score of 2222 pts.

The Wiltshire Junior Girls Team finished 2nd from
five Counties.

81

Interest and enthusiasm amongst the girls for Playing Dauntsey’s rarely The LVI, however, were
tennis is at an all-time high! Private winter disappoints and, being snapping at their heels and
tennis coaching is proving very popular located relatively close seamlessly stepped into their
(our biggest cohort yet!) and, after another by, we took advantage shoes when exams took over.
successful pre-season week in Palma, we hit of playing mid-week.
the ground running with 11 of our 13 teams We usually do very The U15s had a tough season
beating Cheltenham Ladies College on the well winning against the in terms of mere statistics, and although the
first Saturday of term. This was followed by younger teams and although we won the season culminated with the U15As and Cs
our annual Downe House tennis fixture; the U12As, the U13As lost, 4-5. We will need to narrowly defeated 4-5 by Bradfield, they played
matches were close, competitive and exciting. work harder to close the gap with their top some of their best tennis, with the U15Bs
Senior and U15 Teams. (The U14s matches taking an 8-1 win. Our top pairing was usually
The following weekend, our top pairings were abandoned after playing for 30 minutes Talitha Powell and Rose Strutt, but they were
were entered into the ISTGL Tournament in torrential rain, despite our girls being keen consistently challenged by Rosie Graham-
at Bradfield College and this proved a very to play on!). Campbell and Daisy James, with third pairing
worthwhile experience, with St Mary’s status achieved by Grace Law and Octavia
finishing 4th out of the eight schools. The rest The majority of our players (and parents) Sanger. Isabella Donald and Chloe Wright-
of the teams took on Marlborough College acknowledge the benefit of time spent playing Haynie showed their strength as the B Team
where we took most games to deuce, but sport, giving a healthy break away from revision. top pairing, with Alice and Catriona Hay or
failed to win the crucial points. We regained We produced four decent Senior Teams and Charlotte Nicholson and Sarah Pedgley often
our fixture with Prior Park College and most it was our UVI who initially earned the top stepping up confidently when needed. As a
teams experienced some tough matches. Our honours: Hannah Barber, Olivia Ekins, Amelia year group, the girls showed great consistency
final Saturday match of the Summer Term was Hatlapa, Sophie Mallinson, Georgina McLintock and stamina, with all teams battling hard and
an inaugural fixture against Bradfield College. and Emily Smyth-Osbourne representing the winning 75% of fixtures.
With their impressive all year-round facilities 1st VI for the first half of term.
and indoor tennis centre, we knew it would
be a tough set of matches, particularly as many
of our Senior players were away on trips.
The girls competed very well, with our teams
winning three of the eight matches.

82

Sports Reports

The UIV quickly demonstrated their The U13As made significant Dora West completed
emerging strength and depth. The overt improvement playing some the team, with a plethora
passion and determination to win in lessons really good competitive tennis of players eager to
and team practice meant that competition in matches. Eloise Franks and jump in their shoes.
for team selection was high. Lucy Crone Hebe Hine were a consistent Claire Dodd and Emily
and Annabel Brown consistently justified and tenacious top pair. Pushed Scrimgeour made great
top pairing, with Rebecca Nicholson and hard by Lucy de Rin and progress throughout the
Anna Wateridge, Sadie Enthoven and Ashley Eva-Rose Ferguson, with Laura term, often grabbing the
Lam completing the regular team. Lily Edwards and Harriet Hillman chance to play up. The
Mallinson and Farley Pfitzner also slotted in completing the team. The reliable partnership of
effortlessly, when not competing in Athletics. U13Bs won four of their six Carlota Solans Montesinos
With very little splitting the whole squad, matches, led by the reliable and Iona Parker
rankings and teams regularly changed from pairing of Ellie Donald and produced consistent and
week to week, producing excellent results, Theadora Jackson. commendable results for
but it was Sofia Dangalade,Willow Fane, the B Team, which was completed with Ruby
Sylvie Keswick, Sophie Kitson, Pollyanna The U12s showed promising potential and Guy and Skye Turner. Playing for the U12C
Paterson who held their places in the growing prowess in Sport into the Summer VI can often be a steep learning curve as it
B Team by the end of the season. Term, fielding three very decent tennis teams usually means the girls haven’t played matches
and winning 11 of their 15 matches as a before and several girls rose to the challenge.
year group. The A Team showed particular Captained by Arabella Titley, they improved
strength and depth, with an ongoing healthy week on week and can be proud of their
fight for selection and subsequent ranking. progress, especially the performances from
Honor Bell and Libby Graham-Campbell Evie Medcalf and Alexandra Waterlow.
claimed top spot, not dropping a set all
term in school matches. They were pushed Mrs Heidi Marvin
hard by Captain, Bene Tigerschiöld, and Sol Director of Sport
Jimenez-Ugarte Ripoll, Isabel Reis and

COMPANY TENNIS

The standard of play in the Company Tennis Tournaments this year was impressive
and all the more exciting with many matches going down to the wire.

