Francis Holland Sloane Square Magazine

FRANCIS HOLLAND SCHOOL SLOANE SQUARE MAGAZINE

Headmistress’ WELCOME

We have bounded out of the pandemic lockdown.

The enthusiasm of our whole community for resuming the activities which make school life so joyful has been evident in the abundance of music, sport, drama, dance, adventure and creativity which has filled our year. It hasn’t all been plain sailing, though. Confidence and skill had been lost in the long months of silence. Anxiety and fear were hard to dispel. Making friends had become complex.

Our core emphasis on love and compassion, on humility and courage, has helped us to rebuild trust and take those risks – emotional, academic or physical – which characterise a healthy community. Resilience is a key quality we seek to develop, and it has been needed by our staff as well after illness continued to afflict us and absences put pressure on stretched resources. As the year progressed, with war in Europe, the threat of strike action over teachers’ pensions, and a bruising regulatory compliance inspection, we discovered the strength of our commitment to one another, and to the School. There has been a heart-warming sense of kindness and loyalty which has formed the foundation of our happiness as the academic year closed with a spectacular Prize-Giving performance at Cadogan Hall before an audience of almost 1000.

Nowhere has this courage and dedication been seen better than in our pupils, particularly our senior students who have been called on to show leadership to the younger children whilst negotiating public exams for the first time in three years. For the Upper Sixths, this must have been particularly hard, yet we were struck by the steadiness they showed as they prepared for their first public exams and applied for university. This truly paid off, as evinced by an excellent set of A Level results: 75% A*- A (up from 49% in 2019, the last year public exams were able to take place as normal). Our GCSE students similarly excelled, with a phenomenal 94% of grades 9/ 8/ 7 (A*- A) and 81% 9/ 8 (A*); the best GCSE results in the history of the School.

This scholarly attitude has been displayed in the outstanding EPQ projects which the majority of the Lower Sixth completed, followed by their astonishing TEDx talks. Both these initiatives have given the girls the opportunity to research topics of strong personal interest, and to present their findings and opinions to an audience – in the case of the TEDx talks, a global one. Our Sixth Form, in its stunning new home of the Old School House, is attracting (and retaining) students near and far, with a roll next year of nearly 150; 700 in the School as a whole. That is a radical transformation.

Our exceptional music and drama came together in another unique West End production: Made in Dagenham, a story of inspiring female empowerment. The quality of this production was superlative, and many considered it indistinguishable from a professional performance. Demonstrating the range of our pupils’ talent, the Spring Concert contained virtuoso performances by several gifted musicians, as well as a joyous rendering of Rutter’s Magnificat by the massed choirs of pupils, staff and parents. The Summer Music Festival was the turn for our pop and jazz musicians, and they gave us a memorable evening of Ronnie Scott-style glamour. Not to be outdone, our younger Lower School pupils starred in a wonderful choir tour of Edinburgh, and then produced an hilarious production of Daisy (and Maisy) Pull It Off, the classic spoof of 1920s’ schoolgirl stories. In the same spirit, the Junior School children dazzled with a brilliant production of Matilda. Determined also to shine, the Art Department put on two outstanding shows of GCSE and A Level work which won high praise from this year’s judge.

Our vision for developing creativity and enterprise in our pupils is renowned, and this year it has been recognised with two major national awards; the Independent School Parent Innovation Award for an Outstanding New Initiative and the Muddy Stilettos Award for Empowering Young Entrepreneurs. We seek to enable our girls to be the job makers not the job takers in society, and to be the solution

to the problems around them. This starts with volunteering and a nurtured concern for the world around us, enhanced by compassion and a desire to serve. Our entrepreneurial programme, where girls are mentored and inspired by several innovative partners including Becoming X and Comirus, further enhances their ability to think outside the box and problem-solve. All of this combines in our message to give of our Time, Talent and Treasure to ensure we use all our gifts to bring security, happiness and wellbeing to those around us. Tatler, in surprising us with the award of “Best Head of a Public School 2021”, recognised and honoured this resourceful and distinctive vision.

Finally, outdoor adventure and exploration is central to our plan to build brave, confident young women. We pulled out the stops in our expeditions programme this year, with stays in places as different as the Lake District, Cornwall, and the Alps. Next year we are planning surfing and yoga in Fuerteventura and climbing Mount Kenya. All year groups take part in this programme, and it is a vital opportunity for the girls to learn independence, teamwork and resilience through a variety of challenges demanding they step outside their comfort zone. It was a life-changing experience for many of the girls after the pandemic and has provided a sure foundation once more for them to be the cornerstones of society.

Lucy Elphinstone Headmistress

Tatler’s Best Head of Public School 2021

CONTENTS

The year kicked off with a reunion for the Class of 2020, compensating for the unfortunately abrupt end to their time at FHS.

Gradually, over the course of the year, came the recommencing of all the beloved FHS traditions, including the first Prize-Giving ceremony on the penultimate evening of the School year. Of course, life going back to normal also included less beloved events… the first formal GCSE and A Level exams following two years of disruption were completed by our Year 11 and Upper Sixth students. For the Upper Sixth, these were the first public exams since the 11+, but a mammoth effort from both staff and students ensured confidence and capability in each candidate.

It has been our pleasure to watch Francis Holland return to the thriving community that we all know and love over the past year, as freedom from the long-standing COVID restrictions has seen the School truly flourish once more.

Alongside the academic life of the School, the Arts too have blossomed this year. In the Drama department, the School saw its glamorous return to the West End stage with a dynamic and empowering production of ‘Made in Dagenham’ at the Adelphi Theatre, as well as fantastic productions closer to home in the Junior School’s ‘Matilda’ and the Year 7-9 play, ‘Daisy and Maisy Pull It Off!’. Evensongs, termly concerts, and the Fanny Davies Music Festival have provided a charming soundtrack to the school year, with music saturating every vein of school life, and a tune always audible throughout the hallways.

Elsewhere, a colourful host of trips were enjoyed including local art trips to galleries such as Tate Britain and the Saatchi, as well as a touch of globetrotting as students visited Edinburgh, Paris and Florence – just a handful of the stunning locations that we were lucky enough to venture to this year. Other notable occasions were the first two TEDx events since the school gained its license, culminating in a series of professional and diverse talks delivered with exceptional finesse. Such incredible opportunities and experiences are never lost on us, and it remains a key ethos of the School, embedded in all students, to give of our time and resources to others. A diverse range of charity events including an array of mufti days, bake sales, an FHS Thrift Boutique, a Sixth Form playground takeover and a nonstop relay marathon were held to raise money for disadvantaged communities.

It has been a pleasure and a privilege for us both to watch the School continue to excel and finally return to normal this year – a ‘normal’, it must be said, of an exceptionally high standard. As we say a fond farewell to Francis Holland, we look forward to seeing what the future holds for the School: no doubt an abundance of exciting prospects as our community continues to expand and progress.

