I initially came to Lancing in January 1990, after teaching in Sri Lanka. I covered the classes of Head Master Jim Woodhouse (on sabbatical) and intellectual powerhouse Michelle Martindale (on maternity leave). It was a glorious couple of terms, and I returned as Housemistress of Manor in 1996, after 6 very happy years in the state sector. I planned to stay five years... 

Lancing has afforded me many opportunities: Housemistress of Manor then Field’s, teaching within the magnificent English Department, enjoying Tomlinson Tours in the late 90s and Malawi Expeditions across the decades. As Senior Mistress, Deputy Head, and then Senior Deputy Head I have been able to be part of leading as well as enjoying Lancing. I have seen it become a fully and proudly co-educational school and witness the opportunities afforded in equal measure to all pupils. The Foundationers scheme speaks to and rises from the character of the place.  

Phil and I have brought up three children here (all now OLs). I am privileged to have known thousands of Lancing pupils, to see change and development in the school and to enjoy its constants of civility, warmth, integrity, laughter, curiosity and a dash of irreverence. I have worked for six Head Masters and Lancing is fortunate in the dynamic intelligence and kindness of Dominic Oliver. His deft hand on the tiller during the pandemic maintained an incredible unity and sense of community. In the topography of Lancing, here be no dragons. I have found friends and esteemed colleagues, a home and space for family as well as work, roles which have delighted and challenged, the spacious beauty of the site, the intellectual and practical flexibilities of staff and pupils, their ability to embrace change and to live the essential character of this school. 

Thank you, Lancing.