OPEN DAYS & NEWS - SYDENHAM HIGH SCHOOL GDST

Open Days

Prep School Taster Sessions

Wednesday 1 November, 9am-10am (4+)

Tuesday 31 October, 1.45pm-3pm (7+)

Prep School Open Morning

Wednesday 8 November, 9.30am-10.30am

Senior School Taster Mornings

Thursday 2 November, 9am-12.30pm

Monday 6 November, 9am-12.30pm (year 7)

Senior School Open Morning

Thursday 9 November, 9.30am-11.30am

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Sydenham girl masterminds UK wide STEM Challenge

Monday 12thMarch saw 150 guests and five special guest judges gather for a fantastic evening in the Longton Hall at Sydenham High School, all in the name of the #700STEMChallenge. There has been much in the press lately about the gender gap in STEM and lack of girls participating in these subjects, but not at Sydenham High! This entire event was masterminded, and executed, by Year 12 pupil, Annabelle Simmonds, outside of her already demanding timetable for A Level Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry. As you can see, she has a passion for STEM subjects!

“The #700STEMChallenge is my proudest project, with the final exceeding all expectations of what I originally had imagined it would be. All of the judges and guest speakers gave such inspirational speeches and for that I am so grateful. It was a night that I will never forget and a competition that I hope will be continued for many years to come.”

38 finalists, hailing from nine different schools across the UK, congregated in eager anticipation to hear the results of their entries into the competition. Year 7-13 pupils from schools across the UK had been invited to enter, calling them to write an article of 700 words on a topic related to one of four categories: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, and the finalists were selected within three sub-categories: under 14, under 16 and under 18. The judges all commented on the extraordinary level of knowledge from the entrants; the finalists did incredibly well as there were over 250 applications, all of which were judged on style, creativity and content. 

 

The event was a great success, with presentations from the judges1describing their career paths, encouraging girls, as well as boys, to follow their passion for STEM, and the importance of choosing a pathway that is right for you, whether that be university or an apprenticeship. The audience thoroughly enjoyed hearing from our special guests before the winners were announced and the prizes were awarded, including a tour of the Engineering department at a major London airport and a copy of A Brief History of Time signed by the late Professor Stephen Hawking. All the articles will be published in a journal later in the year.

Headmistress, Mrs Katharine Woodcock, said: “We are bursting with pride for all that Annabelle has achieved in creating and running this event. She is an inspiration not only to her peers, but to us as educators and professionals, and I am delighted to see the enthusiasm for STEM developing in our next generation of young women.”

 

1.     The judges were Captain Al Bridger, Chief Pilot Boeing fleet, British Airways, Matthew Gardner, Engineer at British Airways, Rachel Thomas, Writer and editor, specialising in mathematics and science communication, Carrie Bennett, a 22 year old Audit Senior and Chartered Accountant at Ernst & Young, Jade Garner, a 19 year old Business Apprentice, Ernst & Young.

Sydenham High rowers take seats on Queen's barge Gloriana

Blades of glory:

 

Five Sydenham High senior rowers had a royal experience at the ForeShore Festival last weekend (Saturday 23 September).

They received the exciting invitation to join Dulwich College's senior rowers in taking the oars of the Queen's beautiful ceremonial barge, The Gloriana, and had the honour to row her on the Thames at the annual river event at Putney.

The conditions were perfect - sunny, warm and calm - and the girls rowed in perfect rhythm with their DC counterparts from the bow of the barge.

The Gloriana is a 90-foot-long (27 m) British row barge. She was privately commissioned as a tribute to the Queen for her Diamond Jubilee, and was the lead vessel in the Diamond Jubilee Pageant which took place on the Thames in 2012.

The girls thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and it will serve as an inspiration to all 42 school rowers in years 9-13 as they get started with their training this term.

 

Awards celebrate Sydenham High's Performing Arts stars

The 2017 Performing Arts Awards evening at Sydenham High Senior School, which took place on 26 April, proved even bigger and better than last year’s inaugural event. With 180 people attending to celebrate the successes in the Music, Dance and Drama departments over the past year, it was an exciting evening of performances as well as awards for outstanding achievement in the arts.

The evening started with a dynamic performance from the Senior Street Dance Company, choreographed by Kira Bishop from Pineapple Dance Studios, who also attended the dinner. This was shortly followed by the school’s Big Band, who performed highlights from the film Ratatouille, and the Serenata singers who showcased two traditional songs: Pastime With Good Company by Coombes and IIlka Moor (arr Neaum).

The audience were then treated to a duologue from two year 10 actors - Sally Prifti and Sophia Michael - entitled Time, which they had recently performed for their LAMDA exam. The performances concluded with the wonderful Les Miserables Choir who treated guests to a barricade-storming medley of songs from the musical, which wowed the audience.

 

Performances and dinner over, it was time for the guest of honour, Sydenham High alumna the stage and screen actor Emily Joyce, to speak and present the awards. Emily started by praising the exceptional record of performing arts that has built up at the school over the last ten years. Having explained how in her first professional engagement at Stratford upon Avon she experienced the incredible impact that a play can have on an audience, she offered a strong case for supporting the performing arts. ”They are important because we need people who can express empathy, compassion and understanding of how the world works. They can also distract us or show us our dreams. And they form a multi-billion pound industry which provides many, many jobs.”

Emily then presented the awards which celebrated progress and achievement in Music, Dance and Drama across senior school key stages plus an overall award in each category. Rebecca Kent (year 13) won the Sydenham High School Young Musician of the Year award; Alice Nicholson (year 11) picked up Dancer of the Year and Lili Morgan (year 8) took home the trophy for Actor of the Year. The top award of the evening went to Lauren Lawrence (year 10 - pictured) who received the Kathryn Pullen Performance Award for outstanding all round achievement in Music, Dance and Drama.

“There have been so many highlights across the performing arts this year: from our tenth anniversary dance show in December to the Shakespeare for Schools festival last term and our recent involvement in UDance London and at the Women Making Waves project at the Maritime Museum’s Queen’s House, plus so much more in between,” said Head of Drama Laura Yandell. “Congratulations to all of our award winners and to all students who have taken part in any of our performing arts events this year and worked hard in lessons. We look forward to celebrating again next year.”

The Awards dinner was kindly sponsored by School Travel Organiser magazine, the market leading provider of quality information on curriculum linked school travel and out-of-the-classroom learning experiences.  It is also the organiser of the annual School Travel Awards. www.schooltravelorganiser.com

 
Rising GCSE stars at Sydenham High GCSE students bask in warmth of top grade success as continued grade rise bucks national trend

Along with the August temperatures, Sydenham High GDST saw its GCSE results, announced today (Thursday 25 August 2016), continue to rise up the grade scale.

Top 2016 grades further increased with almost a third (32 per cent) of Sydenham High students scoring an A*, with 63.2 per cent achieving either A* or A.

More than 80 per cent of grades in six subjects were A*/A, including STEM subjects: Biology (91 per cent); Statistics (89 per cent); Chemistry, Physics and Drama (86 per cent) and Latin (83 per cent).

Overall 86 per cent of grades were A*-B and 96 per cent were A*-C – both up on 2015 and bucking the trend nationally.

Success was a family affair for three students picking up their results.  Triplets Kate, Louisa and Sophie Hanton scooped a total of 26 A* between them plus 5 As.

One of the triplets – Kate - and three other students – Alex Lindsay, Maddy Telford and Betty Townley – all achieved a clean sweep of 10 or more A*s. 

Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said: “I couldn’t be more delighted that our girls have done so well, giving them a wonderful springboard to their A levels. They’ve worked extremely hard with their teachers to reach these heights and I can’t wait to see what successes lie ahead for them.

“Teaching and learning is something we do with our students, not to them or for them. We set high expectations, provide a strong academic framework, and instil confidence in each and every student to achieve their best.  As a result they have done both themselves and Sydenham High proud.”

Sydenham High leads call for new safe crossing on Westwood Hill
 

Thursday 5 May: As Londoners went to the polls to vote for a new London Mayor and Assembly, the students, parents, staff and neighbours of Sydenham High School called on the successful candidates to press Lewisham Council to provide a safer road crossing on Westwood Hill.

The busy crossing point outside the school, which also leads to Kirkdale’s shops, Wells Park and other local amenities, lost its School Crossing Patrol Officer at Easter and, despite advertising by Lewisham Council, no candidates have come forward.

When the previous patrol officer retired in 2014 it took 12 months to recruit a replacement.  Whilst the Council has promised to continue the latest search, the school and its supporters - including the Sydenham Society and Sydenham Assembly member and school governor Angela Hall – now believe that the time has come to demand a permanent controlled crossing to protect the children and adults who regularly have to cross this very busy road.

Lewisham Council has so far rejected the idea of a fixed crossing, citing a lack of accidents and the fact that there is a zebra crossing at Cobbs Corner – some 5-10 minutes further down the hill so not in the least relevant.

The school’s own research shows that in addition to many of its 600 pupils, children from both St Bartholomew’s CoE Primary School, Sydenham Girls’ School, and The Peak use the crossing along with staff and local residents heading down Longton Grove to Kirkdale and beyond.

Sydenham High’s Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen can’t understand the Council’s reticence:  “There is a raised platform and a pelican crossing outside Sydenham Girls School on Dartmouth Road – so why not here? We’ve avoided casualties so far but, given the volume and speed of traffic going down Westwood Hill and the behaviour of some motorists, we are extremely concerned that it’s only a matter of time before we have a serious incident.  We shouldn’t have to wait until that happens to expect protection for our children, staff and neighbours.”

Sophia Michael, aged 13 and a student at Sydenham High, said: “We really need a proper crossing for everyone’s safety.  I’ve myself witnessed some close shaves when girls are crossing the road.  It would be a lot more reassuring if we had lights there.”

Pat Trembath, who chairs the Sydenham Society, said: “As a local resident I’m very aware that vehicles coming down the hill, including buses, regularly exceed the speed limit, even at times when children are on their way to and from school.”

 

 

Angela Hall, who is a member of the Sydenham Assembly as well as a school governor, echoed this concern.  “A Safer Streets speed watch on Westwood Hill between 8am and 9.30am on 15 April logged no less than 103 cars exceeding the speed limit – some at more than 40mph.

She continued: “All other schools on main roads and bus routes within the borough have been given a controlled crossing so it should be the case here too. And it isn’t just a matter of the people crossing at school arrival and departure times; it’s a concern for the community as a whole including children and families who may want to cross Westwood Hill to access the shops and both Wells Park and Crystal Palace Park outside school time when a school crossing patrol officer wouldn’t be on duty.”

Sydenham High School has started a petition on Change.org which has already attracted over 500 signatures and many messages of support in just a couple of weeks. This week’s mass gathering on the hill aimed to gather further support and publicity for the petition.

To sign the petition, go to:

https://www.change.org/p/liz-brooker-lewisham-gov-uk-provide-a-safe-road-crossing-on-westwood-hill

or write directly to Councillor Chris Best at Lewisham BC.

 

 

 

Good Schools Guide Award for Sydenham High

 

Sydenham High has won a gold 2015 Good Schools Guide Award for girls taking computer studies at GCSE.

The school has been presented with the award by The Good Schools Guide for out-performing all other English schools in its category. The prestigious annual awards, which are now in their 9th year, are based on a detailed analysis of the most recent examination results, and are designed to highlight consistently good teaching.

Sydenham High has swiftly embraced the Government’s introduction of a new computer science curriculum and has launched the computing curriculum at Key Stage 3. The scheme of work explores areas such as digital literacy, skills and careers.

 

The curriculum is designed to help the girls become creators of tech, instead of just consumers. It will also better equip them for the real world of work and industry – especially as women are currently underrepresented in the tech arena.

Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen said: “We are absolutely delighted to be acknowledged for our excellence in teaching computer studies and we are sure it will inspire and encourage all our students who are working toward their GCSE and A levels right now.

“The UK’s tech scene is booming and skilled employees are in demand.  We therefore want to ensure that our girls are ready and able to take advantage of the opportunities that brings.”

Ralph Lucas, Editor of The Good Schools Guide, commented: “Our annual awards scheme is designed to recognise and reward excellence in teaching in every subject area. Our awards give individual teachers and departments, where teaching is at its very best, the recognition they deserve.”

The Good Schools Guide Awards are based on a series of calculations which take into account relative popularity and performance of the subject, absolute performance, and percentage of pupils taking the subject.

 
Jazz concert showcases young musical talent

To hear some of London’s most talented young jazz musicians playing live head down to St James’ Church, Beckenham, on Saturday 27 June at 7.00pm.

 

The all-girl Sydenham High Jazz Collective will be making their first public appearance outside the school at the concert and sharing the stage with the renowned National Youth Jazz Orchestra London.

 

Both groups are directed by the award-winning jazz saxophonist Phil Meadows and will be playing an exciting programme of popular and traditional jazz pieces.

 

The concert takes place at St James’ Church, St James Avenue, Beckenham, BR3 4HF at 7.00pm on Saturday 27 June. Tickets £5 at the door. Children go free.

Scien-terrific! Sydenham High celebrates British Science Week

Communicating and celebrating the wonders of science in our world today were at the heart of Sydenham High School’s celebration of British Science Week (16-20 March).  Girls from across the whole school went on an exciting five day journey of discovery - from exploring what it takes to make the ultimate cup of coffee to identifying SydBeast (a mystery animal skeleton).

The week started with a stimulating assembly to highlight some of the WOW factors in science at the moment, including recent controversy over #thedress and the solar eclipse.

Practical lessons included dissections, trying out different coffee-making techniques for that ultimate cuppa and Year of Light demonstrations from lasers to eyes on National Demo Day. 

King’s College London neuroscientist, Dr Ellie Dommett, led a challenging discussion on the ethical issues surrounding the use of smart drugs in society, while Head of Biology Dr Elly Waites gave a presentation to SydSci club on her research into Cancer and Genetics and gave an insight into related career paths.

Up in the school’s dedicated cookery suite, students investigated the science behind top chefs’ culinary tips, such as how to cook the best steak, create great chocolate or poach the perfect egg.

Year 9 Science Challenge students put their Lego Midstorms EV3 colour sorting robot through its paces, having spent five weeks building, coding and conducting test runs. The project has allowed students to combine robotics and coding skills into an end product that completes a particular task – sorting small coloured blocks into separate pots.

A group of Year 12 students also attended the Engineer Your Future Career Awareness Day to meet representatives from engineering companies and other like-minded students, and gain greater understanding of engineering careers.

Sadly it was too cloudy for the girls to view the solar eclipse in the skies above Sydenham and they had to make do with a live TV feed to a giant screen in the school’s Longton Hall.

Activities culminated in a huge Science Fair, organised and run by members of Year 8 and attended by girls from Years 4 - 6.  Year 8 had to come up with their own idea for each stall to communicate and explain an aspect of science to this young audience.    The would-be science teachers definitely rose to the challenge, covering everything from testing forces and the properties of elements to finding out the mass of objects, blending perfumes and identifying what makes a good diet.

Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen said: “This week has been all about exciting the girls about STEM subjects - encouraging them to explore many different aspects of and avenues in science and see them as potential careers.  As new research out only this week has shown, taking STEM subjects to A level and beyond is a proven way to close the gender gap and boost their future earning power by far more than the increase achieved by boys who also study these subjects.”

Sydenham High School crowned Mock Trial winners for the second year running

Two years in a row, Sydenham High School pupils have proven they have what it takes to put outperform their opposition in a real crown court, assessed by criminal court judges, as part of the prestigious Mock Trial active learning experience.

On Saturday 21 January 2023, after four months of hard work and preparation, 17 Year 10 and 12 pupils travelled to the Inner Crown Court in London to participate in the Independent School Mock Trial competition for the region. Young Citizens has run this active learning experience for many years, providing exposure to the judicial system, its venues and legal professionals.

This extremely prestigious competition involves pupils taking on most of the roles in a courtroom, from barristers and witnesses, to ushers, clerks and jury members, trying specially written cases and being assessed on the day by real criminal court judges. The scoring is based on criteria such as clarity, quality of arguments, accuracy, non-reliance on notes and timekeeping.

Facing stiff opposition from some of the leading schools in the region, after a tough series of rounds, pupils were delighted to make it to the final. Despite some understandable nerves when they realised the case would be overseen by no fewer than three judges, the pupils were articulate and confident and carried out their roles brilliantly.

After a tense wait the school was delighted to be announced regional winners for the second year in a row and is very proud of this cohort of budding lawyers, barristers and judges!

Maya, Year 12 said:

"It was really enjoyable. Particularly being in a real crown court with actual judges, it made it feel like an authentic experience. It was really challenging but rewarding. I have learned much about the legal system and has deepened my interest in a career in law”.

Head, Antonia Geldeard commented:

"I am very proud of our pupils for what they have achieved, for a second year, beating such strong opponents and making the most of this taste of the intricacies of the legal profession. Participating in the mock trial is a wonderful opportunity to develop confidence, independent research and public speaking skills - all of which are incredibly valuable throughout life."

School rowers pull together for tumour survivor’s Transatlantic record bid

Sydenham High School’s rowers are travelling 3000 miles without leaving London to support a Cushing's disease survivor's Transatlantic record attempt and raise money for King's College Hospital.

 

Sydenham High School’s rowers are pulling together for a very special charity world record attempt by rower and Cushing’s disease survivor Kiko Matthews. Kiko is raising money for the new critical care unit at King’s College Hospital by attempting to become the fastest female to cross the Atlantic solo and unsupported. The team from Sydenham High is aiming to raise £1,000 for her cause by rowing a total of 3,000 miles in training - the actual distance Kiko will be rowing in January (minus the Atlantic's 40ft waves!)

Since her 2009 diagnosis of a rare and life-threatening disease, Kiko’s life has been saved not once but twice by the doctors and nurses at King’s. To thank the South London hospital, and challenge herself, Kiko decided to use her love of rowing to raise money for the new unit, which will help save many more lives in the future.

More than 25 rowers, including captain of boats Phoebe and year 12 rowing scholar Darcy, have been taking to the school’s ergo machines, to add to their river training, to clock up the necessary miles and reach their sponsorship target.