FORM WINNERS RUNNERS-UP
UVI & LVI Ed Rich Grosstête
LV Ed Rich Grosstête
UIV Osmund Grosstête
MIV & LIV Ed Rich Grosstête

COLOURS INTERMEDIATE JUNIOR

SENIOR Isabella Donald Annabel Brown
Rosie Graham-Campbell Lucy Crone
Hannah Barber Daisy James Sadie Enthoven
Georgia Brooks Grace Law Ashley Lam
Hebe Edgar Talitha Powell  Lily Mallinson
Olivia Ekins Octavia Sanger Rebecca Nicholson
Davina Gray Rose Strutt  Farley Pfitzner
Laura Greene  Chloe Wright-Haynie  Anna Wateridge 
Amelia Hatlapa
Ella Malik
Sophie Mallinson
Georgina McLintock
Emily Smyth-Osbourne

The Norman Tennis Trophy was awarded to Lucy Crone for excellence in her
standard of play and positive attitude.

83

EDduinkbeuorfgh

At St Mary’s all three levels of DofE – Gold,
Silver and Bronze – are offered, with each
consisting of four sections of activity:Volunteering,
Physical, Skill and Expedition. To make it through
to the Gold Award takes perseverance and
commitment, but the invitation to mix with the
Royal Family at the presentation ceremony
makes it all worthwhile!

We Did It! representative, who reminded us of the value was particularly interested in Sophie’s
of our accomplishment and everything we experience volunteering for Kenya Lacrosse.
It was a wonderfully sunny day as Camilla had learnt through completing our award.
Lewin, Sophie Mallinson and I queued to We then stood in wait of the appearance of Each group was also allocated a celebrity
enter the stunning grounds of Buckingham the Royals on the steps of the palace, while and we were lucky enough to get the chance
Palace for our Gold DofE Award the national anthem played. to meet Natalie Dormer, whom many
Presentation Ceremony. As everyone recognised from her roles in Game of Thrones
arrived, we had the opportunity to enjoy We had the honour of meeting Princess and The Hunger Games. After sharing a few
the live music, take a few photos and stroll Beatrice as she walked through the different words of wisdom with us and answering
around the beautiful palace gardens, managing groups, congratulating us on our achievement. questions from the group, she presented us
to discover the hidden tennis court! She asked us what we had done for the each with our Gold DofE Award certificates
various sections of our Gold Award, and – we had done it!
We found our group for the day and were
treated to a lively introduction by a DofE Hannah Barber
UVI Form

Three teams set off to the Yorkshire Dales at the anbdr‘iEnoxgvpseyeoryrcuoioeumwncceinlirongesgnea’DrtlliobntfheEafeotwrcoehga,’aeyltlhtehenargtes
end of the Summer Term to complete their Gold
DofE Final Expedition. It was another very hot Erica Tuma, LVI Form
year, with the girls having to carry extra water and
getting refills a number of times throughout the day.

The assessor was very complimentary about
their team work and how well they looked
after each other, also about their knowledge
and competence on the hillside, adding, ‘I would
not expect anything less from St Mary’s girls’. The
teams always had a cheerful and positive attitude
throughout, completing their four-day expedition
on a high at Settle railway station. They were a
pleasure to be with and look after.

84

aPrfoo‘AMurCnfyKodtuLoarIpGdbHDaaygoTsftEbgheeattcitpsaiusewsxooehvuaelluurdgs1gbti2iennkggg!’s Trips & Expeditions
Erica Tuma, LVI Form

PRACTICE EXPEDITION had remembered sunscreen and had They girls left from Uphill near Weston-Super-
enough water. Scraping the ice off the Mare, in glorious sunshine, to walk up Bleadon
At the start of the Easter break, four groups outside of the tents in the morning, Hill to the Netherdale Campsite (a seven-
of students set off on their Silver DofE however, was a bit of a shock! As ever, hour trek via Crooks Peak). On reaching
Practice Expedition. there were a few groups who viewed the campsite, the girls were very efficient in
their route card merely as a suggestion pitching their tents and were soon ready to
Enjoying the local delights of the Kennet and and ended up in some interesting cook supper. The assessor was duly impressed.
Avon Canal, Avebury, West Woods, Alton locations and approached checkpoints All of the girls rose early the next morning to
Barnes and Knap Hill, the girls walked and from unplanned directions! successfully complete the second day of hiking
camped for three days carrying all their and camping at Fern Hill Farm.
equipment, food and drink. Luckily, the Mr Rose enjoyed a short run out to rescue a
weather was kind to them during the day; group heading towards a dead end between The girls’ navigation throughout the three
they even needed to make sure that they two rivers, though they thought he was an days was spot on and all the girls achieved
angry farmer running towards them! All their Silver Award. The majority of the group
groups performed well and retained a sense are now looking to continue to Gold level!
of humour and a good team spirit throughout The girls were a pleasure to camp with and
the trip. the Netherdale Campsite owner commented
that they are always very pleased to have
FINAL EXPEDITION our groups, as the girls are so polite and
considerate to others.
On 21st June, 22 UV Form girls came back to
school after their GCSEs to complete their
Silver DofE Final Expedition.

