On Saturday 10th May, No.3 alumnae returned to Malvern College to celebrate a very special milestone: 30 years of girls in No.3 House. The event took place in the garden of the House and brought together generations of No.3 girls for an afternoon of reconnection, reflection, and celebration.
Hosted by current Housemistress Fiona Packham and her husband, Keith Packham, Director of Drama, the afternoon included campus and house tours, a sparkling afternoon tea, and a beautifully crafted celebratory cake to mark three decades of No.3 as a home for girls at the College. Also joining the event was Angela Lafferty, former Housemistress of No.3, whose presence added an extra layer of nostalgia and warmth to the occasion.
The Headmaster welcomed returning guests, many of whom hadn’t walked the halls of No.3 in years, and the sense of familiarity and belonging was immediate.
In her heartfelt address, Fiona Packham reflected on the enduring spirit of the house:
“As I look around this gathering I know that each of you will have your own stories and memories to share and enjoy – I have some too, of each of you – not that it would be appropriate to share all of them, of course!
“What has never changed, I hope you will agree, is the feeling of a warm welcome and a safe space – where you can be yourself, a home from home. Filled with love and laughter, occasional tears, but support and gentle, but firm, guidance at times. The No.3 girls continue to be as they always have been: happy, helpful, kind, resilient, determined and dynamic – and full of fun.
“Our House motto, ‘Where you lead, they will follow’, is so important in the world today, and I hope it has meant that you are all out there leading by example.”
The celebration was not only a tribute to the legacy of No.3, but a reminder of the lifelong community and support that Malvern College fosters. As stories were shared over tea and fizz, it was clear that while the years have passed, the heart of No.3 remains unchanged.
Will there ever be another reunion for former male pupils of No.3? The last one my wife and I attended was years ago, but some of us old codgers are still alive (just) and the occasion was really enjoyable.
Yes! A No.3 Reunion will take place in 2026 – date tbc but all No.3 OMs will be invited and we hope you will be able to make it.