Chester School Celebrates Alumna Diana Beck – Britain’s First Female Neurosurgeon

A distinguished alumna of The Queen’s School in Chester has been honoured by English Heritage with a blue plaque, recognising her groundbreaking achievements as Britain’s first female neurosurgeon.

This prestigious accolade is a testament to Diana Beck’s trailblazing contributions to medicine and reflects the school’s commitment to empowering young women.

The blue plaque was unveiled recently at Diana's former home and consulting rooms in Marylebone, where she lived from 1948 to 1954. During her time at Middlesex Hospital, Diana established the hospital’s first neurosurgical department, paving the way for future generations of female surgeons.

Headmistress of The Queen’s School, Joanne Keville said:

“Diana Beck was, in every sense, a pioneer. As the first female neurosurgeon, she broke through barriers that seemed unmovable. Her determination and excellence embody the values we strive to instil in our pupils at Queen’s - a love of learning, a drive to excel, and the courage to defy expectations.”

Diana attended The Queen’s School before pursuing her medical degree at the London School of Medicine for Women. Her remarkable journey is not only an inspiration to those within the medical community, but also to the girls at Queen's. As one of the oldest all-girls schools in the North West, The Queen's School has always championed female empowerment and leadership.

Diana Beck’s legacy is marked by numerous firsts, including being the first woman appointed to a senior clinical position at any major London teaching hospital. Her commitment to her field and her advocacy for women in medicine have made significant contributions to the profession and continue to inspire young women to pursue careers in science and medicine.

In honour of her remarkable achievements, the blue plaque serves as a beacon of what can be achieved when talent meets tenacity.

Joanne Keville continued:

“Diana’s life reminds us that greatness doesn’t come from where you start, but from what you make of your journey. She took the values she learned at Queen’s – curiosity, compassion, and courage – and transformed them into a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of young women.”

The Queen’s School proudly celebrates the achievements of Diana Beck who will forever be part of the school’s history and her story will continue to illuminate the path for future Queens.