Kiko herself joined them on the river for a training session and was paired with 16-year old rower Elena.  Afterwards Kiko announced on Twitter: "Having a year 11 girl in charge and showing me the ropes was awesome. Totally loved my afternoon."

The Sydenham High team was inspired to support Kiko after she was the guest speaker at senior school prize giving in July.  They are one of one hundred female supporters and groups being recruited by Kiko through her 100TogetHER fundraising campaign.

In fact, when Kiko sets off on her journey she will not exactly be alone; the images of all her 100TogetHER supporters, including the Sydenham High rowers, will cover the inside of her tiny cabin to inspire her to keep going and achieve her goal when times get tough.

Only five women have ever crossed the Atlantic solo. Kiko is not only aiming to add her name to this prestigious list; she has also set herself the goal of making her crossing in just 45 days – 11 days faster than the current French female record holder.  Sydenham High’s rowers will be right there with her, willing her to succeed.

“I am delighted to have Sydenham High rowers on board with me,” said Kiko.  “This challenge is about them too; it proves that anyone can attempt anything given the right attitude, belief and support. I want to use my story to inspire women to challenge themselves on many levels. Whether a physical, social or mental challenge, recognising the journey and developments you make, is key to developing confidence and independence.”

“It was a privilege to hear Kiko’s inspirational story in July,” said Headmistress Katharine Woodcock.  “Kiko certainly embodies our motto of 'Fear Nothing' and we are very proud to be supporting her on her amazing journey for such a worthy cause.“

Rowing has been going from strength to strength at Sydenham High and is now one of its most popular sport options.  From a half dozen rowers two years ago, the school is now accredited with GB rowing and has over 40 students from year 9 to year 13 actively enjoying the sport each week.  A senior crew recently had the privilege of rowing the Queen’s barge Gloriana alongside a crew from Dulwich College.

To find out more about the 100TogetHER campaign and Kiko's story, visit her website at: http://www.kikomatthews.co.uk/100together/

Sydenham High Symposium celebrates modern relevance of the Humanities

Famous authors and poets joined forces with eminent university lecturers and politicians at Sydenham High School GDST on Thursday 22 June, to celebrate the fundamental value and modern relevance of studying the Humanities at the first Sydenham Symposium.

Over 70 senior school pupils from Blackheath High, St Olave’s in Orpington, Bishop Thomas Grant in Streatham, Dulwich College and Elmgreen School West Norwood, as well as from Sydenham High, took part in the day of workshops and talks to celebrate the value of Humanities subjects and to demonstrate what areas of study and careers they can lead to post-GCSE.

The Sydenham Symposium: A Humanities Festival was opened by Helen Hayes, MP for Dulwich and West Norwood. Ms Hayes, who is a geographer, told the audience of pupils from year 10 to year 12 that the Humanities provide vital perspective on our increasingly complex world, whether we are looking to examine the motivations of past leaders, the interactions between physical and human geography or the reasons for a particular ethical standpoint.  They enable us to move forward by learning from the lessons of the past.

A top line-up of guest speakers ran a series of workshops and talks throughout the day.  Best-selling historical mystery author Caroline Lawrence explored the hero’s journey in Greek and Roman myth and how this is used in modern film plots such as Star Wars. In contrast, author and director David Stuttard provided a fully immersive workshop exploring the differences between modern and Greek drama including recreating a Greek chorus in Ancient Greek. Poet and fiction writer Lydia Syson, examined the story of the forgotten women of the Paris Commune in the era of Les Miserables and eminent philosophy lecturer Dr John Tillson, from the University of Warwick, got students thinking about whether it is wrong to simulate wrong-doing in modern computer and video games.

 

The day ended with a plenary session delivered by Dr Kathryn Tempest, lecturer in Latin literature and Roman history at the University of Roehampton who provided an intriguing exploration of Roman and Greek social etiquette, including the dinner party, and how this compared with behaviour today.

Sydenham High Headmistress Mrs Katharine Woodcock said: “At Sydenham High we see the Humanities subjects as vital in education: exciting to study and key to understanding humanity itself. With increasing interest in learning about Philosophy, Religion and Ethics, History, Government and Politics, Geography and Classics, we felt the time was right to create a specific day of celebration for the Humanities that would draw interest from a range of senior schools in the area. I am delighted that so many of our neighbouring schools sent delegates.”

Dr Sarah Wallace, Head of History at Sydenham High, who organised the symposium, said: “All our speakers have built their careers from an extended study of one or more Humanity subjects and their workshops and seminars were designed to extend students’ knowledge of and curiosity about these exciting subjects and what you can do with them post-GCSE.”

 
Sixth formers’ winning kitchen idea is a chop above the rest

Sixth formers from Sydenham High have served up a top kitchen idea that’s a chop above the rest for their entry in this year’s Young Enterprise scheme.

Lola, Jana, Melissa, Ella, Biba and Lauren, all in Year 12, with their team colleagues at Dulwich College, have developed an innovative chopping board that cleverly solves the perennial kitchen problem of separating prepared food from waste.

Made from anti-bacterial plastic, the ChopAway board has a detachable bowl to catch food waste for easy disposal.  It fits neatly over the edge of any worktop and has non-slip feet to prevent movement.

The innovative board has already helped the team become Central London finalists in the Young Enterprise competition.  It has also won the approval of Sydenham High’s catering team, who have ordered four of the chopping boards to help them prepare the school’s meals.

The team came up with the idea of a chopping board with extra functionality after experiencing food preparation issues in their home kitchens. Having tried various different solutions, they hit on the concept of a detachable section. Prototypes were commissioned and market research conducted with friends and family plus Christmas fairs where the team tested product appeal and price points before a deal was struck with a supplier. The team raised the initial funds to pay for their stock by face painting at events and selling decorated T-shirts and sweets.

 

“It’s been an amazing experience - from getting our initial funding to commissioning the prototypes and haggling with the manufacturer for the best deal to pitching our product in front of top business people in the Young Enterprise heats,” said Lauren Hare, who is ChopAway’s joint-sales director (pictured far left in the top photo). “We’ve all learned a lot along the way including working in a team. And we’re really proud of our product and seeing people use it.”

“I’m incredibly proud of the team and what they have achieved,” said Sydenham High’s new Headmistress Mrs Katharine Woodcock. “Not only have they come up with an exciting and marketable business idea, they have been learning key skills which will prepare them for future employment.”

ChopAway has used social media – Twitter and Instagram - as well as a website to promote their clever product.  They have also taken stands at trade fairs, shopping centres and markets such as Spitalfields.

The ChopAway board comes in a choice of four bright colours: blue, green, pink or yellow.  Priced at £11.99, it is available to order online from www.chopaway.co.uk  Follow them on Twitter: @Chopaway_

Sydenham High sixth formers count their lucky stars! A level results day brings record haul of top grades

 

Sydenham High sixth formers are celebrating a record haul of A level A* and A grades, along with a raft of prized university places, following the release of today’s exam results.

Almost half of all grades (45.1 per cent) were either A* or A – nearly twice the level achieved in 2015 - helping students to secure places at a range of top universities including Oxford, Manchester, Warwick and Leeds. Topics of study include engineering, maths, pharmacy and chemistry.

Along with a one hundred per cent pass rate, over 80 per cent of grades were A*-B and 92.7% were A*-C.

The strongest subject performances were in Physics, Further Maths, French, Business Studies and Design Technology where one hundred per cent of pupils gained an A*/A.

Sydenham High’s talented drama students and mathematicians also took centre stage with 86 per cent A*/As in Theatre Studies, while 83.3 per cent of Maths passes were also A*/A.

Amongst the highest achieving students were Savandhi Goonasekera and Gabrielle Mallet.  Gabrielle gained A*s and As, including A* for her Extended Project Qualification, and will be taking up a place at Queen’s College, Oxford, to read Japanese & Korean.  She hopes to pursue a career in international relations in the future and is planning to study Mandarin in her spare time! Savandhi gained A* A* A in Maths, Further Maths and Physics.  She is going on to study Maths at university. 

Also celebrating was Orlane Doumbe, who joined Sydenham High’s Sixth Form after receiving a sought-after joint school and HSBC Global Education Scholarship.  She achieved straight As in Maths, Chemistry and French, and is heading to Manchester to read Chemistry.

Two Art students have also secured places on prestigious Foundation courses at Central Saint Martins and Camberwell College of Art.

Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said: “We’re immensely proud of each and every student. These are tremendous achievements to celebrate.  They are their passports to take the next steps into their futures - at university and beyond, and they reflect both the girls’ hard work and the dedication and inspiration of their teachers.”

More than words: Future astronaut gives students poetic inspiration for a mental health conversation

Students at Sydenham High School GDST have been channelling their poetic side with the help of a future astronaut in a workshop around mental health issues and awareness.

The group of Year 8 students was inspired to write and perform a series of poems around the topics of anxiety and depression by mental health spokesperson, YouTuber and global Kruger Cowne Rising Star winner, Hussain Manawer.

Before setting the students their task Hussain, who campaigns to raise awareness of mental health issues, explained how poetry can be a powerful form of self-expression as well as a way of encouraging vital conversation on a traditionally difficult topic. He also talked to them about what makes a good performance to help drive a message home.

The 24-year old, who was an Olympic torchbearer and has raised thousands of pounds for charity, then performed some of his unique and compelling narrative poetry.  This included the breath-taking spoken word performance that secured him the Kruger Cowne Rising Star award at the One Young World Conference in Bangkok last November.  Hussain beat thousands of other young hopefuls from over 90 countries to the chance to go into space with the XCOR Space Expedition as the first British Muslim astronaut.

The inspirational performer regularly takes time out of his business schedule to go into schools like Sydenham High to talk to young people about combating cyber bullying and the importance of self-expression through the arts, in an effort to reduce the stigma of talking about mental health issues and provide positive pathways to improve it.

Hussain was very impressed by the depth of insight in the thoughtful pieces created by the students, as well as their use of alliteration, wordplay and rhyme in each performance.

The Sydenham High students also wanted to know more about his future trip into space – a dream he never imagined could become real.  He promised to come back and tell them more about the trip once he has undergone his training in the US.

Enrichment and PSHE Co-ordinator Mrs Georgina Calvert, who organised the workshop, said:

“Hussain’s fresh and dynamic approach to a difficult topic really connected with the students and got them to think differently about sensitive issues that are sometimes hidden from view. As a result, they produced thoughtful and mature spoken word performances that went to the heart of these themes.”

Sydenham High STANDS UP TO CANCER

Campaign champion Kirstie Allsopp joins fundraising activities

Sydenham High’s Year 11 science class gained an extra eager member on Friday morning when Stand Up To Cancer ambassador Kirstie Allsopp joined them for a lesson about the disease.

The Channel 4 Location, Location, Location presenter was at the school to help pupils and staff join forces to Stand Up To Cancer and raise crucial cash for life-saving research.

Everyone dressed in orange for the day and took part in a range of fundraising activities including: a sponsored ‘Stand Up’ in lessons, a mass Zumbathon and a bake sale, all in aid of Stand Up To Cancer. 

More than 600 pupils and 150 staff at the school took part in the fundraising with the aim of raising £1,000 for the cause.  To date, their activities have raised an amazing £2,779 – almost triple the target - with more activity planned in the coming week in the form of a series of ‘stand up’ performances.

Kirstie attended the school’s morning Assembly where, alongside Director of Stand Up To Cancer Claire Rowney, she told the whole school how important their contribution was in helping ensure that the next generation’s lives are not blighted by cancer.

Kirstie then joined a science class examining the origins of cancer and encouraged the girls to think about choosing a career in scientific research to help find cancer cures.

After joining the girls in a quiz on the risk factors that can contribute to cancer, Kirstie visited the school’s cookery suite to help Bake Club members complete orange-themed cakes and pastries for a lunchtime bake sale.

 

Her final appointment was an interview with two of the school’s young reporters – Louisa Hanton and Isabel Helszajn-Jewett.  Kirstie explained how her own family experience of cancer (her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when Kirstie was in her teens and her sister, given their family history of cancer, has had a preventative mastectomy) is at the heart of her passionate desire to raise awareness and funds.   The more money raised, she told the girls, the more scientists can be employed in research and the sooner kinder treatments and cures can be found.

Lunchtime brought a cake sale with lots of tasty orange creations and then a mass Zumbathon, held outside in the sunshine on the school’s Astroturf.

The full day’s activities were also filmed as part of a 12-hour Stand Up To Cancer event, being streamed live on YouTube on Saturday 17 October.

A joint fundraising campaign from Cancer Research UK and Channel 4, Stand Up To Cancer aims to raise money to fund vital research that will get new and better treatments to cancer patients faster. 

By joining Stand Up To Cancer, pupils and teachers at Sydenham High united with doctors, nurses, scientists and celebrities to generate funds, raise awareness and bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

One in two people in the UK will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Stand Up To Cancer aims to raise money to accelerate ground-breaking research to help more people survive and ensure more families stay together. 

Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said: “We’re so proud that our pupils will be joining an army of fundraisers across the UK in helping to raise funds for Stand Up To Cancer. We have a proud tradition of charitable action.  The whole school will be taking part in the fundraising activities so it will be a real team effort and we hope to raise as much money as possible for such an important cause.

“Most of us know someone who has been touched by cancer and we all have our special reasons for taking part.”

To help the school prepare, teachers used a schools’ resource kit, specially created by the charity, which includes lesson plans, an assembly pack and fundraising materials.

 

 

 

To support their fundraising, Sydenham High has set up a JustGiving page and JustTextGiving code.  To donate please visit:  - https://www.justgiving.com/Sydenham-High-School-GDST/

and go to the Stand Up To Cancer campaign page.  Alternatively, text: SYDH87 £3 to 70070.

School treks 7,192km in a day for Nepal earthquake relief

Students and staff at Sydenham High School GDST yesterday (10 June) travelled 7,192km – the approximate distance from London to Kathmandu - in a challenging 12-hour sponsored event to raise awareness of and aid for the victims of the recent devastating Nepal earthquakes.  

 

Over 450 girls from Reception to Year 10 cycled, jogged, ran and walked to Nepal on the school’s Astroturf, as well as rowed in the fitness suite, in shifts from 7am throughout the school day. They were joined from 4pm by family, friends and combined staff-student relay teams to help reach the target with an hour to go. Some older girls also came back from study leave to take part.

 

Several teachers challenged themselves to trek for the full 12 hours, including Deputy Head Karl Guest who, together with Acting Head of PE Georgina Calvert, masterminded the fundraising event.

 

The aim of the trek was to not only raise awareness of the difficulties faced by the people of Nepal but to provide actual aid.  In addition to all participants making a £2 donation to wear sports kit for the day (maximising ‘travel’ time) girls also gained sponsorship in the form of items from a specific aid package list.  The list includes: emergency torches, dried food, cooking pans, bedding, children’s clothing and water purification tablets.

 

The intrepid trekkers were joined in the afternoon by Geraldine Finney, the Regional Director (London) of Excelcare (pictured, centre of second row in red), which has a large number of Nepalese employees working in its seven London care homes, two of which - Castlebar and Peartree - are near the school. Also taking the trek were Bromley-based Excelcare nurses Bhim Shakya (pictured front row centre left) and Anita Gurung (pictured front row centre right in red), whose father is a Gurhka.  They are co-ordinating major aid deliveries to particular areas of the stricken region which are home to the families of staff working in the care homes including Bhim and Anita.  The aid items collected at Sydenham High will join one of these consignments.

 

“The staff at Excelcare are delighted and touched at the compassion shown to them by this amazing school community,” said Ms Finney.  “We hope that links forged through this event can be built upon, maybe with some of the girls visiting the families in Nepal in the future, so that they can see exactly where their efforts have made a difference.”

 

“Over 8,000 people lost their lives in the recent earthquakes in Nepal and many more have been left injured or homeless,” said Karl Guest.  “We were determined to bring our school community together to not only raise awareness of the difficulties survivors face but to provide them with physical aid.  When he heard about the Geraldine’s plans we were only too happy to join forces and get the girls to collect aid packages as well as money.  We’ve had an amazing response and will be providing hundreds of items for their appeal.”

 

The school has also opened a JustGiving account in support of the Earthquake Appeal –https://www.justgiving.com/sydenhamhighschool - which has already raised over £1,700. Further donations can be made there which will go directly to the Disasters Emergency Committee campaign.

22.02.2022: Celebrating 135 years of first-class education

Since the first 20 pupils entered its doors in 1887, Sydenham High School’s first-class education has enshrined the values and determination of its four pioneering founders; Maria Grey, Mary Gurney, Emily Shirreff and Lady Stanley of Alderley. The school motto of “fear nothing” emboldens pupils as they forge their own path through life, actively encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, developing both independence of mind and the courage to take risks. This mentality allows every pupil to develop academic enthusiasm, an enquiring mind and the ability and awareness to stand up for what is right.

History shows Sydenham High’s ability to overcome adversity, from its evacuation to Brighton during World War II to the devastating fire in 1997. Alumnae have become climate change consultants, doctors, authors, scientists, artists, Grammy Award-winning musicians and even a horse-racing icon. Whatever they chose to be, they did so by remaining true to themselves even if that meant going against the grain. 

In celebrating 135 years, Sydenham High remembers and appreciates all those who came before, while feeling empowered to innovate, inspire and create a new history that can last for 135 more!

 

STEM success for Sydenham High

 

Sydenham High’s GCSE results hit new heights this Summer with an increase in top grades for the second year running.

An excellent performance in Biology, Chemistry and Physics has contributed to over 34.9 per cent of all grades being A* and 61 per cent being A* or A.  In total 94.7 per cent of grades were A*-C. Over 80 per cent of all three science results were A* or A with a record 96 per cent in Biology, 95 per cent in Physics and 82 per cent in Chemistry. Ten students opened their envelopes to find they had scored a full house of A*s and As across all subjects, meanwhile a further six students achieved 10 or more A*s.

Dozens of sixth formers are also celebrating their A Level results and a raft of university places including Edinburgh, York, Manchester, King’s College and Queen Mary’s London for courses from Mechanical Engineering and Biochemistry to English Literature and Classics. More than half of all grades (57.4 per cent) were A*-B and 25% were A*/A. Again the best performing subjects included all three sciences, and a record number of six students secure coveted places on Art Foundation courses.

