Rosh, who left Windermere more than 40 years ago, recently shared her vivid memories of her time at school—and the friendships that have stood the test of time.

“My best friend then—and still today—is Fenella George. She had been at the school since she was seven, as her parents lived in Egypt. She seemed so grown up and used to boarding life—and kindly took me under her wing when I arrived. Actually, I think I just latched on!

I remember my first night vividly. I had just flown across the Atlantic and couldn’t sleep with jet lag. The bells of the church rang every quarter of an hour, reminding me just how late it was. I love church bells now—but not that night!

We had such happy times. We built dens in the big hedges, visited the donkey in the field below, and spent hours just being children in the most magical setting.

My best memory of all? Climbing Helvellyn at midnight under the full moon with Mrs Garnett and her husband. Health and safety would never allow it now, but it was absolutely magical. We had a clear sky on the way up, and even though the sunrise was cloudy, I’ll never forget it.”

Rosh’s story reminds us of the lasting impact our school has—not just academically, but emotionally and socially. It’s about the moments that shape us, the people who stay with us, and the confidence and curiosity we carry forward.

If you’re a Stannite and have a memory or moment you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch with Jo Gaskin at jgaskin@windermereschool.co.uk.

Once a Stannite, always a Stannite.