St Finians Cold Ash
A Memory of Cold Ash.
Although I lived in Cookham Berkshire when I was about 11 yrs old, my parents decided to send me to boarding school. Which was St Finians, Cold Ash. It was a very emotional time being an only child, and I will never forget my first few days after arrival. I had now left my home, my parents, my pets and friends. But as the days rolled into weeks I became more settled. I loved the nuns, they certainly were strict but also great fun at times. They were undoubtedly the best days. I now had many friends, as it was just girls. Our Mother Edward was the Mother Directress of the school. I adored her, even when I was in bad books. Not often, you soon learned how to behave. In fact I became school captain. What a surprise. After turning 15 yrs on one holiday, I asked my parents if I could embark on a career. They were not entirely happy, but all turned out to my favour. I used to return to the Convent occasionally and met up with old pals and the nuns. Particularly Mother Edward. Mother Edward eventually became unwell and was then moved to The Boltons in London. Where I visited her on a few occasions, and so enjoyed seeing and discussing all that was happening in my life.
I have corresponded briefly with one or two old school friends. But we are all into our own lives, I guess.
if anyone is around always love to hear. My memories of Cold Ash, will never die. Great Days.
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Comments & Feedback
Judith Handy (cap)
I got sick and was unable to plait Jane's hair in the mornings (she was 7 and I 12), I was in the sick bay so they put a pudding basin on her head and chopped it off. Today, that would land them in court. Incoming letters read and censored, outgoing letters read and censored. Stuff to be forgotten.
Noelle Reynolds (nee Brophy)
One would think in the very late 60's that it just wasn't possible. All I can say is I had and have many happy memories of ST.FINIANS. Yes I agree there was a certain amount of strictness, guess there had to be with so many girls. It is quite sad that you have these memories, and I only hope you can place it behind you, and enjoy your life to the full. Best Wishes Judith
I am sure she was a happy bunny and had a sense of humour. I think she was younger than I. But I am not sure. To me all was good and although strict was possibly necessary for having respect to the nuns and stood us in good stead . for future. Just my opinion . Best Wishes Judith
I told an elderly uncle, a strict Catholic, in latter years what used to happen and he said 'Yes, they can be cruel at times'.
I'm not sure you remember me but you and I would play tennis and walk our rabbits on leads around the tennis courts , about 1970 - I even have a photo of you!
Sister Mary was one I remember , lovely to us boarders and very understanding.
I returned to St Finians in 1998 on a trip from Australia with my young daughter's We felt very welcomed and had afternoon tea and chat . I was able to show my young daughters around the old school , dorm and chapel which was lovely for them and myself.
I was friends with Mary Prendergast , Patrica and Maureen Fogarty , Michelle and Beverly Fairhurst and the Apperby sisters, who were boarders at the time . Kathleen Cattle, Fiona Cave and Ruth [someone ] were day girls. Have completely lost touch from the day I finished year 10.
Would love to reconnect with childhood friends, Margo Townsend. 1965-72