Celebrating the most, however, was sixth former Ella Howard who thought she might never be able to take her A Levels as she suffers from a rare congenital bone condition.  Ella successfully gained two A Levels and a university place.

Sydenham High’s new Headmistress Katharine Woodcock said: “Congratulations to all our pupils on their results. We are extremely proud of the girls and their strong performance is testament to their hard work and that of their teachers. Well done to all.”

 

Outstanding science results aid GCSE grade rise at Sydenham High

Sydenham High’s GCSE results have hit new heights with an increase in top grades for the second year running.

An excellent performance in Biology, Chemistry and Physics at Sydenham High has contributed to over 34.9 per cent of all grades being A* and 61 per cent being A* or A.  In total 94.7 per cent of grades were A*-C.

Over 80 per cent of all three science results were A* or A with a record 96 percent in Biology, 95 per cent in Physics and 82 percent in Chemistry.

 

Tia, Ellen, Alanna and Annabelle celebrate their A*/A grades
Tia, Ellen, Alanna and Annabelle celebrate their A*/A grades

Ten students opened their envelopes to find they had scored a full house of A*s and As across all their subjects, meanwhile a further seven students achieved 10 or more A*s. 

Congratulations to: Phoebe, Sasha, Laura, Laure, Jamie, Dora, Martha, Isabella, Jade, Pearl, Tia , Maddie, Annabelle, Tara, Shumi, Ellen and Alanna,

Headmistress Katharine Woodcock said: “Congratulations to all our year 11 pupils on their excellent GCSE results. We are extremely proud of the girls and their strong performance is testament to their hard work and that of their teachers. Well done to all.”

 
Dramatic results: Mary, Emily and Liberty celebrate their drama results with Head of Drama Miss Yandell (second from left)
Dramatic results: Mary, Emily and Liberty celebrate their drama results with Head of Drama Miss Yandell (second from left)
Google takes Sydenham High to virtual infinity and beyond! Westwood Hill school amongst first to trial Google’s virtual expeditions

Today (Wednesday 28 September) students at Sydenham High were able to travel millions of miles in minutes to see Mars, the Moon and more earthly wonders such as Machu Picchu – all without leaving the school.

This was no elaborate Britain’s Got Talent magic trick; Sydenham High’s students were in fact amongst the first in the country to try out Google’s latest innovation: the Google Expeditions Pioneer Programme.

As well as exploring space, students from Year 7 to Year 13 used the virtual reality programme to tour the Palace of Versailles, visit the Galapagos Islands, go inside a volcano and take an anatomy class.

Google Expeditions allows teachers to take their classes on virtual field trips, immersing them in experiences that bring abstract concepts to life and giving them a deeper understanding of the world beyond the classroom.

The Google Expeditions pack includes everything needed to travel: a tablet for the teacher plus a phone with a unique viewer for every student. The teacher selects the destination and the entire classroom jumps there automatically.

Each trip is a collection of virtual reality panoramas – 360 degrees photo spheres, 3D images and video with ambient sound – annotated with details, points of interest and questions so that they can be easily and quickly integrated into the curriculum.

 

 

Year 11 students going to Moscow in VR!
Year 11 students going to Moscow in VR!

The expedition viewer is a breakthrough in itself; literally made from cardboard, it allows anyone with a modern smartphone to experience virtual reality.

The programmes have been created in collaboration with a number of organisations including the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Planetary Society and the American Museum of Natural History.

“It’s been a wonderful opportunity to be amongst the very first schools in the UK to test out this amazing new technology,” said Mathew Llewellin, Digital Learning Co-ordinator and physics teacher. “Whilst nothing is going to replace taking students on an actual field trip, the Google Expeditions Programmes gave our students a unique opportunity to visit distant places on demand to enrich their learning experience using the very latest VR techniques.”

 

 

 
New Head appointed at Sydenham High

Mrs Katharine Woodcock has been appointed as the Head of Sydenham High School, part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, with effect from April 2017. She replaces Mrs Kathryn Pullen who will retire in December after 26 years at the top South London school, 14 of them as Headteacher.  Mr Karl Guest, Deputy Head (Staff and Student Development), will be acting Head for the Spring Term.

Mrs Woodcock is currently the Senior Deputy Head of Queen’s College, an all-girls school based in central London. Like Sydenham High, Queen’s College is an all-through school, educating girls between the ages of 4-18. As Deputy Head at Queen’s College, Mrs Woodcock is responsible for the day-to-day management of the whole school. She joined Queen’s College as Head of Sixth Form in 2005, having previously taught at Oakham School in Rutland, where she was also a Housemistress.

A graduate of Bristol University, Mrs Woodcock studied French and Russian. She then completed her PGCE at St Mary’s College in Twickenham. During her career she has taught both French and Russian, and has extensive academic and pastoral experience. Mrs Woodcock is married with two children and lives in London.

Making the appointment announcement, GDST Chief Executive Helen Fraser said that Mrs Woodcock is firmly committed to the ethos of both the GDST and Sydenham High, and is very much looking forward to being part of its network. She said that Mrs Woodcock’s colleagues describe her as having a natural affinity with her students and speak about her warmth, energy, intelligence, about her forward-thinking approach to her work and her genuine passion for doing the best for the girls.

Helen Fraser also took the opportunity to thank Mrs Pullen for her outstanding contribution to the success of Sydenham High School. She said: ”During her tenure the school has gone from strength to strength and is a place where girls can flourish and develop a love of learning.”

Mrs Woodcock said: “I am really looking forward to joining the Sydenham High community and getting to know students, parents and staff. I’m firmly committed to girls-only education, and believe strongly that it’s my responsibility to provide the very best and bring out the very best in all the pupils in my care. My vision is to provide education centred around each individual girl, in a nurturing and inclusive environment in which girls can be happy, challenged yet fulfilled, and free from the fear of failure.”

Mrs Woodcock will be visiting Sydenham High during the Autumn and Spring terms, including being part of the school’s Saturday Open Days for prospective parents in September.

Powerful experience for STEM students in sustainable hot spot

 

Sustainability is a buzz word across every aspect of our lives these days but it is being given particular importance in encouraging the next generation of female engineers, as girls at Sydenham High School GDST have been finding out.

During last term, girls from the South London school were part of a group of 35 Girls’ Day School Trust students visiting Wildpoldsried in Bavaria to study for a Level 3 Award in the Rational Use of Renewable Energy.

The trip, funded by Erasmus+, was led and delivered by Sasie Ltd and German partners Christiani GmbH, with support from School Energy Efficiency CIC. The aim of the trip was to encourage women into STEM careers and university choices, with a focus on renewable energy and sustainability.

Wildpoldsried was the perfect base for the educational experience as the village generates 600 per cent of its annual electricity demand through renewable integrated technologies such as: biogas plants, wind turbines, district heating system, biomass and combined heat and power plants.

Students began the trip by constructing their very own mini solar PV system inside a case (pictured), under the expert guidance of the solar case manufacturers Christiani GmbH. Daily trips extended to local universities and colleges, a waste combustion plant, hydroelectric power plants, Elektro Guggenmoos GmbH, Sonnenbatterie GmbH and the construction of a brand new 150m wind turbine.

 

Teaching and qualification material was supplemented with inspirational talks and interactive presentations from organisations such as 2041, 5 Gyres and Barefoot College. Students are now engaged within a variety of campaigns related to human impact on the environment, which they will take back to their school communities.

“Having always learned from a book, being actually able to come and see these technologies in practice have made me realise that the age of the renewables is now and not just a strategy for the future,”  said Year 12 Sydenham High student Greta Holmes.

Head of Science at Sydenham High, Janie Tilley said: “This trip has given our students experiences beyond the classroom.  They have developed their skills as independent learners through this university-style learning method.  In addition, the unique opportunity of Q&A over Skype with inspirational speakers at the cutting edge of sustainable development has broadened their horizons and understanding of the opportunities available to them.” 

Girls to experience school life ‘down under’


Sydenham High students Beatrice Eades and Niamh O’Sullivan have just swapped student life in the UK for the Australia winter term equivalent as part of a unique new international educational and cultural exchange programme.
 
Beatrice and Niamh, both aged 14, joined their Year 10 counterparts at St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls, Perth, Western Australia for five weeks in July.
 
In the first part of the programme this term, St Hilda’s students Molly Stafford and Ella Boetcher came to the UK and spent four weeks being Sydenham High students.
 
Unlike traditional exchange programmes, the experience has been totally immersive as all four girls were completely integrated into their new school life: wearing school uniform, going to classes, taking part in extra-curricular activities and, in Beatrice and Niamh’s case, becoming boarders.
 
At the launch of the scheme Sydenham High Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said : “St Hilda’s is one of the most highly respected and well–resourced schools in Australia and was selected as an ideal partnership school because of its closely matched ethos to both Sydenham High and the Girls’ Day School Trust as a whole.  The girls always come first and the opportunities that are offered are tailored to give the students the best possible outcomes.”
 
Kim Kiepe, Principal of St Hilda’s, said: “Over many years we have been sending our students to experience incredible schools across the globe including New York, South Africa, Japan and New Zealand.  We are delighted to begin our partnership with Sydenham High in the UK – a place close to our heart and with historic links with St Hilda of Whitby.”
 
The exchange also involved science teacher and Sixth Form tutor, Samantha Sookdeo, who also spent time at St Hilda’s. She studied St Hilda’s approach to personalised learning - particularly cross-curricular collaborations - to bring back useful best practice and ideas to share both at Sydenham High and within the GDST as a whole.  Ms Sookdeo said: “Everyone has so much to learn from this unique opportunity.  We hope that it will be the start of an expanding worldwide exchange programme for our school and for the whole GDST.”
 

Sydenham High Head says no careers should be off-limits to girls

Gender stereotypes still influence perceptions of many jobs and careers, potentially causing girls to curtail their ambition so schools have an important role to play in challenging this situation.

That was the message today from Dr Colin Laverick, Acting Headteacher of leading independent girls’ school Sydenham High, in advance of the Annual Conference of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) in London on Wednesday 10 June.

“Do a search online for images of chief executives, or surgeons, or judges,” said Dr Laverick, “and you don’t see many women. Do a similar search for images of nurses, carers or personal assistants, and it will come as no surprise that there aren’t many men to be seen. These sorts of stereotypes permeate our national and global culture, and children can’t help but subconsciously absorb them.”

Sydenham High is perfectly placed to nurture girls’ interests and ambitions in a supportive yet challenging environment. “The education we provide is about more than exams; it’s designed to build resilient and resourceful women who see what they want and go out to get it,” said Dr Laverick. “Right across the school we highlight and celebrate the achievements of notable women in history, science and maths plus our own alumnae and show our girls that anything is possible.”

“It’s important that we consciously challenge stereotype assumptions,” added Dr Laverick. “Raising awareness of different jobs at an early age enables girls to imagine themselves in a full range of roles, and not limit their horizons too early or too readily.”  The school’s career and PSHE programmes robustly address this.  In fact the Junior School’s latest co-curricular programme, Flourish and Fly, is designed to ensure girls are equipped to look beyond real or perceived obstacles to reach their full potential and aspire to any career they wish. Each half term has taken on one of the four Girls’ Day School Trust values – Be Bold; Girls First; Be Principled and Networked – as its theme, culminating in a week of activities, challenges and speaker visits to bring that particular value to life.

The current Flourish and Fly theme of ‘being networked’ is also at the heart of this year's GDST Annual Conference which is entitled: ‘Circles of Influence – enhancing employability and creating a culture of networking’. Delegates will also hear from speakers including Sacha Romanovitch, CEO-elect of Grant Thornton UK LLP and a panel of GDST heads and students – all of whom will address the issue and its implications for girls, women and wider society.

“Girls should feel that all doors are open to them,” concluded Dr Laverick, “and that’s what we’ll be discussing in our conference this week. If they feel they can achieve anything they set their mind to, before they come into contact with unhelpful stereotypes, they’ll be less likely to be swayed by them. When it comes to their careers, I’m proud that Sydenham High girls write their own rules.”

Open Days

Prep School Taster Sessions

Wednesday 1 November, 9am-10am (4+)

Tuesday 31 October, 1.45pm-3pm (7+)

Prep School Open Morning

Wednesday 8 November, 9.30am-10.30am

Senior School Taster Mornings

Thursday 2 November, 9am-12.30pm

Monday 6 November, 9am-12.30pm (year 7)

Senior School Open Morning

Thursday 9 November, 9.30am-11.30am

Register on their website.

Private tours 

Email admissions@syd.gdst.net to book.

sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

 

22.02.2022: Celebrating 135 years of first-class education

Since the first 20 pupils entered its doors in 1887, Sydenham High School’s first-class education has enshrined the values and determination of its four pioneering founders; Maria Grey, Mary Gurney, Emily Shirreff and Lady Stanley of Alderley. The school motto of “fear nothing” emboldens pupils as they forge their own path through life, actively encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, developing both independence of mind and the courage to take risks. This mentality allows every pupil to develop academic enthusiasm, an enquiring mind and the ability and awareness to stand up for what is right.

History shows Sydenham High’s ability to overcome adversity, from its evacuation to Brighton during World War II to the devastating fire in 1997. Alumnae have become climate change consultants, doctors, authors, scientists, artists, Grammy Award-winning musicians and even a horse-racing icon. Whatever they chose to be, they did so by remaining true to themselves even if that meant going against the grain. 

In celebrating 135 years, Sydenham High remembers and appreciates all those who came before, while feeling empowered to innovate, inspire and create a new history that can last for 135 more!

 

School rowers pull together for tumour survivor’s Transatlantic record bid

Sydenham High School’s rowers are travelling 3000 miles without leaving London to support a Cushing's disease survivor's Transatlantic record attempt and raise money for King's College Hospital.

 

Sydenham High School’s rowers are pulling together for a very special charity world record attempt by rower and Cushing’s disease survivor Kiko Matthews. Kiko is raising money for the new critical care unit at King’s College Hospital by attempting to become the fastest female to cross the Atlantic solo and unsupported. The team from Sydenham High is aiming to raise £1,000 for her cause by rowing a total of 3,000 miles in training - the actual distance Kiko will be rowing in January (minus the Atlantic's 40ft waves!)

Since her 2009 diagnosis of a rare and life-threatening disease, Kiko’s life has been saved not once but twice by the doctors and nurses at King’s. To thank the South London hospital, and challenge herself, Kiko decided to use her love of rowing to raise money for the new unit, which will help save many more lives in the future.

More than 25 rowers, including captain of boats Phoebe and year 12 rowing scholar Darcy, have been taking to the school’s ergo machines, to add to their river training, to clock up the necessary miles and reach their sponsorship target.

Kiko herself joined them on the river for a training session and was paired with 16-year old rower Elena.  Afterwards Kiko announced on Twitter: "Having a year 11 girl in charge and showing me the ropes was awesome. Totally loved my afternoon."

The Sydenham High team was inspired to support Kiko after she was the guest speaker at senior school prize giving in July.  They are one of one hundred female supporters and groups being recruited by Kiko through her 100TogetHER fundraising campaign.

In fact, when Kiko sets off on her journey she will not exactly be alone; the images of all her 100TogetHER supporters, including the Sydenham High rowers, will cover the inside of her tiny cabin to inspire her to keep going and achieve her goal when times get tough.

Only five women have ever crossed the Atlantic solo. Kiko is not only aiming to add her name to this prestigious list; she has also set herself the goal of making her crossing in just 45 days – 11 days faster than the current French female record holder.  Sydenham High’s rowers will be right there with her, willing her to succeed.

“I am delighted to have Sydenham High rowers on board with me,” said Kiko.  “This challenge is about them too; it proves that anyone can attempt anything given the right attitude, belief and support. I want to use my story to inspire women to challenge themselves on many levels. Whether a physical, social or mental challenge, recognising the journey and developments you make, is key to developing confidence and independence.”

“It was a privilege to hear Kiko’s inspirational story in July,” said Headmistress Katharine Woodcock.  “Kiko certainly embodies our motto of 'Fear Nothing' and we are very proud to be supporting her on her amazing journey for such a worthy cause.“

Rowing has been going from strength to strength at Sydenham High and is now one of its most popular sport options.  From a half dozen rowers two years ago, the school is now accredited with GB rowing and has over 40 students from year 9 to year 13 actively enjoying the sport each week.  A senior crew recently had the privilege of rowing the Queen’s barge Gloriana alongside a crew from Dulwich College.

To find out more about the 100TogetHER campaign and Kiko's story, visit her website at: http://www.kikomatthews.co.uk/100together/

Sydenham High rowers take seats on Queen's barge Gloriana

Blades of glory:

 

Five Sydenham High senior rowers had a royal experience at the ForeShore Festival last weekend (Saturday 23 September).

They received the exciting invitation to join Dulwich College's senior rowers in taking the oars of the Queen's beautiful ceremonial barge, The Gloriana, and had the honour to row her on the Thames at the annual river event at Putney.

The conditions were perfect - sunny, warm and calm - and the girls rowed in perfect rhythm with their DC counterparts from the bow of the barge.

The Gloriana is a 90-foot-long (27 m) British row barge. She was privately commissioned as a tribute to the Queen for her Diamond Jubilee, and was the lead vessel in the Diamond Jubilee Pageant which took place on the Thames in 2012.

The girls thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and it will serve as an inspiration to all 42 school rowers in years 9-13 as they get started with their training this term.

 

Outstanding science results aid GCSE grade rise at Sydenham High

Sydenham High’s GCSE results have hit new heights with an increase in top grades for the second year running.

An excellent performance in Biology, Chemistry and Physics at Sydenham High has contributed to over 34.9 per cent of all grades being A* and 61 per cent being A* or A.  In total 94.7 per cent of grades were A*-C.

Over 80 per cent of all three science results were A* or A with a record 96 percent in Biology, 95 per cent in Physics and 82 percent in Chemistry.

 

Tia, Ellen, Alanna and Annabelle celebrate their A*/A grades
Tia, Ellen, Alanna and Annabelle celebrate their A*/A grades

Ten students opened their envelopes to find they had scored a full house of A*s and As across all their subjects, meanwhile a further seven students achieved 10 or more A*s. 

