Former pupil, Dr Claire Breay, who left the school after A Levels in 1986, is the British Library's Head of Ancient, Medieval and Early Modern manuscripts and has been awarded an MBE in recognition of her services to medieval history during her 18-year career at the UK national library.

The British Library quotes Claire as saying of her award: "I was surprised but absolutely delighted to receive this award. In the last few years I have had the opportunity to work on very exciting projects at the British Library, especially the Magna Carta exhibition and the acquisition of the St Cuthbert Gospel, but none of my work would be possible without the collaboration of my wonerful colleagues in the Medieval Manuscripts team at the Library and the support of my family, so I feel this award is for all of them too."