A Fourth of July to remember

The 125th Anniversary Celebration on the Chapel Lawns at St Mary’s School on Thursday 4 July 2024 will be remembered by many not as the prelude to a change in government, but of a splendid evening spent in good company to pay tribute to the Schools’ remarkable history and to celebrate a significant change in the Schools’ governance.  

Our cherished community, including our Headmistress of 17 years, Ms Charlotte Avery, the Head Elect, Mrs Hannah Helliar, the Sisters of the Congregation of Jesus, Governors, alumnae, parents, staff and friends, came together under the best that the English summer could muster (ie. It didn’t rain!) to say goodbyes, rekindle acquaintances and enjoy a glass of fizz and some delicious canapes.  

In quintessential garden party style, the live music, marquees and the scent of the flowerbeds created a memorable backdrop to mark two noteworthy events. 

2024 is the 125th year of St Mary’s School provision of excellent education for girls, starting humbly with just two pupils to become the thriving hub of ambition and success that it is now. We are all thankful for the opportunities that St Mary’s gave, gives, and will continue to give to the advancement of women.  

This summer also sees the departure of our Headmistress of the last 17 years – Ms Charlotte Avery – almost two decades during which the School has grown and flourished in its endeavors and commitments to the education of girls. We all wished her well in her new headship and expressed our support for her successor, Mrs Helliar. 

Mindful of our duty to visit the ballot boxes, the evening wrapped up with time to vote, and for the gardens to be returned to pristine and unmarked serenity, ready for the school day to come. 

We’d like to extend our thanks to the staff who dedicated their time to organise the event, and to our wonderful guests who made our 125th anniversary so special! 

See photographs from the evening