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Platinum Jubilee Tree Planting Dedication

On Monday 1 July 1957, Mill Hill School was honoured by the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to mark the 150th anniversary of The Foundation. Whilst visiting Mill Hill School, The Queen planted a cedar tree at the bottom of Top Terrace. To commemorate this occasion, as part of Mill Hill School’s Jubilee celebrations, Mrs Sanchez and representatives from each House planted a tree opposite the one planted by Her Majesty.

Mrs Sanchez gave the following speech to mark the occasion: 

“I’m delighted to be celebrating the remarkable milestone of The Queen’s 70 years’ service as monarch in our various Platinum Jubilee events today.

Many of you will have your own street parties and other activities planned over the coming weekend, but the school is also celebrating this occasion in full swing. We have a Jubilee Picnic lunch complete with Coronation Chicken, which you will soon be enjoying on Top Terrace in true Millhillian style along with other exciting activities.

The planting of this beautiful acer tree is particularly apt for this occasion, not least because directly opposite, you will no doubt have noticed the plaque identifying this towering cedar as having been planted by Her Majesty The Queen on her visit to Mill Hill School as Guest of Honour at our 150th anniversary celebrations.

Reflecting on the fact that this royal visit took place on Monday 1 July 1957 (65 years ago) and seeing the transformation of this majestic cedar since it was first planted, it is tempting to see a parallel between this beautiful tree and The Queen’s steadfast and selfless service to the country over seven decades.

Many of the values we hold dear at Mill Hill are embodied by Queen Elizabeth: her leadership, her resilience, and her service to others are just a few examples. But, most of all, her warmth and sense of humour has endeared her to the nation. 

There is a pleasing symmetry in planting this acer just opposite The Queen’s cedar and I look forward to watching it grow and flourish; the one tree being planted in recognition of the heritage of Mill Hill School, the other in celebration of this Platinum Jubilee and in honour of The Queen. May they, and Her Majesty, continue to thrive for many years to come.”

It is a privilege to have welcomed Her Majesty to our school. Our pupils and staff were moved by Mrs Sanchez’s words. Everyone at Mill Hill School is eager to watch the acer tree grow and flourish.