With the fondest memories of a dear friend and colleague
Kia ora koutou
As many of you may have read on the school, or neighbourhood Facebook pages, we heard the very sad news last week of the passing of Caroline Radcliffe, a very dear and loved colleague and friend of the Beckenham School community.
Caroline began her association with Beckenham School when she attended here as a child herself. She then sent her four daughters to the school, and then began working here in the office as the school secretary, a position she held for 30 years.
Caroline was the welcoming face that greeted everyone who came into the school, managing to get a laugh and a smile from even the most serious.
Along with her wicked sense of humour, she was renowned for her fabulous sense of style. She always looked immaculate, and ran many fashion shows at Beckenham as fundraisers.
Her bright lipstick and immaculately polished, extra-long nails, were legendary!
On her last day at Beckenham, we had a special "Glam up your nails" day - in honour of this gorgeous lady and her nails!
Caroline retired from Beckenham in October 2012 and moved to Blenheim with her husband Mike.
She passed away on Tuesday of last week, with her family around her.
A memorial service for Caroline will be held at 2pm this Friday 23rd February, at Lamb and Hayward, Wairakei Road. To all attending this service - you are encouraged to "Glam up your nails and lips" in honour of Caro.
At school this Friday, we will be encouraging those who remember Caroline, to 'glam up their nails' and put on their brightest lipstick, as a salute to this special lady. This will particularly apply to our staff and our Year 6, 7 & 8 children who were just 5, 6 & 7 year olds at the time that Caroline retired.
We will be flying our New Zealand flag at half mast on Friday, in memory of Caroline.