Lyndsay Lardner

We speak to Lyndsay Lardner, who was Resources Centre Manager at the Senior School from 1998 to 2014. She was appointed by then Head Teacher Miss Musgrave, who had the foresight to see that the merging of the library and IT resources was the future for both students and staff. Initially the library was in the basement and the role involved overseeing the stock move and the installation of then state-of-the-art computers! It was an innovative move - the new space was in the centre of the school, enabling curriculum lessons and non-timetabled curricular support to be available. 

Beyond homework help and booking sessions, Mrs Lardner loved training students to help behind the desk, which not only enabled her to run book clubs for most year groups but also provided students with vital work experience for the Duke of Edinburgh awards. Along with Sue Morgan, the school nurse, Mrs Lardner also trained Peer Mentors to offer student support in the Resources Centre.  

Her aim was always to inspire independent research skills and encourage a lifelong love of reading. Her celebration of World Book Day in March slowly evolved into a week; along with annual Poetry picnics on National Poetry Day.  

After leaving BHS, we moved to Cheltenham and bought a Bed and Breakfast which became our full-time job for many years. The initial move was a bit of shock to the system - although it was a going concern, the building was almost 200 years old, which meant it needed quite a lot of infrastructure work. We had to become experts on listed buildings regulations, as well as doing a crash course on the Cotswolds so we could provide guests with accurate, up-to-date information about the area. The business was a great success, and we were well supported by former students and many staff members from BHS. 

We retired in June this year and are now enjoying time by the sea in our lodge and spending more time with family, including our first grandchild, born in September last year. 

In addition to this, along with two other business owners in Cheltenham, we have set up a volunteer-led Cheltenham Tourist Information Centre, so if you are ever in town, you may find me in my happy place helping people behind the desk!