Congratulations to: Phoebe, Sasha, Laura, Laure, Jamie, Dora, Martha, Isabella, Jade, Pearl, Tia , Maddie, Annabelle, Tara, Shumi, Ellen and Alanna,

Headmistress Katharine Woodcock said: “Congratulations to all our year 11 pupils on their excellent GCSE results. We are extremely proud of the girls and their strong performance is testament to their hard work and that of their teachers. Well done to all.”

 
Dramatic results: Mary, Emily and Liberty celebrate their drama results with Head of Drama Miss Yandell (second from left)
Dramatic results: Mary, Emily and Liberty celebrate their drama results with Head of Drama Miss Yandell (second from left)
Sixth formers’ winning kitchen idea is a chop above the rest

Sixth formers from Sydenham High have served up a top kitchen idea that’s a chop above the rest for their entry in this year’s Young Enterprise scheme.

Lola, Jana, Melissa, Ella, Biba and Lauren, all in Year 12, with their team colleagues at Dulwich College, have developed an innovative chopping board that cleverly solves the perennial kitchen problem of separating prepared food from waste.

Made from anti-bacterial plastic, the ChopAway board has a detachable bowl to catch food waste for easy disposal.  It fits neatly over the edge of any worktop and has non-slip feet to prevent movement.

The innovative board has already helped the team become Central London finalists in the Young Enterprise competition.  It has also won the approval of Sydenham High’s catering team, who have ordered four of the chopping boards to help them prepare the school’s meals.

The team came up with the idea of a chopping board with extra functionality after experiencing food preparation issues in their home kitchens. Having tried various different solutions, they hit on the concept of a detachable section. Prototypes were commissioned and market research conducted with friends and family plus Christmas fairs where the team tested product appeal and price points before a deal was struck with a supplier. The team raised the initial funds to pay for their stock by face painting at events and selling decorated T-shirts and sweets.

 

“It’s been an amazing experience - from getting our initial funding to commissioning the prototypes and haggling with the manufacturer for the best deal to pitching our product in front of top business people in the Young Enterprise heats,” said Lauren Hare, who is ChopAway’s joint-sales director (pictured far left in the top photo). “We’ve all learned a lot along the way including working in a team. And we’re really proud of our product and seeing people use it.”

“I’m incredibly proud of the team and what they have achieved,” said Sydenham High’s new Headmistress Mrs Katharine Woodcock. “Not only have they come up with an exciting and marketable business idea, they have been learning key skills which will prepare them for future employment.”

ChopAway has used social media – Twitter and Instagram - as well as a website to promote their clever product.  They have also taken stands at trade fairs, shopping centres and markets such as Spitalfields.

The ChopAway board comes in a choice of four bright colours: blue, green, pink or yellow.  Priced at £11.99, it is available to order online from www.chopaway.co.uk  Follow them on Twitter: @Chopaway_

Rising GCSE stars at Sydenham High GCSE students bask in warmth of top grade success as continued grade rise bucks national trend

Along with the August temperatures, Sydenham High GDST saw its GCSE results, announced today (Thursday 25 August 2016), continue to rise up the grade scale.

Top 2016 grades further increased with almost a third (32 per cent) of Sydenham High students scoring an A*, with 63.2 per cent achieving either A* or A.

More than 80 per cent of grades in six subjects were A*/A, including STEM subjects: Biology (91 per cent); Statistics (89 per cent); Chemistry, Physics and Drama (86 per cent) and Latin (83 per cent).

Overall 86 per cent of grades were A*-B and 96 per cent were A*-C – both up on 2015 and bucking the trend nationally.

Success was a family affair for three students picking up their results.  Triplets Kate, Louisa and Sophie Hanton scooped a total of 26 A* between them plus 5 As.

One of the triplets – Kate - and three other students – Alex Lindsay, Maddy Telford and Betty Townley – all achieved a clean sweep of 10 or more A*s. 

Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said: “I couldn’t be more delighted that our girls have done so well, giving them a wonderful springboard to their A levels. They’ve worked extremely hard with their teachers to reach these heights and I can’t wait to see what successes lie ahead for them.

“Teaching and learning is something we do with our students, not to them or for them. We set high expectations, provide a strong academic framework, and instil confidence in each and every student to achieve their best.  As a result they have done both themselves and Sydenham High proud.”

New Head appointed at Sydenham High

Mrs Katharine Woodcock has been appointed as the Head of Sydenham High School, part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, with effect from April 2017. She replaces Mrs Kathryn Pullen who will retire in December after 26 years at the top South London school, 14 of them as Headteacher.  Mr Karl Guest, Deputy Head (Staff and Student Development), will be acting Head for the Spring Term.

Mrs Woodcock is currently the Senior Deputy Head of Queen’s College, an all-girls school based in central London. Like Sydenham High, Queen’s College is an all-through school, educating girls between the ages of 4-18. As Deputy Head at Queen’s College, Mrs Woodcock is responsible for the day-to-day management of the whole school. She joined Queen’s College as Head of Sixth Form in 2005, having previously taught at Oakham School in Rutland, where she was also a Housemistress.

A graduate of Bristol University, Mrs Woodcock studied French and Russian. She then completed her PGCE at St Mary’s College in Twickenham. During her career she has taught both French and Russian, and has extensive academic and pastoral experience. Mrs Woodcock is married with two children and lives in London.

Making the appointment announcement, GDST Chief Executive Helen Fraser said that Mrs Woodcock is firmly committed to the ethos of both the GDST and Sydenham High, and is very much looking forward to being part of its network. She said that Mrs Woodcock’s colleagues describe her as having a natural affinity with her students and speak about her warmth, energy, intelligence, about her forward-thinking approach to her work and her genuine passion for doing the best for the girls.

Helen Fraser also took the opportunity to thank Mrs Pullen for her outstanding contribution to the success of Sydenham High School. She said: ”During her tenure the school has gone from strength to strength and is a place where girls can flourish and develop a love of learning.”

Mrs Woodcock said: “I am really looking forward to joining the Sydenham High community and getting to know students, parents and staff. I’m firmly committed to girls-only education, and believe strongly that it’s my responsibility to provide the very best and bring out the very best in all the pupils in my care. My vision is to provide education centred around each individual girl, in a nurturing and inclusive environment in which girls can be happy, challenged yet fulfilled, and free from the fear of failure.”

Mrs Woodcock will be visiting Sydenham High during the Autumn and Spring terms, including being part of the school’s Saturday Open Days for prospective parents in September.

More than words: Future astronaut gives students poetic inspiration for a mental health conversation

Students at Sydenham High School GDST have been channelling their poetic side with the help of a future astronaut in a workshop around mental health issues and awareness.

The group of Year 8 students was inspired to write and perform a series of poems around the topics of anxiety and depression by mental health spokesperson, YouTuber and global Kruger Cowne Rising Star winner, Hussain Manawer.

Before setting the students their task Hussain, who campaigns to raise awareness of mental health issues, explained how poetry can be a powerful form of self-expression as well as a way of encouraging vital conversation on a traditionally difficult topic. He also talked to them about what makes a good performance to help drive a message home.

The 24-year old, who was an Olympic torchbearer and has raised thousands of pounds for charity, then performed some of his unique and compelling narrative poetry.  This included the breath-taking spoken word performance that secured him the Kruger Cowne Rising Star award at the One Young World Conference in Bangkok last November.  Hussain beat thousands of other young hopefuls from over 90 countries to the chance to go into space with the XCOR Space Expedition as the first British Muslim astronaut.

The inspirational performer regularly takes time out of his business schedule to go into schools like Sydenham High to talk to young people about combating cyber bullying and the importance of self-expression through the arts, in an effort to reduce the stigma of talking about mental health issues and provide positive pathways to improve it.

Hussain was very impressed by the depth of insight in the thoughtful pieces created by the students, as well as their use of alliteration, wordplay and rhyme in each performance.

The Sydenham High students also wanted to know more about his future trip into space – a dream he never imagined could become real.  He promised to come back and tell them more about the trip once he has undergone his training in the US.

Enrichment and PSHE Co-ordinator Mrs Georgina Calvert, who organised the workshop, said:

“Hussain’s fresh and dynamic approach to a difficult topic really connected with the students and got them to think differently about sensitive issues that are sometimes hidden from view. As a result, they produced thoughtful and mature spoken word performances that went to the heart of these themes.”

Good Schools Guide Award for Sydenham High

 

Sydenham High has won a gold 2015 Good Schools Guide Award for girls taking computer studies at GCSE.

The school has been presented with the award by The Good Schools Guide for out-performing all other English schools in its category. The prestigious annual awards, which are now in their 9th year, are based on a detailed analysis of the most recent examination results, and are designed to highlight consistently good teaching.

Sydenham High has swiftly embraced the Government’s introduction of a new computer science curriculum and has launched the computing curriculum at Key Stage 3. The scheme of work explores areas such as digital literacy, skills and careers.

 

The curriculum is designed to help the girls become creators of tech, instead of just consumers. It will also better equip them for the real world of work and industry – especially as women are currently underrepresented in the tech arena.

Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen said: “We are absolutely delighted to be acknowledged for our excellence in teaching computer studies and we are sure it will inspire and encourage all our students who are working toward their GCSE and A levels right now.

“The UK’s tech scene is booming and skilled employees are in demand.  We therefore want to ensure that our girls are ready and able to take advantage of the opportunities that brings.”

Ralph Lucas, Editor of The Good Schools Guide, commented: “Our annual awards scheme is designed to recognise and reward excellence in teaching in every subject area. Our awards give individual teachers and departments, where teaching is at its very best, the recognition they deserve.”

The Good Schools Guide Awards are based on a series of calculations which take into account relative popularity and performance of the subject, absolute performance, and percentage of pupils taking the subject.

 
Girls to experience school life ‘down under’


Sydenham High students Beatrice Eades and Niamh O’Sullivan have just swapped student life in the UK for the Australia winter term equivalent as part of a unique new international educational and cultural exchange programme.
 
Beatrice and Niamh, both aged 14, joined their Year 10 counterparts at St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls, Perth, Western Australia for five weeks in July.
 
In the first part of the programme this term, St Hilda’s students Molly Stafford and Ella Boetcher came to the UK and spent four weeks being Sydenham High students.
 
Unlike traditional exchange programmes, the experience has been totally immersive as all four girls were completely integrated into their new school life: wearing school uniform, going to classes, taking part in extra-curricular activities and, in Beatrice and Niamh’s case, becoming boarders.
 
At the launch of the scheme Sydenham High Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said : “St Hilda’s is one of the most highly respected and well–resourced schools in Australia and was selected as an ideal partnership school because of its closely matched ethos to both Sydenham High and the Girls’ Day School Trust as a whole.  The girls always come first and the opportunities that are offered are tailored to give the students the best possible outcomes.”
 
Kim Kiepe, Principal of St Hilda’s, said: “Over many years we have been sending our students to experience incredible schools across the globe including New York, South Africa, Japan and New Zealand.  We are delighted to begin our partnership with Sydenham High in the UK – a place close to our heart and with historic links with St Hilda of Whitby.”
 
The exchange also involved science teacher and Sixth Form tutor, Samantha Sookdeo, who also spent time at St Hilda’s. She studied St Hilda’s approach to personalised learning - particularly cross-curricular collaborations - to bring back useful best practice and ideas to share both at Sydenham High and within the GDST as a whole.  Ms Sookdeo said: “Everyone has so much to learn from this unique opportunity.  We hope that it will be the start of an expanding worldwide exchange programme for our school and for the whole GDST.”
 

School treks 7,192km in a day for Nepal earthquake relief

Students and staff at Sydenham High School GDST yesterday (10 June) travelled 7,192km – the approximate distance from London to Kathmandu - in a challenging 12-hour sponsored event to raise awareness of and aid for the victims of the recent devastating Nepal earthquakes.  

 

Over 450 girls from Reception to Year 10 cycled, jogged, ran and walked to Nepal on the school’s Astroturf, as well as rowed in the fitness suite, in shifts from 7am throughout the school day. They were joined from 4pm by family, friends and combined staff-student relay teams to help reach the target with an hour to go. Some older girls also came back from study leave to take part.

 

Several teachers challenged themselves to trek for the full 12 hours, including Deputy Head Karl Guest who, together with Acting Head of PE Georgina Calvert, masterminded the fundraising event.

 

The aim of the trek was to not only raise awareness of the difficulties faced by the people of Nepal but to provide actual aid.  In addition to all participants making a £2 donation to wear sports kit for the day (maximising ‘travel’ time) girls also gained sponsorship in the form of items from a specific aid package list.  The list includes: emergency torches, dried food, cooking pans, bedding, children’s clothing and water purification tablets.

 

The intrepid trekkers were joined in the afternoon by Geraldine Finney, the Regional Director (London) of Excelcare (pictured, centre of second row in red), which has a large number of Nepalese employees working in its seven London care homes, two of which - Castlebar and Peartree - are near the school. Also taking the trek were Bromley-based Excelcare nurses Bhim Shakya (pictured front row centre left) and Anita Gurung (pictured front row centre right in red), whose father is a Gurhka.  They are co-ordinating major aid deliveries to particular areas of the stricken region which are home to the families of staff working in the care homes including Bhim and Anita.  The aid items collected at Sydenham High will join one of these consignments.

 

“The staff at Excelcare are delighted and touched at the compassion shown to them by this amazing school community,” said Ms Finney.  “We hope that links forged through this event can be built upon, maybe with some of the girls visiting the families in Nepal in the future, so that they can see exactly where their efforts have made a difference.”

 

“Over 8,000 people lost their lives in the recent earthquakes in Nepal and many more have been left injured or homeless,” said Karl Guest.  “We were determined to bring our school community together to not only raise awareness of the difficulties survivors face but to provide them with physical aid.  When he heard about the Geraldine’s plans we were only too happy to join forces and get the girls to collect aid packages as well as money.  We’ve had an amazing response and will be providing hundreds of items for their appeal.”

 

The school has also opened a JustGiving account in support of the Earthquake Appeal –https://www.justgiving.com/sydenhamhighschool - which has already raised over £1,700. Further donations can be made there which will go directly to the Disasters Emergency Committee campaign.

Scien-terrific! Sydenham High celebrates British Science Week

Communicating and celebrating the wonders of science in our world today were at the heart of Sydenham High School’s celebration of British Science Week (16-20 March).  Girls from across the whole school went on an exciting five day journey of discovery - from exploring what it takes to make the ultimate cup of coffee to identifying SydBeast (a mystery animal skeleton).

The week started with a stimulating assembly to highlight some of the WOW factors in science at the moment, including recent controversy over #thedress and the solar eclipse.

Practical lessons included dissections, trying out different coffee-making techniques for that ultimate cuppa and Year of Light demonstrations from lasers to eyes on National Demo Day. 

King’s College London neuroscientist, Dr Ellie Dommett, led a challenging discussion on the ethical issues surrounding the use of smart drugs in society, while Head of Biology Dr Elly Waites gave a presentation to SydSci club on her research into Cancer and Genetics and gave an insight into related career paths.

Up in the school’s dedicated cookery suite, students investigated the science behind top chefs’ culinary tips, such as how to cook the best steak, create great chocolate or poach the perfect egg.

Year 9 Science Challenge students put their Lego Midstorms EV3 colour sorting robot through its paces, having spent five weeks building, coding and conducting test runs. The project has allowed students to combine robotics and coding skills into an end product that completes a particular task – sorting small coloured blocks into separate pots.

A group of Year 12 students also attended the Engineer Your Future Career Awareness Day to meet representatives from engineering companies and other like-minded students, and gain greater understanding of engineering careers.

Sadly it was too cloudy for the girls to view the solar eclipse in the skies above Sydenham and they had to make do with a live TV feed to a giant screen in the school’s Longton Hall.

Activities culminated in a huge Science Fair, organised and run by members of Year 8 and attended by girls from Years 4 - 6.  Year 8 had to come up with their own idea for each stall to communicate and explain an aspect of science to this young audience.    The would-be science teachers definitely rose to the challenge, covering everything from testing forces and the properties of elements to finding out the mass of objects, blending perfumes and identifying what makes a good diet.

Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen said: “This week has been all about exciting the girls about STEM subjects - encouraging them to explore many different aspects of and avenues in science and see them as potential careers.  As new research out only this week has shown, taking STEM subjects to A level and beyond is a proven way to close the gender gap and boost their future earning power by far more than the increase achieved by boys who also study these subjects.”

Sydenham High School crowned Mock Trial winners for the second year running

Two years in a row, Sydenham High School pupils have proven they have what it takes to put outperform their opposition in a real crown court, assessed by criminal court judges, as part of the prestigious Mock Trial active learning experience.

On Saturday 21 January 2023, after four months of hard work and preparation, 17 Year 10 and 12 pupils travelled to the Inner Crown Court in London to participate in the Independent School Mock Trial competition for the region. Young Citizens has run this active learning experience for many years, providing exposure to the judicial system, its venues and legal professionals.

This extremely prestigious competition involves pupils taking on most of the roles in a courtroom, from barristers and witnesses, to ushers, clerks and jury members, trying specially written cases and being assessed on the day by real criminal court judges. The scoring is based on criteria such as clarity, quality of arguments, accuracy, non-reliance on notes and timekeeping.

Facing stiff opposition from some of the leading schools in the region, after a tough series of rounds, pupils were delighted to make it to the final. Despite some understandable nerves when they realised the case would be overseen by no fewer than three judges, the pupils were articulate and confident and carried out their roles brilliantly.

After a tense wait the school was delighted to be announced regional winners for the second year in a row and is very proud of this cohort of budding lawyers, barristers and judges!

Maya, Year 12 said:

"It was really enjoyable. Particularly being in a real crown court with actual judges, it made it feel like an authentic experience. It was really challenging but rewarding. I have learned much about the legal system and has deepened my interest in a career in law”.

Head, Antonia Geldeard commented:

"I am very proud of our pupils for what they have achieved, for a second year, beating such strong opponents and making the most of this taste of the intricacies of the legal profession. Participating in the mock trial is a wonderful opportunity to develop confidence, independent research and public speaking skills - all of which are incredibly valuable throughout life."

