On Saturday, parents, friends and distinguished guests joined pupils and staff to celebrate the annual Speech Day and Prize Giving at Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls.  The proceedings were given a rousing start with the School Orchestra’s performance of Galop from the William Tell Overture by Rossini, and guests were welcomed by Mr Sheridan Swallow, the Chairman of the Governors.

In her speech, Mrs Helen Davy, Headmistress of HMSG, reflected on the girls’ hard work and achievements over the past year.

The Head Girl, Laura, recounted with great fondness her years at HMSG.  Using the analogy of a school play, she urged pupils to follow their dreams, take up opportunities and learn from others before they embark on the wider world.

The prizes and awards were presented by former pupil and 2010 Veuve Clicquot Business Woman of the Year, Laura Tenison MBE.  Laura Tenison is founder and managing director of JoJo Maman Bébé, one of the UK’s leading maternity and baby wear outlets.  The company’s ethos is based on a strong code of ethical business and Laura is a trustee of a charity named ‘Nema’, which helps to reduce infant mortality and improve the living conditions of children living in Mozambique.  Laura encouraged the girls to seize every opportunity and to set their own goals and challenges throughout their adult life.