Parents and friends joined distinguished guests at the annual Speech Day and Prize Giving at Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls on Saturday morning.  The proceedings were given a rousing start with the orchestra performing Farandole by Bizet, and guests were welcomed by Mr Sheridan Swallow, the Chairman of the Governors.

In her speech, Mrs Helen Davy, Headmistress of HMSG, reflected on recent events that have captured the school’s imagination, from the closely-fought election to the hatching of the blue tit family.  Such interest reflects the school’s desire to understand, appreciate and value the world around us.  Mrs Davy also celebrated the girls’ achievements over the past year, and how these achievements illustrate the ethos of ‘doing the right thing’ and giving service to others beyond the school gates.

The Head Girl, Brigid, followed with a speech using the analogy of nature to describe her journey through the school, and to encourage the younger girls to seize every opportunity available to them at HMSG.

The prizes and awards were presented by the Deputy Chief Constable of Gwent Police, Carmel Napier.  One of only a handful of senior female officers in the country, Deputy Chief Constable Napier is responsible amongst other things for human resources and professional standards.

Deputy Chief Constable Napier started her career at Hertfordshire Constabulary in 1983.  She progressed through the ranks and was appointed Deputy Chief Constable of Gwent Police in September 2008.

The audience were treated to a beautiful duet from The Marriage of Figaro by Joanna and Abigail and a memorable Saxophone trio by Alice, Molly and Josie.  The Concert Choir were spectacular and Frances’s monologue was phenomenal. 

The HMSG Chamber Choir brought proceedings to an end with Softly as I Leave You by De Vita. 

Thanks go to our Estates team, catering staff, housekeepers, performers and music staff for helping stage such a memorable event