85

Trips & Expeditions

PRACTICE EXPEDITION by the time they got to the campsite. Tents The girls were delighted to be back at
were set up in the driving rain and the girls school where House Staff plied them with
On the morning of Sunday 24th March, in quickly cooked their evening meals, aware hot chocolate as they dried out. The girls
glorious weather, the LV set off in teams for that even heavier rain and wind was forecast. did amazingly well in the conditions and they
their Bronze DofE Practice Expedition. The Everyone was wet and cold, so they scrambled can all be proud of surviving the weather
day started at school with full kit checks and into tents and sleeping bags to warm up and and cheerfully completing their Bronze DofE
backpacks being weighed to ensure the teams shelter from the weather. Expedition section.
were ready for the long walk to the campsite.

Each team was accompanied all day by an The girls did very well to survive the cold, Mrs Eloise MacLean
instructor to teach them how to map read stormy and windy night, although no-one slept DofE Coordinator
and walk safely in the countryside. Once very well. Daybreak brought lighter rain and
teams arrived at the campsite they were the girls gratefully packed up, cooked breakfast Mrs Elizabeth Thompson
taught how to put up tents and cook safely and started the six-hour walk to the finish. Outdoor Activities Coordinator
on trangia stoves. After a cold and noisy
night, courtesy of the one of the campsite
goats, girls woke to a sunny day, which made
ideal conditions for cooking breakfast and
re-packing backpacks. After checking their
maps, teams set off unaccompanied to walk
to Avebury to meet the coach taking them
back to school. Instructors met them at
checkpoints along the way and most teams
arrived in Avebury on time.

FINAL EXPEDITION

On Monday 10th June, the LV girls set off
in the wild and wet weather, knowing that
solid rain was forecast for the entire time of
their Bronze DofE Final Expedition. It is a
testament to the girls that they managed to
remain cheerful despite being wet and cold

86

News

It has been another rich and varied year with
Chapel being at the heart of our community.

Daily Chapel has continued to be a videos and to talk about the Christian Faith, mark the end of the year. This fell on the
central feature of school life.  An interesting our conversations fuelled by Mrs Paddock’s hottest day of the year so we were glad of
development this year has been the baking. Prior to confirmation, we had a great the coolness of St Mary’s Church. The
Donaldson Chapels – a themed series that weekend at Lee Abbey in North Devon, Reverend Peter Giles was our preacher and
has happened most Tuesday mornings and has enjoying the stunning scenery, engaging in spoke very powerfully about the continuing
involved a wide range of staff. In the Autumn some really fun activities and taking the value and significance of the school’s
Term we looked at the 1920s, in the Spring chance to think, pray and worship. As the Christian heritage. Peter was my
Term our attention turned to The post of Bishop of Ramsbury was gapped at predecessor and this year’s Leavers were
Renaissance and in Summer we enjoyed the time, we were very fortunate that The the last year group who knew him as
learning about Japan. Right Reverend Richard Atkinson OBE, the their Chaplain (when they were in LIV),
Bishop of Bedford, was able to come to take so it was lovely for him to be able to
Chapel on Sunday evenings provides a great the Confirmation Service. Bishop Richard is celebrate with them.
opportunity for everyone to come back Mrs Rothwell’s brother and
together after a busy weekend; to pause, so already had a connection
reflect and centre ourselves on God. In to the school. He conducted
March, it was lovely to welcome The a warm and inclusive service
Reverend Jenny Totney as a guest preacher. and spoke with great clarity.

Every year there are a number of big The final big occasion of the
occasions in the life of Chapel. The first to year was the Founders’ Day
happen is the Remembrance Service. This Commemoration Service,
always falls to the UVI to organise and this which saw a record number
year Camilla Lewin did a superb job in of parents joining the girls to
leading her fellow students. With 2018
marking the 100 year anniversary of the end Many people support the school through
of the First World War this provided the their prayers. For the last few years a group
central focus for our remembering. of parents have been meeting once a term
to pray for the school. I am very grateful
A few weeks later, we enjoyed a lovely for this and if there are any current parents
Carol Service, filling the Parish Church who would like to be part of this group
with music and candlelight. then please get in touch with me.

Confirmation this year involved a lively Father Jonathan Beach
group of 28 girls. Week by week, throughout School Chaplain
the Autumn Term, we met in St Prisca’s
common room to watch the Youth Alpha

87

Newwss

On Friday 31st May, Halle, my Australian exchange student, arrived at Heathrow Airport.
After less than 24 hours from landing, we thought a trip to Bath, being a unique English city
with a rich history and heritage, would be the perfect start to her stay in England.

During the day, we looked around Bath, the most was that all their sport
introduced her to Costa and Boots (explaining training sessions were done in the
that it wasn’t a shoe shop!) and finished with a morning before the school day
play at the beautiful Bath Theatre Royal. began! I also got to experience
their Sports Day, which was similar
Two weeks later, it was the long weekend to ours as they also had the system
everyone was looking forward to - exeat. of companies/houses, and joined
This time, we decided to visit London by train. in with one of the relays. As I was
As we got off at Paddington Station, photos boarding at St Hilda’s, I shared
were taken, pasties were bought and Google a dorm with other exchange
maps was opened. The first destination was students; one girl from New York
Madame Tussauds, followed by a wander and another from Somerset. This
down Oxford Street and we finished our was great as we were able share
day on the London Eye. our exchange experience together.

