 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Are you
looking for something you want to buy? The box above may
help you find it... |
|
 |
|
|
|
HOME |
 Olton
Court Convent
Use this page to contact old friends from Olton Court Convent in Solihull |
|
1970's |
I was at Olton Court
Convent and at Our Lady of Compassion when it changed it's name. I
remember Sister Hilda, Sister Claire, Sister Veronica, Sister Benezia,
Mrs Appleby, Ms. Cowan. Charlotte Jones, Fiona Short, Paul De Jung,
Margaret Monahan (sp?), John and Joanne Lynch, Paul Reynolds, Helen
Winnett, Antonio De Mambro, Eamon Coleman, and I'll look through
my photos tonight to see who else I remember.
Sushila Mitra
Hi, I did a reunion at
school a few years ago. I would have been there 71-77, I still have
quite a few addresses anybody interested in another? Mary Parker nee
Tully
Mary Parker nee Tully
I would love to hear from anyone who left the junior school in
1974 and I wonder what happened to Miss or Mrs Appleby who used to teach games. I am
looking for a girl called Linda Walker who got a older sister called Jenny they moved from
Kineton Green Road to Bewdley in 72 or 73.
I wonder where Sister Hilda is? I would love to have an reunion at some
stage. for anyone who left 1974 and before. let me know what you all think.
I would love to hear who left the junior school in 1974. some names I can
remember Gabby hart Joanne Renolds Kate griffin are only a few names i can
remember. Does anyone know the where Linda walker is last know address was
in Bewdley somewhere.
Toni Taylor
Olton Court Convent
In china learning Irish!!!
Barry Colman
Olton Court Convent
I attended Olton Court Convent from 71-75. I remember Joanna White
who used to catch the bus with me from Knowle. Fiona Carless, Barbara Jacobi, Nicky
Small. If there is anyone out there who remembers me, drop me a line.
Clare Phillips (nee Clarke)
Our Lady of Compassion
Is there anyone reading this an ex pupil of Our Lady of Compassion formerly known
as Olton court convent, in the years 1972-1975, In particular I am looking for Paul de
Young, John and Joanne Lynch, Fiona Short and Maxine Holley.
Do you remember Sister Hilda and Sister Benizia? I bet we all have children of our own
now!
Helen Jones (née Winnett) |
|
1960's |
I have just been on an
amazing journey back in time, when my twin sister Janet Gains and I
Susan Gains attended the Convent in the 60's. I remember Rosemary
Waters, Christine Dingley, Anne Eden, Jane Saywell, Rosalind Follows and
Jean Rogers. I remember marching into assembly having to keep straight
lines or being sent back to do it all again. Sneaking in ketchup on
Fridays for fish and chips trying to make out if Mother St John was
looking at us, poor woman was cross eyed, so we couldn't tell. Having to
curtsy when Ma Mere came along and not drop our piles of books we had to
carry to our class rooms. I remember domestic science Jane Saywell and i
would rush to class to hide in the back room so we could eat the cake
mixture out of our bowls yummy it was so good, a big no no not lady
like. Oh those good old days. so girls if anyone remembers me i'd love
to hear from you. I living in Canada, I have two beautiful daughters,
and two adorable grandchildren. I am retired and spend our time hiking
the shores of Lake Superior seeing all the magnificent beauty eagles
bears and moose. It truly is Gods country. Take care my friends hope to
hear from you.
Susan Fisher nee Gains
I was at the convent from
1962 to 1966, starting in Junior 2 and leaving after 2 Chad, I was as
others have said wisked away to Canada in July 1966, to Oakville
Ontario. I remember Caroline Baker, Vivienne Walker (who I kept in touch
with until about 1975), Elizabeth Nicholson, Teresa Mandrela,Susan
Morris, Colette Jenkins, Hilary Marshall, Judith Rix, and someone who's
real name was Barbara but we always called her 'Thick' not sure why, but
apologies for past insults. Teachers, a blond woman in Junior 2, Mother
Margaret Mary Junior 3 I think, Mother Veronica Form 1,not sure who was
the form teacher in 2 Chad, but I do remember Miss Meekin and Miss Bowen
for dance And then there was 'Inky' and the assemblies, and getting
pulled out of line by her, for playing with the ponytail of the girl in
front of me. That was a terrible experience, taken off to an office
somewhere, where detailed inquiries were made of other staff as to my
character. I think I was 10 at the time! I had 2 younger sisters
as the school, Angela and Helen Ross. I would love to hear from anyone
who remembers me. I now live in Mississauga Ontario, have 2 grown
daughters and 3 grandchildren. On my next UK visit, a visit to B'ham is
part of the itinerary I'm going to show my husband places from my
childhood. His family has been in Canada since the early 1800's so he
has no idea about growing up in England. I also have pictures mostly
taken at the end of the school year 1966, just before we left for
Canada. I will post them here, maybe somebody can identify the girls
whose names I have forgotten.
