Plashet One Hundred - sponsored by Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) & Lauren Holmes
Reaching a number of milestones in the past year and as this idea develops, Seen the Stories found its way to Plashet School. With an incredibly unique history of creating an environment which serves the next generation of women to grow, aspire and be seen in, together we created Plashet One Hundred. This collaboration illustrates this uniqueness by using the very principle at the core of Seen the Stories.
The one hundred stories shine a light on an incredible range of current and former students from the school's recent history and dating back to 1950s and 60s. The rich legacy of female head teachers lies at the very heart of Plashet, with the current, and former two head teachers included in this project.
This commission has been sponsored by the international law firm, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, with whom Plashet has a longstanding relationship with and is an active supporter of female progression. Lauren Holmes who has developed a range of opportunities for the young women of this school, is our second sponsor. The Plashet Old Students Association (POSA) are sponsors of the exhibition.
At the very heart of this project is the longstanding history of a school which facilitates what is required for young women to become their very best. Opportunity is ingrained in the fabric of this school, and the legacy of female leadership embodies a desire to ensure these young women reach their potential.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Lauren Holmes for her friendship, hours of conversation and irreplaceable support. Alison Klarfeld for the expertise, friendship and always answering my call to another idea. Sue Foulsham and the wonderful women of POSA. Louisa Sanderson for helping me to pull it all together.
And finally, I wish to thank Rachel McGowan, your leadership, heart and trust in this little idea has helped to create something special. The young women of Plashet, past, current and into the future, will find their place in the world because of what you have instilled here.
Photography & accompanying text by Meg Khan © 2023
Life began in Uganda. London becoming her second home. And Plashet her third.
Evangelica’s brilliance shines, her confidence palpable and through her years within this special place, she explains, “I now recognise my importance in this world.”
Did you ever think about giving up?
Olivia: “The 10 year old me thought about it.”
Did she?
Olivia: “The 10 year old me could never do it.”
And then?
Olivia: “The 11 year old found Plashet.”
Today, Olivia Mendes, a 14 year old English enthusiast and brilliant sportswoman, simply wishes to inspire others.
Equipped with an unshakeable foundation built by her parents, Zara arrived at Plashet School ready to be part of this special place. An environment she knew would develop her inquisitive and determined mind.
As she stands closer to the finishing line, her love for the Sciences ingrained in plans for the future, this young woman is ready once again.
“Can we include the football?” she asks.
This self-taught, practise everyday, watch youtube tutorials, get to 30 kick-ups, another video, enter Leytonstone FC trials, practise some more, 65 kick-ups, get into Leytonstone FC, challenge stereotypes, feature in a BBC news feature, 90 kick-ups, loves Maths and PE, is working towards a Coaching badge at West Ham Foundation, believes Plashet is the community she needed, 106 kick-ups, is the star that is Fatima Mazar.
They will each stand tall,
because of every hour, every decision, every challenge, every achievement, every member of your team,
and because of every part of you, that you give, to Plashet School.
“Its my baby.” Nusayba explains.
“Maths and I have been on a journey together.”
This ever so delightful young woman proves that where you are, is certainly not where you need to remain.
Behind this bright smile, lies an adventurous soul, such strong-will and a love for Plashet. The place that nurtures it all, she tells me!
Meeting Lamis felt like the sun shined a little extra that day.
Exuding the very distinctiveness that Plashet nurtures, Lamis believes that, “This school is so important and plays an important role in our lives.” With that, she finds her way into various pockets of Plashet wanting to be part of its continual progress.
With aspirations to become a lawyer, to stand for what’s right, this talented sportswoman and keen essay writer, will change lives.
Where do I start? The list is ever so long.
Be it her accomplishments, the examples of incredible courage, or a willingness to do for others, and all while, Tasfia’s humbleness fills the room we share for our conversation.
Arriving in London just six years ago, this young woman took a leap and discovered her confidence at Plashet. Now Tasfia, smiling, quietly refuses to stop.
Looking back is part of Rodela’s make up. A tool used to do more and remain motivated. She is passionate about learning skills, developing herself and becoming a little obsessed with the potential of a new string to her bow!
