Philanthropy is at the heart of the Blackheath High School ethos – we believe passionately in the power of kindness, solidarity and community. We are proud to partner with the Ghana-based Gladys Ayebea Hammond Foundation which promotes social mobility for girls through sport. 

This year we were delighted to donate a substantial amount of sports equipment, including hockey sticks, kits, and training gear, to support the Foundation’s annual hockey tournament. Held in Suhum, in Ghana's Eastern Region, the tournament sees six teams of girls compete for the prestigious trophy.

The Gladys Ayebea Hammond Foundation was founded by Richard Hammond, father of three exceptional Blackheath High girls, in honour of his mother who was a sporting enthusiast and pioneering advocate for girls’ education. Mr Hammond was in Ghana, with the Chief of Suhum, prominent education leaders and community figures, to receive the equipment, which, alongside educational scholarships and mentorship schemes for players, aims to advance women’s social mobility across the region. 

The hard-fought tournament culminated in a thrilling penalty shootout which delighted the crowd, before the winning teams triumphantly scooped their trophies (also donated by Blackheath High School) which will serve as lasting symbols of achievement and ambition. 

This initiative not only provides much-needed resources but also strengthens the bond between our school and the global community, serving as a reminder that even small acts of kindness and generosity can have a big impact - especially when helping young women thrive.