Northampton school pupils raise more than £2,300 in memory of much-loved teacher
Pupils at Quinton House School in Northampton have raised £2,362.80 for Cynthia Spencer Hospice in memory of their late Head of Music, Joanna Stone.
The fundraising event, organised by Year 11 Performing Arts Ambassadors Millie and Charlotte, brought the school community together for a 1970s-themed day of music, dancing and dress-up, marking the hospice’s 50th anniversary.
The hospice provides specialist palliative care for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families across West Northamptonshire.
The day featured a range of activities, including a lunchtime disco in the Preparatory School and live music performances and busking in the Senior School.
Pupils and staff embraced the theme by dressing in 1970s-inspired outfits, creating a vibrant atmosphere in tribute to Miss Stone, who taught at Quinton House for more than a decade and was a much-loved member of the community.
The school also welcomed Miss Stone’s family for the unveiling of a memorial bench within the school grounds, providing a peaceful space for reflection and remembrance.
Quinton House is part of Blenheim Schools, a leading family of all-ability independent schools with a focus on high-quality education that reflects the individual needs, learning styles and aspirations of pupils.
Millie said: “Miss Stone helped me through so much and was someone I could always turn to. She gave me confidence I never thought I would have, and I will be forever grateful for that. We wanted to organise something that would make her proud and support a charity that meant so much to her.”
Charlotte said: “Miss Stone was a huge part of my school life and inspired my love of music and theatre. Raising money for Cynthia Spencer in her memory felt like the most meaningful way to honour her and everything she gave to us.”
Dr Phyllis Fiadzomor, Deputy Head (Academic), said: “We are incredibly proud of MIllie and Charlotte for their efforts to remember Miss Stone in this way while supporting a fantastic cause.
“Miss Stone was a much-loved member of the Quinton House family and I’d like to thank everyone who helped us raise a significant amount for the Cynthia Spencer Hospice.
"The mutual love and respect for Miss Stone shared by the school and her family was evident and very moving to be a part of.
“It was a true reflection of the dedication and appreciation that Miss Stone shared with her students. We are extremely grateful to her family for their time taken to join us and for being a fundamental part of the day.”