Beginning life in Italy, learning English within two months, playing the piano, rollerskating, a possible crochet start-up, having and continuing to strive in order to study Biology, Chemistry and Maths at college proves, looking back really can work.
As the car drove through the streets of London the night Umaima arrived in the UK, a nervousness was felt. Yet the six year old understood that something new lay ahead for her.
“There are so many helpful people here, the students and teachers.”
With her love for Science, the awards she aims for, the many clubs Umaima attends, to creating music and singing, happiness is now felt.
There have been many highlights during Zhara’s five years at Plashet.
From becoming Head Girl, standing alongside Mrs.McGowan in assembly, the whole experience of the Spring Bazaar, fundraising, developing leadership skills through real-life experiences, and being surrounded by so many extraordinary women.
“Opportunity, inclusivity and equality, lie at the very foundation of Plashet. And I am so proud to be a part it.” emphasises Zhara.
I can be me, here.
And here I will become.
That’s what I see of you, Asha.
“My friends would describe me as confident, very competitive, and I like to be heard.” Are you heard? “Yes. From the very moment I became a Plashet student.”
Soraia explains that being a student here means that there is support and encouragement wrapped firmly around her. Through this she has become a passionate sportswoman, enthusiastic about Drama and sees a promising future for herself.
“Plashet is a big family.” Zikra shares,
“and family means a lot to me.”
As a talented sportswoman the gym was a fitting backdrop for Tanusha’s portrait. Holding the record for the fastest 600m in year 7, she participates in a whole range of sports and thrives on developing her skillset. Drama and Business are her other passions, the first offering opportunities for expression and the second, to become an entrepreneur.
I ask if she’s ready for her photograph, “Yes, people should know about me!” They most certainly will!
Halimah moves between the many parts of her life by maximising on the energy that she has been granted. “It’s a gift”, she tells me.
From Drama to PE, Geography to relay racing, playing for West Ham and Leytonstone FC, with sights set on Arsenal in the future and studying alongside it all, such brightness shines through.
This smile.
Her face lit up.
Eyes full of wonder and excitement.
And all because we both understood in that moment, that Tiffaney truly thrives on doing a lot.
A lot.
Debating is key to developing yourself, according to Faatimah. Voicing opinions, hearing responses, experiencing reflection and its impact on how you live your life, is something she holds dear. This desire to be herself began at a young age when winning a place as the only girl on her primary school’s football team, amounted to a win.
Learning from experiences of debate and the space to be yourself at Plashet has meant that her footwork and academic rigour, continue to have real power.
Fairness plays a big part in Rayhana’s life. She believes and strives to offer this kindness to all those around her and has been witness to these very things in the corridors of Plashet.
It’s her interest in understanding the human mind, that propels her towards a combination of Sociology and Psychology. “Everyone has a reason why and that’s what I wish to discover.”
“A careers teacher once told me, ‘one day you could lead a country’.” Samsi informs me, straight- faced and ready to tell me more. She continues, articulate and confident, “I enjoy researching, understanding both sides of a situation. The balance between right and wrong is circumstantial.”
The small office we occupy is filled with discussions on politics, education, art, law and a sprinkling of making the world a better place. Samsi Uddin, a name to note.
The School Council badge Khadeeja wears with pride tells a story.
Unable to secure a place on her primary school’s council, she had set her sights on Plashet. Yet what she found here was more than a target, she found a community.
Her next aim, she delicately throws into the conversation; Oxbridge.
Making is her forte.
Self-expression, her reason why.
Design Technology, Cooking, Textiles and Art, each give her an opportunity, to tell the story of Khadija and her boundless creativity.
Kashvi wants to access every part of Plashet. “There is so much I can do here.”
Having won art competitions, becoming a peer mediator, securing a place on the school’s Netball team, and achieving high grades across her subjects, Kashvi is all in!
With her passion for Art and Sociology, she has set her sights on becoming an Art Therapist and creating her very own space where children can grow and prosper in.
Coming from a family of sisters, Plashet has become an extension of that female kinship. Such support that has translated in Estera finding her voice in a whole new language, “I arrived in London weeks before starting at Plashet School and after a few months, the fear of not being able to express myself, had disappeared.”