On Saturday 6th July, I set foot in Australia, The exchange allowed me to answer these
where a more popular activity is to go to the questions and ask more! I also gained self-
beach! The Mudimu family, however, made confidence, as I travelled alone from one
sure that I had visited the main aspects of the airport to the next, and I met many new
Gold Coast before heading off to St Hilda’s, people who were all so kind and welcoming.
the Australian school I would be joining. We
visited the tourist destination of Surfer’s The only thing I do regret was not being
Paradise and the humongous shopping mall, able to see a koala or kangaroo, however,
Pacific Fair. We also went canoeing on a lake most importantly, I loved every second of
near their house, which was great fun, and this adventure.
enjoyed a beautiful sunset.
Gwen Fournier
It was then time for school! St Hilda’s is a LV Form
girls’ boarding school and what is taught in
the classroom is very similar to St Mary’s;
however, outside the classroom many aspects
were different. The thing that shocked me

The whole exchange
programme was amazing!
I’ve always been interested
in different cultures and
have been curious to
ask ‘why?’ and ‘what?’
people do differently in
different places.

88

Sports Reports

201S9 BkriitiRshaSccehosolgirls'
On Friday 25th January, our Ski Race Team of seven
girls flew out to Flaine, France, to take part in the 2019
British Schoolgirls’ Races. It was the 60th anniversary of
the races, so it was quite a special occasion.

This year will be remembered for how cold With everyone in good spirits after a fun parallel races -
it was and the amount of snowfall! It was a Day One, we hit the crêperie and ate to our were unfortunately
constant -10°C and that wasn’t even including heart's content. Day Two brought the Slalom cancelled due to
the wind chill factor at the top of the piste. dangerous skiing
Race, which is a much more conditions.
The girls trained on Saturday and Sunday technical race than the Grand
with our wonderful ski coach,Vincent Slalom. It was a very cold day This year’s team was
Channel, though training finished early on and the course was busy with banana gates a very young and
Sunday due to the weather. We had an and verticales. The last gate was a verticale
early start on Monday morning, with our with a stray red pole which caused much race-naive
Captain, Ella Fenton (LVI), collecting the race confusion and some disqualifications. We team, but
bibs, ready for the Giant Slalom. There were managed to get five out of six skiers down they held
153 girls racing in four age group categories: to have a second run. The most eagerly strong
U14, U16, U18 and U21. We had girls in awaited part of the competition - the dual and tried
the U16 and U18 categories, as our UIV are their hardest. Celeste and Amelie
classed as U16. There were some amazing ski had never raced before; however,
racers taking part and it was fabulous to see Celeste managed to gain 9th out
future Olympians come down the course. of 28 racers in the U16 category.
It was a truly fantastic week of
The Grand Slalom course was quite tricky training and racing, and the girls were a
and unfortunately Ella’s bindings released, pleasure to be with.
causing her to crash. Celeste Olsoff,
Amelie Olsoff (A Team),Amber Preston, Lily Mrs Natalie Baldwin
Ergatoudis and Pollyanna Paterson (B Team) Head of Extra-Curricular Activities
managed to get down and have a second run. and PE Teacher

89

The reconstructed
frescos at Knossos

In March, students from the real life. Of course, this LV in the ancient
LV, UV and LVI and four staff historical visit had to town of Gournia
members set out to visit Crete on be followed by an ice
a Classics trip to see the Minoan cream in a café, which was very much appreciated!
palaces and towns of 2000 BC. After a break, we went to the Church of Bishop
Titus, whose skull is supposed to be buried there.
After a night flight and a connection in Athens, we We explored more of Heraklion and returned to
arrived in Heraklion and checked into the Olympic the hotel for dinner and an early night, looking
Hotel in the town centre. After a quick rest, we forward to our second day.
gathered at a local café for a traditional breakfast
that filled us up for the busy day ahead. First on Day Two was a busy day that started with our
our agenda was the Heraklion Archaeological tour guide showing us around Phaistos, the second
Museum where we saw some of the amazing largest palace in Crete, and Gortys, a Roman
treasures found in the villas that we would soon town. We also visited the summer villa of the king
visit. From beehive pendants to double-headed at Agia Triada where we enjoyed an outstanding
axes and snake goddesses, we saw many incredible panoramic view of the surrounding areas. In the
artefacts. We also saw frescos showing bull leaping evening, we were taught Greek and Cretian dances
and hunting, giving us a clear idea of what the by a professional, ending with a group dance that
Minoans got up to in their free time! This fired involved a lot of spinning and spiralling!! It was a
up our excitement to see the ancient palaces in great way to relax after a very full day.

