A centenarian woman, aged 100, revisited her former school, Tolworth Girls’ School & Sixth Form in Surrey, for the first time in 86 years since her education was interrupted in 1939 due to World War Two. Maureen Smith, who later played a significant role in the war effort, shared her school memories and wartime experiences with staff and Year 12 students during her recent visit. She took a trip down memory lane, viewing vintage photos and recognizing her headteacher.
The visit was organized by Royal Star & Garter in Surbiton, where Maureen currently resides. Accompanied by her niece Jacqui, also a former Tolworth Girls’ School student from the 1960s, Maureen expressed her joy at returning to the school after all these years. She fondly recalled feeling relieved in 1939 when she didn’t have to go back to school and enjoyed reminiscing with current students and teachers.
Maureen started working at the Hawker factory in Kingston at the age of 15 in 1941, contributing to the design and construction of the iconic Hurricane aircraft pivotal in the Battle of Britain. She worked there until 1953 before marrying Colin, an Army veteran. Maureen settled in the Kingston area and later moved to Royal Star & Garter in April 2025.
Niece Jacqui shared in Maureen’s delight during the visit, thanking both Royal Star & Garter and Tolworth Girls’ School for making it a special day. History Subject Lead at the school, Sam Dixon, expressed gratitude for Maureen’s return after more than eight decades, stating that her vivid recollections of school days and wartime experiences brought history to life for pupils and staff. Yasmin Rogers, Deputy Home Manager at Royal Star & Garter, highlighted the significance of reconnecting Maureen to her past and the commitment to personalized care for residents.
Royal Star & Garter, a charity offering care to veterans and their families dealing with disability or dementia, provides various services in different locations. The Surbiton branch is open to new residents, offering information on services and employment opportunities on their website.