Estera is a budding fashion designer, artist and basketball player. And she aims to pursue each one.
STEM club, Science competitions, Computer Science - a common thread?
Wait a moment, a love for Drama, Textiles and painting, watching Horror movies, and being invited to Buckingham Palace, is not so predictable.
Sana has a richness of interests, hobbies, achievements and, a delightful presence.
Meeting Tayiba was a thoroughly memorable experience. As the description of herself explains, “I am wonderfully boisterous, I love tinkering with things and my philosophy for life; in one ear, out the other.”
Her ambitions matched her wonderfully eccentric nature. As a police officer she wishes to support her community and become a model of strength. This all-rounder, as she informed me, also plays for the Plashet football team.
Zaimah shares, “I find peace in music.”
From the violin, drums, piano and singing, and since being at Plashet, performing at concerts.
However, Zaimah wishes to keep this peace free from grading and so, always protected. Through her teachers she has found other loves, from History, French, Sociology and a passion for
writing. She explains further, “They understand who we are as individuals. We aren’t prevented in being ourselves, we are encouraged in seeing the importance of only being who we are.”
“I just like school!” Trisca is keen to tell me.
As a library helper and peer mediator, she enjoys being amongst all the people that wish to ensure students are happy here. Being a part of the team allows her to listen, to be an understanding
person and help to find solutions to issues.
With a love for Maths and Science, coupled with a passion for Business and Drama, the options for Trisca’s future are boundless.
Sania comes with a plan in place.
She is currently part of the Student Council and a form rep. She is absorbing all she can whilst at Plashet. Her sights are set on studying at a Russell Group university, with Cambridge as her first choice. She wants to travel, meet people across all societies, wishes to hear their stories, and understand how different lives are lived. What a great plan!
We laughed a lot during our time together that morning.
Kapirna’s wit, humour and confidence shone. This young Mathematician aims to pursue her interest and ability to understand numbers in the future. Her love for Drama, gives her space to express. And I suspect, share that fabulous sense of humour.
Zara writes. She writes on good days, on those challenging ones and when she simply wishes to understand herself better. “Life has many sides and I’m here to be a good person in mine.” Zara explains. I’m struck by her maturity, her positive energy and for being a wonderful conversationalist.
At Plashet she found safe spaces for expression, debate and an abundance of friendships.
You are looking at a future politician.
A dream Zarghuna is determined to achieve.
“Whatever you put your mind to, you can achieve.”
This motto derives through a combination of nature and what Fiha has seen in her dad. He has lived these words, arriving in a new country, learning a new language and ultimately, becoming a role model for Fiha.
Within her first year at Plashet she recognises that she enjoys problem-solving. That has been her strength, “When I don’t understand, I become determined to fix it!” she says.
A love for reading has opened Madeeha’s mind to so much of the world. This desire to read, shaped her thoughts and opinions, together with an interest in sharing both. She wanted to be heard and become part of a team that allowed others to do the same.
“So, I became a year 7 rep and part of the Student Council at Plashet.” Madeeha shares.
A businesswoman, lawyer, activist for climate change and wildlife preservation, to eradicating poverty, are just some of the tasks Madeeha has set herself.
Zahra is a poet. She enjoys words and rhymes.
Zahra is an artist. She draws abstract shapes which she transforms into a drawing.
Zahra is funny. Her friends would vouch for that. Zahra makes. She aims to become an App designer.
Zahra tells me that this is a good school. Zahra never lies.
Yes, Jasmine really is this radiant.
She was “Born ready,” explains Jasmine.
Born to perform, to sing, to do so at the Royal Albert Hall, and did, and amongst a family of musicians, to radiate.
As we walked through the corridors of Plashet it was clear that Sara had found her place. Within months of joining Plashet, she is recognised for her friendly, confident persona, and of course, as a talented footballer. Her name called out by her peers, young and older, as we walk towards the fields, Sara explains that Plashet is full of this energy.
