On Thursday 18th May, on one of the first warm evenings of early summer, we hosted the 150th Anniversary Garden Party in the verdant surroundings of the Lime Kiln Garden.

Over 100 alumnae, former parents and friends enjoyed drinks and delicious canapés in the garden and pavilion whilst listening to a medley of uplifting musical performances from several of our students.

It was a wonderful opportunity for many to enjoy the garden for the first time whilst catching up with old friends, sharing stories, memories and, in a few instances, photographs.

Dr Felicia Kirk welcomed and thanked all the guests for their support and spoke of the sense of privilege she felt as Head of St Mary’s – a place where girls can be who they are and truly shape the brightest of futures for themselves.

Governor, Alumna and Trustee of Calne Foundation Trust, Vicky Wilson, talked of the importance of supporting the Chrysalis Campaign in this 150th anniversary year. She urged supporters to join the 150 Society, which recognises those who support the Campaign’s truly transformational bursary programme. She thanked the Patron of the Trust, Lady Lansdowne, for joining us at the event and finished by urging everyone to do all they can to support the Trust’s initiatives, by whatever means, including the purchase of 150th memorabilia.

All agreed it was truly a delightful evening of celebration and reminiscence.

There are many more events planned for this special year. Further details can be found here.

If you would like to share any memories or photographs for potential inclusion in our 150th anniversary book, to be published at the end of the year, do please contact Caroline Wrench.

Mrs Gill Cooper
Development and Events Co-ordinator