In the mini
amphitheatre
at the Ancient

Palace of
Knossos

90

Trips & Expeditions

Day Three consisted of a trip to the east of have started. We also visited the store rooms
Crete, where we saw two more palaces, in Malia of the palace where some beautiful pots (taller
and Zakros, as well as the industrial town of than us!) were kept. Of course, this visit was
Gournia, where we all enjoyed seeing the idyllic followed by some souvenir shopping in a local
sea view behind the old town remains. We had market. We then went to another museum in
a lovely lunch in Zakros, where we also had a Heraklion as a final instalment of history before
chance to paddle in the sea. Our last stop of we drove to the airport and caught our flight
the day was at the Dorian settlement of Itanos. back to Calne.
We saw the remains of a Byzantine temple and
houses, and then climbed to the top of a small
mountain to see the full view of the settlement.
From there, we went to the Toplou Monastery
and visited the small chapel, which was a very
special moment. We then embarked on our
long journey back to Heraklion and admired the
beautiful sunset as we approached the town.

The trip was inspiring and informative, as well
as an enjoyable and fun experience for all of us.
It gave us a deeper understanding of Cretian
history and put our learning into perspective;
we look forward to even more Classics trips
to come!

Our final day could not have been better, Thank you to all of the staff
with blue skies and 25ºC weather for our much who made this wonderful
anticipated visit to capital of Minoan Crete, trip happen – it was a truly
Knossos. We enjoyed seeing the recreated memorable adventure!!
frescos in situ, as we had seen the originals in
the museum on our first day, and saw where Elan Fryar, Emily Wright and Daisy Gough
the mythological labyrinth was speculated to LV Form

91

Trips & Expeditions

On Tuesday 18th June, the to Puerto de la Cruz of Tenerife. We watched
LVI Geographers went to on the north side of an informative video that
Tenerife to conduct the the island where our explained how the tunnels
fieldwork for our individual hotel was located. were formed and the different
Non-Examined Assessment After dinner, many of us went into town to types of lava we were going to come across
(modern day coursework). conduct our human activity investigations. in the tunnels.

Each person has a different NEA title and These projects varied from assessments All of us then kitted up with helmets and hair
investigation, so the island was a perfect of the success of local redevelopment nets and drove to the skylight (caved in tunnel
place to do our fieldwork, as it boasts a strategies, to the environmental quality in roof) which was half-way up the mountain.
large variety of geographical features and tourist honeypot areas. When all of this was
areas, such as volcanoes, beaches and dunes, done, we were able to settle into our hotel, We all entered the tunnel and made our
and coastal resorts. As the island is also which had a rooftop pool and terrace that way down, identifying both aa and pahoehoe
made from volcanic overlooked the town; it was a beautiful view lava, and observed the route the lava flows
material, we could that we enjoyed until it was time for bed. had taken. We could also see evidence of
also touch upon ropey lava flows and we discussed with the
topics covered The next day, we set off to Mount Teide, tour guide how it got there, which was very
next year, such as which is the main volcanic complex on the interesting to discover.
tectonic activity. island. We stopped on the way to get some
fresh sandwiches for lunch, and practise In the afternoon we had a relaxing time at
After a 4am start, we landed at the South our Spanish in a local store. We met Alexis Lago de Martinez, a beautiful salt water lagoon,
Airport and went straight into doing some Calves, a volcano expert from the Tenerife where we swam with the sun beaming down
fieldwork investigations. Ignacio, our on us. We could also see the view out to sea
guide, met us at the airport and took us Volcanic Observatory, who from the lagoon as well as the lagoon being
directly to an area for some fieldwork on took us on a guided tour very enjoyable to swim in. After a very tiring
cliff morphology and dryland vegetation around Mount Teide and day we then drove back to the hotel and
succession. We then headed to El Medano showed us the main geological explored the town nearby treating ourselves
Beach to carry out more fieldwork, this features and explained how to some ice cream which was very yummy!
time focusing on beach morphology and they were formed. This
sand dune succession. Other girls were allowed us to see first-hand On our last day we went to the Los Gigantes
able to take part in a private tour with a the different types of lava basalt cliffs on a catamaran, whilst watching pilot
banana plantation owner, to investigate the flows and other geological whales and dolphins! This was definitely our
interrelationships between industry and the structures, such as dykes and favourite day! On the boat ride we also looked
physical environment. We then travelled sills. The trip to Mount Teide out at Los Gigantes, while Mr Curran gave us
also allowed for more of us to an interesting geology lesson on how the 650m
undertake fieldwork. Some high cliffs on this coastline were formed. The
girls then went off to a local boat then stopped near a lovely beach that was
Canary Island pine forest to investigate the a safe area for open sea swimming. We could
relationship between the carbon and water jump in from the boat, which was incredible,
cycles in this rare ecosystem. On the way though the sea was quite chilly, so we definitely
back to the hotel we stopped in La Orotava, didn’t want to stay in there too long! We then
a traditional market town, where we asked got out of the water and used the remainder of
members of the public to fill in a survey the boat trip to dry off and continued to spot
about how they perceived an area of the dolphins and whales. Although we did a lot
town for another investigation. We then of work on the trip, it was fun, interesting and
headed back to the hotel for supper and into enjoyable - which was probably assisted by the
Puerto de la Cruz to play and swim at the constant nice weather!
beach, which was great fun!