“I volunteer at a horse stable. I hope it will turn into a part-time job, maybe I’ll become a professional trainer one day.” A little surprised, I listen with intrigue to all that Zanib wishes to share. When not working with or riding a horse, you will find Zanib, book in hand, escaping to another world. At other times Zanib immerses herself in roles for Drama, playing Scrooge for the school production, achieving the highest grades and winning a Jack Petchey award.
But always with this smile on her face.
Filled with excitement and wonder, Hafsah walked crossed the bridge for the very first time in September. That excitement and inquisitiveness remains today and fills Hafsah’s experience in every aspect of school.
Hafsah, you’re brilliantly wonderful!
“I’m a goalkeeper for West Ham Academy.”
Esme shares.
“I am also a Sea Cadet - we sail, do paddle sports and march.”
She continues,
“I like to challenge stereotypes.”
You are, Esme.
Assistant Head Girl. Fundraising. Peer Mediator. Jack Petchey Awards. Advocating. Library Helper. Spring Bazaar. Just a few of the things Mariya is involved in. How?, I ask her. “When you genuinely want to do things - you’ll find a way.”
She attributes much of these achievements to her teachers. The bond she and her peers share with them and the impact of being a part of this unmatchable community.
Neurosurgeon, that’s her aim.
As we find a spot for her photograph, Khadeeja smiles and the sun’s rays appears on her face. The click of the camera, her brightness beams and hits the screen.
“I feel brave.”
You are, Ilham.
“I am part of the little SEN family, inside this big Plashet family.”
This smile offers a sneak preview of the brilliance that is, Safa.
And a memorable sense of humour!
“Winning is great!” Rim explains. “So is trying and doing your best.”
Here stands a young woman who leaps into action, towards competitions and helping others.
Soon she will be starting her Police Services qualification and leaping further towards her bravery and striving for justice.
Isha is all smiles throughout our time together and I realise very quickly that is who she is. Well-liked by so many, its hard to ignore the smile that bounces from Isha to her peers and staff who walk past us.
As Deputy Head Girl she accredits much of her achievements to the teachers at Plashet, and to her mum.
Here stands an example of strength, both in character and will.
Fiza, in her own words has overcome much. Being a part of SEN, “my other family” she emphasises, has helped her to stand strong. As a budding creative, Fiza is a self-taught video editor and photographer. She aims to take this further and study Media at college.
A recent highlight, I ask? “Mrs.McGowan’s speech at the year 11 leaver’s assembly!”
You, Khadija, are Plashet through and through.
With her sights set on being part of the Student Leadership team since year 7, Tara sits opposite me proudly as Deputy Head Girl.
“I did it.” she tells me.
As well as so much more, Tara.
There are moments that we experience at times, that remain with us for days. Meeting Mayesha was such an experience.
Your presence, heart and fascination with the world, and with yourself, was truly inspiring.
I will share your story, Mayesha, with so many.
Halimah is the proud co-founder of two businesses. The first she launched at the age of ten, the second is at the development stage. Her favourite subjects are English and PE and, she plays for AFC Leyton. Her committed, hardworking parents are her role models.
“Plashet is an open space, where you feel free to be, say and express yourself.” Halimah is confident her time at Plashet will be all she needs to achieve.
Art and textiles is the reason for the expression on Muhsinah’s face.
This future fashion designer, who aims to have her own brand, is paving the way now.
She draws, makes, knits, designs dresses and doodles to her heart’s content. “Plashet is very creative. I feel inspired and encouraged to be me.”
Surrounded by a close-knit family, Fatimah has been able to strive and face challenges. Plashet welcomed her and added another layer of support, firmly around her, she tells me.
“I will be able to do well here.” Fatimah shares, happily.
Samarah asks, “Can I show you something?”
Answering yes, we walk along the corridor, past her Graphics class to a display. “That’s my work!”
This proud moment was made even better, when I asked, “Can I take your photograph in front of your work?”
“Words are great!” Samihah shares enthusiastically.
“And the teachers fuel my passion further.”
Consistency, Samihah, explains, is her greatest weapon. With it she will prevail.
Maya has begun taking the steps needed to become a Paediatrician.
