150th Campaign Launch
A trio of acclaimed actors joined a special VIP reception to launch our 150th anniversary fundraising campaign.
Dame Imelda Staunton, Jim Carter and their daughter Bessie Carter – local residents and long-time supporters of the school – were guests of honour at our campaign launch event as we seek to raise £1.5 million before our milestone year. Our 150th anniversary campaign will support our Opening Doors bursary programme and fund two key wellbeing projects: transforming our roof terrace into a biodiverse green space, and creating a new gym and wellness studio.
Before they spoke at our first Speaker Series event of the academic year, the acting dynasty joined our parent and alumnae supporters, staff, Governors and GDST colleagues at a special drinks reception. Mrs Paul thanked all those who have already contributed to the campaign – over £500,000 has already been committed – toasting the strength and generosity of the community.
Opportunity and wellbeing are at the heart of our campaign – two themes which resonate strongly with all three actors. Jim is President of the Hampstead Cricket Club, whose premier league pitch is situated at our sports ground; as Vice President of the charity Women in Sport, he is proud to promote equality of opportunity and is a dedicated advocate for girls’ sport. As a family, they are committed to championing the physical and mental health benefits of getting outdoors and all speak out about the importance of ‘green time not screen time’. Both Jim and Imelda are patrons of the charity Greenfingers, who help life-limited children and their families to engage with nature, and Jim has given evidence to the House of Lords Horticulture Select Committee, encouraging children outside and to get their hands dirty.
A team of Year 8 pupils distributed wildflower seed box thank you gifts to our supporters and collected donations to help us deliver our projects by our anniversary year in September 2026. If you would like to learn more about how to get involved, please visit our Support Us page or contact development@shhs.gdst.net