After refreshments in the foyer, current Sixth Formers escorted guests on tours of the school, giving everyone a chance to see what amazing opportunities our students are offered at King’s High today. An excellent two-course lunch was enjoyed in the school Dining Room, with wine flowing amongst shared school memories.

After the meal, which was prepared by our wonderful King’s High catering staff, alumna Dr Anne Whitehouse gave a talk about redressing gender balance and pulling back feminine power. It was a privilege to hear Anne’s personal account of her journey from prodigious young scientist with a PhD from Cambridge and a post-doctoral fellowship from the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council to an “unexpected revolutionary” on a mission to detox the patriarchy.  Through her presentation she gave practical advice for how each member of the audience can bring about change, from sixth form student to those who left King’s High in the 1950s.  Anne’s honesty and insight made a powerful impact, and her words will stay with the listeners for many years to come.  Anne ended her talk with a gift of a book for all guests and charged them with the task of passing on what they had learned that day to another.

Dr Burley thanked Anne warmly for her inspiring and informative talk, and student Bella gave a heartfelt vote of thanks to Anne. The event concluded with a rousing rendition of Jerusalem, which was expertly led by alumna Gaynor Keeble.

All King’s High alumnae and former members of staff are warmly welcome at next year’s OGA Lunch. Watch this space for further details.