Cara

EVENTS

School PRIZE-GIVING

On Thursday 7th July, the penultimate evening of the academic year 2021-22, made all the more poignant after an almost three year hiatus due to Covid, we were overjoyed to be hosting one of our most legendary school events: Francis Holland’s School Prize-Giving at the glorious Cadogan Hall.

Mrs Elphinstone welcomed almost a thousand guests, reflecting on what has been a truly extraordinary year and thanking parents, teachers and governors for their unwavering support. She congratulated the girls on their many notable achievements and most of all their unique kindness and support for one another as a community, which is tirelessly encouraged and nurtured by our staff and parents. She also discussed the importance of resilience, determination, humility and selflessness in leading a happy and fulfilled life, saying that: “If we are resolved to do our best, to use our gifts and not bury our talents, to persevere even in the face of criticism and defeat, then we will know

the satisfaction of true success. But more than simply success. We profoundly believe that it is in resolving to live a life of giving that we find joy, that happiness lies in what we offer to others, not what we grab for ourselves.”

Mr Patrick Sherrington, Chair of the FHST Governing Council, who was to award this year’s prizes, then delivered a thought-provoking speech before welcoming our prize winners to the stage in their consecutive year groups. The giving of prizes, for both achievement and progress, was interspersed with spectacular music, ballet and drama performances. These included a hilarious performance of a scene from ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ by Lower Sixth Drama students Rose Cornell, Jacqueline Haas, Victoria Jansen, Isabella O’Neill, Sofia Severson, Tess Vogels and Grace Wharton, an exquisite ballet performance by

Ballet Scholars Heidi Hunter, Sophia Khalastchi and Sacha Zelouf, a stunning solo dance by Grace Wharton and a beautiful rendition of ‘My Heart is Like a Singing Bird’ by our incredible Chamber Choir. It was then time for the final address from Mrs Elphinstone which brought this momentous evening to a close, and it did not disappoint…

Our guests were regaled by a surprise performance from two internationally acclaimed opera singers; one of whom truly inspired us to be resilient, refusing to let being on crutches interrupt his performance! The evening concluded

with a rousing rendition of Jerusalem, sung with gusto by all of our guests.

Special thanks must go to Mr Sherrington, our staff, girls and families for making Prize-Giving such a memorable occasion.

The atmosphere of joy and thankfulness to be a part of this amazing community was palpable as our guests gathered for a drink after the ceremony, and Mrs Elphinstone aptly summarised this in her ‘News from the Headmistress’ on the last day of the school year:

“This is a family with courage and determination, who will stand by each other, and give everything they have to support the rest. I couldn’t have been more proud of the pupils and staff, and more grateful to you parents for your unending support and kindness.”

We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at next year’s event in July 2023.

Vanessa McKinley Director of External Relations

Grand Opening of the OLD SCHOOL HOUSE

Our brand new Sixth Form Centre, the Old School House, was officially opened on Thursday 30th September by the Duke of Westminster. Generous supporters of the £3.5 million renovation attended the reception alongside the Duke and the Lord Mayor and Mayoress of Westminster.

The evening began with a moving performance by the Year 10 and 11 String Quartet, while guests were given tours of the building by current Sixth Formers. Headmistress Lucy Elphinstone gave a speech, thanking benefactors and all those whose tireless work made the restoration possible.

This was followed by an address by the Duke of Westminster, in which he praised the longstanding relationship between Francis Holland and Grosvenor Estates. The Duke marked this very special occasion in the School’s history by unveiling the commemorative plaque which will now be proudly displayed in the Old School House for posterity.

Such a remarkable and inspiring new space ensures the FHS Sixth Form experience is truly transformative. Tailored to the specific needs of 17 to 18 year-olds, it has been designed to be a blend of common areas for collaboration and shared study, with quiet places for private working. It is the physical articulation of our values and vision for Sixth Form: providing the girls with a sophisticated and purposeful environment to develop their creativity, innovation and enterprise.

The space has not only been transformative for our Sixth Form girls, but for the School as a whole. The 909 square metres of additional floorspace has increased the current School footprint by 15%, affording much needed space to other areas of the School. Joining directly to the School’s existing buildings, but with its own dedicated entrance on Ebury Street, the Old School House offers the opportunity for our Sixth Form girls to collaborate with entrepreneurs in our community, and network with those committed to changing the mindset of the next generation, as well as providing a wonderful space and resource for our community partners.

As we look ahead, with a clear focus on extending our provision of transformational bursaries, the Old School House will play a vital part in ensuring the transition of bursary girls into the Sixth Form is a smooth one. Its mature and collaborative environment will support integration and a focus on academic and co-curricular interests, within a space that echoes and anticipates the very best higher education institutions and therefore ensures readiness for a future beyond FHS.

Tom Robertson Development Director

Made in DAGENHAM

Just as the sun was rising on Tuesday 1st February 2022, Francis Holland’s cast and crew of ‘Made in Dagenham’ descended on the Adelphi Theatre, The Strand, ahead of their show that evening. The cast of the Senior School’s whole school musical had just a handful of hours to familiarise themselves with the professional theatre that they would soon be performing in.

The day was fast paced and frantic, full of sound cues and lighting changes; microphone checks and vocal warm-ups; dance sequences and Essex accents. However, despite working at such an intense pace, the atmosphere was one full of laughter and joy (plus a few fraught costume changes from mechanics’ overalls to sequined dresses!).

Made in Dagenham is a musical based on the 2010 film of the same name, which was inspired by the real events of the Ford sewing machinists’ strike of 1968. The musical made its West End and world premiere at the Adelphi Theatre in 2014. How fitting, then, that our cast performed this tale of one woman’s fight for equality, and the

In their struggle for equality, the plot follows the female workers at Ford’s Dagenham plant as they strike to combat the inequality that becomes apparent when women were to be paid less than men. The story is based on real-life events which eventually led to the passing of the Equal Pay Act 1970. The play shows us that the female workers fought much adversity on their journey and showed immense grit, determination and resilience. These qualities seemed to mirror those of our own cast and crew, who worked so tirelessly throughout the rehearsal process, attending months of late-night

collective fighting spirit of women, in the same theatre in which it debuted.

rehearsals led by the Drama and Music departments. Putting on a show whilst still in the midst of a global pandemic produced some nuanced challenges, yet the cast continued to push on with tireless optimism and enthusiasm. It was a feat for our girls to perform such a powerful message in a world famous theatre. Furthermore, we feel immeasurably proud of the way the cast and crew adapted to performing in a 1500-seat auditorium, of which they only had access to from the morning of the show…there are most certainly similarities between the spirt of our FHS girls and those at the 1960s Ford plant.

