Private School News

Centenarian makes nostalgic return to Derbyshire school

A 100-year-old lady has made a nostalgic return to the stately home where she lived and worked 85 years ago.

Avis Wilks, who celebrated her 100th birthday in August last year, returned to Barlborough Hall School, in Derbyshire.

Avis worked on the staff at Barlborough Hall for ten years from the age of 16 before leaving for London with the Locker-Lampson family in 1935. Barlborough Hall became a school five years later.

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, was presented with a canvas-framed picture of Barlborough Hall during her visit – as a reminder of the time she spent there.

A small group of children from the school also met Avis for tea and biscuits and a chat about Barlborough life.

Pupils at the school, which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, still have lessons in the Hall’s original rooms and use the library, top parlour and chapel.

Wanda Parkinson, Barlborough Hall headteacher, said: “Avis’ return was a wonderful occasion for her and the school, and we were 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 was delighted to meet her and share in some of the fascinating memories she has of Barlborough Hall.”

Photo: Tony Bak, heritage project manager at the Barlborough Resource Centre, with Avis