Sydenham girl masterminds UK wide STEM Challenge

Monday 12thMarch saw 150 guests and five special guest judges gather for a fantastic evening in the Longton Hall at Sydenham High School, all in the name of the #700STEMChallenge. There has been much in the press lately about the gender gap in STEM and lack of girls participating in these subjects, but not at Sydenham High! This entire event was masterminded, and executed, by Year 12 pupil, Annabelle Simmonds, outside of her already demanding timetable for A Level Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry. As you can see, she has a passion for STEM subjects!

“The #700STEMChallenge is my proudest project, with the final exceeding all expectations of what I originally had imagined it would be. All of the judges and guest speakers gave such inspirational speeches and for that I am so grateful. It was a night that I will never forget and a competition that I hope will be continued for many years to come.”

38 finalists, hailing from nine different schools across the UK, congregated in eager anticipation to hear the results of their entries into the competition. Year 7-13 pupils from schools across the UK had been invited to enter, calling them to write an article of 700 words on a topic related to one of four categories: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, and the finalists were selected within three sub-categories: under 14, under 16 and under 18. The judges all commented on the extraordinary level of knowledge from the entrants; the finalists did incredibly well as there were over 250 applications, all of which were judged on style, creativity and content. 

 

The event was a great success, with presentations from the judges1describing their career paths, encouraging girls, as well as boys, to follow their passion for STEM, and the importance of choosing a pathway that is right for you, whether that be university or an apprenticeship. The audience thoroughly enjoyed hearing from our special guests before the winners were announced and the prizes were awarded, including a tour of the Engineering department at a major London airport and a copy of A Brief History of Time signed by the late Professor Stephen Hawking. All the articles will be published in a journal later in the year.

Headmistress, Mrs Katharine Woodcock, said: “We are bursting with pride for all that Annabelle has achieved in creating and running this event. She is an inspiration not only to her peers, but to us as educators and professionals, and I am delighted to see the enthusiasm for STEM developing in our next generation of young women.”

 

1.     The judges were Captain Al Bridger, Chief Pilot Boeing fleet, British Airways, Matthew Gardner, Engineer at British Airways, Rachel Thomas, Writer and editor, specialising in mathematics and science communication, Carrie Bennett, a 22 year old Audit Senior and Chartered Accountant at Ernst & Young, Jade Garner, a 19 year old Business Apprentice, Ernst & Young.

STEM success for Sydenham High

 

Sydenham High’s GCSE results hit new heights this Summer with an increase in top grades for the second year running.

An excellent performance in Biology, Chemistry and Physics has contributed to over 34.9 per cent of all grades being A* and 61 per cent being A* or A.  In total 94.7 per cent of grades were A*-C. Over 80 per cent of all three science results were A* or A with a record 96 per cent in Biology, 95 per cent in Physics and 82 per cent in Chemistry. Ten students opened their envelopes to find they had scored a full house of A*s and As across all subjects, meanwhile a further six students achieved 10 or more A*s.

Dozens of sixth formers are also celebrating their A Level results and a raft of university places including Edinburgh, York, Manchester, King’s College and Queen Mary’s London for courses from Mechanical Engineering and Biochemistry to English Literature and Classics. More than half of all grades (57.4 per cent) were A*-B and 25% were A*/A. Again the best performing subjects included all three sciences, and a record number of six students secure coveted places on Art Foundation courses.

Celebrating the most, however, was sixth former Ella Howard who thought she might never be able to take her A Levels as she suffers from a rare congenital bone condition.  Ella successfully gained two A Levels and a university place.

Sydenham High’s new Headmistress Katharine Woodcock said: “Congratulations to all our pupils on their results. We are extremely proud of the girls and their strong performance is testament to their hard work and that of their teachers. Well done to all.”

 

Sydenham High Symposium celebrates modern relevance of the Humanities

Famous authors and poets joined forces with eminent university lecturers and politicians at Sydenham High School GDST on Thursday 22 June, to celebrate the fundamental value and modern relevance of studying the Humanities at the first Sydenham Symposium.

Over 70 senior school pupils from Blackheath High, St Olave’s in Orpington, Bishop Thomas Grant in Streatham, Dulwich College and Elmgreen School West Norwood, as well as from Sydenham High, took part in the day of workshops and talks to celebrate the value of Humanities subjects and to demonstrate what areas of study and careers they can lead to post-GCSE.

The Sydenham Symposium: A Humanities Festival was opened by Helen Hayes, MP for Dulwich and West Norwood. Ms Hayes, who is a geographer, told the audience of pupils from year 10 to year 12 that the Humanities provide vital perspective on our increasingly complex world, whether we are looking to examine the motivations of past leaders, the interactions between physical and human geography or the reasons for a particular ethical standpoint.  They enable us to move forward by learning from the lessons of the past.

A top line-up of guest speakers ran a series of workshops and talks throughout the day.  Best-selling historical mystery author Caroline Lawrence explored the hero’s journey in Greek and Roman myth and how this is used in modern film plots such as Star Wars. In contrast, author and director David Stuttard provided a fully immersive workshop exploring the differences between modern and Greek drama including recreating a Greek chorus in Ancient Greek. Poet and fiction writer Lydia Syson, examined the story of the forgotten women of the Paris Commune in the era of Les Miserables and eminent philosophy lecturer Dr John Tillson, from the University of Warwick, got students thinking about whether it is wrong to simulate wrong-doing in modern computer and video games.

 

The day ended with a plenary session delivered by Dr Kathryn Tempest, lecturer in Latin literature and Roman history at the University of Roehampton who provided an intriguing exploration of Roman and Greek social etiquette, including the dinner party, and how this compared with behaviour today.

Sydenham High Headmistress Mrs Katharine Woodcock said: “At Sydenham High we see the Humanities subjects as vital in education: exciting to study and key to understanding humanity itself. With increasing interest in learning about Philosophy, Religion and Ethics, History, Government and Politics, Geography and Classics, we felt the time was right to create a specific day of celebration for the Humanities that would draw interest from a range of senior schools in the area. I am delighted that so many of our neighbouring schools sent delegates.”

Dr Sarah Wallace, Head of History at Sydenham High, who organised the symposium, said: “All our speakers have built their careers from an extended study of one or more Humanity subjects and their workshops and seminars were designed to extend students’ knowledge of and curiosity about these exciting subjects and what you can do with them post-GCSE.”

 
Awards celebrate Sydenham High's Performing Arts stars

The 2017 Performing Arts Awards evening at Sydenham High Senior School, which took place on 26 April, proved even bigger and better than last year’s inaugural event. With 180 people attending to celebrate the successes in the Music, Dance and Drama departments over the past year, it was an exciting evening of performances as well as awards for outstanding achievement in the arts.

The evening started with a dynamic performance from the Senior Street Dance Company, choreographed by Kira Bishop from Pineapple Dance Studios, who also attended the dinner. This was shortly followed by the school’s Big Band, who performed highlights from the film Ratatouille, and the Serenata singers who showcased two traditional songs: Pastime With Good Company by Coombes and IIlka Moor (arr Neaum).

The audience were then treated to a duologue from two year 10 actors - Sally Prifti and Sophia Michael - entitled Time, which they had recently performed for their LAMDA exam. The performances concluded with the wonderful Les Miserables Choir who treated guests to a barricade-storming medley of songs from the musical, which wowed the audience.

 

Performances and dinner over, it was time for the guest of honour, Sydenham High alumna the stage and screen actor Emily Joyce, to speak and present the awards. Emily started by praising the exceptional record of performing arts that has built up at the school over the last ten years. Having explained how in her first professional engagement at Stratford upon Avon she experienced the incredible impact that a play can have on an audience, she offered a strong case for supporting the performing arts. ”They are important because we need people who can express empathy, compassion and understanding of how the world works. They can also distract us or show us our dreams. And they form a multi-billion pound industry which provides many, many jobs.”

Emily then presented the awards which celebrated progress and achievement in Music, Dance and Drama across senior school key stages plus an overall award in each category. Rebecca Kent (year 13) won the Sydenham High School Young Musician of the Year award; Alice Nicholson (year 11) picked up Dancer of the Year and Lili Morgan (year 8) took home the trophy for Actor of the Year. The top award of the evening went to Lauren Lawrence (year 10 - pictured) who received the Kathryn Pullen Performance Award for outstanding all round achievement in Music, Dance and Drama.

“There have been so many highlights across the performing arts this year: from our tenth anniversary dance show in December to the Shakespeare for Schools festival last term and our recent involvement in UDance London and at the Women Making Waves project at the Maritime Museum’s Queen’s House, plus so much more in between,” said Head of Drama Laura Yandell. “Congratulations to all of our award winners and to all students who have taken part in any of our performing arts events this year and worked hard in lessons. We look forward to celebrating again next year.”

The Awards dinner was kindly sponsored by School Travel Organiser magazine, the market leading provider of quality information on curriculum linked school travel and out-of-the-classroom learning experiences.  It is also the organiser of the annual School Travel Awards. www.schooltravelorganiser.com

 
Google takes Sydenham High to virtual infinity and beyond! Westwood Hill school amongst first to trial Google’s virtual expeditions

Today (Wednesday 28 September) students at Sydenham High were able to travel millions of miles in minutes to see Mars, the Moon and more earthly wonders such as Machu Picchu – all without leaving the school.

This was no elaborate Britain’s Got Talent magic trick; Sydenham High’s students were in fact amongst the first in the country to try out Google’s latest innovation: the Google Expeditions Pioneer Programme.

As well as exploring space, students from Year 7 to Year 13 used the virtual reality programme to tour the Palace of Versailles, visit the Galapagos Islands, go inside a volcano and take an anatomy class.

Google Expeditions allows teachers to take their classes on virtual field trips, immersing them in experiences that bring abstract concepts to life and giving them a deeper understanding of the world beyond the classroom.

The Google Expeditions pack includes everything needed to travel: a tablet for the teacher plus a phone with a unique viewer for every student. The teacher selects the destination and the entire classroom jumps there automatically.

Each trip is a collection of virtual reality panoramas – 360 degrees photo spheres, 3D images and video with ambient sound – annotated with details, points of interest and questions so that they can be easily and quickly integrated into the curriculum.

 

 

Year 11 students going to Moscow in VR!
Year 11 students going to Moscow in VR!

The expedition viewer is a breakthrough in itself; literally made from cardboard, it allows anyone with a modern smartphone to experience virtual reality.

The programmes have been created in collaboration with a number of organisations including the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Planetary Society and the American Museum of Natural History.

“It’s been a wonderful opportunity to be amongst the very first schools in the UK to test out this amazing new technology,” said Mathew Llewellin, Digital Learning Co-ordinator and physics teacher. “Whilst nothing is going to replace taking students on an actual field trip, the Google Expeditions Programmes gave our students a unique opportunity to visit distant places on demand to enrich their learning experience using the very latest VR techniques.”

 

 

 
Sydenham High sixth formers count their lucky stars! A level results day brings record haul of top grades

 

Sydenham High sixth formers are celebrating a record haul of A level A* and A grades, along with a raft of prized university places, following the release of today’s exam results.

Almost half of all grades (45.1 per cent) were either A* or A – nearly twice the level achieved in 2015 - helping students to secure places at a range of top universities including Oxford, Manchester, Warwick and Leeds. Topics of study include engineering, maths, pharmacy and chemistry.

Along with a one hundred per cent pass rate, over 80 per cent of grades were A*-B and 92.7% were A*-C.

The strongest subject performances were in Physics, Further Maths, French, Business Studies and Design Technology where one hundred per cent of pupils gained an A*/A.

Sydenham High’s talented drama students and mathematicians also took centre stage with 86 per cent A*/As in Theatre Studies, while 83.3 per cent of Maths passes were also A*/A.

Amongst the highest achieving students were Savandhi Goonasekera and Gabrielle Mallet.  Gabrielle gained A*s and As, including A* for her Extended Project Qualification, and will be taking up a place at Queen’s College, Oxford, to read Japanese & Korean.  She hopes to pursue a career in international relations in the future and is planning to study Mandarin in her spare time! Savandhi gained A* A* A in Maths, Further Maths and Physics.  She is going on to study Maths at university. 

Also celebrating was Orlane Doumbe, who joined Sydenham High’s Sixth Form after receiving a sought-after joint school and HSBC Global Education Scholarship.  She achieved straight As in Maths, Chemistry and French, and is heading to Manchester to read Chemistry.

Two Art students have also secured places on prestigious Foundation courses at Central Saint Martins and Camberwell College of Art.

Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said: “We’re immensely proud of each and every student. These are tremendous achievements to celebrate.  They are their passports to take the next steps into their futures - at university and beyond, and they reflect both the girls’ hard work and the dedication and inspiration of their teachers.”

Sydenham High leads call for new safe crossing on Westwood Hill
 

Thursday 5 May: As Londoners went to the polls to vote for a new London Mayor and Assembly, the students, parents, staff and neighbours of Sydenham High School called on the successful candidates to press Lewisham Council to provide a safer road crossing on Westwood Hill.

The busy crossing point outside the school, which also leads to Kirkdale’s shops, Wells Park and other local amenities, lost its School Crossing Patrol Officer at Easter and, despite advertising by Lewisham Council, no candidates have come forward.

When the previous patrol officer retired in 2014 it took 12 months to recruit a replacement.  Whilst the Council has promised to continue the latest search, the school and its supporters - including the Sydenham Society and Sydenham Assembly member and school governor Angela Hall – now believe that the time has come to demand a permanent controlled crossing to protect the children and adults who regularly have to cross this very busy road.

Lewisham Council has so far rejected the idea of a fixed crossing, citing a lack of accidents and the fact that there is a zebra crossing at Cobbs Corner – some 5-10 minutes further down the hill so not in the least relevant.

The school’s own research shows that in addition to many of its 600 pupils, children from both St Bartholomew’s CoE Primary School, Sydenham Girls’ School, and The Peak use the crossing along with staff and local residents heading down Longton Grove to Kirkdale and beyond.

Sydenham High’s Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen can’t understand the Council’s reticence:  “There is a raised platform and a pelican crossing outside Sydenham Girls School on Dartmouth Road – so why not here? We’ve avoided casualties so far but, given the volume and speed of traffic going down Westwood Hill and the behaviour of some motorists, we are extremely concerned that it’s only a matter of time before we have a serious incident.  We shouldn’t have to wait until that happens to expect protection for our children, staff and neighbours.”

Sophia Michael, aged 13 and a student at Sydenham High, said: “We really need a proper crossing for everyone’s safety.  I’ve myself witnessed some close shaves when girls are crossing the road.  It would be a lot more reassuring if we had lights there.”

Pat Trembath, who chairs the Sydenham Society, said: “As a local resident I’m very aware that vehicles coming down the hill, including buses, regularly exceed the speed limit, even at times when children are on their way to and from school.”

 

 

Angela Hall, who is a member of the Sydenham Assembly as well as a school governor, echoed this concern.  “A Safer Streets speed watch on Westwood Hill between 8am and 9.30am on 15 April logged no less than 103 cars exceeding the speed limit – some at more than 40mph.

She continued: “All other schools on main roads and bus routes within the borough have been given a controlled crossing so it should be the case here too. And it isn’t just a matter of the people crossing at school arrival and departure times; it’s a concern for the community as a whole including children and families who may want to cross Westwood Hill to access the shops and both Wells Park and Crystal Palace Park outside school time when a school crossing patrol officer wouldn’t be on duty.”

Sydenham High School has started a petition on Change.org which has already attracted over 500 signatures and many messages of support in just a couple of weeks. This week’s mass gathering on the hill aimed to gather further support and publicity for the petition.

To sign the petition, go to:

https://www.change.org/p/liz-brooker-lewisham-gov-uk-provide-a-safe-road-crossing-on-westwood-hill

or write directly to Councillor Chris Best at Lewisham BC.

 

 

 

Powerful experience for STEM students in sustainable hot spot

 

Sustainability is a buzz word across every aspect of our lives these days but it is being given particular importance in encouraging the next generation of female engineers, as girls at Sydenham High School GDST have been finding out.

During last term, girls from the South London school were part of a group of 35 Girls’ Day School Trust students visiting Wildpoldsried in Bavaria to study for a Level 3 Award in the Rational Use of Renewable Energy.

The trip, funded by Erasmus+, was led and delivered by Sasie Ltd and German partners Christiani GmbH, with support from School Energy Efficiency CIC. The aim of the trip was to encourage women into STEM careers and university choices, with a focus on renewable energy and sustainability.

Wildpoldsried was the perfect base for the educational experience as the village generates 600 per cent of its annual electricity demand through renewable integrated technologies such as: biogas plants, wind turbines, district heating system, biomass and combined heat and power plants.

Students began the trip by constructing their very own mini solar PV system inside a case (pictured), under the expert guidance of the solar case manufacturers Christiani GmbH. Daily trips extended to local universities and colleges, a waste combustion plant, hydroelectric power plants, Elektro Guggenmoos GmbH, Sonnenbatterie GmbH and the construction of a brand new 150m wind turbine.

 

Teaching and qualification material was supplemented with inspirational talks and interactive presentations from organisations such as 2041, 5 Gyres and Barefoot College. Students are now engaged within a variety of campaigns related to human impact on the environment, which they will take back to their school communities.

“Having always learned from a book, being actually able to come and see these technologies in practice have made me realise that the age of the renewables is now and not just a strategy for the future,”  said Year 12 Sydenham High student Greta Holmes.

Head of Science at Sydenham High, Janie Tilley said: “This trip has given our students experiences beyond the classroom.  They have developed their skills as independent learners through this university-style learning method.  In addition, the unique opportunity of Q&A over Skype with inspirational speakers at the cutting edge of sustainable development has broadened their horizons and understanding of the opportunities available to them.” 

Sydenham High STANDS UP TO CANCER

Campaign champion Kirstie Allsopp joins fundraising activities

Sydenham High’s Year 11 science class gained an extra eager member on Friday morning when Stand Up To Cancer ambassador Kirstie Allsopp joined them for a lesson about the disease.

