Halcyon London International School Announces Innovative New Rooftop Garden Project | Editorial

Halcyon London International School, an independent, not-for-profit, international school (aged 11-18) in Marylebone, has announced plans for a new rooftop garden, as part of a series of improvements to its 33 Seymour Place location.

The rooftop development, subject to planning permission, will create a versatile outdoor learning and community space overlooking the Marylebone neighbourhood. The garden is designed to provide multiple areas for learning, community gatherings, recreational activities, and sustainable gardening projects.Rita Halbright, Co-Founder and Board Chair, says: “This expansion represents a pivotal moment in Halcyon’s evolution. “As we navigate the changing landscape of independent education, including policy changes affecting school fees, we remain committed to prudent financial management while enhancing the educational experience we offer. This development allows us to realise our aspirations right here in Marylebone.”The rooftop garden advances the school’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, by growing produce for its vegetarian canteen and composting food waste. The initiative builds upon existing eco-friendly practices, while providing valuable green space —a rarity for central London schools.“Our new rooftop garden will be more than just an additional space – it will be a living classroom that embodies our innovative approach to education,” said Barry Mansfield, Halcyon London International School Director.“We’re particularly excited about involving our whole school community in shaping this unique environment, which we expect to open for the start of the next academic year.”The rooftop garden initiative is part of a broader program of improvements that includes rebranding the main entrance and significant building renewals. The school will fund these enhancements through existing reserves, maintaining its commitment to financial stability.As London’s only not-for-profit International Baccalaureate (IB) provider, Halcyon London International School, like many independent schools across the UK, continues to advance its offerings against the headwinds of VAT,  prioritising responsible financial management while optimising the learning experience for its community. The school maintains its strategic position in central London while expanding its educational offerings.The rooftop garden is scheduled to open for the 2025-26 academic year, with community consultations beginning in January 2025.

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See Halcyon London International School Featured School page

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About Halcyon

Founded in 2013, Halcyon London International School is a not-for-profit school offering a co-educational International Baccalaureate curriculum for all Grade 6-12 students (ages 11-18)Based in Marylebone, Halcyon employs innovative teaching methods to create a stimulating, high-quality learning environment. It is Ofsted Outstanding and was a finalist in the British International School of the Year category in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards.

About Nooma StudiosHalcyon has engaged local architecture firm, Nooma Studio,  to create the initial concepts for our transformative new outdoor space.“It is intended that the new garden be a place of relaxation… It is to be a place for peaceful outdoor enjoyment, learning and enrichment, comprising calming sensory elements and spaces for both self-led and group learning.”

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