Pioneer gorilla conservationist Dr Dian Fossey famously said in 1967 that she fully expected gorillas to go extinct within 20 years. Her tragic murder in 1985 means she has not been around to see the heartwarming conservation success that has witnessed mountain gorilla populations expanding from sub 250 in 1981 to nearly 1,100 worldwide currently. This has been the result of concerted action in central Africa led by a range of wildlife organisations, including the highly respected ‘The Gorilla Organization’. This organisation has been piloted with purpose and charisma by Jillian Miller for over 34 years and we were honoured to be able to welcome her on site on 15 October 2026. Working in partnership with the Royal Geographical Society, who regularly uses our Blake Studio for their series of public lectures, an engaged audience of RGS Fellows, staff, parents, ONs, pupils and friends of the school heard a fascinating update on the status of gorilla conservation in Africa. Jillian’s organisation has been particularly effective in harnessing universal affection for these most charismatic of primates together with the appeal of ethical tourism, to raise funds and deliver vital conservation work to stabilise and steadily grow populations of these photogenic rainforest-dwelling apes. Their mission is to build on the commitment of local communities in combatting the combined challenges of extensive deforestation, barbaric poaching, periodic volcanic activity and the ever-present threat from the deadly ebola virus. Jillian took us on her organisation’s compelling journey. To learn more about the inspiring work of The Gorilla Organization, please check out: www.gorillas.org . The next RGS talk is given by Dr Andy Jefferson FRGS who will focus on the very pertinent topic of sustainable aviation. Tickets are here: Sustainable aviation: reducing the climate impact . All are welcome. For information on all other cultural activities held at Norwich School this autumn, please take a look at: At Close Quarters - Michaelmas Term 2026

Norwich School is proud to be supporting Finnbar’s Force as our local charity for this term. Finnbar’s Force is a dedicated children’s cancer charity, providing information, therapies, emotional care and practical assistance to families. They are currently fundraising to employ a Family Support Worker to provide one-to-one practical, emotional and advocacy support to families affected by childhood cancer and brain tumours across Norfolk and Suffolk. We kicked off our fundraising campaign in style this morning, with a Home Clothes Day for the Senior School. Members of our Charities Committee were at the school gates, collecting donations. If you would like to find out more, please visit our JustGiving page: Norwich School is fundraising for Finnbar's Force