Introducing ‘Yallop’: Our GoGo Giraffe Celebrating 150 Years of Norwich High School for Girls

Posted on 13th March 2025

Look out for our navy blue #MadebyGirls ‘GoGo Giraffe’ if you are out and about on Break Charity’s #GoGoSafari trail this summer.

In celebration of our 150th anniversary, Norwich High School for Girls is delighted to introduce ‘Yallop’, our uniquely designed GoGo Giraffe sculpture, named in honour of the original owner of Eaton Grove, our Senior School building. This initiative is part of Break Charity’s GoGoSafari trail, a vibrant event set to bring a menagerie of artfully decorated animal sculptures to Norwich and Norfolk for ten weeks this summer.

Our staff and students have poured their creativity into Yallop’s design, adorning the sculpture with historical images that reflect the rich heritage of our school. In a collaborative effort, each pupil has signed their name alongside ‘150th’, symbolising their personal connection to this milestone year. This project not only showcases our students’ artistic talents but also fosters an appreciation for our school’s legacy.

The GoGoSafari trail, organised by Break Charity, will feature around fifty sculptures, each representing iconic African animals such as gorillas, rhinos, giraffes, lions and elephants. These sculptures, decorated by talented artists and sponsored by local businesses and individuals, will be displayed across Norwich and Norfolk, offering residents and visitors an exciting opportunity to explore and engage with art in public spaces. Trotting alongside the Big Five, a herd of 65 Mini Gs, like Yallop, will be making their own journey across the city! These adorable little giraffes have been designed by local schools and community groups as part of the trail’s Learning & Community Programme.

Author and Norwich High Prep School parent Alexander Gordon Smith has generously sponsored a sculpture as part of the GoGoSafari trail and donated the ‘Mini G’ to the Prep School for the girls to decorate themselves.

“We are thrilled to reveal the design for our Mini G, Yallop. We eagerly anticipate visiting the trail and are excited for Yallop to return to school after the event, standing as a lasting memento alongside our Made by Girls ‘Breakasaurus’ T. rex from 2022. A huge thank you to Mr Smith for sponsoring the Mini G and entrusting our pupils with the opportunity to decorate it. Its been a wonderful chance for the girls to showcase their creativity in a public space while supporting a vital local charity that does so much for the community.”

Mrs Susan Roberts, Head of Norwich High Prep School and Nursery.

Mr Smith added, “I’m truly impressed by the schools’ work on the Mini G, Yallop! It’s fantastic to see how every girl in the Prep School contributed to sharing a message that resonates across generations: that incredible things are Made By Girls. This project beautifully captures the spirit of Norwich High School’s legacy over 150 years, illustrating the strength of our community.

“This is a place where collaboration brings extraordinary achievements to life. It’s more than a school; it’s a family and I’m certain Yallop will be thrilled to join and become part of that enduring legacy!”

Author and Norwich High Prep School parent Alexander Gordon Smith

The #GoGoSafari sculpture trail runs from 23rd June – 30th August 2025. See if you can find Yallop on the trail! We would love to see your pictures! You can tag us on Instagram: @norwichhigh 

For more information about the GoGoSafari trail and to plan your visit, please visit Break Charity’s official event website: www.break-charity.org/gogosafari