Monica Ross
I attended St Marys from
1962-67, and have very fond memories. Some names that spring to mind are
Dorothy Gearing, Patsy Brackenbury, Sally Lamb, Ursula Hammond, Linda
Butler, Janet Robertson. I would love to hear from anyone, to whom this
rings a bell.
Alison Gilks (nee Fields)
Hi, I was at the convent
till 1964/5 Moved to London, got SRN and moved to Canada in 1970.Lived
in Montreal and Toronto and then US Virgin Islands. Now in Boca Raton,
Florida but still remember my time at the convent, the school hiking
trips, Miss Grey ,the choir, it was a good time. Eileen Moran was an old
friend, lost touch with all the moves.
Bernadette Colquhoun
I have only just found
this site and names came flooding back to me . It was wonderful. I
attended the Convent during the 60's,leaving 1967 for the B'ham School
of Music. I'm still very much in touch with Cecilia Campbell (nee
Hurley) and Anne French (nee Gorman). Noreen Smith held a reunion in the
90's at her home and we met up with a few of our year then. I then went
to another reunion in Solihull centre where Mother Mary of the Cross was
there. That was incredible to me as she had hardly changed!! I have met
Eileen and Frances Gallagher from time to time. I stayed on to the 'A'levels,
with English and Geography, so had Miss Gray and the bustling little Mrs
Butler to coach us through. I have lasting memories of our geographic
expeditions linked with Yardley Grammar School. We went to Appleby and
Dorset. I would dearly love to get in touch with Angie Dawkins, we were
good pals and then she moved away to Lichfield I think and we totally
lost contact. Teachers I can't possibly forget for one reason or another
are: Mrs Tippet (biology), Mrs Butler, Miss Ash (french), Miss Conroy,
Miss Gray, Mr.Coleman-Kelly (drama), Miss Byrd (art), Miss Bowen (dance)
Mrs.Nicholson, Mrs Doddman (maths), Mother St.John, Mr.Jones (choir) and
Miss Meekin, whom I eventually joined on the staff at St.Martins!. I can
remember so well us girls having to line the corridors in silence
waiting to go in the hall for assembly, and there on the stage would be
'Inky' winding her gramophone player up to the sound of the march
'Liberty Bell'.!! Those awful blue sandals on hellishly slippy floors!I
was house captain for St.Bernards and can remember bribing the girls to
gain house-points by awarding book tokens to the one with the highest
each term. Oh, I could go on indefinitely.....but if anyone was in the
same class or year, I'd love to hear from you. As an after-thought, some
girls that I knew were...Pauline Hunt, Chrissy Moss, Soibhan,Vivienne
Morrissey, Chris McCardle, Rosemary Waters, Nuala Morrissey, Gaynor,
Jayne Ayre, Gillian Brookes, Jan Callaghan, Pat Cooke and so on! I'm
living in France now, have two grown-up children still in Solihull, two
grand-children and one daughter doing her BAC this year at Albi lycee,
Midi-Pyrenees.I'm keeping my fingers crossed for any contact.
Ros Peters (nee Follows)
I'm trying to trace
Sheilagh Smythe, I think she attended this school in the 60's shes
abouth 60 herself now. She used to live in Douglas Road, Acocks Green,
if anyone has any details, please send them to me, Cheers
Chris Morrissey
I was at Olton convent
from 1960 to 1967 and would love to hear from anyone. Hello Amanda
Morgan give my love to you mother. She came to my second wedding two and
a half years ago. I was friendly with and would love to be in contact
again with Pat Barrett, Donney Wareing (Have sent her a message on face
book) Veronica Gertner, Helene Raisin (am in touch) Moira Laing ( she
made my first wedding dress and on the morning of the wedding burnt a
hole in the back when ironing it and her mother came round with a shawl.
It should have been an omen. I got divorced 20 years and three lovely
daughters later. Moira then made my second wedding dress two and a half
years ago. What happened to Terry DeJong, Helen MacDonagh, and Noreen
Smith who I cycled to school with and would love to be in contact with
again. Remember Molly and having to help clear those discusting warm and
half empty milk bottles at break time and the fun we all had at the lido
in Solihull from May onwards. Veronica Heart and the parties in her
lovely attic room, Veronica Gertner whose sleeve I accidentally cut off
during a needlework lesson! I haven't changed I still do stupid things.
