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The Women of Lancing College: A History Dr Lady Susan Conway
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Written by Susan Conway, first female governor of the school, the book begins with a chapter entitled They Were There because women were there from the very beginning in the 19th century. Inspiring and talented women encouraged the arts, science and music. Generous female donors provided funds towards building the Chapel. Female artists designed tapestries, created stained glass windows, and performed in classical music concerts and plays. During WWII, some entered the classrooms to replace male teachers who joined the forces.
Sometime after the war, there were vague discussions about admitting girls, but the idea did not develop further until the appointment of the Head Master, Mr Ian Beer CBE, in 1969. Two Sixth Form girls joined the school experimentally in 1970, then three each year until 1975. They were day girls or lodged with members of staff because there was no special place for them. Numbers increased from 1976 and pressure for more places led the school to open a girls’ House in September 1978. It was named Manor. An increase in demand for girls’ places at the school led to a decision to build a second House named Handford. The House received its first intake in 1985. The school continued to take girls into the Sixth Form until the year 2000 when Lancing became fully co-educational. The transition from all-male public school to co-ed is a fascinating story.
The author would love to build on the basic history with stories from past pupils and staff, male and female about their experiences. Were there female teachers who inspired you? How did the atmosphere change when girls arrived? How did staff ensure girls were treated as equals? Are there men (pupils and staff) willing to share their experience of the transition? Do you have interesting photos? It does not have to be all serious. Some funny anecdotes would be good. If you would like to contribute, please contact the Foundation Office at foundation@lancing.org.uk and Susan will follow up by email or phone call.
