Former pupils celebrate St Mary’s 110th anniversary

School days were relived and memories shared when former pupils, from teenagers to octogenarians, came back to our Senior School on Saturday 7 July for a reunion in the school hall to mark the 110th anniversary of St Mary’s School.

The pupils, as well as former and current teachers, enjoyed a prosecco afternoon tea and the chance to reminisce about their school days. Memories were prompted by current students who conducted tours of the school. A beautiful cake was made to mark the occasion, with a ceremonial mulberry tree planted by the current Chair of Governors Mrs Marguerite Haddrell, a former student herself.

“We were absolutely delighted to welcome back so many former pupils of St Mary’s for such a lovely afternoon of tea and memories,” said Principal Mrs Hilary Vipond. “It has been wonderful to hear stories of the time they spent at the school and particularly to feel the fondness for St Mary’s that still endures. As we say, ‘Once a St Mary’s girl, always a St Mary’s girl’ – however we were lucky enough to welcome a former St Mary’s boy too! The school was co-educational until the 1970s. It was a very heart-warming occasion and one we look forward to repeating it next year.”

Any former pupils who have not already joined the St Mary’s Alumni organisation are invited to email alumni@stmaryscolchester or visit www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk/alumni for a joining form. There is no joining fee and former pupils are invited to reunions and other events at the school, and to keep in touch via regular newsletters.