I am in contact and very friendly with Pauline Wrestall from the year
below me. Would love to hear from anyone in that year. Vanessa Mackenzie
the first person to befriend me at school I named my first daughter
Vanessa!!!
Macrina Enock (nee Waters)
Does anyone know what
happened to Miss Conroy our English teacher, 1960's. It would be great
to be in touch with her. Many thanks.
Rosemary
Morle
Hi, I was at Olton from
1960 to 67 and certainly recognise some of you, like Patsy Humphreys and
Eileen Moran who travelled to Acocks Green on the No 11 bus with me.
Cathy Shoebridge, your sister, Mary, was in my class. I still keep in
touch with Vivienne Morrissey, my best friend but no relation, Noreen
Smith and Rosalind Vaughan. Have also recently met up with Frances
Gallagher. Some of my best memories are of staggering with laughter
down St Bernard's Road with Ros, Viv and Deborah Hind while Susan
Holdsworth strutted after some Solihull Boys' School army cadets,
singing Onward Christian Soldiers.
After Olton I went to Manchester University and there met other Old
Oltonians, Nancy Smythe, Elizabeth Mole, Mary Quinn and Clare? later
Crowther. I've recently written a book which does have some echoes of
Olton in it, one chapter in particular being based on something that
happened there. If anyone is interested, I could e-mail you the chapter
(then you might like to get the whole book.)
I'm married, have two grown-up daughters and five grandchildren. Would
like to hear from anyone who shares Olton memories. By the way there is
a lovely photograph of the Convent on Hunters website.
Nuala Morrissy (now Bielby)
What a blast from the
past. Pat Barratt - remember playing Adam Cartwright to my Hoss and
Helen McDonagh's Joe. We are in touch with Helen (annually) and
Veronica Gertner (regularly). Macreena is a good friend of my sister
Nicole. Should love to hear from you. Also Jane Clemence, Gay Hutton,
etc in that year. Too many to mention.
Helene Ripley (nee Rayson)
To Irena Arent. Hi Irena
I remember you in the first year u were very good at art i think- was
that u? Were u pals with Jane Ashby? I was friends with Eileen Kelly and
apparently was a bit mad!!!! Haven't kept in touch with anyone & visited
this site 29/4/09 for first time & your name caught my attention. Take
care
Clare Parkin
To: Clare Parkin. Yes, I remember you and Eileen Kelly and yes, I was
friends with Jane Ashby.I wonder what they're up to now? So difficult
to find the girls since many of us have changed surnames once or twice
over the years. Since I last checked this site, I've moved again, this
time just on the outskirts of New York City and I changed my email which
is probably why you weren't able to contact me. I have that corrected
now. Yes, I was the artsy one and still am, mostly graphic design and
marketing these days though. Had my own ad agency in Florida but moved
about 6 months ago to get out of the sweltering heat and humidity. I'll
write you an email too in case you don't get this message. What have you
been up to all these years????
Irena Arent
: )
I started as a preppie in
1961 and left when the 6th form moved en bloc to the new College. I see
no mention of St Frances house (brown). I remember many of the names
bove, also (mostly 2 Northern, 1968)... Jayne Allso, Catherine Burns,
Stefanie Liegois, Catherine Glendon, Kate Mansell, Daniele Hunt,
Patricia Walsh (with whom I organised a reunion in 1994) and Anne Walsh,
Louise Price, Elaine Yeomans, Elaine Oakes, Annette ? Patrricia and
Philippa Waring (families on St Bernards Rd), Sharon Holder, Mary
Flanagan, Mary Peyton, Geraldine Casey, Rosemary Knight, Jane
Whitworth-King (Junior), also Alison Hormel, Judith Rix (older), Mrs
Dodman, Mrs Summerfield, Mrs Fallerwell, Mrs Burke, Mrs Blackwell,
(Junior staff), Miss Couser (sport), Elizabeth Suthers (History), Mary
Flynn??? who had been at the convent and came back to teach Biology, Mr
Clarkson (Physics), Mr Frater (Science), Sister Francine, Mr Rutherford
(Chemistry) Miss Ash (French) and Miss Smith, Mrs Burke (Geography,
Sister Etranta (Spanish), Miss Heron (Art). My older sister Mary
preceded me by 7 years
Cathy
Shoebridge
I
attended the Convent between 1965 - 1968 and would love to contact any
students who may remember me from those days... especially Irena Sulma...
does anyone know where she may be? If anyone has any photos from those
days, could they please e-mail me? In 1968 I was whisked away by my
family to London, Canada and wasn't able to keep in touch with anyone.
