St Paul’s Girls’ School

Why is this school linked to one of the most famous pieces of classical music ever written? You’re standing right in front of St Paul’s Girls’ School, a place where academic excellence dances hand-in-hand with a refreshingly liberal spirit. Founded in 1904, St Paul’s Girls’ School was the brainchild of the Worshipful Company of Mercers. They aimed to create a female counterpart to the already established St Paul’s School for boys, founded centuries earlier by John Colet. The school boasts an impressive roster of alumnae, from actresses like Rachel Weisz and Emily Mortimer to influential figures like politician Harriet Harman and businesswoman Isabel dos Santos. But perhaps one of the most fascinating facts about St Paul’s Girls’ School lies in its unique connection to music. The school’s former director of music was none other than Gustav Holst, the composer of the iconic symphony, “The Planets.” Imagine young girls practicing their scales in the very halls where Holst found his inspiration. This legacy continues to this day with the school’s thriving arts department, excellent facilities, and opportunities for students to explore their passions beyond traditional academics. So, the next time you hear the soaring melodies of “The Planets,” remember your visit to St Paul’s Girls’ School. It’s a place where the pursuit of knowledge and a passion for the arts have intertwined for over a century, creating a legacy that echoes far beyond its walls.