On Thursday, we drove in the coach to Ella Malik and Alexandra Thomson-Glover
the Cueva Del Viento lava tunnels, which LVI Form
run underneath the north coastal region

92

Sports Reports

EQUESTRIANS SHINE

AT ST MARY’S CALNE HORSE SHOW

A beautiful, sunny day set the scene for a great day of NSEA jumping.
With lots of entries, we ran a full day of Jumping with Style qualifiers.

We were very lucky to welcome Matt Ryan, a St Mary’s were well represented in the
triple Olympic Gold medallist in Eventing, as 90/95cm class, just missing out on some
our guest judge for the day. It was an honour top qualifying places, but jumped some
to have such a knowledgeable rider to offer fantastic rounds with Lara finishing in
his help and experience for the day. 12th and Lottie Royle in 13th.

The 70/75cm class got finished in 2nd, securing their
underway and St Mary’s place at the Championships.
had some great results
with Clemmie Hargreaves In the final class of the day, the
on Deo finishing in 2nd and 1.10, Lottie Royle shone and
Iris Nicholson on Foxy finished in 3rd, picking up her
finishing in 3rd, both qualifying ticket for the Championships
for the National School and Emily Lavelle finished in
Championships. Amelia Hicks, 7th, qualifying for the NSEA Plate.
on Markway Silver Moon,
finished in 5th place, qualifying I would like to thank all of the parents who
for the NSEA Plate. gave up their time over the weekend, without
their help it would not have been possible to
Iris went on to take In class 4, after a long day run the day. Thank you also to the girls who
the top spot in the of helping,Alice Gates and helped with putting up poles and keeping
80cm class with her her pony, Star Twelve, took
pony, Foxy. Iris rode 1st place in a competitive West Wilts Equestrian Centre tidy.
a beautiful round and 1m/1.05m class, booking The event was truly fantastic, with some
was rewarded with a their place at the NSEA very impressive jumps seen throughout
fantastic style mark Championships. Lottie the day. I’m very proud of the effort
from the style judge. also finished in 8th and 9th, and professionalism shown by all our
Flo de Selliers in 12th and competing riders. Congratulations to all.
Annabel Brown on her Emily Lavelle in 20th. The St Mary’s team
pony, Queenie, finished in 3rd. Annabel and of Alice, Emily and Lottie also Miss Kerry Emms
Iris both booked their places at the NSEA Equestrian Coordinator
Championships in this big class. Iris and
Annabel were also part of a
team with Lara Marsh and
Nancy Harper - the team
finished in 2nd place, which
ensured a team qualification
for the Championship.

93

In June, the UIV girls enjoyed an exciting, though
rain drenched, French language trip to the Alps.
In small groups, they fully embraced their daily
language challenges, led by local French assistants.

‘The trip to Samoëns greatly improved my ‘Part way through our white water rafting attractions and the local weekly market
French speaking skills. Each day, we would session, we had to climb out of the rafts to during their treasure hunts.
have conversation lessons with a local French walk around a gorge. Then, once on the
assistant, to discuss a variety of subjects in other side, we individually jumped into the ‘During our trips to town, I would speak to the
French, such as our favourite sports.’ river off a ledge before swimming across the residents and ask them for directions or simply
Alice Gates current to clamber back into our raft. It was for information. This is something which I
an exciting experience and we all had a hadn’t previously had the opportunity, or
The girls battled the elements as they enjoyed lot of fun!’ confidence, to do!’
high ropes and rafting and even swam in an
icy mountain lake. For some students, these The girls treated us to theatrical
activities were well out of their comfort zone, performances of Cendrillon (Cinderella)
so their teachers were very impressed. and managed to negotiate the shops, tourist

94

Trips & Expeditions

The group of 24 was hosted in a beautiful ‘I was amazed by the fact that, within the Alpine
converted farmhouse, La Vieille Ferme, in the Botanic Garden in Samoëns, there are at least
style of a large ski chalet. The stunning setting of 5000 types of mountain flower, originating from
Samoëns, an hour’s drive from Geneva, provided all five continents!’
a wonderful backdrop to the trip and the girls
appreciated the homemade food, the culture and It was a delight to see just how enthusiastic they
the warm welcome of the local people. were throughout the trip and, dare I say it, how
much French they may even have learnt!
On the last day, the clouds finally lifted and
the girls were able to appreciate the stunning Mrs Northcote-Green, French Teacher
mountain views. Alice Gates, UIV Form

95

Founders' Day

On a glorious summer day, Saturday 29th June,
the warmest of the year so far, the whole
school gathered to celebrate Founders’ Day.

