Dr Dayman launched the UK’s meningitis movement after tragically losing his baby to the disease in 1982. Since then he has been instrumental in raising funds to further preventative research, ensure that awareness is maintained, and fight for vaccine introduction as soon as possible.

The girls heard Dr Dayman recount riveting stories of his travels across the UK meeting and inspiring families affected by this devastating disease. His engaging talk prompted a collective gasp from the girls when he revealed that the trust he founded has – with his help – raised approximately £25 million towards the development of a vaccine. Many of the girls commented on how enlightening it was to meet this extraordinary man who has taken a personal tragedy and made a difference to the people who are affected by meningitis each year.

The Horizons programme is a series of weekly enrichment lectures for the Sixth Form. It is designed to widen the girls’ knowledge of important issues and debates, help them with topics that may be discussed at their University interviews, as well as introducing then to University style lectures.

Recent speakers have included: Robin Elias, Senior ITN News Editor; Emma Cole, who spoke about living with HIV; Kara Cauter, Director at KPMG, who described the causes of the financial crisis; Sean Attwood, an ex-prisoner; and Nigel Farage, Leader of UKIP.