An Evening of Connection and Reflection: GDST Alumnae Gather at Historic Trinity Hall, Cambridge
On Saturday 26th October, we welcomed a group of alumnae from across the GDST network to an evening at the historic Trinity Hall, Cambridge.
The event took place in the beautiful Graham Storey Room which dates back to 1590 and sits below Trinity Hall’s Elizabethan chained library – the oldest library in Cambridge in its original setting.
The alumnae were warmly received by Mary Hockaday, Master of Trinity Hall, former GDST Council member, and Oxford High alumna. Over drinks and light bites, guests had the opportunity to connect with fellow alumnae living in the area and in many cases studying at the university.



To spark conversation, we asked attendees to reflect on a question during the evening.
How did you benefit from going to a girls’ school?
The thoughtful responses we received captured the unique impact of a GDST education on each alumna’s journey. Here are some examples:
I’m more self-confident and self-assured. I feel I can defend my opinions without being belittled for my gender. My teachers were all immensely helpful and I feel like my Maths teacher especially helped me to become resilient in a way that has benefited me immensely.
Bromley High School
The benefit for me was no one telling me girls couldn’t do science. One third of our Sixth Form did Physics. Day one of Uni (studying Physics) someone said: “Isn’t it unusual for a girl to do Physics?” I didn’t think so, but there were only 10 girls out of 150 people on my course.
Putney High School
My time at Howell’s benefited me and gave me more confidence in a girls only environment and now my daughter goes to an all girls’ school. Education is critical and so it is more important than ever to create an environment where girls can thrive and be themselves.
Howell’s School, Llandaff
My time at school helped me grow my confidence in pursuing my passions. My Maths teacher played a crucial role for me as a mentor and inspiration. I am very grateful for the opportunities the GDST has offered me.
Norwich High School for Girls
The GDST Alumnae Network
The GDST Alumnae Network is the largest organisation of its kind in the country. There are over 100,000 GDST alumnae from across our family of 25 all-girls schools and the network is increasing every year.