Farewell Frontage

Last week, we were joined by over 100 singers from local schools and choirs to bid a fond farewell to our main entrance and Frontage building.

The joyous celebration marked the end of an era as we look to the upcoming closure of the Frontage building and construction works commencing for the new Children’s Cancer Centre in early 2024.

72 school children from local schools St Albans, Kings Cross Academy and Christ Church were joined by the GOSH and UCLH staff choir and the Kings Place and Guardian choirs to perform outside the building on Great Ormond Street.

Composer and conductor Naomi Hammerton was commissioned to create the Farewell Frontage composition. Naomi interviewed a range of staff and members from the local community to research the history of the building and to gain insight into plans for the new Children’s Cancer Centre. The piece explored the passing of time, the bright future ahead, our strong foundations, and the connection between Great Ormond Street Hospital patients, staff, families and the local community.

Matthew Shaw, Chief Executive of GOSH, said:

"Taking time to come together to mark this significant change at GOSH is so important. Our future builds on our past and our new Children’s Cancer Centre will mean we have the very best environment for our patients. Alongside the CCC, we will also have a fantastic new main entrance and welcome area for all the patients and families who come to GOSH."

Danielle Valdar, GOSH Choir member and Deputy Headteacher at the GOSH School, said:

The lyrics of Naomi’s song will really resonate with people, ‘Seasons may change, but our values stay the same – the child first and always’ – this is why the building of the new Children’s Cancer Centre means so much to us. It’s a really exciting time and this event is the start of it.

With huge thanks to Naomi Hammerton, our five musicians and the 100 singers who made this event so special.

Photos by Victoria Henstock