A Tribute to Dr Jane Goodall

House Patron, Role Model, and Friend of Arbor School 

At Arbor School, our mission, Enough, for all, forever has always been more than words. It is a call to action, a philosophy woven into every lesson, every project, and every act of care we extend to the world around us. And no one has embodied that mission more fully than Dr Jane Goodall, our beloved Goodall House Patron. 

Dr Goodall once said, “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” That simple truth sits at the heart of what we teach at Arbor and what our students strive to live each day. 

Renowned for her pioneering work with chimpanzees in the forests of Gombe, Tanzania, Jane changed the way the world understands not only our closest living relatives, but our responsibility to all living beings. Her lifelong devotion to animals was never just about science, it was about connection, compassion, and the belief that every creature, great or small, deserves respect. 

Her relationship with our school has been deeply meaningful. When she visited Arbor, she spoke with our students about hope and the power of youth to shape a better future. Her wisdom, quiet strength, and tireless advocacy left a lasting impression on all of us.  

In Goodall House, her legacy is lived daily. Our students and staff wear her name with pride, upholding the values she championed: empathy, courage, justice, and a deep reverence for the natural world. Whether through sustainability projects, student-led initiatives, or environmental campaigns, the spirit of Jane Goodall continues to guide our work and shape the changemakers of tomorrow. 

Her presence and her passion have helped shape Arbor School into what it is today: a place of purpose, where the National Curriculum for England is brought to life through real-world learning and a profound sense of global citizenship. 

Thank you, Jane, for being our guiding light, our teacher beyond the classroom, and our ever-inspiring patron. Your voice will continue to echo in our classrooms, your values will live on in our community, and your legacy will forever grow in the hearts of every student at the Arbor School. 

With love, gratitude, and continued purpose, 

On behalf of the Arbor School Community.
 

Gemma Thornley 

Principal