OK, so it's a bit later than expected but Verena Brummerstadt and I are leaving the club and handing over to you. Once we have left, we will no longer have access to the club posts but you can still stay in contact with either of us via the main site (or email Michele at oldgrammarians@watfordgirls.herts.sch.uk).

I realise that it's early days (and what crazy days they have been) since you left WGGS, so you may not feel the need to stay in touch just yet. Alternatively, you may want to rekindle the sense of stability and familiarity that WGGS provided. Either way, I just want to remind you that the OGA and your Class of 2020 club will be here whenever you are ready, and also remind you of what they are here for:

The Club – is an exclusive place for you to stay in touch with your fellow 2020 leavers – to share ideas, resources, notifications about meeting up, reunions and so much more : I often think it would be a good place for those of you looking to practice your writing skills to add articles to gain experience (with the benefit of a friendly audience) but ultimately, your imaginations and the sky are the limit!

The OGA site – is constantly being updated, reviewed and built upon. Beyond your own year group, you have access to the wider OGA community and a wealth of experience from WGGS alumnae from the years before you: 

·        The current focus is the Jobs Board in the Careers Portal. This a resource that we hope to grow over the coming months to provide our members with job opportunities and links to organisations including those set up to help women in employment. We currently have jobs and links to WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) and WFTV (Women in Film & Television) and hope to add more very soon. 

·        For the entrepreneurs amongst you, once you set up your own business, you can advertise your services to fellow alumnae in our Business Directory. 

·        Whenever you need careers help – search our V&M (Volunteering & Mentoring) programme to find an alumna to assist you with anything from industry specific advice to mentoring.

I hope that you can find some time to visit the site and check out the latest updates, contribute some content to your club or make the most of the Careers Portal when the time comes.  Whether you utilise your membership now or in the future, for fun or for your career – we'll be here for you!

Finally, a message from Penelope MacEwen:

"Dear All,

I know this last year was very odd and so difficult to suddenly find that you couldn't take A levels and then find such controversy over the centre assessed grades. While some of you will have been happy with your teacher's assessment, inevitably some will have felt disappointed and let down. But here's some advice: regardless of how well you did, whether you are going to university, going to have a GAP year or going out to work or a combination; try to put the past behind you and focus on how to make the best of today. The more we do this the more we find that life offers more to us than we think and that sometimes even a disappointment turns out to be a good thing, as we become wiser or we change our plans for the better. You all have advanced thinking skills, debating skills and are marvellously talented! Believe in yourselves…and in this time of crisis try to enjoy the little things as well as your plans and aspirations. Try to help someone and offer your talents to others. Try to worry less and focus more…..

Wishing you success. We miss you and wish you the best.

Mrs MacEwen

Head of the Social Science Dept"