In the Great Hall of the Tudor mansion that forms part of the London Charterhouse’s historic site, it is lunchtime. From the high and shadowy ceiling, three enormous chandeliers spread a beneficent golden glow upon the brothers, their guests and members of staff, who are all standing, awaiting Grace. ­The master begins, prefacing the prayer by saying that today is special: it is the centenary of the introduction of partial female suffrage, the 65th anniversary of the Queen’s accession – and the first anniversary of the master’s own appointment. As she remarks: “A good day for women.”

Ann Kenrick is the first woman to have been appointed Master in more than 400 years.