Milly shares stories of musical passion with Radclyffe's Class of ‘24

A former student who has gone on to become an accomplished musical performer was the guest of honour at The Radclyffe School’s Presentation Evening.

Addressing the leavers of 2024, Milly Boden shared her experience of life at The Radclyffe School, and described her journey since leaving the school in 2019.

Overcoming health challenges in school, Milly said, “One of the reasons I was able to carry on was the support network I had around me.

"Going through a difficult time really has taught me the importance of gratitude.

"My favourite thing about gratitude is that it doesn’t go away.”

Milly was very much involved in performing, both dramatic and musical, appearing in three school productions, and enjoying singing on the Music corridor.

Of her own progress, Milly studied Music at Oldham College, and developed her talents as a performer at LIPA, the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.

Working with other musicians, and forming her own band, they have been gigging frequently.

She told the young people to “surround yourselves with people who believe in you, and help you to grow.”

She spoke of getting involved in theatre projects outside of university, adding: “I felt so much more connected to the city, getting to know people of all ages and walks of life.”

Having graduated this year, (meeting Paul McCartney in the process), Milly has had the chance to record her own music in a state-of-the-art studio, working with talented producers in the music industry.

She told students: “Taking the plunge and following my passions has led me to live a life far happier and more fulfilled than I ever dreamed of.”

Milly urged the audience to follow their passion.

She said: “Don’t let fear stand in the way of your happiness.

"Nobody in this room knows where they’re going to be in a year’s time, but you can choose to be kind to yourself and others.

"There is a whole world to go and explore. Even if you do it an hour at a time.”

The Presentation Evening was held at the school in Hunt Lane, Chadderton.

The glitzy event was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Year 11 students, whose first year at the school had been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The evening was a celebration of the achievement of the whole year group who moved on from The Radclyffe School earlier this year.

Year Manager Marie Clegg told students: “Please continue to work hard, enjoy your next journey and soak up every little detail.

"Be proud of who you are and show the world what you’re made of.”

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