In the elegant surroundings of The Landmark Hotel, The Anniversary Ball on Friday 27th January was the inaugural event of a fantastic year of 150th celebrations. Upon arrival, guests enjoyed a Champagne Reception whilst listening to St Mary’s musical soloists, having their silhouettes created by an amazing pair of paper silhouette artists and catching up with friends, which included alumnae from across the years, current and past parents, governors, trustees, current and former academic, house and support staff and friends of St Mary’s. It was a truly wonderful experience to have so many communities linked to St Mary’s come together to celebrate the unique history and legacy of St Mary’s Calne.

The evening, organised by Mrs Virginia Kairis (Chair of the Parents' Guild) and her committee, continued with a delicious three-course dinner, interspersed with speeches from Mr Svante Adde, Chair of Governors, Dr Felicia Kirk and Mrs Cate Bell, Chair of the Calne Foundation Trust – who all took the opportunity to thank everyone for their support and to Mrs Kairis and her committee for their hard work in planning such a wonderful event. 

There was also a focus on the launch of the Chrysalis Campaign which aims to build a strong and sustainable bursary fund for future pupils and, with the encouragement of Mr Andrew Aylwin, CFT Trustee and current parent, guests watched a brief film sharing the story of one of our Springboard pupils. 

To launch the fundraising for the Chrysalis Campaign, a Silent Auction and Prize Draw was live throughout the evening, with guests encouraged to view all the amazing auction lots and prizes and bid as high as they dare!  The hammer came down at 11pm and we are very pleased to announce that, to date, we have raised over £108,800. This is a spectacular achievement.

It was soon time to dance! With an enthusiastic DJ and live saxophonist, Mr and Mrs Svante Adde led almost all the guests to the dance floor and, as the evening drew to a close, there were many still wanting to go on until dawn! 

This was a very special and memorable evening - a truly brilliant start to a year of celebrations.

Photos from the evening, taken by alumna, Philippa Cooper, are available to download here