The Duchess of Sussex celebrates International Women’s Day at Robert Clack School!
“Oh my god, that’s Meghan! I’m actually going to meet Meghan!” This was one student’s reaction as the Duchess of Sussex surprised students at Robert Clack’s upper site on Friday 6th March ahead of International Women’s Day.
Excitement filled the air as Meghan got out of her car and was greeted by Ian Pittaway - Deputy Lieutenant for Barking and Dagenham and Co-chair of the Robert Clack Alumni Association. Many of the children were speechless, while others gasped as they set eyes on the Duchess who was stood before them. A few weeks earlier Ian had received an email asking if any local schools would like a visit from the Duchess. The theme of the event was International Women’s Day and, with Dagenham holding such an important place in the history of women’s rights following the Ford sewing machinists strike which was instrumental in passing the 1970 Equal Pay Act, Robert Clack were particularly keen to welcome such a special guest.
We were honoured to be selected and set about making plans for the day with the Duchess’s staff and security services. After being introduced to Head Teacher Russell Taylor and Senior Deputy Head Teacher Steve O’Brien, Meghan smiled broadly as she was presented with a bouquet of flowers by Year 7 students, Fiona A and Harvi S.
Meghan was then invited to the Information Centre where she was welcomed by Assistant Head Izzy Eames and her Year 9 students who were working on a project about female poets. The students had researched a variety of female poets, studied an unseen poem, and were busy creating their own poems using their research as inspiration. The Duchess was very interested in their work and offered encouraging words when students shared their poems with her and the group.
Meghan then met Assistant Head Emily Valentine and the Year 12 Debating Society. Robert Clack Debaters have rubbed shoulders with stars and politicians over the years - but never royalty! Miss Valentine shared her experiences of the day. She praised them for how articulate they were and that it was clear that the moral compasses they hold will enable them to become world leaders when they complete their education. A particular highlight of our time with the Duchess was when she was made an honourary member of the Debate Society and students Lily and Yesha presented her with her own debate jacket, she said that 'her husband would be very jealous'. It was an absolute honour for some of our Debate Society to meet such a warm, modern and personable member of the Royal Family. It was a day that we will never forget!”
“When Mr Taylor told me about the Royal Visit from the Duchess of Sussex there was no question about ensuring that our wonderful debaters got an opportunity to show off their skills, especially as the issues that the Duchess holds close to her heart are the same as those involved in the Debate Society. What struck me about the Duchess was that she was incredibly down to earth and keen to hear the views and aspirations of those taking part in the session. She remarked on the fact that they were able to discuss their future careers. One example was embarking on work in Gynaecology in the developing world, and how student Aeesha was able link science and debate effortlessly.
She recognised that our students have the ability to change the world using their voices and encouraged them to continue to have their voices heard. Debater, Aeesah A added, “The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, is an inspirational person not just to young people from ethnic minorities and females, but to the general population. I believe she has this influence because she has already accomplished so many great achievements in her life whilst overcoming many difficulties thrown her way. To have her join our Debate Society has made all of us more proud of being part of the Robert Clack Debate Society. Meeting the Duchess of Sussex has given me personally more confidence and assurance that my ability to speak out can make positive changes and help improve the lives of people for the better. Her joining of our Debate Society has helped solidify the fact that young people can make a change in the world that we live in and that the steps that we are taking to do this are being noticed by many people from all around the world.”
The Duchess made her final stop of the visit at the assembly hall where she was keen to take part in the Year 11 assembly which was themed around International Women’s Day. She was introduced to former student Miss Hasika Bhudia, teacher of mathematics and Head of Year 11, along with another honoured guest - former student Geraldine Dear, a retired Ford Machinist, who took part in the Equal Pay Strike. Students Rhyanna W and Renee P-D kick started the assembly by speaking eloquently about the global impact the female Dagenham Ford workers made on women’s rights. The first strike in 1968 was a trigger in passing the Equal Pay Act 1970. Geraldine was one of the ’13 rebels’ who took part in a further strike in 1984, in protest against the system that graded women as unskilled workers. Geraldine and her machinist colleagues went on strike for six weeks before Ford eventually agreed to their terms and they returned to work on an equal footing to the male skilled workers.
