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Sheila Clayton MTGS 1945 – 1952 In Memoriam

Sheila was born in Scarborough with extended family living near her. Her father, who had been in the Merchant Navy, gained employment with a firm who became part of the Mersey Docks and Harbour Company. The family moved to Crosby, and Sheila became a pupil at Merchant Taylors’ School in 1945. The School had a massive impact on her life, not just for her education, but in forming lifelong friendships. She has always been particularly close to the Leigh family (Joyce Ewbank).

Academically she excelled; she also loved singing in the school choir, and was keen on sports – especially cricket. MTGS with its wonderful ethos meant much to Sheila, and her schooldays were always remembered with pleasure, gratitude and affection. Whilst at school, her heart remained in Yorkshire, and each summer she returned to Scarborough.

In 1952 she went to Gypsy Hill College. After training, she taught for a short time in Liverpool, but then relocated to London. She had met Pat at college, and whilst living together in Streatham, they worked in a variety of schools in the area. Sheila’s qualities as a natural leader soon became apparent, and she eventually became headteacher of a large school in Brixton which had huge social issues. She dealt with them confidently and with great skill.

After many years of working in London, Sheila and Pat decided to relocate to Yorkshire in 1974. Pat became headteacher of a school in Bridlington and Sheila headteacher of the Flamborough School. Their journeys to school were a vast contrast to those in London. They bought the beautiful St Mary’s Cottage, which was in need of much renovation. Sheila lived there for the rest of her life.

Very sadly, in 1979 Pat died unexpectedly. This was a difficult time, but Sheila was supported by new friends in Ebberston. Some years later Sheila was forced to take early retirement on health grounds. She then began (on a small scale) to breed cattle, at first Friesians and then Limousins. This became a big part of her life for many years. Fortunately, she sold her last cows before the devastating foot and mouth epidemic in 2001.

There were so many aspects to Sheila’s life. She was devoted to St Mary’s Church, where she served for many years as Churchwarden. Recently, she was responsible for liaising with surveyors and craftsmen when developments and renovations took place at the church. The result is a fitting memorial to her vision and devotion. She served as lay chair for the deanery and was a member of the diocesan synod for many years. Her involvement with the local Conservative party included more committee work, electioneering and fundraising with friends. She loved theatre and music (Opera North and Ryedale Festival), lectures and tours with NADFAS, RSPB, John Lewis, gardening and growing many fruits and vegetables. The Archers and Any Questions were among her favourite radio programmes, listened to probably with a glass of malt whiskey in her hand.

Her mother lived in her own home near Scarborough until she was 99 years old. She died only shortly before her 100th birthday. One or two years later Sheila’s brother Stuart died from cancer. It was with great sadness that she realised she had no living relatives.

Sheila was always fully committed to all she did. She could be forthright and independent but was also passionate, thoughtful, very caring and generous. Her faith was resolute and trusting – she bravely faced the devastating news of her cancer. Her demeanour was a shining Christian example to us all. Sheila was hugely loyal to all her friends who have been privileged to have known and loved her. We are left with so many happy memories.

Barbara Guest (Shoesmith)

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Enjoy 20% off all Merchant Taylors’ uniform at M Enjoy 20% off all Merchant Taylors’ uniform at Monkhouse, plus an extra 20% off when you use code SAVE20 at checkout.

📅 Offer ends: 9 November 2025
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A powerful and reflective few days in Japan 🇯🇵

Pupils visited Hiroshima to learn about the events of 1945 and pay their respects at the Peace Memorial Park, a deeply moving experience for everyone.

They also enjoyed a hands-on sushi-making workshop, mastering their rolling skills and savouring one last taste of Japanese culture before heading home 🍣✨
We are hiring ✨ We currently have a number of o We are hiring ✨

We currently have a number of opportunities to join our team at Merchant Taylors' Schools.

Click the link in our bio to find out more about these roles ⤴️
Our Bronze Duke of Edinburgh pupils kicked off hal Our Bronze Duke of Edinburgh pupils kicked off half-term in style, completing two days of hiking through the beautiful hills of Appley Bridge, Parbold and Dalton 

After camping overnight at Tawd Vale, pupils showed amazing teamwork and resilience navigating tough terrain with just their maps and compasses, carrying their food, tents, and kit across 25km of countryside! 🧭

A huge thank you to our fantastic staff team for making this unforgettable weekend possible, and well done to all pupils for their determination and spirit! 👏
A relaxed morning in Japan today as pupils took a A relaxed morning in Japan today as pupils took a local train to visit the famous Monkey Sanctuary and Bamboo Park 🌿🐒 

Before heading to Hiroshima on the bullet train, they tried their hand at making okonomiyaki, a delicious Japanese savoury pancake that’s a local favourite! 🇯🇵🥢
Arigatou Tokyo, konnichiwa Kyoto! 🇯🇵✨ Tod Arigatou Tokyo, konnichiwa Kyoto! 🇯🇵✨

Today our pupils travelled by bullet train to Kyoto, taking in the sights and culture along the way. There were more kimonos purchased, plenty of photos taken, and a poignant visit to a memorial for those affected by the 2011 tsunami.

A very special mention to one of our pupils who celebrated her 16th birthday in Kyoto today, what a memorable place to spend it! 🎉🎂

Everyone is now settling into the new hotel and looking forward to exploring more tomorrow. 🌸
Ready for the next step? ✨ We look forward to w Ready for the next step? ✨

We look forward to welcoming prospective pupils to our Year 7 Entrance Assessment for external candidates on Friday 7 November 2025.

The assessment forms part of our admissions process for entry to Merchant Taylors’, offering families the opportunity to take the next step towards joining our vibrant school community.

To register, please follow the link in our bio or contact our Admissions Team on 0151 949 9366 or admissions@merchanttaylors.com
Pupils on the Japan trip spent today exploring Hak Pupils on the Japan trip spent today exploring Hakone, beginning with a geography lesson from their guide before setting sail across the caldera lake aboard a traditional pirate ship ⛵️

The adventure continued with a cable car ride to the famous sulphur vents, where some tried black eggs and ice cream, while others took in the views in their newly bought kimonos 🇯🇵✨
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