The School's state-of-the-art Centre for Creative Learning embodies its vision of creativity, innovation and enterprise providing internal and external space for inspired learning and reflection.  The architecturally designed building, which has already hosted author Sir Michael Morpurgo, is unique and has been shortlisted for the prestigious Wood Awards which aims ‘to recognise, encourage and promote outstanding design, craftsmanship and installation using wood’.  

Sarah Crossan, award-winning author of young adult fiction, officially opened the library and spoke about the importance of nurturing children’s humanity in a creative environment.

“A library is a place where you can explore other lives and find empathy through reading books,” said Sarah.

Girls aged 4 to 18 can enjoy the tranquil, biodiverse rooftop garden with its water feature, bug hotel and edible garden, in the heart of Belgravia as well as dropping in any day to speak to Place2Be or Counsellors in the Wellbeing Suite. 

The Francis Holland Building for the Future campaign, which launched in 2016, includes bespoke spaces for the Early Years and Year 1 classes as well as an additional Performing Arts Studio for dance and drama.  The specialist Technology Suite enhances the academic opportunities for older pupils offering robotics and 3D printing. 

As part of the same ambitious £5 million building project, Francis Holland Sixth Formers benefit from the brand new facilities in the Centre for Creative Enterprise which includes a Fitness Suite with the latest Technogym equipment as well as seminar rooms for small group teaching, entrepreneurial spaces to meet business mentors and dedicated study areas to encourage independent learning and preparation for life beyond Francis Holland. The vision to provide a curriculum and environment which will develop the next generation of inventors, designers, entrepreneurs, game-changers and leaders of tomorrow is very much underway thanks to the generosity of the parents, alumni and staff and the foresight of the Francis Holland Schools Trust. A special thank you to the alumni who have supported the Building for the Future campaign and have donated a personalised leaf for our fundraising tree, pictured below. 

     

Headmistress, Lucy Elphinstone, said, “I am delighted to see the realisation of our new Centre for Creative Learning and Centre for Creative Enterprise. It is so exciting to see new spaces emerging within our school for our girls to develop their imagination, intellect and wellbeing.”