The proceedings of the day started with to the stage with the rest of the
the traditional Commemoration Service String Quartet for a performance
at the Parish Church of St Mary the of one of Mozart’s chamber
Virgin in Calne. Given the hot weather, masterpieces, and a Blues Quartet
it was good to be in the coolness of comprised of Kirsten Higgins,
St Mary’s Church for the service. We Hannah Barber, Sienna Wong
were accompanied by Mr Chris Totney, and Mr Chris Totney took to the
on the piano, and we enjoyed enthusiastic stage for the second performance
singing from the congregation throughout of Kirsten’s highly-accomplished
the ceremony. The Reverend Peter A-Level composition. String
Giles, who was previously Chaplain at Sinfonia concluded the set with a
the school until 2013, spoke eloquently performance of the ever-popular
Montagues and Capulets from
Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet.

all it was a very special service and a
wonderful way to commence the day.

The day was filled with music, art and
celebration. In school, visitors viewed
the Founders’ Day Art Exhibition, a
celebration of the artistic talent and
creativity of the girls, with more than
100 pieces featured and every year group
represented. Parents were encouraged to
take time to explore the exhibition and
admire the range of artistic expression
delivered by the school’s emerging artists.

on the subject of vocation, reminding the Music in the Marquee was underway While families enjoyed picnics in the
Leavers of the rich Christian heritage of before lunch with performances by our sunshine, or in the much-sought-after shaded
which they were part and of how they could UVI Leavers:Amy Black and Michaela Mason areas, the UVI Leavers and their parents,
continue to live out their faith in the years commenced the proceedings with The along with VIPs and Guests, also enjoyed a
to come. The Chamber Choir sang two Rainbow Connection and Amy went on to a special champagne reception.
anthems, including a very poignant version very moving performance of her Coldplay
of Amazing Grace. We were also privileged solo, Yellow. Music Scholars, Natasha
to enjoy the premiere performance, by the Ashbridge and Millie Knight, entertained
Junior Consort, of a new work by Mr Totney, the crowd with a beautiful ‘cello duet’, and
based on words by Walter de la Mere. It was fellow string-player Michaela gave a heartfelt
a lovely composition and very fitting for the rendition of Kodaly’s Adagio. Ila Shetty and
occasion. As ever, the final hymn provoked Hannah Barber, both Music Scholars, each
some tears amongst the Leavers, but all in performed solo works; Ila gave a skillful
piano performance of When I Look at You, and
Hannah reprised her scintillating showcase
piece, Brazilian Overture. Natasha returned

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Founders’ Day 2019

It was soon time for everyone to make has ‘seen them grow up’. She praised their to deliver a very original and creative account
their way to the Main Marquee for perseverance and achievements throughout of the secrets to her success, focusing on
the Prizegiving Ceremony. Chair of their school career, which have been three things she wished she knew as a young
Governors, Mr Svante Adde, opened impressive, including, very importantly, the woman. Firstly, the ‘value of a good hand
the proceedings by acknowledging school’s best-ever set of GCSE results! bag’ and accessorising her bag with a copy
the Governors, thanking Dr Kirk A special vote of thanks was given to of the Financial Times, in order to be taken
and her staff for their hard work and the Prefect Team under the outstanding seriously. Her point being, that it takes
commitment and saying a fond farewell leadership of Hannah Barber, and ably just 13 milliseconds for a person’s brain
to those Governors who were moving supported by Sylvia Rutherford and Charka to process an image, and first impressions
on, thanking them for their generous Stout as Deputy Head Girls; their leadership count. Secondly, to ‘never, ever give up on your
contributions, before handing on to has been greatly valued. dream’, and, finally, there is no such sentence
Headmistress, Dr Felicia Kirk.
She also paid tribute to leaving as ‘I can’t do it’, the reality is that you
Dr Kirk opened by thanking all those staff and thanked them for their enormous can’t do it… alone. Everything that
involved with the Commemoration Service, contribution to the school and to the lives of you personally achieve in life is with
particularly The Reverend Peter Giles for many, many girls over the years. the help and support of others and
his inspirational address which perfectly you, in turn, can help and support
captured the values and spirit of the school’s Dr Kirk then commenced a thought-provoking others to fulfil their dreams.
Founders. She then welcomed our Guest and optimistic address focused on ‘megatrends’,
Speaker, Professor Heather McGregor that exist on a global level, but ultimately She finished with a flying
CBE, the Executive Dean of the Edinburgh affect every one of us; the threats to our analogy (she became a
Business School and author of two wise, environment, the impact of a growing aging pilot aged 47): ‘You can
funny and clever books – Mrs Moneypenny’s population and globalisation. Each of these never have too much fuel,
Financial Advice for Independent Women and challenges also brings opportunities for change height or runway’ and as
Careers Advices for Ambitious Women. Dr Kirk and to move society forward. She hoped that Calne Girls, the 2019
went on to explain that it has been a year the girls would find it a motivating and exciting Leavers are well poised
of huge progress and achievement by all prospect to build on their unique talents and to go flying.
the girls and she was enormously proud of on everything learnt at Calne, to help the
everyone. She thanked the teaching staff for world tackle the issues that face us all. Dr Kirk The Prizegiving then followed and Dr Kirk
their outstanding dedication and the efforts added that by providing an inspiring, forward- praised the girls, before introducing Head
of the equally hardworking non-teaching thinking and relevant education, St Mary’s had Girl, Hannah Barber.
staff, alongside the PGSM, for their ongoing equipped them well to do just that.
support and all the families, friends and Hannah delivered a heartfelt speech filled
supporters who make the school the thriving Her address concluded with some rousing with funny, sweet and insightful anecdotes
place it is today. A special thanks was given words for the Leavers, from a speech made by relating to the UVI Leavers time at Calne,
to Svante Adde for his support during his the famous suffragist, Millicent Fawcett, in 1899, before concluding with words of wisdom
first year as Chair of Governors, noting that ‘You must not labour simply for yourselves, simply from Winnie the Pooh, ‘How lucky I am to have
the time he dedicates to the role, as well as to be rich or prosperous – but … do something something that makes saying goodbye so hard’.
the skills he brings, are much appreciated. in your day and generation that should make the
community in which you live better, purer and Dr Kirk then closed the proceedings by
Dr Kirk then went on to praise the UVI nobler for your work’. Though these words may wishing the Leavers well and reminding them
Leavers who have ‘worked hard, sometimes also have been spoken long ago, they still resonate that they will always be a member of this
played hard, and – individually and collectively – and are just as relevant for our times. community and always a ‘Calne Girl’. She
they are jolly good company!’ She commented then invited them to take to the podium one
that they will always be a special group to Our Guest Speaker, Professor Heather final time for their Leavers’ parting gifts from
her, as they are the first cohort she has seen McGregor CBE, then took to the podium the school, before they exited the marquee
through their seven years at Calne and she to the music of The Great Escape!

