Fun, laughter and a little more laughter were the order of the day for the Ellerslie Old Girls Reunion held in May. 178 old girls, members of staff and representatives from the Malvernian Society and Malvern College, joined together for a wonderful day of meeting friends, old and new, all united in the joyous task of reminiscing.
The day started with coffee and pastries at the former Ellerslie School (now Audley Ellerslie, a luxury retirement village). It gave everyone a fantastic opportunity to see how their school campus had changed and certainly brought back lots of happy and amusing memories.
Then it was back to Malvern College for a special Chapel service led by the College’s Chaplain, Rev David Ibbotson. David spoke about the spirit of Ellerslie, reading excerpts from an Ellerslie School advertisement from 1955: “The school is situated 535ft above sea level, on the slope of the Malvern Hills. There is a splendid health record, and every home comfort is given” and “Delicate girls receive special care and are not pressed with their work. All forms of cramming are avoided” were just two examples received with much amusement! The hymns had been specially selected for the occasion, though the omittance of Jerusalem sparked an impromptu rendition of the hymn at the end of the service – a gesture which brought a tear to many an eye and certainly created huge smiles all round.
A drinks reception and delicious two-course lunch followed, with a welcome speech by Malvern College’s Headmaster, Keith Metcalfe who spoke about the history of Ellerslie, before handing the reigns to Jo Hampson (Ell.67-74). Jo spoke passionately about the spirit of Ellerslie and the importance of friendship, both during school days but also through the years since leaving.
Everyone who attended the reunion had special memories to share, with EOGs travelling far and wide to attend – America, Australia, and the Bahamas to name just a few of the countries these ladies now reside in.
The afternoon was topped off by tours of the campus, including to Ellerslie House where our EOGs were able to see a display of Ellerslie School memorabilia.
A very special time was had by all (see just some of the feedback below!) – here’s to the next EOG Reunion!
“The opportunity to see friends from so many years ago was just wonderful and to be looked after so well by Malvern College was fantastic. Having now purchased my Ellerslie Tea Towel, I hope this will be as long-lasting as my Ellerslie friendships.”
“The Service in the Chapel was wonderful; everyone sung with such gusto it certainly showed how much the Reunion was appreciated. The food was excellent and the whole day was organised so well. Many thanks to everyone involved, your organisational skills were very much appreciated.”
“Grateful thanks to all those involved in the arrangements for the Ellerslie centenary reunion on Saturday. The programme was an excellent one. It was a pleasure to return to Malvern and meet up with friends.”
“The day was a super mix of nostalgia going into Audley Ellerslie, a service in the College chapel and seeing the memorabilia on display in Ellerslie boarding house, but also allowed ample time to chat together. In the words of my Headmistress, Margaret Prior, it was ‘Absolutely Splendid!’.”