She reads two pages a day, notes all she has learnt and tests that knowledge. Maya is in year 7.
Maya has five years at Plashet.
According to Maya, coming here was the best decision.
“At Plashet you’re not told to be someone, you become yourself.”
Such power in your words, Hijab.
“In year 7 I looked up to the Head Girl and the entire Student Leadership team. They were my role models. I want to do the same for others.”
Irrina is an Assistant Head Girl, a position she is proud of and feels a real sense of responsibility to do her very best. “Plashet is home, where you can be yourself and you are cared for.”
“I just enjoy doing a lot” Thanuja explains. “And pursuing all of my interests and goals.”
Thanuja is part of the Student Leadership team and as Assistant Head Girl, she strives to make a difference. Alongside her studies at Plashet, she has already completed a GCSE in Tamil, and learning how to play the violin, keyboard, ukulele and the Indian harp, Veena.
Project partner and sponsor
Our friendship began through a shared love for working with young people. We have spent hours through lengthy emails and zoom calls, discussing ways in which we can make things happen, together. Such friendship is incredibly special, and more so, your heart and trust, a rarity, Lauren.
“Plashet One Hundred shines a small spotlight on each individual, and perhaps helps them to unearth something not before understood...”
And Lauren, you helped to make this happen.
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) project partner & sponsor
Meet Alison and her instinctively giving nature.
Discuss an idea with Alison, and discover such expertise, creativity and connections. Seek support from Alison and the abundance of BCLP resources and volunteers are ready. Spend over fifteen years working with Alison and there stands an important friendship.
“We are proud to continue our relationship with Plashet. Through Plashet One Hundred it has been wonderful to see many of the students that we have worked with on our various programmes over the years thriving ad fulfilling career and life aspirations.”
Senior Associate, BCLP
Janany values and acts upon the importance of supporting young women. As one of the earliest BCLP volunteers who have worked with Plashet, Janany shares her experience of that moment.
“I witnessed such determination and character in the young women of Plashet and our role as women further along in our life, is to be a resource for these bright, young minds.”
Knowledge Lawyer, BCLP
Katie and I discuss the variety of routes into law, and in life generally. Speaking to Katie I am reminded of her passion for supporting young women.
“The brilliantly capable young women of Plashet are a wonderful example of what can be achieved in a supportive, aspirational environment. We wish to add to that great work.” Katie shares.
Associate, BCLP
Natasha is one of the first to attend university in her family. With two degrees, a Masters from the
University of Oxford, followed by securing a place on BCLP’s training contract, Natasha explains, “We need to see individuals who mirror aspects of our own lives in order to ascertain that I can also get to where I want to. I was lucky to receive this support in many ways and I wish to do the same for others.”
Partner, BCLP
An inner voice spoke to Rebecca very early on in life. Such words that propelled her into action whilst at school. She needed to be the best, which derived from a pursuit for excellence. Witnessing thoroughly hardworking parents and grandparents, Rebecca also wished to work hard but for a career she loved. Standing here today, as a Partner at BCLP, Rebecca explains,
“Listen to yourself, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. It’s possible. And then, seek out other women, come to us, our experience and guidance is waiting to be shared.”
Teaching Assistant for Art, Drama & Music and Alumni
“Just be.” Azaria proclaims. “At Plashet that’s what we do. Amongst our uniqueness, many cultures, and experiences, we are ourselves.”
Azaria shares her fond memories as a former Plashet student and her love for the Arts shines through. Now she plays a key role in offering those very experiences, and more, to the next generation of artists, actors, musicians and performers.
Here she sits, surrounded by her art, beaming!
Deputy Head Teacher
The acquisition of knowledge, the understanding acquired, the dissemination of learning,
and a tireless will to give her all, that’s Sarah Heath.
Admin & HR Manager and Alumni
She just kept going, trying something, doing more, another step forwards, learn, develop, reach another milestone, then rinse and repeat.
“As a former Plashet student, it is ingrained in us to always try. I see that fundamental belief remains in the fabric of this school, today.” Noreen shares.
CEIAG, Work Experience, Learning for Life & Child Development Lead
You have, and continue to, impact upon the lives of so many women.
