In memory of Susan-Ann Dowle, class of 1956

In an earlier edition of NewsLinks, we were able to announce the fact that the school had received a most generous legacy from a former pupil, Susan-Ann Dowle.

On Friday 28 April, we were able to formally recognise this wonderful act of philanthropy with an event where we officially opened the Susan-Ann Dowle Cricket Wicket, as well as announcing our plans to establish a two year Sixth Form Bursary (the Susan-Ann Dowle Sixth Form Bursary) and create an opportunities fund, which will enable the school to help pupils access specific opportunities when these arise.

A number of VIP guests, including family and friends of Susan-Ann and former Croydon High Head, Debbie Leonard, who played such an important role in nurturing the relationship with Susan-Ann during her time at the school, gathered together in the Holt Hall to remember her. It was also an opportunity to recognise the important legacies of former members of the PE Department going back to 1963 and their roles in supporting the school. An address from one  of our former Sixth Form Bursary Scholars also made the transformative power of a bursary extremely clear.

The group then moved into the school grounds where Ms Davies officially opened the wicket and our Cricket Captain Eleanor bowled the inaugural ball. This ball will be made into a trophy which will be awarded annually to the Croydon High Hardball Player of the Match, in the first home game of every season played on our wicket. Unfortunately, the heavy rain earlier in the week meant that the planned match against Kent College had to be called off due to what would have been ‘marshy’ conditions for the outfield, although the cricket wicket was in perfect condition! The match will be rescheduled soon and we look forward to it.

It was a very special occasion and such an important opportunity to be able to honour the memory of our former pupil and all she has given to our school.

Mrs Fran Cook
Director of Philanthropy and External Relations