Lots of fond memories, though. Remember rolling up those pleated skirts
to make them into mini-skirts? Since then my adventures have taken me
to Canada, Alaska and I'm now living in sunny Florida. Love to hear
from any of you!
Irena Arent
I studied at the convent from 1960 - 65 and remember
some of the names from above - started in 2 Chad and ended in 5 Newman.
Lots of happy memories, Mother Mary of the Incarnation as Head. Now 52
and still in touch with some old school friends.
I would Love to hear from more via this site.
Patsy Humphreys (sister Sally Anne 3 years younger) Reply via this page
This is a message for Patsy Humphreys
Hi Patsy, I am working with someone who worked with Sally we were
reminiscing...... We were interested to see if Sally had any entries
against her name on the internet and came across your name with hers on
this site. I have often thought about you and your mum. I did keep in
touch with your mum for a while. I then lost an address book with many
valuable numbers.
A fair few years ago I tried popping in to see your Mum when I was on a
visit to stay with my brother, in Cornwall, but I wasn't quite sure if
she still lived in Taunton, but had just wanted to say 'Hi'. There was
no response, and thought she had probably gone to live with you, so just
carried on with my travels.
I had just wanted to say to both of you that I still think much about
her (especially when I'm in reflective mood). She was a great friend of
mine. There isnt a week where I have not thought something to do with
her. She is partly responsible for my son.... as it was with her that I
shared the excitement of a new relationship .... she and I went through
her whole wardrobe assessing what I should wear on this first date. We
had good times and I miss her dearly, she had been a touchstone in my
life of 20s/30s growing up. If you should ever be in London and would
like to meet for a coffee ....that would be lovely. I hope you wont
mind being contacted but if you do I am sorry for intruding. Hope you
and your family are well. Debbie
Debbie Pragnell
Love to hear from anyone who started in 2 Newman in 1961
i.e. Helen
McDonnagh, Helen Rayson, Macrina Walters, Andrea Moran and Vanessa McKenzie. I have been
living on the Wirral for the past 16 years - 4 children 3 grandchildren now 51yrs old a
going grey.
Pat Barrett (now Jones) no email address supplied - reply via this page
To Pat Barrett
I attended the Convent between 1965 - 1973. My Mother is still in touch
with Macrina and her family; she has not changed a bit. Send me a
contact address so I can send you hers.
Amanda Morgan |
|
1950's |
Reading some of the entries here has given me a real nostalgia
trip!Happy days. I was there from 1952-57 leaving after O levels. I
expected to return to do A levels but a change of plan during the summer
holidays(& a house move )meant that I left not saying goodbye to
anyone!I remember most of the Christian names of the girls in my year
though I'm not quite so good on the surnames, Linda, Jill Sue , Diana, 'Gibby'
Pat Jane Mary. I could go on, but does anyone know the where abouts of
Pauline Bryan. I would specially like to be in touch with her again as
she was my particular friend in those days. I trained as an occupational
therapist, married a doctor and had 3 girls, 2 of them married and we
now have 7 grandchildren. Do be in touch if you remember me!
Gill Rushman (Gillian Rogers)
Senior moment there, folks - it was Miss Couser who was the sports
mistress!! Anyone else having the same sort of problems?? Perhaps it's
due to 13 years in one school from 1953 - 1966
Mary Shaverin (nee Shrimpton)
I was at Olton from 1953 to 1966, going through Montesorri and ending
with A levels. I was one of the sporty ones, spending every break and
dinner hour on the netball/tennis court or hockey pitch, so I remember
Miss Copson very well. Sadly she had a dreadful wasting type of disease
which made her later life in the 70s and 80s (I think) extremely
painful. Don't remember what happened to Miss Copson. I came to the
final reunion meeting in Nov 2006 when the convent was winding down,
ready for the redevelopment. But, my monther has just died so I
remember it as a bit of a whirl of semi familiar faces and names. I
have 3 very tall sons each with 2 small children. But - does anyone
remember Olive and Sheila Pearson from the 1930s? You see, I followed
both my mother and aunt to Olton. Good luck everyone as you start or
continue to enjoy your retirements.
Mary Shaverin (nee Shrimpton)
1940's and 1950's old girls: do any of you recall an Irish woman teacher
called Miss Hyland? She would have been tall, and in her 50s and 60s in
these decades. I am searching for the school where my great aunt taught
and Olton Court Convent sounds like it may have been the place. Does
that spark any memories? Thank you.
