Rings of Recognition
Our new nature-inspired installation pays tribute to the rich tapestry of South Hampstead’s history and growth over the past 150 years.
The Rings of Recognition celebrate the history of South Hampstead since it was founded in 1876, with a trio of cross-sectioned, tree-trunk installations featuring rings to symbolise the growth of the school community over the past 150 years. The displays are situated on the seventh floor of our Senior School building, where we have recently created a new, indoor garden oasis, and plans are afoot to transform the roof terrace to create a space for outdoor learning and wellbeing activities. The design of the tree-rings was inspired by our community focus on the environment and aims to create a sustainable legacy for all those who have contributed to South Hampstead’s remarkable history:
– The 150th Anniversary Ring tells the story of our school since its founding in 1876, tracing the lives of those in our community through times of hardship, upheaval, and social change.
– The Inspirational Alumnae Ring features the names of former pupils who have courageously forged new paths, created change, and made their mark on the world across a wide range of fields including the arts, business, charity, law, medicine, science and technology; read more about some of our trailblazing former pupils here.
– The Bursary Ring recognises our generous alumnae donors who have joined forces with their former classmates to help fund more transformative, fee-assisted places through our Class of bursary campaign.
Ahead of our sesquicentennial anniversary in 2026/27, we unveiled the installation at a special reception with more than 180 members of our alumnae community. Our school archivist Mrs Coates, Chair of Governors Amanda Dewinter, and one of our bursary award holders, Frances in Year 9, were invited to cut the cakes, representing the three rings. The tree trunk-inspired cakes were kindly made by one of our parents, Mrs Grochola.
If you would like to suggest an inspirational alumna to add to our ever growing list, or would like to join the Class of Bursary campaign, please get in touch: alumnae@shhs.gdst.net
Our tree-rings were designed and installed by the fantastic team at The Media Collective.