Alumnae Sue Smith MBE, former head of Swim England, and Sophie Bray MBE, hockey Olympic gold medalist joined Headteacher Ian Keary in conversation about their amazing careers and how their days at Tiffin Girls' inspired their success, before a three course dinner, an entertaining live auction, conversation and dancing. 

The event which took place in the main hall was a great success and, for many alumnae, a chance to visit the School again. We thank our former students, friends and supporters who attended and those who donated items for auction and prizes. The event raised £10,000 towards our new sports facility and your continued support of the School is so much appreciated.

The conversation between Sue, Sophie and Ian explored how their time at Tiffin Girls' had shaped their life and their careers resulting in Olympic gold, industry leadership and ultimately Queen's honours with their MBEs. They both spoke inspiringly about how their love of sport nurtured at the School had led them on their journeys.

Sue said that she had always loved sport and actually picked Tiffin Girls' because of its facilities. Both said it was a bonus that they did not have to travel offsite to participate. She said that PE teachers encouraged students to drive themselves physically in lessons as well as pursue extra curricular opportunities, a tradition that continues today. She enjoyed all sports. As well as being part of a team, she loved being captain and being a leader. It was those qualities that lead her most recently to head up Swim England.

Sue spoke about the importance of practice both in sport and business. How you can't expect to win if you don't practice. Sophie spoke about how the GB hockey team's commitment to a social media blackout played its part in securing Gold in Rio.

Outside of sport, Sue concluded the discussion with a story about how she and some friends had seized the opportunity of a cancelled Rome trip for the study of Classics to venture to the emerging Ibiza scene. Suffice to say Classics tutor Miss Weedon had a word or two to say about that!

We thank both Sue and Sophie for helping to make the evening so memorable.