In what was the first event of its kind, former pupils and staff joined current pupils and staff members, including Headmistress Katharine Woodcock, for a ‘Back to School’ lunch last Friday. Former pupils and members of staff sat alongside current members of the Upper Fifth and Lower Sixth, enjoying a buffet-style lunch while sharing stories of school days at Francis Holland, swapping experiences of life in the Sixth Form at FHS and beyond. Said one former pupil, ‘It was really great to be back at school and to see my old teachers!’

Guests were also treated to a presentation by Class of 2015 alumna, Hanna Bayoudhi, introduced by Chair of Quondam, Susanne Nedas, who spoke to guests about her recent trip to Liberia in her capacity as a Civil Engineer and MSc student, where she designed and construced a bridge to enable local communities to gain access to life-supporting services. Hanna’s trip was part-funded by Quondam as winner of the 2022 Quondam Travel Scholarship.

With thanks to all who attended, and especially those who gave up their time for the event. We look forward to welcoming back many more alumni to our next event: the Polished Corners Lunch on 5th November!

For any current Sixth Form pupils and former pupils aged 27 and under who are interested in applying for the 2023 Travel Scholarship, details of how to apply are available on the Alumni Network and on the FHS website, here.

The closing date for applications will be Wednesday 19th April 2023.