Matilda Sharpe Pink Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Matilda Sharpe, along with her sister Emily, left an indelible mark on education in 19th century London. Born in 1830, Matilda was the daughter of Samuel Sharpe, a respected Unitarian scholar and banker. Growing up in a progressive household that valued knowledge, Matilda developed a passion for learning and teaching from a young age.

In 1885, Matilda and Emily founded Channing School in Highgate, a picturesque neighborhood in the Borough of Haringey. Their vision was to provide quality education for the daughters of Unitarian ministers and other families who sought a well-rounded, liberal education for their children. The school, located in a historic building known as The Bank, quickly gained a reputation for its rigorous academics and nurturing environment.

As an educationalist, Matilda was ahead of her time. She advocated for a broad curriculum that included sciences, mathematics, and modern languages alongside traditional subjects. Matilda believed in the importance of physical education and encouraged her students to engage in sports and outdoor activities. Her progressive approach to education helped shape a generation of intelligent, independent-minded young women.

In addition to her work as a teacher and school founder, Matilda was a talented painter. Several of her portraits can be found in the prestigious National Portrait Gallery in London. These works showcase her keen eye for detail and ability to capture the essence of her subjects.

Matilda Sharpe’s legacy lives on through Channing School, which continues to educate and inspire young women more than a century after its founding. The blue plaque at The Bank in Highgate, erected in 2019, serves as a testament to the lasting impact of Matilda and Emily Sharpe’s dedication to education and the empowerment of women. Visitors to the area can appreciate the historic significance of this pioneering institution and the remarkable sisters who made it possible.