Giving Day 2025: "Dame Allan’s taught me to say yes to all opportunities."

“I had a fabulous time at Dame Allan’s” reminisces June, who attended Dame Allan’s Girls’ School from 1975-1982 as part of the Direct Grant (bursary) scheme. “I was the first in my whole family to continue education beyond the age of fourteen, I loved to learn and the School definitely broadened my horizons.” 

At Dame Allan's, June was particularly passionate about languages - which sparked the inspiration for her future career path with the European Commission, and the confidence to live her life abroad. “Mrs Peet, who taught me German, was a huge inspiration,” recalls June. “She organised my first ever exchange trip to Germany, which was my first time abroad where I could immerse myself in the language and culture. I’m still friends with the daughter of the family I stayed with then - we’re actually Godmothers to each other's children! I’m still in touch with Mrs Peet too, she was a fantastic role model.”

As well as languages, June was passionate about theatre, recalling a time when a young Patrick Stewart visited Dame Allan’s as part of a tour with the Royal Shakespeare Company!

June’s current role looks at making the digital world safer and more inclusive for all; she particularly focuses on  getting more women involved in the digital world: “I’d say that Dame Allan’s taught me to say yes to all opportunities.” commented June. “Now, I’m proud to work to ensure women have equal access in the tech space.”