Since that time there has been a continuing programme of modernisation and development in order to ensure that the facilities of the school are in keeping with the rapidly changing needs of modern education.

Over the years a third wing was built, joining the two ends of the original V shaped building. This transformed the teaching provision and Sixth Form facilities and, in addition, provided the School with a fine swimming pool in a hall which, by means of a floating floor, doubles up for dry activities.

The School has seven well-equipped Science Laboratories for the specialist teaching of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, and a specialist Music Centre, as well as a modern, well resourced gymnasium and fitness centre.

In 2009 the 5,000 sq ft Gloucester Wing was opened, by HRH The Duke of Gloucester on 6th May, providing extra classrooms, seminar rooms, a performance area, for music, drama and theatre studies and a fourth art studio. (The Gloucester Wing was formally an historic pub called The Gloucester Arms which dates back to the late eighteenth century.)

In 2021, the Helen McCrory Drama Studio, Art and Music Studios were opened as part of our Acceleration Project as well as the new Classics Centre situated just across the road from the main School site.

In September 2022, Francis Holland expanded their buildings yet further to include a dedicated state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre, Linhope House, located just two-minutes’ walk from the Ivor Place site in Linhope Street. The building, which increased the Sixth Form space by 300% (663 sqm), was officially opened by FHS alumna Rhiannon Adam (Class of 2003) on 15^th March 2023 and provides the perfect transition between school and the independence of university.

The School is adjacent to Regent’s Park and makes full use of the extensive outdoor recreational facilities available there. There is close liaison with St Cyprian’s Church opposite the school, and services and concerts are regularly held in this fine Ninian Comper building.

Reflecting on the first 60 years of school life at Francis Holland, Enid Moberly Bell, author of ‘Francis Holland School’, remarked that “Baker Street Girls were not slow to make the most of their opportunities” and whilst the our buildings and educational offer might look very different to 145 years ago when the School was founded, the soul of the school has remained.

The history of the school can be explored further in three books: ‘Polished Corners 1878-1978′ by Susan Hicklin, ‘Francis Holland School’ by E. Moberly Bell and the latest publication ‘Polished Corners’ by Pamela Hartshorne which can be purchased here or via the school office for £35.00, please contact admin@fhs-nw1.org.uk