Mitre Club Gathering and the History of Grindal House

As the countdown begins for the upcoming Mitre Club Gathering, we take a moment to reflect on the rich legacy of Grindal House, a cornerstone of Highgate’s history and community. 

Founded in 1920 by Head Master John Alexander Hope Johnston, Grindal was named after Bishop Edmund Grindal, who granted the land on which School’s Senior School stands today. The House quickly became known for its strong character, sporting spirit, and academic excellence, producing 13 Heads of School between 1924 and 1937. 

Its first House Master, Revd Kenneth Hunt, brought a unique legacy of his own, having scored in the 1908 FA Cup Final for Wolves. The House colours, black and gold, pay tribute to his footballing days. 

Over the decades, Grindal evolved from a boarding house to a dayboy house, and in 1993, it was transformed into the Pre-Preparatory School. Yet its spirit lives on through the Mitre Club, formed in the 1950s for former Grindal pupils, which continues to thrive today. 

We look forward to welcoming Mitre Club members back soon to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the legacy of Grindal House. 

If you have yet to book and are a former Grindal House pupil, visit the What’s On page and RSVP before the 25th November 2025!

Archive’s history of Grindal House