All cast members from Year 7 to the Upper Sixth showed tremendous professionalism

and were such team players. It was wonderful to welcome such a full audience, especially as Covid stripped us of so many live performance experiences. It is hard to choose any standout performances, as each cast member contributed so fantastically, however, mention must go to Sofia Gironi (Year 11) and Cara Vogels (Year 13) who drove the production with such dynamism and creative flair. The audience were moved to tears at moments, which was contrasted with moments of comic relief (made all the more funny with the vocal lilts of the Dagenham drool). Additionally, not many schools can claim to have used a real Ford Cortina car (driven down from Yorkshire at 4am that morning!) in their school show. It was a truly unforgettable evening!

At the time of writing this, we are at the end of the school year and still, six months later, we hear cast members singing songs from Made in Dagenham in the school corridors. Watch this space for next year’s musical delight…

Alice Hanton Director of Drama

GCSE DRAMA

Our Year 10 GCSE Drama performers were the youngest exam class to perform to a live audience, although you would not think it from watching their mature and gutsy performances!

For the devised performance (worth 20% of their GCSE), students are tasked with creating a 20-minute piece of theatre devised from a given stimulus. Performers must develop a script and gather props and costumes, as well as make creative choices about the sound and lighting effects that will be the most appropriate for their pieces. The two groups were given challenging and multifaceted stimuli: one was the historical event ‘The Berlin Wall’ and the

other was the urban song ‘Ill Manors’ by Plan B. Each group set to work researching their given stimulus - reading newspaper articles, watching news reports, interviewing people and writing scripts. Furthermore, the girls were keen to incorporate non-naturalistic elements inspired by their exploration of German theatre practitioner Bertolt Brecht. Therefore, in their final performances, we saw the use of dance, cross-cutting, tableaux, projection, thought-tracking,

multi-rolling, and slow motion (to name but a few…) in these pieces. The performers were adept at using a range of performance devices, exemplifying the girls’ understanding of techniques that can be used to create dynamic and thought-provoking pieces of theatre. It was wonderful to witness the girls collaborating in such a creative way to deliver excellent productions!

Alice Hanton Director of Drama

A Level DRAMA

Our A Level Drama students are constantly challenging themselves by exploring a plethora of exciting and engaging theatrical styles and genres. This year was no exception, and our A Level performances delivered pieces inspired by two very contrasting theatrical practitioners.

The Upper Sixth looked at the work of the ‘Godfather’ of naturalism: Russian theatre practitioner Konstantin Stanislavski. The girls delved into his theatrical system and explored a range of his workshops and methodologies to apply to two contextually different naturalistic scripts. Their final exam pieces - performed to an audience at the end of the Autumn Termsaw Kitty Bedford, Francesca Elliot and Cara Vogels perform scenes from ‘Medea Redux’ by Neil LaBute and ‘The Deep Blue Sea’ by Terence Rattigan. Nuanced and sophisticated, the girls created mature and compelling pieces of naturalistic theatre which they should be immensely proud of.

Contrastingly, the Lower Sixth explored the work of Alecky Blythe: Verbatim Theatre practitioner. Inspired by her work, the girls needed to create their scripts - based on the theme of ‘Love’ - entirely from the words of interviews they conducted. The girls took to the streets and sourced interviews from shoppers in Sloane Square, and members of Katherine Low Settlement, as well as interviewing teachers and relatives from across the globe. Using these interviews, the students not only created scripts, but had to recreate the exact vocal qualities of the interviewees. This challenged the girls to develop their vocal skills and they dared to vary their vocal tones, pace, pitch, inflection and intonation, as well as executing a wide variety of accents. Each performer in the class - Rose Cornell, Jacqueline Haas, Victoria Jansen, Palmer Newson, Isabella O’Neill, Sofia Severson, Tess Vogels and Grace Wharton - performed a multitude of roles with style and finesse. Moreover, each scene was stitched together impeccably using inventive scene transitions including dance routines, mime sequences and acapella singing. The girls produced highly engaging and enjoyable pieces of theatre!

Alice Hanton Director of Drama

Daisy and Maisy PULL IT OFF

At the end of a busy year of performances, the Summer Term saw the Drama Department stage the Lower School production of ‘Daisy and Maisy Pull It Off’.

The year is 1927 and our plucky heroines, Daisy and Maisy, are ready for a topping new term and to take on a jolly ripping mystery in this whizzo production of Denise Deegan’s fabulously affectionate parody of 1920s school girl novels.

The Meredith twins are the first scholarship girls taken from an elementary school to be allowed access to the hallowed halls of Grangewood School for Young Ladies. Enthusiastic and spirited to the last, the twins (played by Katharine Wilson and Bea Gironi, Year 9) find themselves struggling against unspeakable snobs Sybil (Romina Fallahdar), Sibella (Cordelia Jones), Monica (Chloe Flames) and Bianca (Mia Enninful-Dominique) and their ghastly schemes to get them expelled. Ably assisted by their new best

friends, Trixie (Claudia Elliot) and Betsy (Lily Fellowes), the twins find themselves caught up in a series of irresistible adventures including the search for missing treasure - does Head Girl Clare Beaumont (Talitha Lang) hold any clues? Can they work out the mysterious clues and save the school from closure? Or will they be beaten by the enigmatic Mr Scoblowski (Sophia Spink)?

This riotous and affectionate pastiche of the classic girls’ school story was a huge West End hit and won the Olivier Award and Drama Theatre Award for Best Comedy. Full of hilarious characters and splendid scrapes, the play celebrates, with a sly wit and a big heart, an arguably sweeter, more innocent era.

The young cast of almost 50 students from Years 7-9 worked tirelessly to perfect the clipped Received Pronunciation accents that were typical in boarding schools in the 1920s. Owing to the large cast, and excellent standard at audition, we split the title role in two, which was superbly executed by Bea Gironi and Katharine Wilson in Year 9.

There was a strong sense of ensemble in this production, and a variety of locations were created through physical theatre and movement sequences. An example of this was the hockey scene, where the whole cast delivered a fast-paced ‘hockey match’ - with actual hockey sticks - using unison, cannon and symmetry to create a riotous replica of a hockey match in the Senior Hall. The production was a fabulous way for the cast to dedicate their final term of this academic year: a rebellious adventure served with lashings of energy and enthusiasm.

Spiffing! Hooray!

Alice Hanton Director of Drama

141st School BIRTHDAY

The School Birthday service was particularly special this year, as the FHS community was once again able to gather as one. This is an occasion which always reminds us to take pride in our school and is a treasured event in the school calendar, packed with traditions for girls and staff to enjoy together.

