Plymouth High School for Girls marks 150th milestone with year of celebrations ahead

Plymouth High School for Girls is proud to announce the celebration of its 150th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the school's rich history of providing exceptional education.

Founded in 1874, Plymouth High School for Girls has been a cornerstone of education for girls across the region, consistently fostering a culture of academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement.

The school, which joined the Thinking Schools Academy Trust in 2021, was founded as a consequence of the growing pressure in the late 19th century to improve women’s rights and encourage girls to be ambitious.

Although universities were slowly opening their degrees to women, girls tended to lack the education necessary to study at degree level. In 1872, the Devonport branch of the National Union for Education of Women, eager to found a girl’s school, worked with local businesses to raise the necessary funds and Plymouth High School for Girls was established.

The 150th-anniversary celebrations will take place throughout 2024, offering an opportunity for current students (including their Sixth Form students which is open to boys), alumnae, staff and the local community to come together and reflect on the school's enduring legacy.

The anniversary festivities have kicked off with a special presentation of a commemorative pin badge to every student and member of staff, with an assembly led by their Headteacher to reflect on the positive stories of the past, while looking towards the future.

A day full of activities and reflections will take place in July, whereby current and former students, previous headteachers and other special guests will celebrate the school’s rich history.

Throughout the year, Plymouth High School for Girls will host a series of events and activities, including a 150th-themed quiz, the unveiling of a commemorative timeline, as well as interviews with former students and staff.

Simon Underdown, Headteacher at Plymouth High, said: “We are immensely proud to reach this significant milestone in the history of Plymouth High School for Girls. Over the past 150 years, our school has played a vital role in shaping the lives of countless young women, and we are excited to celebrate this legacy with the entire community.

“Our motto, ‘For life not school we learn’ is just as relevant as we look forward to celebrating our latest milestone as it was in 1874. I consider myself fortunate to be the Headteacher of such a caring and happy place. Our students and staff are ambitious and enthusiastic; students enjoy their learning and treat each other with kindness and compassion. 

“It’s a privilege to be able to work with them. All that we do at Plymouth High is driven by our commitment to create a positive environment where everyone feels valued for who they are.”

Jay Davenport, Regional Director for the South West at the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, said: “I am honoured to witness the remarkable journey of Plymouth High School for Girls as it celebrates 150 years of transforming the life chances of young people across our community. The school’s commitment to empowering young people and fostering a culture of leadership has stood the test of time, and I look forward to seeing what’s to come. As we reflect on the school’s rich history, we look forward continuing to inspire and shape the aspirations of future generations.”

For more information about the 150th-anniversary celebrations or to get involved, please visit https://www.phsg.org/page/?title=150th+Anniversary&pid=339