We all remember you, Ms Clarke!
Assistant Year Coordinator and Alumni
Years into her role at Plashet and having spent more time here as a member of staff, than a student, she has stood alongside students from the moment they arrive, through to the very last dance at the Prom!
“It’s unexplainable. For the young people of Plashet, words are not enough.”
Teacher of Religious Studies and Alumni
“As a student, Plashet gave me opportunities. To study, learn and laugh, together with all those things that you only realise later in life.”
Through a student programme at university, Jennifa found a love for teaching. Yet her first experience of a school left a feeling that something was missing. “I came for my interview at Plashet and I felt Rachel saw me. Once again Plashet offered me an opportunity, and a support system unlike any.”
Alumni 1995-2000
A friendship that began in Plashet, and has remained, was built on the connection during those years here. Finishing each other’s sentences, recalling moments of laughter, a feeling of safety and opportunity. And so, a photograph together was the only option.
Studying at Westminster School and Alumni 2017-2022
In the words of Temi, a former student and Head Girl,
“Plashet builds character. Everyone’s journey is so individual. You develop yourself with a group of people around you. There’s unity, there’s challenge and we get to the finish line, together. This place has been everything to me.”
Studying Medicine at Kings College, London and Alumni 2011-2016
“I believe life isn’t for rest, it’s to strive and to uphold an interest in one’s pursuit”
Powerful words spoken by the former Head Girl and a young woman living by this very rule.
Studying for Solicitors Qualifying Examination at BPP University and Alumni 2011-2016
Iram achieved some of the highest results at Plashet, attended the prestigious Newham Collegiate Sixth Form, graduated with a first class degree in History from Oxford. She is now completing the Solicitors Qualifying Examination, before starting her training contract with top firm, Slaughter and May.
“Plashet nurtured and facilitated an unapologetic sense of self. A desire to learn, strive and do more. This grounding made achievement indifferent.” The results speak for themselves.
Studying at BPP Law School and Alumni 2007-2012
“I could only be myself. A mantra repeated to me throughout my time at Plashet.”
Tamara joyfully explains.
Humanitarian & Motivational Speaker and Alumni 1990-1995
Courage, personified.
Again and again. With such elegance.
“Here I am.”
Tulsi announced, and Plashet responded.
Mayor of Newham and Alumni
“Plashet School was a place that really encouraged me to achieve.”
And throughout all that Rokhsana has accomplished, such advice has stood the test of time.
Change & Transformation Leader at AXA and Alumni 1988-1991
This powerhouse of a woman finds her way into pockets of various communities. This inner call to action stems from her dear parents.
“Each of us require different support and encouragement. Plashet is such a place where that is the culture.” Sobitha explains.
Company Director and Alumni 1975-1980
Plashet was the place that encouraged Jenny’s innate nature to stand for women. This strong willed individual had a need to advocate for fairness. She felt this existed within Plashet, from the Head Teacher, trickling its way down to all.
Jenny has gone on to pass that very gift to so many women in all areas of her life. This beacon of strength and resource, cannot be stopped.
Former Head Teacher 1993-2012
Mrs.Nasir is such an important part of the incredible female legacy of Head Teachers at Plashet School.
Her name known, her work awarded and her commitment recognised, Bushra’s legacy will last generations.
Alumni 1950-1955
“It changed the course my life and the lives of so many other young women. Being here meant we could do what others were aspiring to, regardless of where we came from. Our Head Teacher made sure of it, and she told us.” Marion joyfully shares.
Alumni 1955-1962
Janet spent ten weeks in Paris and a month in Germany, whilst at Plashet School. Such experiences became the building blocks upon which Janet then went on to learn eight languages and live a rich, fulfilled life.
“We were encouraged to be as good as anyone.” Janet shares.
Alumni 1968-1974
“It is important to be 'seen'. I am a listener, and reader so I love to know about other people's lives. You have to be 'seen' to be understood.”
I share these words from this kind soul who when visiting Plashet recently, saw that this very thing still occurs here today.
