Paddington Basin looked glorious in the sunshine as Abbey alumnae gathered for our annual London Drinks reunion.
There was such a brilliant atmosphere as friends reunited and the room was alive with the constant chatter of people catching up. It was wonderful to see so many former students from our anniversary years of 2015 and 2020 in the mix of familiar faces.
It was particularly special to see such strong, enduring connections with former teachers. Magical moments where you could feel the mutual joy of sharing their latest news and achievements. Former headteacher, Mrs Barbara Stanley, could not walk more than a few steps before another former student reached out to talk to her!
Barbara said, “The Abbey ‘younger old girls’ London drinks is the highlight of my Abbey year. It was a delight to see you all again and to hear what you are doing now – and especially to hear what you are giving back to society too. Your delight in each other, your striving to be the best you can, and your fond memories of school days builds still further my pride in you all. I hope none of us will ever take this ‘gift’ of The Abbey for granted. I know you value the long-term friendships you have developed and I look forward to seeing you – and others – again in these annual reunions next year and beyond.”
As well as Mrs Stanley, our alumnae enjoyed catching up with former staff Ros Johnson, Elaine Cook and Jill Lesbirel, along with current teachers including Mike Dalton, Isabelle Berrow, Kimberley Jest, Ulrike Byrne, Elizabeth Sutcliffe, Stephen Grant and Ed Hills. Headteacher Will le Fleming gave a poignant toast, emphasising the joy of our Abbey community which he wants to proudly remain a part of after his departure this summer. It felt like a passing of the baton moment as he celebrated his successor, Sarah Tullis, who never stopped catching up with students all evening, deep in conversation about where their stories since The Abbey have taken them so far.
Drinks flowed, the room was awash with smiles and it was yet another reminder of just how special the Abbey community is. If you missed it this year – please join us to raise a glass next year.