The Channel 4 Location, Location, Location presenter was at the school to help pupils and staff join forces to Stand Up To Cancer and raise crucial cash for life-saving research.

Everyone dressed in orange for the day and took part in a range of fundraising activities including: a sponsored ‘Stand Up’ in lessons, a mass Zumbathon and a bake sale, all in aid of Stand Up To Cancer. 

More than 600 pupils and 150 staff at the school took part in the fundraising with the aim of raising £1,000 for the cause.  To date, their activities have raised an amazing £2,779 – almost triple the target - with more activity planned in the coming week in the form of a series of ‘stand up’ performances.

Kirstie attended the school’s morning Assembly where, alongside Director of Stand Up To Cancer Claire Rowney, she told the whole school how important their contribution was in helping ensure that the next generation’s lives are not blighted by cancer.

Kirstie then joined a science class examining the origins of cancer and encouraged the girls to think about choosing a career in scientific research to help find cancer cures.

After joining the girls in a quiz on the risk factors that can contribute to cancer, Kirstie visited the school’s cookery suite to help Bake Club members complete orange-themed cakes and pastries for a lunchtime bake sale.

 

Her final appointment was an interview with two of the school’s young reporters – Louisa Hanton and Isabel Helszajn-Jewett.  Kirstie explained how her own family experience of cancer (her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when Kirstie was in her teens and her sister, given their family history of cancer, has had a preventative mastectomy) is at the heart of her passionate desire to raise awareness and funds.   The more money raised, she told the girls, the more scientists can be employed in research and the sooner kinder treatments and cures can be found.

Lunchtime brought a cake sale with lots of tasty orange creations and then a mass Zumbathon, held outside in the sunshine on the school’s Astroturf.

The full day’s activities were also filmed as part of a 12-hour Stand Up To Cancer event, being streamed live on YouTube on Saturday 17 October.

A joint fundraising campaign from Cancer Research UK and Channel 4, Stand Up To Cancer aims to raise money to fund vital research that will get new and better treatments to cancer patients faster. 

By joining Stand Up To Cancer, pupils and teachers at Sydenham High united with doctors, nurses, scientists and celebrities to generate funds, raise awareness and bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

One in two people in the UK will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Stand Up To Cancer aims to raise money to accelerate ground-breaking research to help more people survive and ensure more families stay together. 

Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said: “We’re so proud that our pupils will be joining an army of fundraisers across the UK in helping to raise funds for Stand Up To Cancer. We have a proud tradition of charitable action.  The whole school will be taking part in the fundraising activities so it will be a real team effort and we hope to raise as much money as possible for such an important cause.

“Most of us know someone who has been touched by cancer and we all have our special reasons for taking part.”

To help the school prepare, teachers used a schools’ resource kit, specially created by the charity, which includes lesson plans, an assembly pack and fundraising materials.

 

 

 

To support their fundraising, Sydenham High has set up a JustGiving page and JustTextGiving code.  To donate please visit:  - https://www.justgiving.com/Sydenham-High-School-GDST/

and go to the Stand Up To Cancer campaign page.  Alternatively, text: SYDH87 £3 to 70070.

Jazz concert showcases young musical talent

To hear some of London’s most talented young jazz musicians playing live head down to St James’ Church, Beckenham, on Saturday 27 June at 7.00pm.

 

The all-girl Sydenham High Jazz Collective will be making their first public appearance outside the school at the concert and sharing the stage with the renowned National Youth Jazz Orchestra London.

 

Both groups are directed by the award-winning jazz saxophonist Phil Meadows and will be playing an exciting programme of popular and traditional jazz pieces.

 

The concert takes place at St James’ Church, St James Avenue, Beckenham, BR3 4HF at 7.00pm on Saturday 27 June. Tickets £5 at the door. Children go free.

Sydenham High Head says no careers should be off-limits to girls

Gender stereotypes still influence perceptions of many jobs and careers, potentially causing girls to curtail their ambition so schools have an important role to play in challenging this situation.

That was the message today from Dr Colin Laverick, Acting Headteacher of leading independent girls’ school Sydenham High, in advance of the Annual Conference of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) in London on Wednesday 10 June.

“Do a search online for images of chief executives, or surgeons, or judges,” said Dr Laverick, “and you don’t see many women. Do a similar search for images of nurses, carers or personal assistants, and it will come as no surprise that there aren’t many men to be seen. These sorts of stereotypes permeate our national and global culture, and children can’t help but subconsciously absorb them.”

Sydenham High is perfectly placed to nurture girls’ interests and ambitions in a supportive yet challenging environment. “The education we provide is about more than exams; it’s designed to build resilient and resourceful women who see what they want and go out to get it,” said Dr Laverick. “Right across the school we highlight and celebrate the achievements of notable women in history, science and maths plus our own alumnae and show our girls that anything is possible.”

“It’s important that we consciously challenge stereotype assumptions,” added Dr Laverick. “Raising awareness of different jobs at an early age enables girls to imagine themselves in a full range of roles, and not limit their horizons too early or too readily.”  The school’s career and PSHE programmes robustly address this.  In fact the Junior School’s latest co-curricular programme, Flourish and Fly, is designed to ensure girls are equipped to look beyond real or perceived obstacles to reach their full potential and aspire to any career they wish. Each half term has taken on one of the four Girls’ Day School Trust values – Be Bold; Girls First; Be Principled and Networked – as its theme, culminating in a week of activities, challenges and speaker visits to bring that particular value to life.

The current Flourish and Fly theme of ‘being networked’ is also at the heart of this year's GDST Annual Conference which is entitled: ‘Circles of Influence – enhancing employability and creating a culture of networking’. Delegates will also hear from speakers including Sacha Romanovitch, CEO-elect of Grant Thornton UK LLP and a panel of GDST heads and students – all of whom will address the issue and its implications for girls, women and wider society.

“Girls should feel that all doors are open to them,” concluded Dr Laverick, “and that’s what we’ll be discussing in our conference this week. If they feel they can achieve anything they set their mind to, before they come into contact with unhelpful stereotypes, they’ll be less likely to be swayed by them. When it comes to their careers, I’m proud that Sydenham High girls write their own rules.”

Open Days

Prep School Taster Sessions

Wednesday 1 November, 9am-10am (4+)

Tuesday 31 October, 1.45pm-3pm (7+)

Prep School Open Morning

Wednesday 8 November, 9.30am-10.30am

Senior School Taster Mornings

Thursday 2 November, 9am-12.30pm

Monday 6 November, 9am-12.30pm (year 7)

Senior School Open Morning

Thursday 9 November, 9.30am-11.30am

Register on their website.

Private tours 

Email admissions@syd.gdst.net to book.

sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

 

Sydenham High School crowned Mock Trial winners for the second year running

Two years in a row, Sydenham High School pupils have proven they have what it takes to put outperform their opposition in a real crown court, assessed by criminal court judges, as part of the prestigious Mock Trial active learning experience.

On Saturday 21 January 2023, after four months of hard work and preparation, 17 Year 10 and 12 pupils travelled to the Inner Crown Court in London to participate in the Independent School Mock Trial competition for the region. Young Citizens has run this active learning experience for many years, providing exposure to the judicial system, its venues and legal professionals.

This extremely prestigious competition involves pupils taking on most of the roles in a courtroom, from barristers and witnesses, to ushers, clerks and jury members, trying specially written cases and being assessed on the day by real criminal court judges. The scoring is based on criteria such as clarity, quality of arguments, accuracy, non-reliance on notes and timekeeping.

Facing stiff opposition from some of the leading schools in the region, after a tough series of rounds, pupils were delighted to make it to the final. Despite some understandable nerves when they realised the case would be overseen by no fewer than three judges, the pupils were articulate and confident and carried out their roles brilliantly.

After a tense wait the school was delighted to be announced regional winners for the second year in a row and is very proud of this cohort of budding lawyers, barristers and judges!

Maya, Year 12 said:

"It was really enjoyable. Particularly being in a real crown court with actual judges, it made it feel like an authentic experience. It was really challenging but rewarding. I have learned much about the legal system and has deepened my interest in a career in law”.

Head, Antonia Geldeard commented:

"I am very proud of our pupils for what they have achieved, for a second year, beating such strong opponents and making the most of this taste of the intricacies of the legal profession. Participating in the mock trial is a wonderful opportunity to develop confidence, independent research and public speaking skills - all of which are incredibly valuable throughout life."

22.02.2022: Celebrating 135 years of first-class education

Since the first 20 pupils entered its doors in 1887, Sydenham High School’s first-class education has enshrined the values and determination of its four pioneering founders; Maria Grey, Mary Gurney, Emily Shirreff and Lady Stanley of Alderley. The school motto of “fear nothing” emboldens pupils as they forge their own path through life, actively encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, developing both independence of mind and the courage to take risks. This mentality allows every pupil to develop academic enthusiasm, an enquiring mind and the ability and awareness to stand up for what is right.

History shows Sydenham High’s ability to overcome adversity, from its evacuation to Brighton during World War II to the devastating fire in 1997. Alumnae have become climate change consultants, doctors, authors, scientists, artists, Grammy Award-winning musicians and even a horse-racing icon. Whatever they chose to be, they did so by remaining true to themselves even if that meant going against the grain. 

In celebrating 135 years, Sydenham High remembers and appreciates all those who came before, while feeling empowered to innovate, inspire and create a new history that can last for 135 more!

 

Sydenham girl masterminds UK wide STEM Challenge

Monday 12thMarch saw 150 guests and five special guest judges gather for a fantastic evening in the Longton Hall at Sydenham High School, all in the name of the #700STEMChallenge. There has been much in the press lately about the gender gap in STEM and lack of girls participating in these subjects, but not at Sydenham High! This entire event was masterminded, and executed, by Year 12 pupil, Annabelle Simmonds, outside of her already demanding timetable for A Level Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry. As you can see, she has a passion for STEM subjects!

“The #700STEMChallenge is my proudest project, with the final exceeding all expectations of what I originally had imagined it would be. All of the judges and guest speakers gave such inspirational speeches and for that I am so grateful. It was a night that I will never forget and a competition that I hope will be continued for many years to come.”

38 finalists, hailing from nine different schools across the UK, congregated in eager anticipation to hear the results of their entries into the competition. Year 7-13 pupils from schools across the UK had been invited to enter, calling them to write an article of 700 words on a topic related to one of four categories: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, and the finalists were selected within three sub-categories: under 14, under 16 and under 18. The judges all commented on the extraordinary level of knowledge from the entrants; the finalists did incredibly well as there were over 250 applications, all of which were judged on style, creativity and content. 

 

The event was a great success, with presentations from the judges1describing their career paths, encouraging girls, as well as boys, to follow their passion for STEM, and the importance of choosing a pathway that is right for you, whether that be university or an apprenticeship. The audience thoroughly enjoyed hearing from our special guests before the winners were announced and the prizes were awarded, including a tour of the Engineering department at a major London airport and a copy of A Brief History of Time signed by the late Professor Stephen Hawking. All the articles will be published in a journal later in the year.

Headmistress, Mrs Katharine Woodcock, said: “We are bursting with pride for all that Annabelle has achieved in creating and running this event. She is an inspiration not only to her peers, but to us as educators and professionals, and I am delighted to see the enthusiasm for STEM developing in our next generation of young women.”

 

1.     The judges were Captain Al Bridger, Chief Pilot Boeing fleet, British Airways, Matthew Gardner, Engineer at British Airways, Rachel Thomas, Writer and editor, specialising in mathematics and science communication, Carrie Bennett, a 22 year old Audit Senior and Chartered Accountant at Ernst & Young, Jade Garner, a 19 year old Business Apprentice, Ernst & Young.

School rowers pull together for tumour survivor’s Transatlantic record bid

Sydenham High School’s rowers are travelling 3000 miles without leaving London to support a Cushing's disease survivor's Transatlantic record attempt and raise money for King's College Hospital.

 

Sydenham High School’s rowers are pulling together for a very special charity world record attempt by rower and Cushing’s disease survivor Kiko Matthews. Kiko is raising money for the new critical care unit at King’s College Hospital by attempting to become the fastest female to cross the Atlantic solo and unsupported. The team from Sydenham High is aiming to raise £1,000 for her cause by rowing a total of 3,000 miles in training - the actual distance Kiko will be rowing in January (minus the Atlantic's 40ft waves!)

Since her 2009 diagnosis of a rare and life-threatening disease, Kiko’s life has been saved not once but twice by the doctors and nurses at King’s. To thank the South London hospital, and challenge herself, Kiko decided to use her love of rowing to raise money for the new unit, which will help save many more lives in the future.

More than 25 rowers, including captain of boats Phoebe and year 12 rowing scholar Darcy, have been taking to the school’s ergo machines, to add to their river training, to clock up the necessary miles and reach their sponsorship target.

Kiko herself joined them on the river for a training session and was paired with 16-year old rower Elena.  Afterwards Kiko announced on Twitter: "Having a year 11 girl in charge and showing me the ropes was awesome. Totally loved my afternoon."

The Sydenham High team was inspired to support Kiko after she was the guest speaker at senior school prize giving in July.  They are one of one hundred female supporters and groups being recruited by Kiko through her 100TogetHER fundraising campaign.

In fact, when Kiko sets off on her journey she will not exactly be alone; the images of all her 100TogetHER supporters, including the Sydenham High rowers, will cover the inside of her tiny cabin to inspire her to keep going and achieve her goal when times get tough.

Only five women have ever crossed the Atlantic solo. Kiko is not only aiming to add her name to this prestigious list; she has also set herself the goal of making her crossing in just 45 days – 11 days faster than the current French female record holder.  Sydenham High’s rowers will be right there with her, willing her to succeed.

“I am delighted to have Sydenham High rowers on board with me,” said Kiko.  “This challenge is about them too; it proves that anyone can attempt anything given the right attitude, belief and support. I want to use my story to inspire women to challenge themselves on many levels. Whether a physical, social or mental challenge, recognising the journey and developments you make, is key to developing confidence and independence.”

“It was a privilege to hear Kiko’s inspirational story in July,” said Headmistress Katharine Woodcock.  “Kiko certainly embodies our motto of 'Fear Nothing' and we are very proud to be supporting her on her amazing journey for such a worthy cause.“

Rowing has been going from strength to strength at Sydenham High and is now one of its most popular sport options.  From a half dozen rowers two years ago, the school is now accredited with GB rowing and has over 40 students from year 9 to year 13 actively enjoying the sport each week.  A senior crew recently had the privilege of rowing the Queen’s barge Gloriana alongside a crew from Dulwich College.

To find out more about the 100TogetHER campaign and Kiko's story, visit her website at: http://www.kikomatthews.co.uk/100together/

STEM success for Sydenham High

 

Sydenham High’s GCSE results hit new heights this Summer with an increase in top grades for the second year running.

An excellent performance in Biology, Chemistry and Physics has contributed to over 34.9 per cent of all grades being A* and 61 per cent being A* or A.  In total 94.7 per cent of grades were A*-C. Over 80 per cent of all three science results were A* or A with a record 96 per cent in Biology, 95 per cent in Physics and 82 per cent in Chemistry. Ten students opened their envelopes to find they had scored a full house of A*s and As across all subjects, meanwhile a further six students achieved 10 or more A*s.

Dozens of sixth formers are also celebrating their A Level results and a raft of university places including Edinburgh, York, Manchester, King’s College and Queen Mary’s London for courses from Mechanical Engineering and Biochemistry to English Literature and Classics. More than half of all grades (57.4 per cent) were A*-B and 25% were A*/A. Again the best performing subjects included all three sciences, and a record number of six students secure coveted places on Art Foundation courses.

Celebrating the most, however, was sixth former Ella Howard who thought she might never be able to take her A Levels as she suffers from a rare congenital bone condition.  Ella successfully gained two A Levels and a university place.

Sydenham High’s new Headmistress Katharine Woodcock said: “Congratulations to all our pupils on their results. We are extremely proud of the girls and their strong performance is testament to their hard work and that of their teachers. Well done to all.”

 

Sydenham High rowers take seats on Queen's barge Gloriana

Blades of glory:

 

Five Sydenham High senior rowers had a royal experience at the ForeShore Festival last weekend (Saturday 23 September).

They received the exciting invitation to join Dulwich College's senior rowers in taking the oars of the Queen's beautiful ceremonial barge, The Gloriana, and had the honour to row her on the Thames at the annual river event at Putney.

The conditions were perfect - sunny, warm and calm - and the girls rowed in perfect rhythm with their DC counterparts from the bow of the barge.

The Gloriana is a 90-foot-long (27 m) British row barge. She was privately commissioned as a tribute to the Queen for her Diamond Jubilee, and was the lead vessel in the Diamond Jubilee Pageant which took place on the Thames in 2012.

The girls thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and it will serve as an inspiration to all 42 school rowers in years 9-13 as they get started with their training this term.

 

Sydenham High Symposium celebrates modern relevance of the Humanities

Famous authors and poets joined forces with eminent university lecturers and politicians at Sydenham High School GDST on Thursday 22 June, to celebrate the fundamental value and modern relevance of studying the Humanities at the first Sydenham Symposium.

Over 70 senior school pupils from Blackheath High, St Olave’s in Orpington, Bishop Thomas Grant in Streatham, Dulwich College and Elmgreen School West Norwood, as well as from Sydenham High, took part in the day of workshops and talks to celebrate the value of Humanities subjects and to demonstrate what areas of study and careers they can lead to post-GCSE.

The Sydenham Symposium: A Humanities Festival was opened by Helen Hayes, MP for Dulwich and West Norwood. Ms Hayes, who is a geographer, told the audience of pupils from year 10 to year 12 that the Humanities provide vital perspective on our increasingly complex world, whether we are looking to examine the motivations of past leaders, the interactions between physical and human geography or the reasons for a particular ethical standpoint.  They enable us to move forward by learning from the lessons of the past.

