Grace O’Malley-Kumar Awarded the George Medal 

Bancroft’s is deeply moved to learn that Grace O’Malley-Kumar, one of our former pupils, has been posthumously awarded the George Medal in recognition of her extraordinary bravery. 

Grace made what Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described as the “ultimate sacrifice” when she lost her life trying to protect her friend Barnaby Webber during the Nottingham attacks in June 2023. 

She is among twenty recipients of this year’s civilian gallantry awards, and one of four honoured posthumously. The George Medal is Britain’s second-highest civilian bravery award after the George Cross, recognising “conspicuous gallantry not in the presence of the enemy”. 

In his tribute, Sir Keir Starmer said: 

“This is what true courage looks like. In moments of unimaginable danger, these extraordinary people acted with selflessness and bravery that speaks to the very best of who we are as a nation. We owe each of them – and their families – our deepest thanks. Their actions remind us of the strength and compassion that run through our communities.” 

Grace’s courage and compassion continue to inspire all who knew her. At Bancroft’s, we remember her as an outstanding student, an exceptional sportswoman and, above all, a kind and selfless young woman who had chosen to dedicate herself to a career in medicine. Her legacy remains a powerful example of heroism, and she will forever hold a special place in the Bancroft’s community.