Alumni

School Reunion

by Justine Etheridge (now Walmsley)

School reunions. What to expect? Theso much larger when you were 11. An odd way to spend a Sunday afternoon, perhaps? On the other hand, for me, my school reunion reflected the pleasure I had of being a child entering St Catherine’s for the first time. Not only did walking through the school gates deliver a flood of memories, but the work that Chantal Goldburn, Sister Paula and strange fascination of meeting people you haven’t seen in 25 years and walking around a site that seemed the team had performed to provide memorabilia reflecting our time there, further reinforced the growing sense that I really had so enjoyed my time at St Catherine’s. Better collect the badge with my name on it – after all I think I have really changed in 25 years. However, the first person I saw was a great friend back then and she, Emma Cuzner recognised me in an instant. Apparently I’ve not changed a bit and 25 years of catching up was delivered at excitable high speed. And then a moment to treasure, I got to meet my old Headmistress and I produced the prayer book she had given me all those years ago when I left.

Next we toured the school and more memories – the Grotto (very scary back in the old days), science labs, classrooms, the swimming pool. The sights, sounds and smells hit me and I felt like I was just back after a week’s half term. I was also delighted to hear about the new development plans for the school and the re-introduction of the 6th form after a 20 year absence.

The tour was over and it was back to the school hall for a celebratory Mass and a fantastic afternoon tea, which had been laid on for us. Sister Paula thanked us all for attending, but frankly, this is my opportunity to thank St Catherine’s for inviting me, nothing can beat a School Reunion – meeting old friends, laughing at our photos and reliving our misdemeanours and adventures in the school we all attended. Just a brilliant way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Please contact Chantal Goldburn Alumni Co-ordinator for more information on St Catherine's School Alumni on 0203 261 0142.