The sun was shining and the sky was blue (as were many of the outfits!), as we welcomed back some 100 Alice Ottleians and former staff for the annual alumnae Summer Gathering. This is always a highlight of the year, seeing many former pupils back at their School, enjoying tours and reigniting friendships.

The event started with teas, coffees and reconnecting, before the old School bell was rung and Foundation Director Scott MacDonald welcomed back all our guests who ranged from 1950 leavers through to those who left the School in the 2000’s. Alumnae then enjoyed tours of School led ably by our Prefects (shock horror, some were even boys!), followed by a tasty lunch on the lawn. Whilst School catering has moved on considerably over the years, there was still plenty of culinary nostalgia with AO favourites of Choc Ices to mark the School birthday, and cheese, jam and crackers, available for everyone’s enjoyment.

Guests enjoyed hearing from Headmaster John Pitt about the life of the School today and a toast to the School was proposed by former Head Girl Rachel (Shaw) Rogers (1991-99).

It was particularly special to have Jill (Ottley) Taylor (1952-59) with us on the day. Jill, the Great Niece of founding Headmistress Alice Ottley herself, had in her care some very special items which she kindly passed on to the Archives alongside Kay Meredith (1973-80), former President of the AOOE Association, and Rosemary Ham who taught at The Alice Ottley School and went on to be Chair of the Governors at RGS. The Archives is therefore very fortunate now to have on display the Lily brooch Alice Ottley herself wore and which was passed on to subsequent Headmistresses, and the plaque presented to Alice Ottley on her retirement.

The day was a huge success with so many saying how much they already look forward to next year. Thank you to everyone, former pupils and staff, for joining us.