Dame Maggie is a celebrated space scientist and science educator, and an accomplished alumna of La Sainte Union, having attended the voluntary-aided Catholic state school in the 1980s.
She was accompanied by Angellica Bell and a camera crew, filming a piece for BBC One – The One Show to celebrate her path to success and promote her new book, Starchild.
Speaking on our expansive lawn and ornate corridor with The One Show presenter Angellica Bell, she described her time at the school, including teachers and lessons, and how such formative experiences entrenched her interest and desire to study space.
Most notably, it was her description of the risks she took and her dedication to her studies that demonstrated the endeavour it takes to achieve your desired success and to understand your true potential in life.
Following the time spent wandering our beautiful grounds and reminiscing about her time spent at La Sainte Union, students were delighted to meet Dame Maggie, and enjoyed exploring her career, experiences and passions through a Q and A session.
Year 11 Sakina aspires to be a pilot. She said she was excited to meet someone so successful that used to attend our school.
She added: “When she shared that she was neurodivergent it felt like a really special moment because it showed me that although it is hard to learn around others without such needs, you can overcome this and aim high.”
Deputy headteacher Orla Ridge said: “We want our students to break glass ceilings and reach for the stars, and Dame Maggie is a superb example of what a La Sainte Union student can achieve.
“She is a real inspiration to our students and all young women as she demonstrates they can and should be reflected in prestigious professions. But most importantly, she exemplifies where passion, dedication and hard work can take you, and embodies what it means to be a bright woman with a bold future.”
The show aired yesterday (February 17) and can be seen on BBC iPlayer.
The school would like to thank Dame Maggie, Angellica Bell and the camera crew for a memorable experience.