FHS’s 141st birthday began with a church service in which the Junior and Senior School came together to sing hymns enthusiastically and give recognition to our founders. As is tradition, the students wore daffodils in their hair in a myriad of creative designs, which was a great spectacle in St Columba’s Church, Pont Street. The infamous school anthem, ‘Except the Lord Build the House’, was particularly impassioned, and the descants sounded superb with the acoustics of

the vast church. This service reminds us annually how grateful we are to be part of such a warm and loving community, and was particularly poignant this year as we were finally able to celebrate in person after the pandemic.

Following the service, everyone flocked to the playground to witness the muchanticipated staff versus pupils netball match. The cheering was immense as each year group rallied behind our first 7, who were ultimately successful. We then gathered for the cutting of the School Birthday cake by Mrs Elphinstone, alongside the most fervent rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ that you will ever hear. Next came the legendary blue and yellow cupcakes, followed by a

magic show for the Senior School pupils which was eagerly discussed for the rest of the day, seeing as the tricks were seemingly impossible to work out!

The School Birthday is a half day, so when the pupils poured out of school to enjoy the rest of the day with their friends, there was a noticeable radiance in the air following a morning filled with laughter, games and a lot of cake!

Lily Leaver Upper Sixth

TIPS WEEK

This year we had another unforgettable TIPS Week (Thinking Innovatively and Problem Solving) for all pupils in Years 7 and 8.

Every year, instead of the traditional exam week, we organise a three-day festival of workshops for Year 7 and 8 pupils which aims to challenge and inspire the girls to tackle a diverse set of problems in groups, and individually, with an emphasis on our 7 C’s: Confidence, Commitment, Craftsmanship, Communication, Curiosity, Collaboration and Creativity.

This year was like no other as our teachers pulled out all the stops to design the most exciting workshops for our pupils. From Physics Escape Room to Survival Skills, Crochet and Stage Makeup to FHS Apprentice and Jewellery Makingthere was a huge range of new skills that pupils got to develop across the week.

As always, One Day Film School was a particular highlight and all the teachers were amazed at the quality of the films made in such a short time. The Oscars award ceremony was particularly funny as everyone loved watching each other’s creations and spotting teachers’ cameo performances…!

Some of the highlights are best described by the pupils themselves:

What was the best aspect of TIPS Week?

I loved being able to collaborate with many different girls in my year, especially those I haven’t worked with before. I enjoyed running around and filming creatively, whilst also learning about my teammate’s talents and contributions. I especially loved the end of the day where we all got to see each other’s projects, as it was extremely fun, but it also showed us what we did well, and what we could work on!

Emily, Year 8

How did you develop your 7 C’s?

During the architecture workshop, we were assigned an environment to build a shelter for. My group was assigned the desert. It was difficult to design a structure that would protect you from the heat of the day and the also the intense cold in the night. We had to be creative and confident in our design when it was not going exactly to plan. As well as this, we had to communicate well and discuss solutions to problems we were facing. Overall, I feel as if this workshop has helped me develop my 7C’s and taught me how to work well in a group!

Eden, Year 7

Survival skills with Mr Bishop and Mr Confino was such a fun interactive trip to the park that helped us all practice the 7C’s and really bond!! We ran around Battersea Park using a map, finding different pieces of equipment,

filtering dirty coffee and even finding our own stretcher upon which we carried Cerine as we ran over the finish line!!! The winners got loads of chocolate and the losers (of course) had to eat worms…! However, overall,

regardless of winning or losing, we all had the best time ever!!

Alaia, Year 8

As ever, we are eternally grateful to the wonderful teachers who throw such energy into planning these fascinating workshops and giving us an insight into their passions. Well done to the girls for their abundant enthusiasm and energy and we can’t wait for next year already!

And finally, as one Year 7 said: ‘thank you so much for having a TIPS Week. It was probably my favourite event in my entire life at school. Thank you FHS!’

Eliza

Head of Lower School Enrichment

Lorimer

MUSIC

So, where to begin at the end of this year of music-making which has been just as exciting and busy as ever. With the lockdowns of the previous couple of years still very recent in the memory, it has been especially joyful as we continue to be grateful for the possibility of live performances.

We began the year with a new line-up of teachers. Mr Mercer moved from the role of Music Assistant to becoming a fully-fledged teacher. He was joined by Miss Houlder who replaced him as Music Assistant and Miss Murata who became the School’s first ever Composer-in-Residence! Mrs Floyd returned to FHS (hooray!) as the Head of Junior School Music (as well as the Head of Operations) and Mr Page continues to support the Music Department BRILLIANTLY with all his tech expertise. And I (Miss Vickery) continue to try and hold the Department together. It has been a real joy this year and I want to

acknowledge the fabulous team that is the Music Department!

So, we hit the ground running. The first week was a flurry of entertaining by the School and saw the establishment of our teacher jazz group – Miss Houlder (a phenomenal jazz singer) sang with the able accompaniment of Mr Moore (one of our guitar teachers), Mr Page (yes, a drummer as well as a tech ‘wizard’) and Mr Gee on the Bass (which he teaches too!), providing such a lovely background whilst parents and teachers mingled after

a year when they haven’t been able to meet. The music was wonderfully funky and the band have subsequently put in several appearances at social occasions during the year. At the opposite end of the musical spectrum, an excellent String Quartet of four of our most senior musicians (Caitlin, and then Alexa, Vicky, Inga and Teresa) played at the opening of the OSH and have continued to provide sophisticated music since.

Soon came our customary Evensong sung by Senior Chamber Choir, traditionally their first ‘gig’ of the school year. Oliver Lallemant is no longer the organist at Holy Trinity Church, Sloane Street, so we followed him to East Dulwich to his new church, St Stephen’s, and sang Evensong

there – in a wonderful acoustic which gave us lots of confidence. Many parents followed us there too and we appreciated their positive support!

This was closely followed by the Autumn Concert which, for the past two years, has become the Scholars’ Concert – involving more senior groups and chamber groups in the School Hall. This set the standard high with the smaller groups and some solos and promised an excellent rest of the year.

The Christmas Carol Services were joyful – as usual – many thanks to the Music Department for running the show whilst Miss Vickery was confined to her house with Covid (and really sorry to miss her favourite season of the year!).

The moment the Spring Term began, Miss Vickery was back firing on all cylinders, with the Senior Chamber Choir heading for Windsor on the first day of term (!) to sing Evensong at St George’s Chapel after a gap of two years. The choir sang wonderfully, of course, but it was particularly moving as we were the first visiting choir to sing at Windsor since the pandemic and the clergy there thanked us so warmly. Providing music for services – usually in-house – is one of the jobs of the Music Department that has tailed off over the last two years. So we have been particularly pleased to resume this role this year and, as well as Christmas, have enjoyed singing for Harvest, Ash Wednesday, End of Term Services, and the Leavers’ Service. Additionally, this year we have formed a Brass Band (with added extras) of staff and pupils to play at Remembrance, for the Platinum

Jubilee celebrations and at Prize-Giving to lead everyone (audience included) in a rousing rendition of Jerusalem!

