Prize Giving 2021

We started the autumn term with our annual ceremony to celebrate student achievements from the previous academic year.

Headmistress Vicky Bingham congratulated girls on their successes, speaking about the collective achievement and stoicism of the school community during the last 18 months and paying tribute to all pupils, staff and parents. Students now in Year 8 to the Sixth Form received prizes in recognition of all-round academic achievement, excellence in specific areas, and exceptional commitment to co-curricular life. This year’s prestigious Penguin Prize was awarded to Sixth Former Penelope for her contribution to numerous social action initiatives, editorial roles and the musical life of the school.

We were delighted to hear from two alumnae speakers during the evening. Former barrister, tech entrepreneur and businesswoman Dupsy Abiola (class of 2000) inspired pupils with her lessons for life, advising pupils not to shy away from failure. “You have no idea what the world is going to present to you, but you have to laugh with the hard times and keep on exploring.” Dupsy has changed careers several times and is currently Chief Innovation Officer of International Airlines Group. She advised students to try new things and do what they enjoy: “If you find yourself on a path you don’t like, you can turn around and do something else. Say yes to the unexpected and surround yourself with people who are kind.”

Prizewinners and their parents also heard from alumna Amanda Dewinter, South Hampstead’s new Chair of Governors, who recently published a book called ‘The Success Code’ after a career in marketing and business. Amanda is a former bursary student who sits on our bursary board, and spoke about her new role mentoring current bursary students at the school.