A top line-up of guest speakers ran a series of workshops and talks throughout the day.  Best-selling historical mystery author Caroline Lawrence explored the hero’s journey in Greek and Roman myth and how this is used in modern film plots such as Star Wars. In contrast, author and director David Stuttard provided a fully immersive workshop exploring the differences between modern and Greek drama including recreating a Greek chorus in Ancient Greek. Poet and fiction writer Lydia Syson, examined the story of the forgotten women of the Paris Commune in the era of Les Miserables and eminent philosophy lecturer Dr John Tillson, from the University of Warwick, got students thinking about whether it is wrong to simulate wrong-doing in modern computer and video games.

 

The day ended with a plenary session delivered by Dr Kathryn Tempest, lecturer in Latin literature and Roman history at the University of Roehampton who provided an intriguing exploration of Roman and Greek social etiquette, including the dinner party, and how this compared with behaviour today.

Sydenham High Headmistress Mrs Katharine Woodcock said: “At Sydenham High we see the Humanities subjects as vital in education: exciting to study and key to understanding humanity itself. With increasing interest in learning about Philosophy, Religion and Ethics, History, Government and Politics, Geography and Classics, we felt the time was right to create a specific day of celebration for the Humanities that would draw interest from a range of senior schools in the area. I am delighted that so many of our neighbouring schools sent delegates.”

Dr Sarah Wallace, Head of History at Sydenham High, who organised the symposium, said: “All our speakers have built their careers from an extended study of one or more Humanity subjects and their workshops and seminars were designed to extend students’ knowledge of and curiosity about these exciting subjects and what you can do with them post-GCSE.”

 
Outstanding science results aid GCSE grade rise at Sydenham High

Sydenham High’s GCSE results have hit new heights with an increase in top grades for the second year running.

An excellent performance in Biology, Chemistry and Physics at Sydenham High has contributed to over 34.9 per cent of all grades being A* and 61 per cent being A* or A.  In total 94.7 per cent of grades were A*-C.

Over 80 per cent of all three science results were A* or A with a record 96 percent in Biology, 95 per cent in Physics and 82 percent in Chemistry.

 

Tia, Ellen, Alanna and Annabelle celebrate their A*/A grades
Tia, Ellen, Alanna and Annabelle celebrate their A*/A grades

Ten students opened their envelopes to find they had scored a full house of A*s and As across all their subjects, meanwhile a further seven students achieved 10 or more A*s. 

Congratulations to: Phoebe, Sasha, Laura, Laure, Jamie, Dora, Martha, Isabella, Jade, Pearl, Tia , Maddie, Annabelle, Tara, Shumi, Ellen and Alanna,

Headmistress Katharine Woodcock said: “Congratulations to all our year 11 pupils on their excellent GCSE results. We are extremely proud of the girls and their strong performance is testament to their hard work and that of their teachers. Well done to all.”

 
Dramatic results: Mary, Emily and Liberty celebrate their drama results with Head of Drama Miss Yandell (second from left)
Dramatic results: Mary, Emily and Liberty celebrate their drama results with Head of Drama Miss Yandell (second from left)
Awards celebrate Sydenham High's Performing Arts stars

The 2017 Performing Arts Awards evening at Sydenham High Senior School, which took place on 26 April, proved even bigger and better than last year’s inaugural event. With 180 people attending to celebrate the successes in the Music, Dance and Drama departments over the past year, it was an exciting evening of performances as well as awards for outstanding achievement in the arts.

The evening started with a dynamic performance from the Senior Street Dance Company, choreographed by Kira Bishop from Pineapple Dance Studios, who also attended the dinner. This was shortly followed by the school’s Big Band, who performed highlights from the film Ratatouille, and the Serenata singers who showcased two traditional songs: Pastime With Good Company by Coombes and IIlka Moor (arr Neaum).

The audience were then treated to a duologue from two year 10 actors - Sally Prifti and Sophia Michael - entitled Time, which they had recently performed for their LAMDA exam. The performances concluded with the wonderful Les Miserables Choir who treated guests to a barricade-storming medley of songs from the musical, which wowed the audience.

 

Performances and dinner over, it was time for the guest of honour, Sydenham High alumna the stage and screen actor Emily Joyce, to speak and present the awards. Emily started by praising the exceptional record of performing arts that has built up at the school over the last ten years. Having explained how in her first professional engagement at Stratford upon Avon she experienced the incredible impact that a play can have on an audience, she offered a strong case for supporting the performing arts. ”They are important because we need people who can express empathy, compassion and understanding of how the world works. They can also distract us or show us our dreams. And they form a multi-billion pound industry which provides many, many jobs.”

Emily then presented the awards which celebrated progress and achievement in Music, Dance and Drama across senior school key stages plus an overall award in each category. Rebecca Kent (year 13) won the Sydenham High School Young Musician of the Year award; Alice Nicholson (year 11) picked up Dancer of the Year and Lili Morgan (year 8) took home the trophy for Actor of the Year. The top award of the evening went to Lauren Lawrence (year 10 - pictured) who received the Kathryn Pullen Performance Award for outstanding all round achievement in Music, Dance and Drama.

“There have been so many highlights across the performing arts this year: from our tenth anniversary dance show in December to the Shakespeare for Schools festival last term and our recent involvement in UDance London and at the Women Making Waves project at the Maritime Museum’s Queen’s House, plus so much more in between,” said Head of Drama Laura Yandell. “Congratulations to all of our award winners and to all students who have taken part in any of our performing arts events this year and worked hard in lessons. We look forward to celebrating again next year.”

The Awards dinner was kindly sponsored by School Travel Organiser magazine, the market leading provider of quality information on curriculum linked school travel and out-of-the-classroom learning experiences.  It is also the organiser of the annual School Travel Awards. www.schooltravelorganiser.com

 
Sixth formers’ winning kitchen idea is a chop above the rest

Sixth formers from Sydenham High have served up a top kitchen idea that’s a chop above the rest for their entry in this year’s Young Enterprise scheme.

Lola, Jana, Melissa, Ella, Biba and Lauren, all in Year 12, with their team colleagues at Dulwich College, have developed an innovative chopping board that cleverly solves the perennial kitchen problem of separating prepared food from waste.

Made from anti-bacterial plastic, the ChopAway board has a detachable bowl to catch food waste for easy disposal.  It fits neatly over the edge of any worktop and has non-slip feet to prevent movement.

The innovative board has already helped the team become Central London finalists in the Young Enterprise competition.  It has also won the approval of Sydenham High’s catering team, who have ordered four of the chopping boards to help them prepare the school’s meals.

The team came up with the idea of a chopping board with extra functionality after experiencing food preparation issues in their home kitchens. Having tried various different solutions, they hit on the concept of a detachable section. Prototypes were commissioned and market research conducted with friends and family plus Christmas fairs where the team tested product appeal and price points before a deal was struck with a supplier. The team raised the initial funds to pay for their stock by face painting at events and selling decorated T-shirts and sweets.

 

“It’s been an amazing experience - from getting our initial funding to commissioning the prototypes and haggling with the manufacturer for the best deal to pitching our product in front of top business people in the Young Enterprise heats,” said Lauren Hare, who is ChopAway’s joint-sales director (pictured far left in the top photo). “We’ve all learned a lot along the way including working in a team. And we’re really proud of our product and seeing people use it.”

“I’m incredibly proud of the team and what they have achieved,” said Sydenham High’s new Headmistress Mrs Katharine Woodcock. “Not only have they come up with an exciting and marketable business idea, they have been learning key skills which will prepare them for future employment.”

ChopAway has used social media – Twitter and Instagram - as well as a website to promote their clever product.  They have also taken stands at trade fairs, shopping centres and markets such as Spitalfields.

The ChopAway board comes in a choice of four bright colours: blue, green, pink or yellow.  Priced at £11.99, it is available to order online from www.chopaway.co.uk  Follow them on Twitter: @Chopaway_

Google takes Sydenham High to virtual infinity and beyond! Westwood Hill school amongst first to trial Google’s virtual expeditions

Today (Wednesday 28 September) students at Sydenham High were able to travel millions of miles in minutes to see Mars, the Moon and more earthly wonders such as Machu Picchu – all without leaving the school.

This was no elaborate Britain’s Got Talent magic trick; Sydenham High’s students were in fact amongst the first in the country to try out Google’s latest innovation: the Google Expeditions Pioneer Programme.

As well as exploring space, students from Year 7 to Year 13 used the virtual reality programme to tour the Palace of Versailles, visit the Galapagos Islands, go inside a volcano and take an anatomy class.

Google Expeditions allows teachers to take their classes on virtual field trips, immersing them in experiences that bring abstract concepts to life and giving them a deeper understanding of the world beyond the classroom.

The Google Expeditions pack includes everything needed to travel: a tablet for the teacher plus a phone with a unique viewer for every student. The teacher selects the destination and the entire classroom jumps there automatically.

Each trip is a collection of virtual reality panoramas – 360 degrees photo spheres, 3D images and video with ambient sound – annotated with details, points of interest and questions so that they can be easily and quickly integrated into the curriculum.

 

 

Year 11 students going to Moscow in VR!
Year 11 students going to Moscow in VR!

The expedition viewer is a breakthrough in itself; literally made from cardboard, it allows anyone with a modern smartphone to experience virtual reality.

The programmes have been created in collaboration with a number of organisations including the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Planetary Society and the American Museum of Natural History.

“It’s been a wonderful opportunity to be amongst the very first schools in the UK to test out this amazing new technology,” said Mathew Llewellin, Digital Learning Co-ordinator and physics teacher. “Whilst nothing is going to replace taking students on an actual field trip, the Google Expeditions Programmes gave our students a unique opportunity to visit distant places on demand to enrich their learning experience using the very latest VR techniques.”

 

 

 
Rising GCSE stars at Sydenham High GCSE students bask in warmth of top grade success as continued grade rise bucks national trend

Along with the August temperatures, Sydenham High GDST saw its GCSE results, announced today (Thursday 25 August 2016), continue to rise up the grade scale.

Top 2016 grades further increased with almost a third (32 per cent) of Sydenham High students scoring an A*, with 63.2 per cent achieving either A* or A.

More than 80 per cent of grades in six subjects were A*/A, including STEM subjects: Biology (91 per cent); Statistics (89 per cent); Chemistry, Physics and Drama (86 per cent) and Latin (83 per cent).

Overall 86 per cent of grades were A*-B and 96 per cent were A*-C – both up on 2015 and bucking the trend nationally.

Success was a family affair for three students picking up their results.  Triplets Kate, Louisa and Sophie Hanton scooped a total of 26 A* between them plus 5 As.

One of the triplets – Kate - and three other students – Alex Lindsay, Maddy Telford and Betty Townley – all achieved a clean sweep of 10 or more A*s. 

Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said: “I couldn’t be more delighted that our girls have done so well, giving them a wonderful springboard to their A levels. They’ve worked extremely hard with their teachers to reach these heights and I can’t wait to see what successes lie ahead for them.

“Teaching and learning is something we do with our students, not to them or for them. We set high expectations, provide a strong academic framework, and instil confidence in each and every student to achieve their best.  As a result they have done both themselves and Sydenham High proud.”

Sydenham High sixth formers count their lucky stars! A level results day brings record haul of top grades

 

Sydenham High sixth formers are celebrating a record haul of A level A* and A grades, along with a raft of prized university places, following the release of today’s exam results.

Almost half of all grades (45.1 per cent) were either A* or A – nearly twice the level achieved in 2015 - helping students to secure places at a range of top universities including Oxford, Manchester, Warwick and Leeds. Topics of study include engineering, maths, pharmacy and chemistry.

Along with a one hundred per cent pass rate, over 80 per cent of grades were A*-B and 92.7% were A*-C.

The strongest subject performances were in Physics, Further Maths, French, Business Studies and Design Technology where one hundred per cent of pupils gained an A*/A.

Sydenham High’s talented drama students and mathematicians also took centre stage with 86 per cent A*/As in Theatre Studies, while 83.3 per cent of Maths passes were also A*/A.

Amongst the highest achieving students were Savandhi Goonasekera and Gabrielle Mallet.  Gabrielle gained A*s and As, including A* for her Extended Project Qualification, and will be taking up a place at Queen’s College, Oxford, to read Japanese & Korean.  She hopes to pursue a career in international relations in the future and is planning to study Mandarin in her spare time! Savandhi gained A* A* A in Maths, Further Maths and Physics.  She is going on to study Maths at university. 

Also celebrating was Orlane Doumbe, who joined Sydenham High’s Sixth Form after receiving a sought-after joint school and HSBC Global Education Scholarship.  She achieved straight As in Maths, Chemistry and French, and is heading to Manchester to read Chemistry.

Two Art students have also secured places on prestigious Foundation courses at Central Saint Martins and Camberwell College of Art.

Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said: “We’re immensely proud of each and every student. These are tremendous achievements to celebrate.  They are their passports to take the next steps into their futures - at university and beyond, and they reflect both the girls’ hard work and the dedication and inspiration of their teachers.”

New Head appointed at Sydenham High

Mrs Katharine Woodcock has been appointed as the Head of Sydenham High School, part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, with effect from April 2017. She replaces Mrs Kathryn Pullen who will retire in December after 26 years at the top South London school, 14 of them as Headteacher.  Mr Karl Guest, Deputy Head (Staff and Student Development), will be acting Head for the Spring Term.

Mrs Woodcock is currently the Senior Deputy Head of Queen’s College, an all-girls school based in central London. Like Sydenham High, Queen’s College is an all-through school, educating girls between the ages of 4-18. As Deputy Head at Queen’s College, Mrs Woodcock is responsible for the day-to-day management of the whole school. She joined Queen’s College as Head of Sixth Form in 2005, having previously taught at Oakham School in Rutland, where she was also a Housemistress.

A graduate of Bristol University, Mrs Woodcock studied French and Russian. She then completed her PGCE at St Mary’s College in Twickenham. During her career she has taught both French and Russian, and has extensive academic and pastoral experience. Mrs Woodcock is married with two children and lives in London.

Making the appointment announcement, GDST Chief Executive Helen Fraser said that Mrs Woodcock is firmly committed to the ethos of both the GDST and Sydenham High, and is very much looking forward to being part of its network. She said that Mrs Woodcock’s colleagues describe her as having a natural affinity with her students and speak about her warmth, energy, intelligence, about her forward-thinking approach to her work and her genuine passion for doing the best for the girls.

Helen Fraser also took the opportunity to thank Mrs Pullen for her outstanding contribution to the success of Sydenham High School. She said: ”During her tenure the school has gone from strength to strength and is a place where girls can flourish and develop a love of learning.”

Mrs Woodcock said: “I am really looking forward to joining the Sydenham High community and getting to know students, parents and staff. I’m firmly committed to girls-only education, and believe strongly that it’s my responsibility to provide the very best and bring out the very best in all the pupils in my care. My vision is to provide education centred around each individual girl, in a nurturing and inclusive environment in which girls can be happy, challenged yet fulfilled, and free from the fear of failure.”

Mrs Woodcock will be visiting Sydenham High during the Autumn and Spring terms, including being part of the school’s Saturday Open Days for prospective parents in September.

Sydenham High leads call for new safe crossing on Westwood Hill
 

Thursday 5 May: As Londoners went to the polls to vote for a new London Mayor and Assembly, the students, parents, staff and neighbours of Sydenham High School called on the successful candidates to press Lewisham Council to provide a safer road crossing on Westwood Hill.

The busy crossing point outside the school, which also leads to Kirkdale’s shops, Wells Park and other local amenities, lost its School Crossing Patrol Officer at Easter and, despite advertising by Lewisham Council, no candidates have come forward.

When the previous patrol officer retired in 2014 it took 12 months to recruit a replacement.  Whilst the Council has promised to continue the latest search, the school and its supporters - including the Sydenham Society and Sydenham Assembly member and school governor Angela Hall – now believe that the time has come to demand a permanent controlled crossing to protect the children and adults who regularly have to cross this very busy road.

Lewisham Council has so far rejected the idea of a fixed crossing, citing a lack of accidents and the fact that there is a zebra crossing at Cobbs Corner – some 5-10 minutes further down the hill so not in the least relevant.

The school’s own research shows that in addition to many of its 600 pupils, children from both St Bartholomew’s CoE Primary School, Sydenham Girls’ School, and The Peak use the crossing along with staff and local residents heading down Longton Grove to Kirkdale and beyond.

Sydenham High’s Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen can’t understand the Council’s reticence:  “There is a raised platform and a pelican crossing outside Sydenham Girls School on Dartmouth Road – so why not here? We’ve avoided casualties so far but, given the volume and speed of traffic going down Westwood Hill and the behaviour of some motorists, we are extremely concerned that it’s only a matter of time before we have a serious incident.  We shouldn’t have to wait until that happens to expect protection for our children, staff and neighbours.”

Sophia Michael, aged 13 and a student at Sydenham High, said: “We really need a proper crossing for everyone’s safety.  I’ve myself witnessed some close shaves when girls are crossing the road.  It would be a lot more reassuring if we had lights there.”

Pat Trembath, who chairs the Sydenham Society, said: “As a local resident I’m very aware that vehicles coming down the hill, including buses, regularly exceed the speed limit, even at times when children are on their way to and from school.”

 

 

Angela Hall, who is a member of the Sydenham Assembly as well as a school governor, echoed this concern.  “A Safer Streets speed watch on Westwood Hill between 8am and 9.30am on 15 April logged no less than 103 cars exceeding the speed limit – some at more than 40mph.

She continued: “All other schools on main roads and bus routes within the borough have been given a controlled crossing so it should be the case here too. And it isn’t just a matter of the people crossing at school arrival and departure times; it’s a concern for the community as a whole including children and families who may want to cross Westwood Hill to access the shops and both Wells Park and Crystal Palace Park outside school time when a school crossing patrol officer wouldn’t be on duty.”

Sydenham High School has started a petition on Change.org which has already attracted over 500 signatures and many messages of support in just a couple of weeks. This week’s mass gathering on the hill aimed to gather further support and publicity for the petition.

To sign the petition, go to:

https://www.change.org/p/liz-brooker-lewisham-gov-uk-provide-a-safe-road-crossing-on-westwood-hill

or write directly to Councillor Chris Best at Lewisham BC.

 

 

 

More than words: Future astronaut gives students poetic inspiration for a mental health conversation

Students at Sydenham High School GDST have been channelling their poetic side with the help of a future astronaut in a workshop around mental health issues and awareness.

