Heathfield welcomed Dame Vivien Duffield, an old Heathfield girl and philanthropist, along with 8 other old Heathfield girls to the school. Dame Vivien is the Chair of the Clore Duffield Foundation and has given away over £176 million pounds through her various works, donating to places such as The Royal Opera House, South Bank Centre and The Natural History Museum.
Her charitable work has been formally acknowledged by many institutions, both in the UK and in Israel. In February 2013 she was assessed as one of the 100 most powerful women in the UK by Woman’s Hour on BBC Radio 4.
Dame Vivien talked about her life and career. After Heathfield, she gained a place at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford University, and because of her fine achievement, all Heathfield girls were awarded a half-holiday to celebrate.
Dame Vivien spoke about the future and what future generations might possibly experience in terms of the new technology that is in the making and how it could affect them. She explained why the creative arts are so important, and the reasons why she values them and spends so much energy, time and money to make sure that all generations are able to enjoy, learn and access them.
Answering many questions from the audience, Dame Vivien talked about how important it is to do what you love and feel passionate about. The girls were left very inspired and we all felt honoured to have Dame Vivien back at Heathfield.
Alika Andriienko, Lower School & Careers Prefect
