TV presenter Fiona Bruce speaks at South Hampstead High’s 140th Anniversary

On Tuesday 15th November, 300 parents, alumnae, staff, governors and former headmistresses celebrated South Hampstead High School’s 140th Anniversary at a celebratory dinner held in the school’s Waterlow Hall.

Among the evening’s speakers was Fiona Bruce, one of the most established presenters on television today.  During her inspirational speech to dinner attendees, Ms. Bruce shared stories of the challenges she has faced as a female journalist and working mother.  

Her message reflected greatly upon the importance of confidence.  She said, ‘A school can give no greater gift than confidence.  I left school feeling that even if I couldn’t do everything. I could give it a go.’  She attributed much of her success to acquiring this trait and expressed that she looks at her daughter and hopes ‘she gets all the richness she can at school.’

Tickets for the event sold out within five days of being offered to alumnae and parents, to the delight of the school. More activities to celebrate SHHS’ success within the community will be planned in 2017.

As part of the 140th Anniversary celebrations, we have produced a booklet on the history of the school.  Read about how South Hampstead High School was founded in 1876 with only 27 pupils and has now grown to become one of the country’s pre-eminent independent day schools for girls.