Farlington School – Prep Prize-Giving
01 Sep 2014
The annual Farlington ‘Prep Prize Giving’ is always a special occasion however this year’s proceedings had particular significance as it was the last ceremony for Mrs Joy Baggs, Prep School Headmistress, before her retirement at the end of this academic year. Farlington was delighted to be joined on Wednesday 2nd July by celebrated cellist and conductor Julian Lloyd Webber who not only spoke to the packed audience but also presented a huge array of prizes to girls in the Prep School – some of the cups he presented were bigger than the girls themselves!
Julian answered a series of questions, which had been posed by the Prep pupils. The subject matter ranged hugely and included questions such as ‘what did Julian listen to in the car whilst driving?’ and ‘did he get on with his brother Andrew?’ Silence, it transpired, as he is surrounded by music most of the day! And as for brother Andrew, of course they got on!
The day belonged to Joy Baggs whose speech – witty, detailed and perfectly delivered – conveyed just what a wealth of successes – academic, musical, sporting and dramatic, as well as numerous activities and trips, the Prep School had achieved over the last twelve months. Ms Louise Higson, Headmistress, followed with a glowing accolade of the professionalism, enthusiasm, boundless energy and fantastic memory that Joy demonstrates on a daily basis. A surprise, for Joy at least followed, when former Headmistress, Mrs Trina Mawer, recounted how when she had offered Joy the post of Headmistress of the Prep School she had initially refused – twice! The rest, as they say, is history.
The afternoon’s proceeding were rounded off in true Farlington style with a wide range of music, all of which paid tribute, in their own way, to Mrs Baggs’ unique style and place in the affections of all those, past and present, who have had the pleasure of knowing her.
Photo: Joy Baggs, prize winners and Julian Lloyd Webber