The group of Year 8 students was inspired to write and perform a series of poems around the topics of anxiety and depression by mental health spokesperson, YouTuber and global Kruger Cowne Rising Star winner, Hussain Manawer.

Before setting the students their task Hussain, who campaigns to raise awareness of mental health issues, explained how poetry can be a powerful form of self-expression as well as a way of encouraging vital conversation on a traditionally difficult topic. He also talked to them about what makes a good performance to help drive a message home.

The 24-year old, who was an Olympic torchbearer and has raised thousands of pounds for charity, then performed some of his unique and compelling narrative poetry.  This included the breath-taking spoken word performance that secured him the Kruger Cowne Rising Star award at the One Young World Conference in Bangkok last November.  Hussain beat thousands of other young hopefuls from over 90 countries to the chance to go into space with the XCOR Space Expedition as the first British Muslim astronaut.

The inspirational performer regularly takes time out of his business schedule to go into schools like Sydenham High to talk to young people about combating cyber bullying and the importance of self-expression through the arts, in an effort to reduce the stigma of talking about mental health issues and provide positive pathways to improve it.

Hussain was very impressed by the depth of insight in the thoughtful pieces created by the students, as well as their use of alliteration, wordplay and rhyme in each performance.

The Sydenham High students also wanted to know more about his future trip into space – a dream he never imagined could become real.  He promised to come back and tell them more about the trip once he has undergone his training in the US.

Enrichment and PSHE Co-ordinator Mrs Georgina Calvert, who organised the workshop, said:

“Hussain’s fresh and dynamic approach to a difficult topic really connected with the students and got them to think differently about sensitive issues that are sometimes hidden from view. As a result, they produced thoughtful and mature spoken word performances that went to the heart of these themes.”

Powerful experience for STEM students in sustainable hot spot

 

Sustainability is a buzz word across every aspect of our lives these days but it is being given particular importance in encouraging the next generation of female engineers, as girls at Sydenham High School GDST have been finding out.

During last term, girls from the South London school were part of a group of 35 Girls’ Day School Trust students visiting Wildpoldsried in Bavaria to study for a Level 3 Award in the Rational Use of Renewable Energy.

The trip, funded by Erasmus+, was led and delivered by Sasie Ltd and German partners Christiani GmbH, with support from School Energy Efficiency CIC. The aim of the trip was to encourage women into STEM careers and university choices, with a focus on renewable energy and sustainability.

Wildpoldsried was the perfect base for the educational experience as the village generates 600 per cent of its annual electricity demand through renewable integrated technologies such as: biogas plants, wind turbines, district heating system, biomass and combined heat and power plants.

Students began the trip by constructing their very own mini solar PV system inside a case (pictured), under the expert guidance of the solar case manufacturers Christiani GmbH. Daily trips extended to local universities and colleges, a waste combustion plant, hydroelectric power plants, Elektro Guggenmoos GmbH, Sonnenbatterie GmbH and the construction of a brand new 150m wind turbine.

 

Teaching and qualification material was supplemented with inspirational talks and interactive presentations from organisations such as 2041, 5 Gyres and Barefoot College. Students are now engaged within a variety of campaigns related to human impact on the environment, which they will take back to their school communities.

“Having always learned from a book, being actually able to come and see these technologies in practice have made me realise that the age of the renewables is now and not just a strategy for the future,”  said Year 12 Sydenham High student Greta Holmes.

Head of Science at Sydenham High, Janie Tilley said: “This trip has given our students experiences beyond the classroom.  They have developed their skills as independent learners through this university-style learning method.  In addition, the unique opportunity of Q&A over Skype with inspirational speakers at the cutting edge of sustainable development has broadened their horizons and understanding of the opportunities available to them.” 

Good Schools Guide Award for Sydenham High

 

Sydenham High has won a gold 2015 Good Schools Guide Award for girls taking computer studies at GCSE.

The school has been presented with the award by The Good Schools Guide for out-performing all other English schools in its category. The prestigious annual awards, which are now in their 9th year, are based on a detailed analysis of the most recent examination results, and are designed to highlight consistently good teaching.

Sydenham High has swiftly embraced the Government’s introduction of a new computer science curriculum and has launched the computing curriculum at Key Stage 3. The scheme of work explores areas such as digital literacy, skills and careers.

 

The curriculum is designed to help the girls become creators of tech, instead of just consumers. It will also better equip them for the real world of work and industry – especially as women are currently underrepresented in the tech arena.

Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen said: “We are absolutely delighted to be acknowledged for our excellence in teaching computer studies and we are sure it will inspire and encourage all our students who are working toward their GCSE and A levels right now.

“The UK’s tech scene is booming and skilled employees are in demand.  We therefore want to ensure that our girls are ready and able to take advantage of the opportunities that brings.”

Ralph Lucas, Editor of The Good Schools Guide, commented: “Our annual awards scheme is designed to recognise and reward excellence in teaching in every subject area. Our awards give individual teachers and departments, where teaching is at its very best, the recognition they deserve.”

The Good Schools Guide Awards are based on a series of calculations which take into account relative popularity and performance of the subject, absolute performance, and percentage of pupils taking the subject.

 
Sydenham High STANDS UP TO CANCER

Campaign champion Kirstie Allsopp joins fundraising activities

Sydenham High’s Year 11 science class gained an extra eager member on Friday morning when Stand Up To Cancer ambassador Kirstie Allsopp joined them for a lesson about the disease.

The Channel 4 Location, Location, Location presenter was at the school to help pupils and staff join forces to Stand Up To Cancer and raise crucial cash for life-saving research.

Everyone dressed in orange for the day and took part in a range of fundraising activities including: a sponsored ‘Stand Up’ in lessons, a mass Zumbathon and a bake sale, all in aid of Stand Up To Cancer. 

More than 600 pupils and 150 staff at the school took part in the fundraising with the aim of raising £1,000 for the cause.  To date, their activities have raised an amazing £2,779 – almost triple the target - with more activity planned in the coming week in the form of a series of ‘stand up’ performances.

Kirstie attended the school’s morning Assembly where, alongside Director of Stand Up To Cancer Claire Rowney, she told the whole school how important their contribution was in helping ensure that the next generation’s lives are not blighted by cancer.

Kirstie then joined a science class examining the origins of cancer and encouraged the girls to think about choosing a career in scientific research to help find cancer cures.

After joining the girls in a quiz on the risk factors that can contribute to cancer, Kirstie visited the school’s cookery suite to help Bake Club members complete orange-themed cakes and pastries for a lunchtime bake sale.

 

Her final appointment was an interview with two of the school’s young reporters – Louisa Hanton and Isabel Helszajn-Jewett.  Kirstie explained how her own family experience of cancer (her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when Kirstie was in her teens and her sister, given their family history of cancer, has had a preventative mastectomy) is at the heart of her passionate desire to raise awareness and funds.   The more money raised, she told the girls, the more scientists can be employed in research and the sooner kinder treatments and cures can be found.

Lunchtime brought a cake sale with lots of tasty orange creations and then a mass Zumbathon, held outside in the sunshine on the school’s Astroturf.

The full day’s activities were also filmed as part of a 12-hour Stand Up To Cancer event, being streamed live on YouTube on Saturday 17 October.

A joint fundraising campaign from Cancer Research UK and Channel 4, Stand Up To Cancer aims to raise money to fund vital research that will get new and better treatments to cancer patients faster. 

By joining Stand Up To Cancer, pupils and teachers at Sydenham High united with doctors, nurses, scientists and celebrities to generate funds, raise awareness and bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

One in two people in the UK will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Stand Up To Cancer aims to raise money to accelerate ground-breaking research to help more people survive and ensure more families stay together. 

Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said: “We’re so proud that our pupils will be joining an army of fundraisers across the UK in helping to raise funds for Stand Up To Cancer. We have a proud tradition of charitable action.  The whole school will be taking part in the fundraising activities so it will be a real team effort and we hope to raise as much money as possible for such an important cause.

“Most of us know someone who has been touched by cancer and we all have our special reasons for taking part.”

To help the school prepare, teachers used a schools’ resource kit, specially created by the charity, which includes lesson plans, an assembly pack and fundraising materials.

 

 

 

To support their fundraising, Sydenham High has set up a JustGiving page and JustTextGiving code.  To donate please visit:  - https://www.justgiving.com/Sydenham-High-School-GDST/

and go to the Stand Up To Cancer campaign page.  Alternatively, text: SYDH87 £3 to 70070.

Girls to experience school life ‘down under’


Sydenham High students Beatrice Eades and Niamh O’Sullivan have just swapped student life in the UK for the Australia winter term equivalent as part of a unique new international educational and cultural exchange programme.
 
Beatrice and Niamh, both aged 14, joined their Year 10 counterparts at St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls, Perth, Western Australia for five weeks in July.
 
In the first part of the programme this term, St Hilda’s students Molly Stafford and Ella Boetcher came to the UK and spent four weeks being Sydenham High students.
 
Unlike traditional exchange programmes, the experience has been totally immersive as all four girls were completely integrated into their new school life: wearing school uniform, going to classes, taking part in extra-curricular activities and, in Beatrice and Niamh’s case, becoming boarders.
 
At the launch of the scheme Sydenham High Headteacher Kathryn Pullen said : “St Hilda’s is one of the most highly respected and well–resourced schools in Australia and was selected as an ideal partnership school because of its closely matched ethos to both Sydenham High and the Girls’ Day School Trust as a whole.  The girls always come first and the opportunities that are offered are tailored to give the students the best possible outcomes.”
 
Kim Kiepe, Principal of St Hilda’s, said: “Over many years we have been sending our students to experience incredible schools across the globe including New York, South Africa, Japan and New Zealand.  We are delighted to begin our partnership with Sydenham High in the UK – a place close to our heart and with historic links with St Hilda of Whitby.”
 
The exchange also involved science teacher and Sixth Form tutor, Samantha Sookdeo, who also spent time at St Hilda’s. She studied St Hilda’s approach to personalised learning - particularly cross-curricular collaborations - to bring back useful best practice and ideas to share both at Sydenham High and within the GDST as a whole.  Ms Sookdeo said: “Everyone has so much to learn from this unique opportunity.  We hope that it will be the start of an expanding worldwide exchange programme for our school and for the whole GDST.”
 

Jazz concert showcases young musical talent

To hear some of London’s most talented young jazz musicians playing live head down to St James’ Church, Beckenham, on Saturday 27 June at 7.00pm.

 

The all-girl Sydenham High Jazz Collective will be making their first public appearance outside the school at the concert and sharing the stage with the renowned National Youth Jazz Orchestra London.

 

Both groups are directed by the award-winning jazz saxophonist Phil Meadows and will be playing an exciting programme of popular and traditional jazz pieces.

 

The concert takes place at St James’ Church, St James Avenue, Beckenham, BR3 4HF at 7.00pm on Saturday 27 June. Tickets £5 at the door. Children go free.

School treks 7,192km in a day for Nepal earthquake relief

Students and staff at Sydenham High School GDST yesterday (10 June) travelled 7,192km – the approximate distance from London to Kathmandu - in a challenging 12-hour sponsored event to raise awareness of and aid for the victims of the recent devastating Nepal earthquakes.  

 

Over 450 girls from Reception to Year 10 cycled, jogged, ran and walked to Nepal on the school’s Astroturf, as well as rowed in the fitness suite, in shifts from 7am throughout the school day. They were joined from 4pm by family, friends and combined staff-student relay teams to help reach the target with an hour to go. Some older girls also came back from study leave to take part.

 

Several teachers challenged themselves to trek for the full 12 hours, including Deputy Head Karl Guest who, together with Acting Head of PE Georgina Calvert, masterminded the fundraising event.

 

The aim of the trek was to not only raise awareness of the difficulties faced by the people of Nepal but to provide actual aid.  In addition to all participants making a £2 donation to wear sports kit for the day (maximising ‘travel’ time) girls also gained sponsorship in the form of items from a specific aid package list.  The list includes: emergency torches, dried food, cooking pans, bedding, children’s clothing and water purification tablets.

 

The intrepid trekkers were joined in the afternoon by Geraldine Finney, the Regional Director (London) of Excelcare (pictured, centre of second row in red), which has a large number of Nepalese employees working in its seven London care homes, two of which - Castlebar and Peartree - are near the school. Also taking the trek were Bromley-based Excelcare nurses Bhim Shakya (pictured front row centre left) and Anita Gurung (pictured front row centre right in red), whose father is a Gurhka.  They are co-ordinating major aid deliveries to particular areas of the stricken region which are home to the families of staff working in the care homes including Bhim and Anita.  The aid items collected at Sydenham High will join one of these consignments.

 

“The staff at Excelcare are delighted and touched at the compassion shown to them by this amazing school community,” said Ms Finney.  “We hope that links forged through this event can be built upon, maybe with some of the girls visiting the families in Nepal in the future, so that they can see exactly where their efforts have made a difference.”

 

“Over 8,000 people lost their lives in the recent earthquakes in Nepal and many more have been left injured or homeless,” said Karl Guest.  “We were determined to bring our school community together to not only raise awareness of the difficulties survivors face but to provide them with physical aid.  When he heard about the Geraldine’s plans we were only too happy to join forces and get the girls to collect aid packages as well as money.  We’ve had an amazing response and will be providing hundreds of items for their appeal.”

 

The school has also opened a JustGiving account in support of the Earthquake Appeal –https://www.justgiving.com/sydenhamhighschool - which has already raised over £1,700. Further donations can be made there which will go directly to the Disasters Emergency Committee campaign.

Sydenham High Head says no careers should be off-limits to girls

Gender stereotypes still influence perceptions of many jobs and careers, potentially causing girls to curtail their ambition so schools have an important role to play in challenging this situation.

That was the message today from Dr Colin Laverick, Acting Headteacher of leading independent girls’ school Sydenham High, in advance of the Annual Conference of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) in London on Wednesday 10 June.

“Do a search online for images of chief executives, or surgeons, or judges,” said Dr Laverick, “and you don’t see many women. Do a similar search for images of nurses, carers or personal assistants, and it will come as no surprise that there aren’t many men to be seen. These sorts of stereotypes permeate our national and global culture, and children can’t help but subconsciously absorb them.”

Sydenham High is perfectly placed to nurture girls’ interests and ambitions in a supportive yet challenging environment. “The education we provide is about more than exams; it’s designed to build resilient and resourceful women who see what they want and go out to get it,” said Dr Laverick. “Right across the school we highlight and celebrate the achievements of notable women in history, science and maths plus our own alumnae and show our girls that anything is possible.”

“It’s important that we consciously challenge stereotype assumptions,” added Dr Laverick. “Raising awareness of different jobs at an early age enables girls to imagine themselves in a full range of roles, and not limit their horizons too early or too readily.”  The school’s career and PSHE programmes robustly address this.  In fact the Junior School’s latest co-curricular programme, Flourish and Fly, is designed to ensure girls are equipped to look beyond real or perceived obstacles to reach their full potential and aspire to any career they wish. Each half term has taken on one of the four Girls’ Day School Trust values – Be Bold; Girls First; Be Principled and Networked – as its theme, culminating in a week of activities, challenges and speaker visits to bring that particular value to life.

The current Flourish and Fly theme of ‘being networked’ is also at the heart of this year's GDST Annual Conference which is entitled: ‘Circles of Influence – enhancing employability and creating a culture of networking’. Delegates will also hear from speakers including Sacha Romanovitch, CEO-elect of Grant Thornton UK LLP and a panel of GDST heads and students – all of whom will address the issue and its implications for girls, women and wider society.

“Girls should feel that all doors are open to them,” concluded Dr Laverick, “and that’s what we’ll be discussing in our conference this week. If they feel they can achieve anything they set their mind to, before they come into contact with unhelpful stereotypes, they’ll be less likely to be swayed by them. When it comes to their careers, I’m proud that Sydenham High girls write their own rules.”

Scien-terrific! Sydenham High celebrates British Science Week

Communicating and celebrating the wonders of science in our world today were at the heart of Sydenham High School’s celebration of British Science Week (16-20 March).  Girls from across the whole school went on an exciting five day journey of discovery - from exploring what it takes to make the ultimate cup of coffee to identifying SydBeast (a mystery animal skeleton).

The week started with a stimulating assembly to highlight some of the WOW factors in science at the moment, including recent controversy over #thedress and the solar eclipse.

Practical lessons included dissections, trying out different coffee-making techniques for that ultimate cuppa and Year of Light demonstrations from lasers to eyes on National Demo Day. 

King’s College London neuroscientist, Dr Ellie Dommett, led a challenging discussion on the ethical issues surrounding the use of smart drugs in society, while Head of Biology Dr Elly Waites gave a presentation to SydSci club on her research into Cancer and Genetics and gave an insight into related career paths.

Up in the school’s dedicated cookery suite, students investigated the science behind top chefs’ culinary tips, such as how to cook the best steak, create great chocolate or poach the perfect egg.

Year 9 Science Challenge students put their Lego Midstorms EV3 colour sorting robot through its paces, having spent five weeks building, coding and conducting test runs. The project has allowed students to combine robotics and coding skills into an end product that completes a particular task – sorting small coloured blocks into separate pots.

A group of Year 12 students also attended the Engineer Your Future Career Awareness Day to meet representatives from engineering companies and other like-minded students, and gain greater understanding of engineering careers.

Sadly it was too cloudy for the girls to view the solar eclipse in the skies above Sydenham and they had to make do with a live TV feed to a giant screen in the school’s Longton Hall.

Activities culminated in a huge Science Fair, organised and run by members of Year 8 and attended by girls from Years 4 - 6.  Year 8 had to come up with their own idea for each stall to communicate and explain an aspect of science to this young audience.    The would-be science teachers definitely rose to the challenge, covering everything from testing forces and the properties of elements to finding out the mass of objects, blending perfumes and identifying what makes a good diet.

Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen said: “This week has been all about exciting the girls about STEM subjects - encouraging them to explore many different aspects of and avenues in science and see them as potential careers.  As new research out only this week has shown, taking STEM subjects to A level and beyond is a proven way to close the gender gap and boost their future earning power by far more than the increase achieved by boys who also study these subjects.”