fb-pixel Ridgeway House Centenary - Mill Hill Schools

News

Ridgeway House Centenary

Couple at the celebrations

A hundred years, almost to the day, some 200 former and current pupils, families, staff and friends gathered to celebrate Ridgeway’s first century. The evening commenced with exquisite canapés and champagne whilst guests, some of whom had been members of the House as long ago as 1933, happily mingled, reminisced and reconnected, and new bonds were established between old and new generations. The Headmaster, Dr Dominic Luckett, introduced our outstanding hostess, Miss Lindsey Farrant, who then addressed the gathering with an insightful and poignant speech.

Miss Farrant outlined Ridgeway’s history, including the challenging period of World War II and its aftermath, together with the changes that have shaped Ridgeway as we know it today. Keith Macdonald (Ridgeway 1949-54) shared with us fond memories of his time in the House with vibrant anecdotes about colours tests and lively mischief, whilst Peter Huston (Ridgeway 1953-58) proposed a moving toast to absent friends.

Guests at the celebrations

Dinner was of impeccable standard and truly delicious, made even more special by the table settings of white linen and red roses and the stunning garden, which was transformed by flaming torches and fairy lights as dusk set in. Throughout the evening, the cool notes of a top jazz band added panache to the joyous celebrations and guests enjoyed an opportunity to tour the House and view the extensive exhibition of photographs, memorabilia and old Copy Books neatly laid out in the Games Room. A spectacular fireworks display brought the night to a close and, in a shower of purple and gold stars, encapsulated the atmosphere of heartfelt appreciation and love for Ridgeway House which permeated this most memorable of events.

Joanna Mapondera, Ridgeway 2009-2011