The First Girls of Arnold School Return 50 Years Later

Earlier this week, we were delighted to welcome alumnae back to AKS Lytham to celebrate an important milestone in the history of one of our heritage schools, Arnold School, marking 50 years since girls first joined the Senior School and Sixth Form in 1976.

The afternoon tea brought together former pupils from across the generations, including nine members of the original cohort of girls who joined Arnold School in 1976. Also joining the celebrations was former teacher, Gill Raby, who was there when the first girls arrived at the school. As expected, Gill remembered many of the former pupils in attendance and was delighted to reconnect with so many familiar faces. Former teachers Margaret Ingham and Jackie Nichols were also pleased to spot a few of their former students amongst the guests.

For many, the afternoon was an emotional occasion. It was heartwarming to watch members of the original cohort reunited, some meeting again for the first time in 40 or even 50 years when it all began. There were plenty of hugs, laughter and shared memories as old friendships were rekindled and stories from school days were exchanged in abundance.

The afternoon began with a wonderful performance from Henry Clarkson, who sang Something's Coming from West Side Story. It was a delightful way to start the event and set the tone for an afternoon filled with conversation, memories and reconnections.

Guests spent much of the afternoon catching up with friends and exploring the heritage displays, where many eagerly searched through photographs and memorabilia from their school days. It was lovely to see so many people reminiscing together and reflecting on the lasting connections formed during their time at Arnold School.

We were particularly touched by the many messages of thanks received from attendees, with several expressing how much it meant to reconnect with former classmates after so many years and how grateful they were for the opportunity to come together once again.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the afternoon such a special occasion.

A gallery of photographs from the event can be viewed below.