Frances Bird
I was at the Convent between 1958 and 1965. Would like to hear how the
others in my class got on in life.
Eileen Evason (Moran)
This webpage certainly brings back memories. I was at the Convent in the
50's and remember all the nuns as well as Misses Grey (Englis), Hopkins
(History), Matthews (Domestic Science) and an Irish teacher who taught
geography and RI/scripture and of course Mrs Tippetts. In my class was
Anne Hemming, Ann Squire, Diana Saunders, Althea Scott and Margaret
Gaynor plus quite a few others. I lived in Switzerland for 30 years
working for an American computer company and travelling quite a lot. I
met Judith Webb in Geneva (where I lived) who married a Swiss. I came
back to England 10 years ago, am still single, still working (with an
art gallery owner) which I love. Unfortunately, I cannot leave my email
address as I am using the gallery as my email address needs to be
resurrected.
Ann Dearnaley
Like Pat McGrath I too was at the Convent in the 50's. I started in
Montissori with Miss Copson, and left from Lower Sixth and remember well
Ma Mere the Mother Superior, (to whom we had to curtsey) 'Inky'( Mother
Mary of the Incarnation (Headmistress) Mothers: St. Claire, Joseph,
Cecile, Veronica, Thomas, St. John. I have many happy memories of the
Convent including two trips to St. Denise. Does anyone remember the
school song 'School of Compassion from a far land on the other side of
the sea..' and the house songs 'Saints of our houses staunch and true
...' which we had to sing for each house and change places in the
'chorus'? I was in St. Michael's (red). I also remember 'Ribbon
Giving' and was very seldom the recipient of one! Games was more my
thing. As well as deportment, elocution we had many lessons of
embroidery culminating with 'The Exhibition' at the end of the year. Ah
happy days!! I now live in Southwold, Suffolk, married for 44 years,
three married children and one grandchild. I would love to hear from
anyone of a similar era.
Judith Hay Davison (nee Fox)
I was at the Convent I think between 1955 - 1962 approx and I was in St
Christophers. I remember everything as described in your comments !!
I can remember Pat Chambers sitting in class with Gill Clarke, Alison
Tunnicliffe, Veronica Aslin etc etc. Pat used to pretend to eat HOT
fish and chips behind her desk lid and had us in stitches!! I lived in
Dorridge and used to travel on the train with Diane Gibbs, Helen
Thacker, Gill Clarke, Pauline Summerfield, etc. etc. I feel sorry for
people who now say that they "hated" their School. What a tremendous
time we had at the Convent -didn't seem to learn much but had loads of
laughs - apart from lunchtimes when Mother St John forced us to eat
liver and boiled potatoes and rice pudding to follow. I am still in
touch with a few of the "old" friends ie Hilary Wood, Jane Pettman etc.
Would love to hear from others via this site?
Jennifer Hill
I attended the Convent from 1955-1965. I remember so well 'Inky', Mother
St Clare, Mother St Veronica, Mother St Joseph, Mother St Cecile. Also,
Miss Conroy (English) Miss Burden (art) and many more. The girls that I
particularly recall were: Dinah Hatton, Jane Saywell, Jane Edwards, the
twins Janet and Susan Gaynor, Jane E Foster, Jane Foster, Adele Simpson,
Alison Emsley, Linda Cambell-Brown. I would love to here from anyone
that remembers me. Celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary this year, I
have four children and six grandchildren.
Dinah Stevens nee Roe
So sad nobody remembers me. I was always so naughty. Still see Pam Caddy
and Liz Garratt. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me
Mary Edwards nee Venville
I attended Olton Court Convent from 1952 until 1957. My husband recently
found your web site, which brought back many memories. I remember "Inky"
Headmistress (title, Mother Mary of the Incarnation). I was in St.
Michael's house (red) I remember mother St. Claire, mother St. John
"Ma-Mare" was the superior from a convent in France. We had to curtsy on
meeting her! I also remember Miss Grey, Miss Meeken, Miss Higins
(Latin), Mrs. Tippit (biology), Morwenna Bowen was connected to my
ballet teacher in Solihull, and was indeed elegant. I have many of my
school pictures still. We lived in Danford Lane in Solihull during my
school years. I remember Elizabeth Edwards, Estelle Hill and Mary
Deathridge. After nurse training in Southampton, I moved around England
in nursing and then to the U.S.A. in 1964. My American husband and I
were married April 30, 1966 at Nyack, NY. We have lived in upstate NY
since 1971, raised 3 sons and have 4 grandchildren. Would enjoy hearing
from any girls that were there in the 1950's.