Year 13 student Olivia C then made a heartfelt speech about her own experiences as a woman and reflected on where she thought life would take her. Olivia said, “This visit is certainly one I will remember, as the crucial celebration of women and female empowerment was recognised by a leading female figure in public British consciousness. As I am from a borough with issues surrounding gender equality and the empowerment of young people, I think that Meghan Markle recognising our area and our school as an important centre of change for gender in our society and the role and status of women is incredibly powerful.”
The ‘Citizen of The Week’ award was then presented to student Charlotte Fleisher by Meghan. A very excited Charlotte said, “It was amazing to see Meghan in school. I couldn’t believe it when she congratulated me for receiving my award and shook my hand. This memory will stay with me forever!” The Duchess then addressed the assembly, urging the boys in particular, to value and appreciate the women in their lives whilst setting an example to other men who may not see things in the same way. “You have mothers, sisters, girlfriends, and friends in your lives. Protect them, make sure they are feeling valued and safe. Let’s just rally together to make sure International Women’s Day is something that is not just for one day but frankly feels like every day of the year.”
She then went ‘off the cuff’ and asked for a male volunteer from the audience.Aker O was the lucky student to be chosen! Aker approached the stage to rapturous applause and cheers from his peers and, shaking Meghan’s hand, he said the words, “She really is beautiful innit!” which has become his tag line and gone viral on social media! Aker received a big hug from the giggling Duchess who was clearly amused by his reaction before speaking with confidence about his views on women’s rights. A very proud Miss Bhudia said “All in all, the speeches from our pupils filled us with nothing but pride on this special day. The voice from today’s women of Dagenham was held strong and we have every faith in them to keep the fight for equality alive through the generations to come. Well done to everyone who was involved and I am sure this will be a day nobody will forget!"
This was certainly a day that will be etched in the minds of all staff and students at Robert Clack for many years to come. The atmosphere around the school was electric. Here are a few quotes from some of the students: “I never expected to have such an honour of meeting a royal, but there I was at Robert Clack School meeting one of the most special and important people today” Fabio Petraru “We were all waiting at our tables and then we saw Meghan Markle through a window the teachers forgot to cover! I was honestly so excited because I was getting this once in a lifetime opportunity” Ula Lapinskaite “It was amazing. We were all screaming and crying in excitement. Seeing Meghan Markle inspired me to try harder and be the best me I can be” Popina Brennan
Head Teacher Russell Taylor reflected on the day saying, “The visit of The Duchess of Sussex was a truly great moment in the history of Robert Clack School. As I listened to the wonderful speeches given by Renee, Rhyanna, and Olivia during the assembly, I found myself feeling overcome with emotion. All I could think was: this is what Robert Clack School is about. This visit wasn’t about one individual; it was about us, all of us, working together as one for the benefit of all. I’m sure you have seen the media coverage of Meghan’s visit and I’m sure, like me, you cannot fail to have noticed the look of shock, exuberance, and unadulterated joy on our pupils’ faces. Meghan told our pupils - girls and boys - that they matter, that they have a voice and that they should use it. What a powerful message!
And the response on social media has been nothing short of extraordinary, with so many people from all over the world commenting on our “amazing” pupils. I feel exceptionally proud and privileged to be a part of our community; I hope they all do too.”
A huge thank you to everyone involved in the visit, especially our staff and wonderful students. Special mentions to our VIPs, Ian Pittaway, Geraldine Dear, the Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, Peter Chand and his wife Ginger, Chief Executive of LBBD, Chris Naylor, and Leader of the Council, Darren Rodwell. It was certainly a memorable day for us all!
We were delighted to welcome back former student Elona Morina, who returned to Robert Clack to share her journey into law via Teams. After leaving in 2017, Elona studied A Levels at Havering Sixth Form College before going on to Brunel University to study Law, including a placement year in a law firm. She is now completing a training contract in criminal law near London Bridge and is close to fully qualifying. Elona spoke honestly about overcoming challenges at school, encouraging students to work hard, take opportunities, and build confidence. She also highlighted the importance of key skills such as communication, organisation and initiative, as well as exploring different routes into legal careers. Students found her talk inspiring and relatable, with one commenting, “Elona was so relatable – it was really interesting.” Thank you, Elona, for giving back and inspiring the next generation.