The standout event of the middle of the Spring Term was the epic performance of our musical ‘Made in Dagenham’ at the Adelphi Theatre. We always love collaborating with the Drama Department and this was fantastic. Well done to all involved, particularly Sofia Gironi and Cara Vogels in the lead roles. Thanks to our VMTs for providing an excellent band too.

Even following such a flurry of activity, the Music Department didn’t stop working – the annual Fanny Davies

Festival was as high a standard as ever and a lovely celebration of all the music at FHS – and then, on the penultimate day of term, we held our Spring Concert in Holy Trinity Church, Sloane Street. The first half comprised of the best performances from the Fanny Davies Festival – particularly championing Alexa MacLaren (the winner this year) - and then, in the second half, the massed choirs (pupils, teachers, parents!) performed a triumphant version of John Rutter’s Magnificat accompanied by an orchestra of pupils and professional musicians and featuring soloists from our leaving Upper Sixth. It was joyful and exciting – probably the best ever!

So, during the Summer Term just gone you might think that we took things slightly easier, but not a bit of it. Over the first May Bank Holiday, we took 46 pupils from Years 7 and 8 to Edinburgh on a choir tour. Very eco-friendly, we travelled by train and enjoyed the beautiful Scottish capital. The weather was perhaps only OK (although the first evening was sunny enough to enable us to rehearse outside!) but the hotel, surroundings, food and singing (in lovely venues) were terrific and a good time was had by all.

That just left our Summer Festival, the final concert of the year which we held in the Senior Hall, set out like a jazz café (chairs around tables, the catering staff topping up glasses, the programme set out in menu holders…). It was so ‘cool’

and relaxed and the music focused on jazz and pop repertoire. Some of our newer ensembles (Band and Jazz Vocal Group) featured heavily (Eva Fleury’s ‘Play that Sax’ was particularly memorable...). The final number, Abba’s Dancing Queen, played in fine style by the Orchestra, was reprieved at the end to a packed crowd, on their feet with lots of people dancing!

And just two more things – firstly, PrizeGiving in Cadogan Hall – the most formal event of the year with a String Quartet, the Music Scholars playing as the platform party arrived and the Chamber Choir singing movingly – and the last day of term Service (where we said goodbye to Father Kenny) and entertainment (the 3 Tenors sang with Paul Stubley, who was also leaving).

We’ve had a busy and lovely year –alongside all these special events ran the more usual – ABRSM exams, GCSE and A Level exam recitals – and it’s so good also to have had a relatively ‘normal’ year. Thanks to everyone who helps us, particularly the Facilities and Catering teams and Mr Page - and most of all to Mrs Floyd, Mr Mercer, Miss Houlder and Miss Murata, the fabulous Music Department – and to all the pupils who throw themselves so wholeheartedly into all the music we make!

Helen Vickery Director of Music

Fanny Davies MUSIC FESTIVAL

This year, the annual Fanny Davies Festival was held on Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd March 2022.

With this year’s festival being the first ‘proper’ festival since the pandemic, it was inspiring to see so many pupils take to the stage and fearlessly perform; giving their all. After last year’s ‘Zoom Festival’, the participants commented on how much they enjoyed playing and singing for a live audience of students and staff. There was a brilliant community feeling when, sometimes within minutes, whole classes swarmed into the Senior Hall to watch a category play and offer their support. There were some incredibly powerful performances throughout the

festival, where there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. Every year, the musical talent within the School soars to new levels, but it is no match to witnessing the joy on the girls’ faces as they performed, which, of course, is the most important thing. Many of the staff commented that it was incredibly heart-warming to see the pure unconditional love and support the girls demonstrated to each other, no matter what. Congratulations to the the overall winner, Alexa MacLaren, and the Lower School winner, Mika Bianchi. A massive thank you must be said to Miss Vickery and Mr Mercer for their last-minute, joint adjudication; and a final thank you to all the pupils who took part in two joyful days of music-making.

Maki Gajic Murata Composer-in-Residence

Year 8 Bilingue de Français MASTER CHEF

On 15th November 2021, the Year 8 French bilingual class enjoyed a cooking workshop.

As we were studying gastronomy in the Autumn Term, we made spring rolls and had half an hour to prepare them before being judged.

The class was very excited, but we soon ran into some problems. Firstly, the rice sheets got stuck to our plates and tablecloth, so Mme Lenec’h showed us how to dampen the tablecloth before placing the rice sheets, and it all worked out nicely. We then presented our dishes to Monsieur Calvet, who judged us based on the look and the taste of our rolls, as well as our oral presentation.

Once we had finished presenting, we were able to eat our delicious spring rolls! What a fun lesson!

Alice Chavarot and Malia Mbenza Mbenza Year 8

A Midsummer Night’s DREAM

In the Summer Term, Year 7 studied ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ in their English lessons, getting to grips with the richness of Shakespeare’s language and the hilarious plot of this brilliant play.

The fairies wreaked havoc in the forest near Athens whilst Puck enjoyed watching the foolish Athenians fighting among themselves! ‘Lord, what fools these mortals be!’, laughed Puck.

Year 7 worked collaboratively in groups to create their own scene starring the mischievous fairies and enjoying the challenge of using Shakespeare’s language in their own writing. They

then rehearsed and performed their scene to their peers, displaying their creativity for all to enjoy!

Suzanne Street Teacher of English

World BOOK WEEK

What a week it was. Book Week (not just Book Day, of course) returned with a bang to FHS, and how thrilled we were! From workshops to face painting, talks and fancydress parades, staff and students had a brilliant week. On the Tuesday, we were treated to not one, but three exciting talks from renowned speakers.

First up was L D Lapinski, who delivered a talk to Year 7 students. Author of ‘The Strangeworlds Travel Agency’ trilogy, Lapinski captivated her eager audience as she discussed the power of stories and thinking creatively. There was also an opportunity to ask questions and several students took up this challenge, inquiring about how to become a published writer and get started on novel openings. Happily, Year 7 went away with a copy of ‘The Strangeworlds Travel Agency’, and were immediately spotted getting immersed in this exciting tale.

Secondly, Year 8 and 9 students were treated to a talk from the multi-award winning writer Patrice Lawrence. Lawrence discussed her interesting journey into writing and her novel ‘Splinters of Sunshine’, of which all

students received a copy to take home and enjoy. Again, many students also asked questions at the end of the talk, proving themselves to be excellent listeners.

Also on the Tuesday, students in Year 10 took part in an exciting Shakespeare workshop by Michael Oakley. A Theatre Director, writer and speaker, Michael delivered a dramatic workshop about Shakespeare’s language. Students were encouraged to kick off their shoes and get stamping to the rhythm of iambic pentameter. Particularly relevant considering their current study of ‘Twelfth Night’ in English, Year 10 eagerly began applying their new knowledge in their next English lesson.

