Private School News

Centenarian makes nostalgic return to Derbyshire school

A 100-year-old lady will make a nostalgic return to the stately home where she lived and worked 84 years ago.

Avis Clarke, who celebrated her 100th birthday in August, will return to Barlborough Hall School on Saturday September 19 at 10:00 am.

Avis worked on the staff at Barlborough Hall for ten years from the age of 16 before it became a school. She left with the Locker-Lampson family for London when they sold the Hall in 1935.

Two close relatives of Avis, who were both called Samuel Wells, also worked at the Hall for many years as gardeners.

Avis, who now lives in a care home in Dinnington, Sheffield, will be presented with a canvas-framed picture of Barlborough Hall as a reminder of the time she spent there.

A small group of children from Barlborough Hall School will also meet with Avis for tea and biscuits.

Barlborough Hall, which celebrates its own landmark birthday this year after 70 years as a school, became the preparatory school to nearby Mount St Mary’s College in 1939.

Pupils at Barlborough still have lessons in the Hall’s original rooms, including the library, top parlour and chapel.

Wanda Parkinson, Barlborough Hall Headteacher, said: “It is wonderful that Avis is returning to Barlborough Hall and we are thrilled to welcome her back.

“She has clearly led a fascinating life and her experience gives us an interesting insight into the history of the Hall.

“To reach 100 years old is an incredible milestone for Avis. Everyone is looking forward to meeting her and sharing in some of the memories she has of Barlborough Hall.”

Barlborough Hall, an independent Jesuit Preparatory School for boys and girls aged 3-11, is situated in a protected countryside estate of 320 acres. Built in 1583 by Francis Rodes, the Hall is a Grade 1 listed building which has retained much of its original character.

Picture: Grade 1 listed Barlborough Hall which celebrates 70 years as a school this year.