This series, Gwen wants to find an ‘appropriate’ beau and get through the School Certificate. Like Darrell, she wants a little sister for unconditional admiration and cultivates Clarissa for this role – even more so when she realises Clarissa is The Right Honourable Clarissa Carter. But in true Gwen style her self-deception, vanity and laziness trips her up.

She learns a few life-lessons along the way when she has her romantic encounter, gets caught up in the birth of a child in the San and has a first-hand experience with a WWII grenade!

Interview with Danya Griver

What can we expect from Malory Towers Series 4?

It’s just excellent! There’s still that warm sense of nostalgia and escapism. It’s fun, vibrant and full of drama to look forward to a surprise marriage, a dramatic birth, and Gwendoline gets herself in an emotional tangle with an unexpected romance!

How do you think Gwen has grown since starting at Malory Towers and can you tell us about Gwen’s budding romance which is on the cards this series.

Gwen has grown and developed a lot since Form One, and it’s been an absolute pleasure for me to grow up with her. Her sense of morals and understanding of true friendship is progressing. There is a romance this season, which completely took me by surprise – I think Gwen has, as always, learned a valuable lesson from that.

What was it like working with the new cast members? Especially Amy Roerig who plays Clarissa, a first former that Gwen takes a shine to?

The new cast members have been a joy to work with. We’ve all bonded well and it’s great to have dual story lines which overlap at times. Having different year groups makes Malory Towers feel like a real school on set and an integrated family off set. As for Amy Roerig, Gwen isn’t the only one who’s taken a shine to her – I think she’s wonderful! Amy is so talented, and I’ve really enjoyed working with her and all the young cast. They’ve become little siblings.

What was your favourite moment from filming this series?

I absolutely love every minute of filming Malory Towers; the experience is truly special to me. I’m always so grateful to learn from our talented directors Bruce McDonald and Tracey Rooney, whilst making wonderful memories with my best friends. This year, filming the Christmas special has certainly been a highlight…Gwendoline’s family life is explored in greater detail, and it was so enjoyable to learn more about my character as she grows. I really hope the viewers enjoy the special.

Which Malory Towers character would you want to take with you if you were hunting for pirate treasure?

If I were hunting for treasure, Darrell’s tenacious nature and logical thinking paired with Alicia’s shrewd tactics and passion would be a perfect combination.

What do you hope audiences will take away from this series?

I hope that the viewers can take away a feeling that they are not alone. We’re all growing up together and experiencing new problems, feelings, and situations.