Not to be left out, students in Years 11 and 12 were treated to a fascinating talk by the author Thomas McMullan on the Wednesday. His lecture on ‘Why

Writing Matters Now’ included many cross-curricular links for historians, lovers of art and, of course, literature. Our FHS students were clearly energised, with many of them asking intriguing questions. Our budding writers were shown the path to getting published, and some even benefited from one-to-one advice about where to take their burgeoning creativity. This was a particularly academic and intellectually stimulating Book Week activity. Thank you to Ms Ivison, Mr Ellen and Mr Fernandes for organising these fantastic talks.

Finally, on the Thursday, we had the day itself, World Book Day! Every student, from Reception to Upper Sixth, had the opportunity to dress up as a book character. There were some amazing costumes on show. From Miss Lorimer’s terrifying Miss Trunchbull to Tess Mayes in the Lower Sixth’s white rabbit, the English Department were truly impressed by the effort displayed. Important monies raised from this mufti day will go towards the Red Cross Urgent Ukraine Appealthank you to Mr Galloway for organising this collection. The English prefects were also busy on the day as they had organised some wonderful activities in the playground. A Harry Potter quiz, guess the pages in the book competition, and face painting, all went down a storm and helped to make the day even more special. Thank you to Carolina Julius, Isabella O’Neill and Mia Hensher-Goodlad for creating these wonderful treats. In English lessons, girls were treated

to a ‘World Book Day’ quiz and lots of stars have been awarded for excellent knowledge of literature. Furthermore, throughout this week, one student from each year group recommended their ‘Book of the Day’ on the FHS Instagram page. From Year 7, we had Nerine Bentinck, Year 8, Thea McCourt, Year 9

Alice Langellier, Year 10, Linnea Foelster and Year 11, Honor Jones. Thank you to these wonderful students for sharing their treasured texts. We eagerly look forward to the next World Book Day!

Natasha Buchanan Teacher of English

National POETRY DAY

Students and staff had a wonderful time reciting their favourite poetry on stage in the playground to celebrate National Poetry Day.

Many talented poets were chosen, but particular praise must go to our younger students, including Fiona Sweeney in Year 7 and Nola Meyohas, Beatrice Boddy and Emily Sottomayor in Year 8, who read out some of their own highly impressive work. The FHS Poem of the Day returned to our inboxes too, and all students marked the special day in their English lessons.

Creativity and courage were found in abundance – both hallmarks of a true FHS celebration.

Adrian Fernandes Head of English

Morison Verse COMPETITION

On Wednesday 22nd June, our Year 7 students performed in a great FHS tradition: the Morison Verse Competition. Students undertook a poetry recitation challenge, memorising their favourite poems and bravely reciting them in St Mary’s Church.

Thania-Benni Chair took third place for her spirited reading of Maya Angelou’s ‘Still I Rise’, capturing the defiant tone of the piece. Anais Donin De Rosière gave a wonderfully theatrical reading of her choice, adding superb gesticulation and modulation of tone to take second

place. The prize for first became apparent immediately, when Sabrina Fleury gave an expressive, emotive and perfectly measured recital of ‘When Sadness Finds You’. She delivered hope to a transfixed audience, and the applause that she received from her classmates was a joy to hear.

Our 20 finalists should all be proud of their stellar work. They impressed their host, Mr Fernandes and, more importantly, the esteemed judges, Ms Battle and Ms Deblue. Every Year 7 student entered challenging heats in their English lessons, and the whole year group showed characteristic courage and determination. FHS Spirit is alive and well with our youngest Senior School students.

Adrian Fernandes Head of English

Charity and COMMUNITY

Charity and COMMUNITY

Once again, we have been absolutely bowled over by the generosity, spirit, determination and creativity we have witnessed this year from our pupils, staff and parents in their united approach to Outreach. Thank you so much to everybody who has been involved; just a few highlights of a plethora of events and endeavours are outlined below…

FHS Thrift Boutique

Our very first FHS Thrift Boutique!

In the Autumn Term, Upper Sixth Charity Ambassadors Kayla Gal and Isabelle Samuels organised the FHS Thrift Boutique in aid of Katherine Low Settlement (KLS). The Old School House was transformed into a second-hand clothes store, with rails of clothing donated by parents, staff, independent fashion designers and two FHS alumna, Natalija Jovasevic and Zerafina Parbury. Owing to its popularity, the boutique

remained open for an entire week, with Sixth Form pupils getting exclusive access on Tuesday and other year groups, including staff, following suit throughout the week. With special thanks to Natalija Jovasevic, who returned to school for the first time since she left in 2015 to donate clothing, and to speak with event organisers Kayla and Isabelle.

Happily, sales exceeded all expectations with £650 being raised, all of which will be donated to KLS. Representatives from the charity visited the boutique at its opening, expressing their thanks to the Sixth Formers for organising the event.

Claire Brazer Alumni Relations Officer

Hope and Homes for Children

After a particularly eye-opening Psychology lesson, Year 12 were mobilised to raise £1000 for Hope and Homes for Children, a charity that aims to keep vulnerable families together in countries where support to do so is limited.

After a fantastic playground takeover on Monday (see overleaf!), Anya and her team gave a brilliant assembly on Valentine’s Day, explaining the charity and its work (and the importance of giving during Valentine’s season). We were also treated to the once-in-abreaktime chance of seeing Dr Upcott and Miss Vickery on their romantic getaway (to the playground) following their success in Blind Date!

A Mufti Day (wear something RED) followed on Friday, which brought our grand total of funds raised for the week to £1273, smashing our £1000 target! Well done Anya and everyone who helped out.

Sixth Form Playground Takeover

On Monday 11th February 2022, music, laughter, and games filled the playground, as Year 12 held a Playground Takeover.

We ran a number of stalls, which included Face Painting, Tarot Card Reading, Poems for a Pound, a Netball Challenge, and many more. Money was raised in aid of Hope and Homes for Children.

It was a wonderful afternoon, enjoyed by the entire FHS Community, who came in support of Year 12 and their worthy cause.

Immense thanks are due to our Head of Outreach, Mr Galloway, who organised this event, all stallholders, and the younger years for getting stuck in.

Year 7 Wrapping Party for KLS

The Dining Room was a whirlwind of ribbons, wrapping paper and presents as twenty five Year 7 girls (and several parents) stayed after school, wrapping presents kindly donated to the Katherine Low Settlement Love to Learn Homework Club.

KLS works with many vulnerable children, including recently arrived refugees, many of whom are unaccompanied, to ensure that they can access education and other services, as well as supporting them with social activities too. These gifts (over 100!) were a wonderful addition to their Christmas Party on Wednesday 8th December 2021. As well as the kindly donated gifts, we were also able to provide 49 phone credit cards to these

young people, which will mean many will now be able to communicate with family abroad over the Christmas break.

