It is with great sadness that we share the news of the tragic death of former pupil Captain Lizzie Godwin LG last week. 

Lizzie was born in Devon and attended Exeter School before joining Trent College, as a boarder in Martin House, in 2013.  Lizzie embraced every aspect of school life, becoming a prefect and representing the school in 1st VII Netball and 1st XI Hockey.  She was a committed member of the Trent College Combined Cadet Force and was awarded the Army Scholarship.  She graduated from King's College London, qualifying as a nurse in 2018. Whilst at university Captain Godwin commissioned into the Reserves and captained the 1st XI Hockey team.

Captain Godwin commissioned from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst as the first female officer in the Life Guards, The Household Cavalry, since the regiment formed in 1661. She was also awarded the Sword of Honour as the best cadet in her intake.

Photograph: Brandon Openshaw

On joining her regiment, she led a troop of 26 soldiers in Wiltshire, conducting overseas exercises, patrols competitions and running a promotion course for junior troops.  At the start of her ceremonial duties in 2022, Captain Godwin marched in the State Funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II and commanded a Division of 30 horses and soldiers at the Coronation procession of HM King Charles III.

Her experiences conducting ceremonial duties varied, including a deployment to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan to enhance diplomatic relations in the region and leading the escort for HRH Princess Royal at CHIO Aachen in Germany as Musical Ride Officer.

Lizzie was a much-loved member of our school community, remembered fondly for her humour and zest for life, and admired by all those who knew her.  We are deeply proud of all that Lizzie achieved and the extraordinary example she set through her dedication, courage, and service.

Next week, members of the Class of 2015 will gather for their 10-year reunion. This occasion will be especially poignant, providing an opportunity for Lizzie’s friends and contemporaries to remember her and to celebrate her life together.

Our thoughts are with her family, friends and comrades.   As a school community, we will remember Lizzie with gratitude and affection and honour the remarkable legacy she leaves behind.

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