Hundreds of members of the Queenswood community gathered on Tuesday 7 May for the official opening of the spectacular Queenswood Hall.

Current and former pupils, parents and staff, governors, benefactors and representatives of the architect and construction firms enjoyed exhilarating displays of indoor sport, including hockey, gymnastics, netball and acrobatic cheerleading.

We were honoured to be joined by former World Badminton Champion and Olympic silver medallist Gail Emms MBE. As well as performing the official unveiling of the plaque, she gave an exclusive interview to our Media Team, spoke passionately to the audience about the merits of perseverance and determination, and even stepped onto the badminton court to play alongside pupils and staff.

Jo Cameron (Principal), Jo Wakeley (Director of Sport) and Ed Sautter (Chair of Governors) also spoke about the significance of sport at Queenswood and the impact that this first-class facility is already having for pupils and staff.

We were also treated to some beautiful musical entertainment from the Queenswood Singers, the Melisma String Group, OQ Eleanor Grant and family, and the brass quartet, who performed a rousing fanfare to mark the occasion.

We are hugely grateful to all departments, individuals and ensembles who worked tirelessly to make this project – and this tremendous evening of celebration – possible.

Photography by Kat Demchak (Lower Sixth)