Juliana Byrnes (Jakeman)
I spend in 1951/1952 a school year at Olton Court Convent as an aupair
girl learning English and helping with the cleaning of classrooms,
dormitories, and looking after small children in Montessori. I had a
great time during that year as I met wonderful girls as Mary DEAKIN
(from WESTON SUPERMARE) Elizabeth WILKES(who invited me in her family
for a week-end), Sally HEARD (prefect of Saint Christopher's house - I
belonged to -), Jane CARVER and Ann PRICE (always together to laugh,
always telling jokes, giving surnames, etc.) Ann used to curl my hair
every week (her cubicle was next to mine in the dormitry) and she was
"in love" with Mario LANZA and knew all his songs by heart. I remember
also Joe who was found of Danny Kaye and made me love his songs. There
was another French girl called Jacqueline LECORGNE.
The nuns, at that time, were Mère Marie de la Miséricorde (I knew from
Pontoise boarding school), Mère Sainte Anne, Mother Of Sacred Heart. I
knew most of the nuns in Olton as I was at Our Lady of Compassion
schools since I was 8 years old in Saint-Denis, Pontoise and, at the
end, in Olton. It has been a great time for me as I was only 16,
it was my first journey abroad (they go abroad earlier nowadays) on my
own and It was a very long journey from Paris, boat at Dieppe, train to
London, change of railway station in London and, at last, train to
Birmingham where two nuns were waiting for me at midnight... When
the boarding school closed down I went to Bournemouth at Chandos Guest
House where I have learnt how to look after guests during the summer
(making beds, washing up, cleaning, etc..) These experiences
enriched me, helped me and still help me through my to-days life.
I also practised vaulting, lawn tennis, tried to play grass hockey
(sports which i would never had been able to practise if I had not been
in England. Contact me if you remember the old school ties. I leave in
Beauvais (Oise department)
Elisabeth CHRETIEN (married to Francis MEURGEY, ex airport manager at
Beauvais airport)
MEURGET elisabeth (maiden name : CHRETIEN
1950s - for Pat Mc Grath (nee Chambers)
Hello Pat - well I'm that Pam "Rutter" who maddeningly always got 10/10
for spelling in Junior 2. In fact my name was Rutty !!! I guess
spelling wasn't your thing!!! Thanks for remembering that - and those red
ribbons too. I have lots of happy memories of the convent , those names
you mentioned: Rosemary Meeks (red curly hair); Pam Caddy (ethereal?)
and yes, Gill Clarke - horses! I also remember someone called Sarah
Pemberton Bartlett who was brilliant at hockey and Sheila Millward and a
little girl called Eileen with big blue eyes. I think the head girl was
called Mary Deathridge - or she was certainly a prefect - I remember
being fairly in awe of her! Do you remember our houses: St Christophers
(mine), St Michaels, St Bernards and St Peters? I loved Mother St
Claire - she gave me her crucifix and I still have it.. Like you I
remember the chapel, and can conjure it up it even now. Yes I recall
Mother St John, "Inky" and there was an even more exalted presence
called "Ma Mere" wasn't there - now who was she? My absolutely favourite
teacher was Miss Grey who taught English, closely followed by a lovely
lady in the art room, whose name I have forgotten, began with a B I
think. Do your remember our deportment classes?!! I still fall
about laughing when I think of them - a beautifully elegant lady called
Morwenna Bowen (I think) shouting at us "Be charming girls - be
charming!" Did she succeed I wonder - where are all those charming
convent girls now?
Pam Hickson (nee Rutty)
Come on girls .... I know I was not the
only one to attend the convent in the 50's. My name then was Pat
Chambers, I was at the convent all through the 1950's, leaving in 1959.
I remember "Inky" Head Mistress, also Mrs Dodman (the only maths teacher
to make any sense) Mother St. Clair, Mother St. John and many more. I
remember a girl called Gill Clarke, she lived in Dorridge and had
horses, I also recall Rosmary Meek and Pam Caddy, there were many more
who's faces I recall but cannot put names to, maybe someone out there in
cybor space can help. Does any one remember "prize giving"...... I
always wanted a red ribbon .....but only ever managed a purple, there
was a girl called Pam Rutter who always had the red, and in Junior 2
always achieved 10/10 for spelling. Apart from hockey I loved sport,
net-ball, tennis and rounders. In the playing fields I can remember two
sea-saws plus a couple of swings. When it rained we went on the tennis
courts at play time. I also remember some of the plays we put on the
last on being "Dearly Departed" Christmas 1958, the girl who had the
main part was Tess Andrews, she was very good. We had the most beautiful
chapel, I always found it so quiet and peaceful. We could not be seen
out side of school without our hats, winter or summer and our summer
uniform would never have made the pages of vogue. I often think of those
days and wonder how life turned out for many of my school friends, if
there is any one from the 50's still around and may be has similar
memories it would be great to hear from them via this site.
