The annual Alumnae London Drinks took place along the Thames Path at Bankside Gallery, hosted by Head Will le Fleming. Over a hundred alumnae, current and former staff gathered with a glass of chilled fizz on a warm summer’s evening to reconnect, network and celebrate achievements.

There were special celebrations and a very large anniversary cake for our 5 and 10 year anniversary leavers’ from 2018 and 2013. There was a spontaneous rendition of ‘happy birthday’ for alumna Dilys (1951 leaver) as she was presented with an ‘Abbey’ branded cake ahead of her 90th birthday next month!

Special tributes were paid by alumnae to mark the retirement of long standing teachers, Elaine Cook, Head of Maths and Marlene Robinson, Teacher of Physics and Aspire Careers Lead.

Our Head Girls’ Lily and Jigya who were there have written their own review of the evening:

Held at Bankside Gallery on the Southbank, it was a wonderful opportunity for former pupils and teachers to re-connect and share memories of their time at the school. As well as plenty of happy reminiscing, there were also heartfelt speeches from both Mrs Robinson and Miss Cook who will be leaving us at the end of this year after many years teaching at The Abbey. It was hugely touching to see how many alumnae had wonderful personal memories from both Mrs Robsinson’s and Miss Cook’s lessons spanning decades. 

As well as a chance for the alumnae to catch up with one another, the Alumnae Prefects and Head Girls were invited to help out at the event which was a great way to discuss future plans with those who have already gone out into university or the world of work from The Abbey. It was lovely for us to talk about post school plans with those on the other side of A-levels with conversation topics ranging from the studious – Engineering at Imperial to the less studious but equally important – Glasgow student food scene. Finally, A big thank you to Mrs Bushrod and Mrs Clarke for organising a lovely evening for all involved be that previous students, current students and staff. Lily and Jigya, Lower VI

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this wonderful evening and we look forward to seeing you at the Alumnae Tea & Tours at The Abbey next March and the Alumnae London Drinks 2024.

Julie Bushrod – Alumnae, Engagement & Development Officer
Marianne Clarke – Director of Engagement & Development