Since leaving Newnham for a career in industry more than forty years ago life has taken some unexpected turns, as well as some ups and downs. I have lived abroad, travelled widely, raised five children and taught various age groups at various times.

I have now returned to the academic world, where the welcome was far warmer than I expected after such a long gap, and am happily researching, writing, publishing, teaching, and engaging in other community work. I was awarded a Cambridge PhD in 2023 after many years of studying and writing on Renaissance Philosophy.

With ten grandchildren of widely spread ages, I am in close touch with young people’s needs. I am happy to talk about my experiences which may be relevant to anyone hoping to combine the challenges of motherhood and working life – or even grandmotherhood and working life as the challenge continues, and I hope will do so well into the future.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/valery-rees-3a445564/

Subject at Newnham: History