It is with great sadness that we must inform you that Lady Vallance, our Chairman of Governors, died during the night last Wednesday, 8th July. Elizabeth had been battling cancer since April and had been in and out of hospital for much of the Summer Term. She returned to her home in Sutton Valence at the beginning of July and passed away peacefully with her family around her. I have spoken to Lord Vallance and passed on the Sutton Valence community’s condolences and sympathy. When we are able, we will organise a suitable event at the School to remember her.

Lady Vallance had been a Governor at SV for 14 years and Chairman for the last four and a half, succeeding Bryan Baughan in January 2016. She was an amazing woman, full of life, charisma, care and incredible insight. Under her Chairmanship, the School has gone from strength to strength and we have lost not only a wonderfully committed and talented Chairman but also a dear friend to SV.

As far as the School and its governance are concerned, we have begun the search for a new Chairman of Governors but, in the meantime, Mrs Gillian Swaine, our Vice Chair, will be Acting Chairman and she and I are in close contact. I am sure you will join us all in keeping Elizabeth’s family in your prayers and thoughts during this difficult time.