We were delighted to welcome back former student Henrietta Skipworth (2015-26)  as she revisited the School, not as a student, but as a Old Hymerian researcher exploring the Victorian world through the School's rich historical archives.

Now in the second year of a Classical Studies degree at Royal Holloway, University of London, Henrietta, known as Hetty during her time at Hymers, is studying a module entitled Vice, Virtue and the Victorians. As part of the course, students were invited to undertake a research project with a personal connection, resulting in a blog titled Victorian Places and Things.For Hetty, that connection was an obvious one. Having attended Hymers College herself, beginning in the Junior School in 2015, she chose to explore the School's Victorian origins and students.

Founded in 1893 through the generosity of local philanthropist John Hymers, the School remains deeply rooted in the Victorian era. This provided the perfect opportunity for Hetty to combine academic research with a journey into a place that had helped shape her own educational experiences. During her visit, Hetty spent time examining original School ledgers, historic photographs and records documenting the early years of Hymers College. She was also able to view personal documents connected to John Hymers himself, gaining a fascinating insight into the vision behind the School's foundation and the social and educational landscape of Victorian Britain.

The Hymers archives contain records relating to every pupil who has attended the School, alongside an extensive collection of photographs, publications, artefacts and historical documents dating back more than 130 years. For researchers, they offer a unique window into both the history of the School and the wider story of education in the Victorian period.

For Hetty, the experience was particularly special. As a former pupil researching a subject with direct links to her own schooldays, she was able to connect the themes of her university studies with the real places, people and stories that continue to shape the School today.

It was a pleasure to assist Hetty with her research, and we look forward to seeing the finished project. We wish her every success with the remainder of her studies - we are always delighted when former pupils return to discover more about the history and heritage of Hymers College. 

Hetty's former teachers were delighted to see her back at School and hearing all about her studies and adventures since leaving. Keep in touch, Hetty!