History Hit – Miss Barbara Strong, Headmistress in the1960s

Miss Barbara Strong took her position as Headmistress in 1960, replacing Miss Neal.
Throughout her six years as Headmistress, the school underwent much modernisation, beginning with the opening of the new Chemistry laboratories by the distinguished scientist, Dame Kathleen Lonsdale in 1962. In the year prior to this, facilities at Westerfield Road had been so inadequate that sixth form chemistry students had used the laboratories at the nearby Northgate girls’ school.
Another grand change made under Miss Strong’s leadership was the introduction of the ‘new’ (and still recognisable) cherry red and grey school uniform. Retaining some of the colours of the past, but bringing in the practicality of modern education meant that blazers, skirts, and shirts became more functional.
The Fison library was a remarkably generous gift to the school, funded and officially opened by Sir Clavering Fison on November 15th 1962. Designed by the GPDST architect, Mr Greenwood, its modern pavilion design extended the available space for private study, alleviating pressure for the ever-increasing sixth form. In her speech giving thanks, Miss Strong spoke of her relief that the school now had “edifying surroundings in which to enjoy books. The joy of reading was profound, and no new invention could ever be a substitute for the rich world of the imagination contained in books.” The grounds under the library windows would eventually be laid out, and an arch cut in the wall of the old library to open the room up.
The balance between preserving old traditions and adapting to the changing times was one that was perhaps not always easy or well-received. The much-loved House system of Stanley, Gurney, Hervey, and Digby was disbanded in December 1964 as it was felt that the many and varied clubs and communities fulfilled the same purpose. However, in their visit during Miss Strong’s tenure, Her Majesty’s Inspectors commented on the success of the efforts to preserve what is best in the old while making full use of what is best in the new.
In 1966 the school said goodbye to Miss Strong. Pupils knew of her wide knowledge of international affairs and interest in newly developing countries, so her decision to take up a lectureship in French at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Northern Nigeria, was not a complete surprise. Pupils remembered her as “enthusiastic, lively and adventurous; those who were taught by her knew how lucky her new students will be, for she had the gift of explaining her points clearly and her sense of humour enlivened all she said.”