How many schools can boast a history stretching back to the 17th century? We are standing before The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls School. It is a place with a story woven from philanthropy educational reform and even a touch of controversy.
Let’s dive into the origins of The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls School. It all began with Robert Aske a wealthy merchant. Aske was a member of the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers. In 1690 he bequeathed £20000 to the company. This was to establish a hospital for elderly men and a school for boys in Hoxton.
Initially the school played second fiddle to the hospital. In fact no new boys were enrolled between 1714 and 1739 due to lack of funds. Fast forward to 1873. The foundation was reorganized and four schools were established. Two were in Hoxton and two in Hatcham. Boys and girls were taught separately at each site. All four schools opened in 1875.
The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls School offered a basic English education. The Hatcham schools provided a wider syllabus. In 1891 the Hatcham Girls moved to new premises. Early in the 20th century the Hoxton schools sought new locations. The boys’ school moved to Cricklewood. The girls’ school moved to Acton. In 1946 these schools became Direct Grant schools. In 1976 they became fully independent fee-paying schools.
The need for expansion led to further relocations. The boys’ school moved to Elstree in 1961. The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls School followed in 1974. The previous site of the girls’ school in Acton became the Japanese School in London.
In 2021 the school’s governing body reviewed Robert Aske’s legacy. This included his ties to slavery. Consequently the Aske name was dropped from both the boys’ and girls’ schools. They became Haberdashers’ Girls’ School and Haberdashers’ Boys’ School. The name Aske was retained by their governing body.
Today The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls School prides itself on academic excellence. 97% of girls achieve A* to B grades at A Level. Over 99% achieve A* to B at GCSE. The school boasts a commitment to closer collaboration between the boys’ and girls’ schools. They come together in A Level teaching sets.
The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls School also focuses on preparing students for the modern world. This is achieved through community engagement and a focus on EDI. The school also focuses on environmental matters and educational innovation.
The school’s uniform is navy blue and red. Former pupils are called Old Girls. Their alumni association celebrated its 110th anniversary in 2014. Notable Old Girls include actress Laura Aikman and fashion designer Linda Bennett.
The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls School has faced challenges. In 2021 allegations of sexism from pupils at the boys’ school emerged.
The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls School has a rich history. It has evolved from a small school in Hoxton to a leading independent school. It continues to adapt and thrive. The school embraces new challenges while staying true to its founding principles.