Pat McGrath nee Chambers |
|
1940's |
I was a boarder at Olton Convent 1944-1949, which puts me a year ahead
of Philippa, that fine girl. I was the American, with a pretty passable
English accent by the time I started at Olton. I loved field hockey and
tennis and was games captain my last two years. I loved singing in the
choir with Mére St Charles; I have sung in some good church choirs ever
since. We all had marvellous fun preparing the one-act plays in the
evenings, or knitting while listening to the radio comedies (like Much
Binding in the Marsh), or playing that rowdy card game with two packs of
cards that Ma Mére's sister taught us. I remember Anne Condon and her
sister, Tricia and Mary Rose, Joan, June James, Mary Jane(?) Worral who
went on to Oxford, Inky, Tivvy (M de la Nativité), Tommy (St Thomas
Aquinas), Misery (de la Misericorde), Ma Mére St Edward, Miss Pickering
(piano), and Blister (in the refectory). I remember many more faces I
can't put the names to. I have lived in Los Angeles ever since I left
Olton, and am now long retired from a career as a biochemist. Recently
a friend gave me one of the Edith Holden books, and I was very surprised
to hear there was a mere close by the convent. I suppose we didn't know
because they didn't want any more accidents. A coincidence is the bats
Edith wrote about, we also used to see them flying at night up and down
the driveway. I wonder how close Gowan Bank was. It would be wonderful
to hear from anyone from my time.
Patricia (Patsy) Drewes
I attended Olton Convent from 1947-1957.After leaving I trained as a
primary school teacher .going into special education and then teaching
in Italy. I have two children and two grandchildren. While at school I
lived in Silverbirch Road Solihull. People I remember at school are Alex
Kent Judith Hamilton Adams Janice Ledbrook, Sheila McArthur Pamela
Wilmott, Terry Ingram, Jane Shaw, Jane Smith, Jean Wharam, Helen
Cauldwell. Also of course (Inky ) and her little room under the art room
stairs. (Ma Mere) standing in the cloister Miss Grey, Miss Fairlie,
MissFowkes, Mrs Tibbett Miss smith any one remember Mrs Vaughan?and
Miss Lakeman I was in ST Christophers (Purple) Do you remember the
raffles on shrove Tuesday? Would love to hear from anyone who was there
at that time.
Hilary Pigott (Goodyear)
Hi, Does anyone remember Beryl Hemming and her sister Jeane who were
students at the school in 1940. Their family were connected with
Solihull Brickworks. The war was just starting and I knew her up till
1943. Please contact. Thanks
Roy Stanley BA.IEng.MIET
Hi, My mother Allene Violet S. Singer was in a Convent Boarding School
in the 1940's. I'm not sure exactly which one but if anyone recognizes
her name, I'd love to hear from you.
Wendy
Black
Hi, Surprised to hear from a mere male on this site!! This goes back a
while, so it may stimulate a few memories. My first school was at the junior school, Solihull, but my parents soon
moved me out as I came home using nasty language. As a 4 year old at a
'Solihull' school, I can't think what! I was moved to Olton convent (as
I knew it then) in the very early 1940s. My parents lived in Heaton Rd,
Solihull for a while during the war. Dad was away a lot, sorting out
the production difficulties encountered by industry when manufacturing
sea mines for the war effort, frequently visiting Rubery Owen if my
memory serves me correct. At that time he had an office in Gret Charles
St, Brum, besides at his home base at HMS Vernon, Portsmouth. Many
times on a Friday (after School or in holidays, I suppose) Mum would
take me & my younger brother into Brum to meet Dad after work. I was
told I used to stand in the back of Dads car (with unlimited petrol -
essential for his contribution to the war efort) as a 4/5 year old and
direct him home through Brum's notorious one way street system - even
then. Its funny as when I returned in 1955 to Birmingham Uni, I seemed
to instinctively know my way round Brum!
I still have my school metal cap badge, and I heard I was one of the
last boys taught at Olton Convent. Maybe I was the instigator! I doubt
it. When was the last boy student?
Regards
Bryan
Betts
ps. Are there any other mere males out there?
