Margaret Shumacher (nee Dilkes) played the perfect host to the Californian Old Queenswoodian Reunion, held on October 17 2009 at the Covington in Aliso Viejo. She was joined by Rosemary Pettit ( nee Johnson), who left in 1963; Suzan Armatrading (nee Crowley ), who left in 1972; Diana Faulkner, who left in 1968; and Jane Krell (nee Fielding), who also left in 1968. The Principal, her husband and the Director of External Communications also attended.

Margaret went to great trouble to make the reunion a wonderful experience for all. She had reserved a separate part of the dining room in the complex in which she lives and had the table decorated most beautifully in Autumnal colours with lovely flowers. The food was excellent and we all enjoyed a traditional dish of surf and turf, which was superbly cooked. We all spent much of the time talking about our ladies’ time at Q and eliciting memories that had been buried for a long time. Subjects varied from the conditions of the bathrooms, the dreaded purple horrors, weekend trips to Potters Bar and dances with those boys at Haileybury. After lunch, we moved to the conference room where we spread out school photos, and documents from the past, including newspaper cuttings. Our Old Queesnwoodians had also brought photos to share. The Principal presented the news and events of the School and spoke about the master plan, whilst photos of the practical cookery suite and new sixth form accommodation were passed around.

The day was an outstanding success, and we hope that they will all now stay in touch with each other and the School. Should you wish to contact any of these ladies, please contact Jane on 01707 602551 or email her at jane.vandermaat@queenswood.org.