GCSE Art students at Kings Park have spent the past term immersed in a unique hands-on heritage project that brought history, art, and craftsmanship to life.
The project centred on the remarkable caryatids in Southwark Park, two late-Victorian stone sculptures that once stood proudly at the entrance of Rotherhithe Town Hall.
As part of the initiative, organised through Proud Places alongside the Heritage of London Trust, our students visited Southwark Park to see the caryatids up close during their restoration. They learned how these impressive female figures have travelled through Southwark’s history. Although the most famous caryatids are found on the Acropolis in Athens, our local pair has its own extraordinary story.
Originally sculpted in 1897 by Henry Poole (1873–1928), a prominent artist who later became Master of Sculpture at the Royal Academy, the caryatids once framed the main entrance of Rotherhithe Town Hall. The building suffered repeated bomb damage during the Blitz and was eventually demolished but the sculptures were rescued. Their journey didn’t end there as they were moved to the Heygate Estate in 1974, saved once again decades later when the estate was demolished and finally installed in Southwark Park. After years of exposure, the pieces required specialist restoration, including a completely new set of arms for the right-hand figure.
During the visit, our students met the stonemason leading the restoration who demonstrated how the new arms were modelled in wax around a wooden structure before being carved in stone. This rare opportunity gave them insight into a highly skilled craft and the dedication required to preserve historic artworks.
Back at school, students continued the learning experience with their own stone-carving workshops. Using small practice blocks, they explored traditional carving techniques to create their own designs.
The project concluded with a special celebration, the public unveiling of the restored caryatids in Southwark Park. We were honoured that one of our students was invited to help cut the ribbon alongside the Mayor of Southwark, Sonny Lamb. A very proud moment that recognised the students’ enthusiasm, creativity, and engagement with their local heritage.This project has not only deepened students’ appreciation for local history but has also given them first-hand experience of the craftsmanship that keeps our cultural landmarks alive. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and curiosity throughout this inspiring journey.
