Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.
The Downe House Alumnae Achievement Awards, launched in April 2023, celebrate the outstanding achievements of our alumnae community and recognise the variety of ways they are making a real impact across our society, both in the UK and around the globe.
Community spirit is an important part of the school’s ethos, and these awards are designed to reflect our diverse community. Nominations are based the contribution that the nominee has made in their chosen field. These may include, but are not exclusive to:
Success in enterprise and innovation / Academic or research success / Contributions to STEM industries / Personal or professional success / Achievements in sport, music or the arts / Charitable work or contributions / Contributions in a global capacity / Striving to implement change in social & environmental sustainability
Nominations can be submitted by an alumna themselves, a fellow DH alumna or a family member. You are able to make multiple nominations for different people if you wish. We love hearing stories of how alumnae carry Downe’s vision and ethos into the world!
Chantal Bryan (Suffield-Jones, DH 1995)
Trustee, Teach Us Too
Chantal was recognised for her work with Teach Us Too, a charity she set up with her son, Jonathan. The charity challenges attitudes based on labels, influences educational practice, encourages ambition and shares good practice.
Theo Clarke (DH 2003)
Vice Chair, United Nations Association UK. Form MP, Author & Podcaster
Theo Clarke has been a prominent spokesperson for women since her election in 2019 as MP for Stafford. In her new podcast and book Breaking the Taboo, she hopes to break the taboo surrounding birth trauma, and start a national conversation that is long overdue.
Winky Skevington (Lee, DH 1994)
CEO, The Hummingbird Initiative
Winky set up The Hummingbird Initiative in Kenya. So far, over 3,000 pupils have benefitted from educational development, 963 farms have a constant supply of water for irrigation, and 25% of inhabitants have water piped to their homes.
Louise Thompson (DH 2008)
Author & Campaigner
Louise has founded several successful businesses and developed a loyal following with candid social posts on wellness and motherhood. Her first book, Lucky: Learning to Live Again shares her journey back to health following the traumatic birth of her first child, and how she has reframed her experience to find joy in life.
Sophie Shipton (DH 2014)
Lead Caseworker at Redemption Roasters
Sophie's nominee said: "The type of role Sophie is undertaking demonstrates inspirational bravery and empathy which Downe House should be championing!"
Jessie Robinson (DH 2014)
Senior Burns Physiotherapist
Jessie’s nominee said: "She is kind and selfless, and puts everyone before herself. Her ambition is to work as a physiotherapist in major trauma in disaster zones all across the world & I have no doubt that she will do just that."
Siobhán Hewlett (DH 2000)
Director, Writer, Actor, Producer
Siobhán’s nominee said: “Siobhán deserves to win an alumnae award because she has the spirit of the Downe House girl in her life - using her fierce intelligence for the greater good as an award-winning actress on stage & screen and recently screenwriter."
Dr Lucy King (DH 1995)
Zoologist
Lucy’s nominee said: “Dr Lucy King has blazed a trail in developing and promoting nature-based solutions to human-wildlife conflict in Africa & around the world, for which I think she thoroughly deserves recognition through these awards."
Jennifer Murray (Mather) (DH 1957)
Helicopter pilot
Jennifer’s nominee said: “Helicopter pilot Jennifer Murray became the first woman to successfully fly round the world in a helicopter on 8 August 1997."