Tea-time performances in the Music Marquee
followed from many of the school’s major
ensembles: Big Band,Wind Ensemble, Strictly
Strings all appeared, plus a lovely vocal duet,
piano solo and duet piano performances.

In all, it was a sincere, warm-hearted
send off to our 2019 Leavers, who will
be remembered as an energetic, socially
conscious and generous year group.

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Founders’ Day Prizes

JUNIOR LIV – UIV
Art (including Junior Art Cup) Elyse Leung
Drama Leah Hosten-Silva
Music Tessa Harrison
Sport Lily Mallinson

SENIOR LV - LVI
Art Zara Verschoyle
Drama Amalie Macnaughtan
Music Shubha Shetty
Sport Ella Malik

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTOR PRIZES
These are nominated by Houses for a girl
in their year group Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award - Hannah Barber, Effie Dollar, Arabella Fane,
Lucy Fitzpatrick, Amelia Hatlapa, Rosie Horwood, Amelia Jardine Paterson,
LIV Dora West Camilla Lewin, Sophie Mallinson, Emily Sandbach
MIV Elyse Leung
UIV Phoebe Matten The Service Award is a special award presented to a member of staff with
LV Josephine Newcombe 30 years’ service to the Duke of Edinburgh's Award - Mrs Liz Thompson
UV Isla Campbell
LVI Amena Boyd Katherine Benthall Senior Art Cup - Celia Ellis
Biology Prize - Sophie Mallinson and Natasha Ashbridge
HOUSE AWARD Classical Civilisation Prize - TT Ward Thomas
Nominated by Houses for a girl in their year group Chemistry Prize - Millie Knight
who has given ‘Above and Beyond the Call of Duty’ Penrose Foss Classics Cup and the Susannah Hunt Music Prize
for Exemplary Contribution to Music - Hannah Barber
School House Ruby Guy Drama and Theatre Studies Prize - Lucy Fitzwilliam-Lay
St Prisca’s House Amy Sneller The Leadbetter Prize for Outstanding Performance - Isabella Iversen
St Cecilia’s House Anna Wateridge Economics Prize and Politics Prize - Michaela Mason
Gibbins House Fenella Challinor The Mayhew A Level English Cup - Isabel Baker and Isabella Iversen
Joyce Walters House Grace Law French Cup and the Spanish Prize - Georgina McLintock
Florence Dyas House Momo Adebayo Geography Prize and Outstanding Achievement in Sports Prize - Caroline Brenchley
German Prize - Camilla Lewin
OVERALL ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT PRIZES History of Art Prize - Joanna Kim
These are based on examination performance The Mavis Hunter A Level History Prize - Zara Collier Baggs and Charka Stout
in summer examinations Latin Prize - Bella Seymour
Greek Prize - Frances Arnold
LIV Honor Bell Sue Lawton Prize for Mathematics - Sylvia Rutherford
MIV Laura Edwards Further Mathematics Prize - Zara Collier Baggs
UIV Beatrix Arnold Mayhew Prize for Music for All-Round Contribution - Ila Shetty
LV Catriona Hay The Finlandia Cup (voted for by members of the Chamber Choir) - Emily Smyth-Osbourne
UV Megan Harley-Martin Religion, Philosophy and Ethics Prize - Isabel Baker
LVI Georgina Auvray Physics Prize - Vicky Shi
Charles Crawford Sixth Form Science Prize - Charka Stout
Psychology Prize - Grace Clarke
Services to Sport Cup - Amelia Hatlapa

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