I started at Acocks Green in 1947,and moved up with the Convent to
Olton. I was in Miss Copson's class.at first. I then remember well Mere
St Claire, Mere St Veronica and Cecil and of course "Inky". My best
friends Carol Clarke, Judy McKay, Christine Bannister. I remember lots
more faces and names. My family moved to Wales in 1953. I would love
to hear from anyone who may remember me, and would especially love to
hear from Carol with whom I lost touch when she married and I lost her
address. It would be nice to see what paths the lives of other friends
have taken.
Julia Andrewes
I was at Acocks Green Convent between 1945 and 1947, then went on to
Olton Convent when they combined. I remember Mere St Cecil and Mere St
Claire very well, they were kind loving people as well as good teachers.
My best friend was Jennifer Carter at Olton and Pamela Davies at Acocks
green. Pam who is still one of my best friends now, she and her husband
still live in Solihull. My husband and I live near Chichester, West
Sussex. I have three super grown-up children, and two grand-children. I
had a good start in life, being taught etiquette and good manners as
well as academic studies, all due to the Convent's high standards of
education. I left early to go to a Commercial College, and later in
life gained a BA Honours degree in Fine Art. I am now a confident artist
using different medias and subjects. A pleasure to last the rest of my
days.
Irene Cantrell (nee Lewis)
Response to Pam Hickson - I remember Ma Mere (Mere St. Edward) our
Mother Superior, who also taught my Aunt at Acocks Green in 1930s - I
asked my Aunt who remembers she taught History. Morwenna Bowen taught
ballet at Mrs. Kempster's ballet school in Solihull - I recall they both
taught at Olton - Jayne Kempster was in my class. Miss Gray was great,
gave us such a good basis for enjoying literature and writing. Then
there was Miss Fawkes and Miss Hopkins who taught us history. Reading
others' memories set me thinking - I was in England last week and
visited my Aunt who attended Acocks Green prior to WWII - we enjoyed
remembering our times at the convents and the nuns we both knew, as well
as Mere St. Edward, we loved Mere St Cecil who taught both of us.
Christine Dowdeswell (Mackie)
1940s
to 1950s - Interesting to read comments - I was at Acocks Green for
Kindergarten, then moved to Olton when the schools combined. I remember
so clearly Mother St.Rosaire at Acocks Green - then at Olton Mother
St.Claire, who I visited when in England in the ,70s - Mother St. Thomas,
Mother St. Edward and Mother St. Cecil who also taught my Aunt - Mother
St. Veronica - so many who influenced and guided me during those years.
Our teachers, Miss Meakin, Miss Gray, and others - my education,
academic and values gave me a great foundation for life - I would be
interested to hear from anyone who remembers me - thank you - Christine
Christine Dowdeswell
I was
at Acocks green convent until i left in 1948. I remember St Clare, I
wrote to her for
many years. Is there a reunion for girls from the convent? Would love to
catch up with any of my former school friends.
Diana Mentor (Harris)
I was a boarder at Olton during
WW11 and would love to hear from anyone who was there at that time. My
best friend was Philippa Russon Bayliss. It is a long time ago, but
vivid in memory.
Posted Friday, December 5, 2003
Sean Fordice has contacted me by e-mail and I have also been in contact
with his sister Sheelagh. Their mother Philippa died in 1986 I am sad
about that. We both became social workers and both emigrated to Canada.
Our lives were influenced by our education at Olton and followed very
similar paths.
Clare Hayden
In Reply
My mother was Philippa Russon Bayliss. She attended your school in the
1940s and spoke very highly of the school and some people from there,
especially Clare Hayden. Clare Hayden wrote in to the reunion page and
spoke about my mother. I am wondering if you could let me know when her
post was. This will give me an idea if her e-mail address is current.
I would like to contact her. I have sent an e-mail. I don't have any
other way of contacting her and don't know if the e-mail got through.
Sean Fordyce |
|
1940's |
I was at the school in 1926 or around then at the age of six and stayed
for two years . I was in Mere St. Dula's class. Margaret Pickering was
my best friend. I have long since lost contact. Ma Mere and Mere St.
Clare were in the convent. We were allowed to play in the field and make
our own little gardens. We lived in Small Heath at the time and
travelled by train to be met at Olton station by the nuns and then
walked what seemed like a long way to school. Bates is a surname I
remember. I left to go to St. Benedicts and then on to King Edwards Camp
Hill. I am now 92 years old and would love to hear from anyone of my
era. My daughter also went to the Convent from 1962 - 1967 Jane Hodgkiss.
Barbara Eggison
Add your comments to the Reunions page
Your email address will be published on this page when using this feature. Click
Here to post a photograph on this page
Show us what you look like now or maybe you have a group photo from your school days? |
|
|
|
|
|
