To begin the new school year and mark its 150th anniversary, Norwich High School for Girls has unveiled a new sculpture on its grounds. The piece was commissioned by accomplished Norfolk artist and alumna, Rachael Long.

The sculpture was unveiled to staff, donors and guests at a special event on Monday, 1st September, 2025. It stands in a prominent location on the lawn in front of the school’s home, Eaton Grove. The piece captures the movement and energy of a girl in motion, with wings that symbolise aspiration, freedom and hope. It is inspired by a photograph of a Norwich High student kicking a football, the spirit of the school and a line from Emily Dickinson’s poem, “Hope is the thing with feathers.”

Rachael Long, a Norwich High alumna from 1976 to 1984, has built a successful career as a sculptor over the past 25 years. Her work often features dynamic birds and mammals created from forged and recycled steel. Her much-acclaimed Lifeboat Horse in Wells-next-the-Sea is a focal point of the Wells Quay following its launch for the Wells Maltings Heritage Arts Trail in 2018.

Reflecting on the commission, Long said: “I’ve tried to bring all of the inspiration, ambition and sense of hope I gained from my time here into this piece. Much of what I remember is movement – running down corridors, playing on the pitch, exploring the woods. I’ve channelled this into a figure that captures energy and motion – a girl with wings. It’s a tribute to the transformational power of a Norwich High education.”

The sculpture is accompanied by a display of Long’s sketch and supporting work in the entrance to Eaton Grove, giving the school community and visitors insight into the creative process.

Liz Sillitoe, former Chair of Governors, commented: “As we mark 150 years of Norwich High School for Girls, this sculpture is a meaningful and lasting tribute to all the school represents – ambition, creativity and a strong sense of self. We are deeply grateful to Rachael for her talent and vision and to the many supporters whose generosity made this project possible. It is a wonderful way to celebrate this milestone while also inspiring future generations.”

The sculpture is both a celebration of the past and a legacy for the future, a reminder of what it means to be a part of the Norwich High community.

We are grateful to the many friends and supporters who helped make this project possible through their generous contributions. For more information about the sculpture and other opportunities to support our development work, please contact Development Officer Mrs. Elli Mitchelson at 01603 453 265 or e.mitchelson@nor.gdst.net.