A Brief History of Desenfans House
Why are we called Desenfans?

Desenfans is the oldest of the houses, having existed since 1920. We are named after Margaret Desenfans, one of the chief benefactors of Dulwich Picture Gallery. Originally there were six houses at JAGS named after various patrons of the school but in 1985 the House system was revamped in response to proposals made by the girls. Desenfans, the only former name of one of the Houses was retained because of Margaret’s connection with Dulwich Picture Gallery. She was the wife of Noel Desenfans, one of the original art collectors of the Gallery’s paintings exhibited today. It is thought that the Gallery is where the first art classes were taught to JAGS’ girls.