After 17 years of dedicated service, we say a heartfelt thank you and farewell to our retiring Music Department Administrator Georgina Richardson, whose warmth, care and tireless organisation have left an indelible mark on Trent’s musical life.

From the very beginning, her role was far more than administrative. Georgina joined Trent College in 2008, as Matron in Blake House, before moving to the Music department in 2011.  A calm, welcoming presence, she has been at the heart of what has become one of the busiest and most vibrant hubs on campus.

Reflecting on her time with the Music School, Georgina describes one of her greatest joys: “Helping organise solo and ensemble rehearsals and seeing students’ performances come to fruition at concerts is certainly a highlight of the job, showing that all the hard work and organisation pays off.” Above all, she adds: “the pride I have felt over the years for each and every musician has been something I will hold on to for many years to come.”

Having worked with five Directors of Music; Philip Millward, John Rayfield, Steven Henderson, Chris Foster and most recently Nick Parrans-Smith, Georgina has witnessed and helped shape the remarkable growth of the department.

“When I first became the full-time Music Administrator, the Music School wasn’t anywhere near as busy or exciting as it is now and my role evolved alongside each new Director” she reflects. While the pace increased, so too did the rewards: “It has been hard work but overwhelmingly rewarding, with job satisfaction along the way.” She adds that she feels incredibly fortunate to say, “I don’t think many people can honestly say that they have looked forward to each day at work, and it has been an honour and a pleasure to be part of such a happy, dynamic team.”

LtoR: Director of Music Nick Parrans-Smith, Tim Robinson (music teacher), Tabatha Robinson-Plain (former music teacher), Georgina Richardson

For many pupils, however, Mrs Richardson will be remembered most for her pastoral care, as she explains, “the Music School is a safe and happy place for so many of our students, many of whom have just popped in to lean on my desk for a chat.” Often, the impact of those relationships only becomes clear later: “You don’t really realise how important you have been to the students until they have left” she says, describing the joy of former pupils returning to say hello or rushing over for a hug beyond the school gates.

Some of her most meaningful pastoral experiences came on music tours. Having been fortunate enough to take part in two during her time at Trent, she reflects on the responsibility and reward of caring for students away from home: “Looking after 11 to 18 year olds, whilst away from home, is a responsibility you don’t take lightly, but it gives you such a great opportunity to get to know a different side of them.”

Her organisational expertise has underpinned some of the school’s most memorable musical events, from Winter Wonderland (now Christmas at the Proms) to the annual Albert Hall Spring Concert, Drive Time concerts and Chapel recitals. Choosing a favourite is impossible, she admits: “I honestly can’t name a favourite concert, each one has brought something different to be proud of.” However, this year’s Christmas at the Proms was particularly special, not least because it was her final whole-school concert: “My last involvement in one of our amazing Whole School Concerts has been Christmas at the Proms and will always hold a special place in my heart. The performances were absolutely amazing!”

Trent has been far more than a workplace; it is a community and, in many ways, has been a family. Her connection with the school began long before her appointment. Georgina’s sister, Ali Wright, is former Head of German and Modern Languages (1990 – 2011) and their parents’ were involved for many years as exam invigilators. Reflecting on her 17 years at Trent, she adds, “I was lucky to become the House Matron in Blake House, a role I absolutely loved, especially baking for the lads on a Friday afternoon!” She continues, praising the friendliness of staff and the strong sense of community across the campus, “from day one I have always felt welcome and believe that is why I have been so happy here”.

Georgina pictured (right) with sister (and Trustee of OT Society) Ali Wright

Although she is stepping away from her staff role, this is very much not goodbye. “Trent has undoubtedly been my best job, and I have every intention of staying connected” she says, “whether through singing in choirs, being an involved as parent of an OT, invigilating, or volunteering in other ways to help the school continue to grow.”

In her final words, Georgina extends her warmest wishes to Laura, Trent’s new Music Administrator: “I would like to finish by wishing Laura all the very best, I hope she will embrace and enjoy the role as much as I have.” She also expresses her confidence in the future of music at Trent, adding “I know it will continue to grow under the baton of current Director of Music, Nick Parrans-Smith.”

We thank Georgina sincerely for her kindness, dedication and the quiet, steadfast support she has given to the hundreds of students. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy will continue to resonate through the Music School for many years to come.

Georgina pictured at Christmas at the Proms with Trent's new Music 'team'
(LtoR) Lucy Taylor-Westby, Head of Academic Music, Georgina Richardson, Nick Parrans Smith, Director of Music and Laura Hickling, Music Administrator