As part of Fahan’s Year 2 history studies, the class have been looking at the concept of past and present and how things have changed over time. Class teacher, Mrs Sophie Baxter, used this opportunity to invite our valued members the Fahan Alumni back to the School to share their stories. The students devised a set of school-focussed questions for all Alumni to answer, covering topics of sport, uniforms, teachers and playgrounds. The friendly question-and-answer session was designed to identify the differences and similarities of the former students’ experiences at school.

Over six decades of schooling had passed between the group of Alumni. Those who generously offered their time were Sasha Gregg (’20), Laura Turbett (née Morris, ‘08), Katy Stewart (née Wilkinson, ‘06), Jo Banks-Smith (née Wilkinson, ‘95), Louise Wilkins (née Rumley, ‘86), Jill Wilkinson (née Game, ‘70), Barbara Edwards (née Hinman, ’64), and Angela Lea (née Walch, ‘57).

The group came to the TM Hall, a place that still holds fond memories for all Alumni, where they reminisced of singing the Fahan School song and performing on stage. In small groups, the Year 2 students asked their chosen Alumna about their time at Fahan. Our younger students shared some of the information they found most interesting.

Mila S “Old people didn’t have a tuckshop, but the younger Alumni did”.

Charlotte B “Some of the girls went to Hutchins before coming to Fahan”.

Bonnie P “Most of the girls loved PE and said that was their favourite sporting activity”.

Carla H “Mrs Lea had to dress up as a postman in a play and walk and talk funny”

Violet G “They played and practiced hockey on what they called “The Paddock’”

Madeline C “Mrs Lea’s PE teacher made her run laps of the school.”

Ella O “I found it interesting that they didn’t get the cane at School.”

Mrs Baxter, also a Fahan Alumna, said the activity was a wonderful way for the children to learn about real-life experiences from real people. She plans to host the activity in future. “I think our wonderful Fahan Alumni really enjoyed themselves. They each expressed an interest in visiting again and our young girls loved it”, shared Sophie. “It was a joy to hear them recall the interesting, funny and surprising stories told by our past students. It was a lovely way to connect with our Alumni”.

If you would like to be involved in learning activities for our current and future students, please contact us. We would be delighted to welcome you back to Fahan School.