We are deeply saddened to share that former Dame Alice Owen's Headmaster, Mr David Bolton, passed away on 2nd January 2023.

Born in 1936, he was a highly respected Head of the school for an impressive 12 years (1982-1994) and there has been an influx of poignant anecdotes and memories from students and staff who shared their time at the school with Mr Bolton. 

A full piece will be written about Mr Bolton in the next newsletter but in the meatime, here are some snippets taken from social media of the memories shared. 

“A lovely Headmaster. I’ll always remember Mr Bolton with the end of his glasses in his mouth as he chatted to students, such an endearing habit.”

“He was responsible for the continued development of the school and at one time we had pupils coming from South Hackney. Blazer had to be buttoned, shirts tucked in and bags carried down. Girls had to have skirts worn at a certain length. However, there was one occasion where he mistook a newly appointed member of staff for being a sixth form girl and had words about her skirt length. He was a good friend for many years”

“He was a fine headmaster and was instrumental in making the school what it is today. Always a strong supporter of the sports teams and Old Owens he would regularly turn out to watch matches. I recall him randomly turning up in Feurs on the French exchange in my 2nd year and donning his trainers to play on the right wing in an England v France playground match (thanks for the assist, sir!).”

“I remember him playing piano in his final assembly because "he'd always wanted to do it".

“He was a man of the highest integrity who set the tone of the school through his firm but always fair leadership style.”

Thank you for all you have done for the school Sir.