Surgeon returns to her Harrogate school as talent scholarships launched

A former Harrogate pupil has returned to the school where she excelled after being awarded a scholarship to inspire new generations to follow in her footsteps.

Rosie Hackney, who left Ashville in 2010 to study Medicine at the University of Nottingham before building an impressive career as a trauma and orthopaedic surgeon in Edinburgh, joined fellow scholars from all age groups at their annual dinner.

The black-tie event, hosted by the Crown Hotel in Harrogate, celebrated the talents of current Ashville pupils who have been awarded individual scholarships spanning excellence in Academics, Music, Art, Drama and Sport.

It comes as the school prepares to open its doors on Saturday November 14 for a Year 7 taster morning, where a new round of scholarship opportunities will be launched.

It will offer current Year 6 pupils across the Harrogate District and beyond the chance to take part in a personalised programme of activity sessions.

These include taking part in Science experiments, showing their creativity in Design and Technology, playing Music, enjoying Art, and participating in Sport. Lunch will follow the morning's activities with a chance for children to meet new friends.

Head of Ashville, Rhiannon Wilkinson, said: “Our popular taster morning offers a first-hand insight into the ‘new’ Ashville which is focused on providing a holistic education, with high academic expectations in a nurturing community where pupils will be heard and valued. 

“Prospective parents and their families will be given more details of the full range of scholarship opportunities available at Ashville and how to apply, as well as assessment dates, inspiring pupils to emulate both current scholars and past scholars, like Rosie.

“We were thrilled to welcome her back as a guest at our Scholars’ Dinner. During her time at Ashville, Rosie excelled across academic, sporting, musical and dramatic pursuits. An outstanding athlete, she still holds five school records.

“Alongside her athletic achievements, Rosie was a highly accomplished scholar and demonstrated the academic excellence that would later lead her into medicine.”

Her talents also extended well beyond the classroom and sports field. A gifted musician, she achieved Grade 8 Clarinet and was an enthusiastic performer in school productions. She also took on leadership responsibilities as Head of House.

In 2023, Rosie established Project Kuyenda, a charity dedicated to supporting and developing orthopaedic services in Northern Malawi.

The region faces significant challenges, with one orthopaedic surgeon serving a population of approximately four million people.

Through Project Kuyenda, Rosie and her colleagues focus on training and education, helping to build local expertise and promote sustainable, long-term improvements in healthcare provision.