As some of you may already be aware, Laura, our Head of Development, will leave us this half term to move on to a new role at Salford University. Please see below for some of Laura's highlights from her time here at BGS; she will be greatly missed and we wish her every success in her new role. 

During my time at Bury Grammar School, I have had the pleasure of getting to know many of you and it has been wonderful to be a part of such a warm and friendly community. Thank you to all of you for making me feel so welcome. Hannah, Sharon and I have had a very busy year, and there have been many highlights, but if I had to choose my top moments, they would be (in no particular order!):

The Launch of BGS Alumni Community

We launched BGS Alumni Community in September 2021, and in just over a year we have amassed almost 1,500 members! This was one of the first projects I worked on after joining BGS in May 2021, and it has been fantastic to see the network continue to grow. We have alumni all over the world doing such varied and fascinating things, and I have loved reading your updates, career profiles and stories.

Founders’ Day

It was incredible to be a part of such a special day in BGS’ history, and especially poignant that this was the first “full” Founders’ Day since the Pandemic. Watching the whole School led by the CCF parade through Bury Town Centre to the Parish Church was so moving, and the buzz and excitement of the day was electric! The amount of hard work that goes into making Founders’ Day run smoothly is astounding, and it was a privilege to play my part in that.

Launching The Ripple Effect Bursaries Impact Brochure

In September 2022 we launched The Ripple Effect, a new report into the transformative impact of BGS bursaries. I really enjoyed working on this publication and am so grateful to the individuals who shared their personal stories and really brought the report to life. We wanted to demonstrate how a BGS Bursary is not only life-changing for the individual to whom it is awarded, but also their family, the School and wider society, and I hope that the report will inspire many others to support this vital initiative. You can read a copy of The Ripple Effect online here. 

Ladies’ Bursary Lunch

Earlier this term, we were delighted to raise an incredible amount for the BGS Bursary Fund at our Ladies’ Bursary Lunch at Rochdale Golf Club. This afternoon was great fun, with fantastic entertainment, a grand auction and raffle and a brilliant atmosphere! Thank you to all the ladies who attended and made this such a special event.

Being a Part of the Fabulous Development Team!

And of course, I have to say a huge thank you to Hannah and Sharon. We have worked hard, supported each other, pulled off some amazing events and projects and had some great laughs along the way! I have loved working with you both and feel proud of all we have achieved together over the past 18 months or so. I know Development and Alumni Relations at BGS will continue to go from strength to strength; keep up the great work ladies!