We are so grateful for the organisational nous of the Year 7 parents and their helpers who put together another wonderful initiative.

Will Galloway Head of Outreach

Carolina Julius Lower Sixth

Dreaming of a GREEN FHS

From September 2021, a small ‘Eco Team’ of teachers – Ms Adams, Ms Hammond and myself – were tasked with making FHS a more sustainable school.

For us, that means:

1) drastically reducing our carbon footprint and waste;

2) increasing biodiversity - and encouraging our pupils to appreciate and see themselves as part of the natural world;

3) engaging our pupils in the science, politics and economics of climate change;

4) educating our pupils in issues of climate justice;

5) addressing ‘eco anxiety’ by inspiring pupils to feel they can make a difference and to imagine a better, zero carbon future;

6) preparing our pupils for the ‘green economy’.

I’d love to report that in 9 months we have triumphed on all 6 fronts! But, as sustainability professionals know, there are few ‘easy wins’ in this game – and, even in a small, enlightened institution like ours, changing systems and changing behaviour is quite the challenge. So, what have we done?

At the start of the school year, every form in Years 7 to 11 elected Eco Reps to supervise recycling pens and batteries, and encourage a ‘switch-off and recycling culture’.

In the Autumn, all our Year 10s and 11s participated in so-called ‘mock COP26’ exercises where,

representing different countries, they negotiated with each other over carbon emissions and funds for mitigation and adaptation policies.

At COP26 itself, in Glasgow in November, artwork and poetry by our Year 10s featured on t-shirts worn by students from the UK Schools Sustainability Network. Afterwards, in a Sixth Form Life Skills session, I interviewed Caroline Haas, who, as Head of NatWest’s Climate and ESG Capital Markets division, had attended the COP herself and had many insights to share.

In the Winter, the Year 11s held a People’s Assembly to investigate how

both FHS and the UK might eat more healthily and sustainably. The Year 10s held their own version this term. We shared their proposals with our caterers, Accent. As a result, expect to see a reduction in beef content and plastic packaging from September 2022. We also hope to be collecting – and reducing –our food waste from then too.

In the Spring, an independent energy audit identified ways to heat and light our buildings more efficiently. My personal dream of solar panels and heat pumps all round is some way off – but, with energy prices soaring, selfsufficiency looks increasingly attractive.

This Summer, our Year 9s took part in our version of the Earthshot Prize: the global competition to produce innovative solutions to the world’s greatest problems, from fixing climate change to reducing air pollution and building a waste-free world. Working in teams for 2 days off-timetable, our girls came up with some brilliant solutions, with the best going through to the final at Harrow School. There, they achieved a memorable 4-1 away win over the stunned Harrovians.

Our Lower Sixth Sustainability Prefects have been attending regular Zoom meetings with other students in the London Schools Eco Network, sharing good practice and developing initiatives like the Sustainable Santa tips for a green Christmas. They also organised assemblies and activities to support a Fast-Fashion-Free campaign, and did sterling work to publicise our recent Walk to School Week.

Meanwhile, a handful of dedicated eco warriors in Years 7 and 8 have kept coming to weekly meetings of Eco Club, even when the siren song of Board Game Club was hard to resist!

A busy year then, but our journey to being a truly ‘sustainable school’ has hardly begun. We have exciting plans for 2022-23, for example a refills enterprise (‘FH Essentialz’); a pot plant in every form room; pursuing a Green Flag award (which the Junior School successfully achieved this year). To drive progress, we shall be setting up an Eco Committee, which we would very much like to invite parents to join.

If you’re interested, please contact the School Office to join us on this journey!

Andrew Macdonald-Brown English Teacher & Sustainability Coordinator

Go the EXTRA MILE…

On Friday 18th March 2022, we came together as a community to raise money for the families displaced and affected by the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. We are always eager to show our support in the event of crises, so the time was right for our community to ‘go the extra mile’ for families in Ukraine.

We chose to raise money for UNICEF (7 Fund) who have teams on the ground in Ukraine, and neighbouring countries, to

provide access to critical, life-saving services and support. This includes access to healthcare, drinking water, mental health and psychosocial support and education.

Pupils and staff across the Senior School were invited to sign up for a set number of shuttles, but the initiative exploded into a determined effort by pupils and colleagues in the Junior and Senior Schools, resulting in our community running not one, but 11.7 marathons! We covered over 300 miles and raised an incredible £3,500 thanks to the generosity and kindness of those who donated.

The above efforts were impressive and took place alongside thoughtful and intelligent presentations from Miss Boon and Mr Bishop who are incredibly knowledgeable in the field of History and International Relations. They were able to help our pupils grapple with the unfolding conflict in Ukraine to ensure they could adopt a view with secure knowledge and understanding.

Nick Dyson Director of Creative Enterprise

YOUR PROMISE

Francis Holland Schools Trust is committed to the provision of bursaries designed to make their Schools accessible to all families regardless of financial circumstances.

Presently, 25 girls at FHS Sloane Square receive some form of financial support to attend the school. Within 10 years, the School aims to increase this figure to at least 50 girls. As part of this vision to widen access, we are seeking to achieve a significant increase in support provided to young people from low-

income and disadvantaged backgrounds. All financial awards are made through a comprehensive and independently managed means-testing process.

This year we have launched Francis Holland Foundation Scholarships, a new award for those who would not be able to attend the school without significant financial support. Support for these girls goes well beyond the annual fee, covering other education-related costs such as uniform, trips and digital devices, ensuring Foundation Scholars get the most from their Francis Holland experience and wholly benefit from the excellent education on offer. Further to this, a comprehensive programme of pastoral care and support ensures that these Scholars experience a smooth integration

into the FHS community so they will thrive both in their studies and wider school life. It is the School’s ambition that every one of the 25 additionally funded places will be a Foundation Scholarship.

Fee income alone is insufficient to realise these ambitious plans and the School has no significant endowment to aid our efforts, so we are relying on the support of our past and present parents, our alumni, staff, friends, and local community. It is vital that the programme and commitments made to award holders are sustainable and so it is the Trust’s objective to build an endowment fund of £15m over the 10 year period to ensure we can provide this increased level of transformational awards in perpetuity.

Against the backdrop of a national crisis, both in terms of the cost of living and the widening inequality gap in education as a result of Covid, we are confident this is the right charitable aim for the coming years. Our generous and supportive community has already helped us achieve so much, ensuring the School continues to provide a truly excellent education in an inspiring environment from the architectural award-winning Centre for Creative Enterprise to the inspiring, state

of the art Old School House. With your help and encouragement, we shall be able to build on this history of support and ensure that the School can continue to change the lives of future generations of talented and deserving Francis Holland girls.