Alumni 1968-1974
Memories of Netball finals, singing during assemblies, such admiration for Miss.Herbert and Miss.Foulsham, all made for a rather happy time for Sharon.
Alumni 1968-1974
This wonderful quiet influence, as she likes to be called, is just that.
From achieving a degree through Open University, becoming one of the first female Insurance broker at Lloyds, a consultant, lab technician, teaching assistant and now retired, Christine is studying Medical herbalism and aims to volunteer as a researcher at a local museum. And influence you do, Christine.
Alumni 1968-1974
For Jan the lasting impact of Miss.Herbert remains to this very day.
“She was softly spoken and gentle and could hold a class of 30 teenage girls in the palm of her hand. She would read Shakespeare to us and then explain in detail what the story was telling us. She introduced me to the English language and our wonderful world of literature, and from her, my love for books came.” Hearing the sad news of Miss.Herbert’s passing, Jan began to gather her fellow classmates. Over twenty friends later, Miss Herbert’s legacy continues.
Alumni 1968-1974
“Friendships.” answers Angela.
This is the feeling that surfaces when recalling those years.
“And the sound of Miss.Herbert’s LPs bringing to life any one of Shakespeare’s plays in our classroom.’
Alumni 1968-1974
Which teacher(s) had an impact on you?
“They all had some sort of impact. Miss Davey who taught us to be brave, truthful and respect ourselves...Mrs Pittman who was a great role model.”
What does it means to be seen for you?
“To show that the East End has always supported its people to be the best they can be.” Rhonda passionately answers.
Alumni 1957-1964
You shine so bright, Barbara and I see the makings of a woman who has lived, and continues to give it her all. Your time at this school radiates through all your stories, coupled with the persistence to be you at every stage.
Alumni
“I loved sports. All of them, any of them, throughout my time at school. The teachers saw this and directed me towards achieving the right qualifications for me. They had the greatest impact on me and my life.”
Eve went on to become a teacher herself and during her thirty years in the profession, did the very same thing for hundreds of young people. You are the legend people call you, Eve.
Former Head Teacher 1983-1993
Heather’s move to Plashet stemmed from her desire to become part of this special place.
“The girls” were the absolute highlight for Heather. A trust formed between her and her girls translated in life-changing relationships, a collective discover of who they were and standing as an example of strength.
They were seen by you, Heather, and that really does change lives.
Yr7 Year Coordinator
At the very heart of this bundle of energy, perseverance and hard work, are the young women, year in, year out. Dedicating a career to teaching and as a year coordinator, she has seen so much. “The girls are incredible, each and every one of them, regardless of challenges faced, they try.”
And because of that, Angela won’t stop.
Former Assistant Head Teacher & Curriculum Manager for the Arts 1980-2015
The legend that is, Sue Rosner.
Head Chef
From Ireland, to Fortnum & Mason in London, to the Royal Albert Hall, onto many a restaurant, hotel and kitchen, Gerri has done it all.
Now after seven years at Plashet, “It was been a pleasure to work here. From my girls in the kitchen, to the students and the wonderful staff, I feel I am part of something special. We do more than teach and feed our students.”
Librarian / Resource Manager
“There is an incredible reading culture here. Book in hand, you can find students reading in all corners of the school. The library is an extension of the school, another welcoming, safe space. Students can read, work, and even knit here.”
The annual programme of activities, the variety of books, trips and opportunities, and of course, the growing number of library helpers, is testament to this wonderful woman and her team.
Assistant Head Teacher
“We take care of our young people and we do that in every facet of their growth, aspirations and as individuals. We also take care of each other. It’s in the fabric of the school.”
Kalash feels strongly about Plashet, a school she emphasises knows its role.
Assistant Head Teacher
Louisa’s relationship with the young women of this school holds such importance.
“The beating heart of Plashet is developing the whole student. This infiltrates into everything we do, everyday, every week, term, and every year.”
Head Teacher’s PA
Behind every hardworking, committed, strong woman, is another.
Zeenat, your impact is felt.
Photographer - Seen the Stories and Alumni 1992-1997
Here, I was seen.
And ever since, you have remained with me.
Plashet School, your gift of being seen and heard, is felt by all.