What makes Wimbledon High special? Each yeargroup has their own set of memories and favourite moments but the thing that they have in common is that their friendships endure, long after they leave school.
A large and lively group of alumnae from the Class of 1976 returned to school on a hot day in June to celebrate the 50th anniversary of leaving WHS, marking the occasion with a special reunion filled with lot of reminiscing on five decades of enduring friendship. The record- breaking summer heat added a touch of symmetry to the occasion, as the yeargroup recalled sitting their A Levels in 1976 during the UK’s famous heatwave that broke weather records at the time. Fifty years later, they found themselves in Senior Hall once more fanning themselves furiously!
The gathering brought together former classmates from across the UK and beyond – Dawn travelled from Tasmania, while Kate came from Portugal and others made substantial trips from Newcastle, Shropshire, Somerset and Hampshire. It was particularly lovely to be joined by two of the yeargroups’ teachers – Chemistry Teacher Ella Bylanski (nee Krzysztoporska) 1970 – 1989 and Maths Teacher Jaclyn Horton (1969 – 1979 then Director of Studies 1979 – 2003)
In spite of the heat, a delicious lunch was served, rounded off with a surprise celebration cake. It was also great to browse through sports team and class photos and other memorabilia brought in – even including a full hand-made summer uniform!
A particular highlight of the reunion was the opportunity to revisit the school – expertly guided by two Year 12 students – and to see how it has evolved over the past half-century.
“We really appreciated the opportunity to reminisce on our school days within the school environment and to have an introduction to how much change there has been during the course of these last 50 years! It certainly appears to be a wonderful place to spend your school days.”
While the reunion celebrated a significant milestone, it also showcased the remarkable bonds that have endured since the class left WHS in 1976. Many keep in touch regularly, and the group last gathered together 10 years ago, with much of the credit for keeping these reunions going to Maureen and Claire, who have worked tirelessly to keep the group connected over the years.
Their efforts have ensured that, despite living in different parts of the country, the classmates have remained in touch, continued to share life’s milestones and been able to come together once again to celebrate this special anniversary.
Fifty years after leaving WHS, the reunion was a powerful reminder that while much has changed at the school, the friendships formed there continue to stand the test of time. Thank you all for making the effort to come back and see us!