Our pupils recently enjoyed an exciting and enriching trip to LEGOLAND Windsor Resort as part of their involvement in Lego Club. Throughout the visit, the pupils represented the school exceptionally well, demonstrating exemplary behaviour, enthusiasm, and maturity at all times. A special thank you goes to Mr Van Gelder and Miss Day for accompanying the trip and supporting the pupils throughout the day. Their dedication and encouragement played a significant role in making the experience both memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved. During the visit, pupils also participated in the engaging ‘LEGO, Camera, Action!’ workshop, where they collaborated creatively in teams to produce their own LEGO film. This hands-on experience allowed pupils to develop their imagination, communication, teamwork, and storytelling skills in a fun and inspiring environment. Congratulations to all the pupils involved for being outstanding ambassadors for the school and for embracing every opportunity with such positivity and enthusiasm. Miss A Yasin (Head of Year 8)
Our Year 7 and Year 8 pupils had an exciting and adventurous trip to PGL Grosvenor Hall last term. 105 pupils from all three sites, stayed at Grosvenor Hall for 2 nights in March, where they participated in a range of challenging activities, including abseiling, rock climbing, fencing and raft building. Throughout the trip, their behaviour was outstanding, and they truly embodied the values of our school, acting as excellent ambassadors. All pupils had a fantastic time, showing incredible bravery and determination when it came to overcoming their fears. With every obstacle faced, pupils showed resilience and perseverance, a great example of our school values. Pupils continued to support one another, cheering each other on and offering encouragement at every step. This trip is always a fantastic trip where pupils truly use this opportunity to build positive relationships, resilience to difficult situations, and excellent teamwork skills. We couldn’t be prouder of the outstanding behaviour of our Year 7’s and Year 8’s. A massive thank you to the 10 members of staff that gave up their time for the trip and offered their support throughout.
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The Year 7 and 8 students have been developing their practical cooking skills, teamwork and confidence through our after-school Cooking Club at Green Lane. This term, students successfully made delicious cinnamon rolls and cheese and onion plaits, demonstrating excellent creativity, food preparation skills and attention to hygiene and safety. It has been fantastic to see students becoming more independent in the kitchen while learning new techniques and enjoying a positive hands-on cooking experience.
PGL Netball Tour 2026 During the 24th–26th April, 17 students from Years 8 and 9 represented Robert Clack School at the PGL Netball Tournament, competing against schools from across the country. Alongside the tournament, students also had the opportunity to take part in a range of exciting activities including axe throwing, rock climbing, giant swing, archery and the leap of faith. The Year 8 team performed brilliantly, winning 3 out of their 6 matches and narrowly missing out on a place in the semi-finals. The Year 9 team worked incredibly hard throughout the competition, showing determination and resilience right to the very end. Their efforts paid off as they won the final 3–2 against Sandon Wood, becoming PGL Netball Tournament Champions 2026. All of the girls were a pleasure to take away, remaining professional, well behaved and consistently upholding the values of Robert Clack School throughout the trip. Massive congratulations to the Year 9 girls on being crowned PGL Netball Tournament Winners 2026 — a fantastic achievement and one the school is extremely proud of. Miss Robbins & Miss Shelley
At the end of last term, form 7D received letters from their pen pals at Bluebells Academy in Kenya. They then spent form time writing and designing postcards to send back. Students shared their favourite things, showed off their drawing skills and asked their pen pals questions about their lives in Kenya. We are excited to get their replies!
As a reward for their hard work, dedication, and commitment throughout the year, members of Art Club enjoyed a fantastic trip to the Science Museum. The students represented the school exceptionally well, displaying exemplary behaviour, politeness, and maturity throughout the visit. They engaged enthusiastically with the interactive exhibits, explored the fascinating galleries with curiosity, and showed genuine interest in the links between science, creativity, and innovation. Staff at the museum commented positively on the students’ conduct and respectful attitude, making the trip an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The visit was a well-deserved reward for a wonderful year of effort and achievement within the Art Club, and we are incredibly proud of all the students who attended.
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