Learn more here:

Tom Robertson Director of Development

A Re ection on MVUMI, TANZANIA

I

rst heard the word Mvumi in 2021, during a virtual meeting held to welcome incumbent Year 7 students to FHS.

I was very excited because Mvumi happens to be in my father’s country of origin: Tanzania. In 2021, my parents told me that we would be travelling to Tanzania to attend my cousin’s wedding. I expressed my wish to visit Mvumi School on the trip as I really wanted to see the school for myself and also to hear the experiences of the students there.

In May 2022, having been informed that I would be visiting Mvumi, every girl in Year 7 at FHS wrote a letter to the children there. These letters, as well

as explaining some details of our own lives in London, asked questions such as how many pets or siblings the Mvumi children have and what their hobbies are, and asked them to write back. I think these letters represented a meaningful way to communicate and forge a special connection with the Mvumi children.

Flight & Drive - First Impressions:

Upon arriving at Mvumi in early June, my family and I were warmly greeted by members of staff. After a formal introduction and signing our names in the special visitors’ book, we went over to the Deputy Headteacher’s house, situated within the school compound, where we were served a tasty breakfast.

Headmaster’s O ce:

After breakfast, we went to the Headmaster Mr Mwanangoni’s office. Inside, we signed a visitor’s book, introduced ourselves and talked about a range of subjects including how best to support Mvumi School. Mr Mwanangoni expressed immense gratitude for all the wonderful work done by FHS to date in our Clean Hands, Pure Heart campaign to improve the school, including significant improvements to the ablution blocks.

Inspiring Stories:

We later met some of the Mvumi students, all of whom uniquely touched our hearts. We gave them the Year 7s’ letters, which they really loved and appreciated.

First, we met Mariam, who has just finished Form 4 (equivalent to Year 11 in the UK). Mariam was brought up by her grandparents - her parents passed away when she was very young - and aspires to work in the bank. She performed very well in her GCSE-equivalent exams and was selected to complete Forms 5 and 6 at a very reputable government secondary school called Ifunda Secondary School.Mariam was having a dilemma because, if she chose to go to Ifunda, she would not receive financial help and would have to pay the fees by herself,

whereas if she continued at Mvumi she would receive financial support. She expressed massive appreciation to the person in the UK who has sponsored her education to date.

We were also pleased to meet Lukia, who is in Form 3 (Year 9). Lukia is totally blind and walks around with the support of others. We had brought some brail books with us but were worried they may not be understood as brail writing differs; however Lukia confidently read from the book with a smile on her face. We gave this book to her and she shed a tear of excitement and gratitude.

We also met Mahina, who had done brilliantly in Form 4 and was about to join Form 5 (Lower Sixth). It was explained that people with Mahina’s skin condition (albinos) have to be careful with the weather conditions in Tanzania. Her father had brought her

from some distance, showing great commitment.

In conclusion, we felt this was a successful, memorable and poignant visit. Everyone was very trusting and welcoming to us, and we got a real insight into life at Mvumi. We put this down to the school’s lovely ethos, the connection between FHS and the school and Mr Dyson’s work in communicating with the school and helping to arrange the visit.

It has to be said with emphasis that Mvumi School have deep gratitude for all the support they have had thus far, and we promised to communicate this to FHS and all involved. They expressed the areas they need help with and the headmaster said: ‘please go and share our school realities with others and hope that they will help us, however and whenever they can depending on personal circumstance’.

I would love to go back again soon, with more of my friends, and spend a little longer there.

We thank you all for your contributions and generous support to date.

Kayla Kahwa Year

Love Life ART AUCTION

The Love Life Charity Auction was organised by Mrs Clarke, the mother of Sophie Clarke, who tragically took her own life during lockdown.

I taught Sophie Art and it was lovely to hear that Sophie would often paint and draw long after she had left Francis Holland School. Pupils of all ages submitted their response to the theme of “Love Life” and the charity auction was held in a wonderful building overlooking the Shard.

I also submitted a seascape painting which was auctioned, as I knew Sophie would often spend her time painting in Cornwall.

David Edes Head of Art

Creative Enterprise and CO-CURRICULAR

Creative ENTERPRISE

Many readers will know that Creative Enterprise is in our bloodstream here at FHS. Our bespoke programme encourages pupils to think innovatively, to problem solve, and to become the inventors and game-changers of the future. We build the programme into our Upper School and Sixth Form Enrichment programmes, as well as TIPS Week, to ensure that Creative Enterprise is at the heart of our curriculum.

We were thrilled to win two national awards in 2021-2 - The Independent School of the Year for an Outstanding New Initiative and the Muddy Stilettos Empowering Young Entrepreneurs Award. We continue to lead on Creative Enterprise, having shared our

programme at the 2022 GSA Summer Briefing for Heads across the country. What’s more, we are fortunate to have been selected by the GSA to form the first national enterprise cluster group which aims to bring innovative and enterprising educators together to develop new and impactful initiatives.

Each year, we run an exciting design thinking project for Year 10 and this year was no different. Teaming up with our Link Entrepreneur, Zena Al Farra (Founder of MasterPeace in Ecclestone Yards), Grosvenor Estates and Mr MacDonald-Brown, our lead on sustainability, we asked pupils to propose a business operating out of just two car park spaces. Parklettes

would ‘take back’ some of the local area, reducing the space dedicated for cars to design a sustainable, innovative business. Entries ranged from local creative spaces and bike fixing studios to walk-in STI clinics for youths.

It was a real honour to observe groups, marking them on their creativity, innovation, and enterprise. Costs were considered, projected income streams

were presented alongside the parklette’s environmental impact. It became clear that all groups were committed to developing climate conscious, socially aware, community-centred carbon negative spaces. We congratulate all who were involved and continue to work closely with Grosvenor on real-life urban design in our local area. This partnership resulted in our contributions to the Belgravia in Bloom Art Competitionseveral of our artists will have work on show on the hoardings to the new Cundy Street Development. Many thanks to Phoebe Edgeley in our Art Department for leading on this creative initiative.

Meanwhile, the Sixth Form Innovation Sprints continue - pupils get to meet and work alongside our Link Entrepreneurs

on real business problems. This year, one of our groups worked on a button fixer device which enables consumers to re-fix buttons onto garments at the click of a button when on their way to an event. It was a joy to witness the group explore, ideate, and design this device, even attending a 3D printing session in our ICT suite.

As we look forward to next year, we plan to work with our Link Artist, Jodie Glen-Martin, on our Lower School creative task - this is a collaborative piece designed to build creative confidence in all Lower School pupils. We are also looking forward to entrepreneurial insights delivered by our parents and Link Entrepreneurs. As we prepare pupils for the real

world, we strongly believe that they should be thinking outside the box, considering the social, economic, and environmental impact of their work. The more opportunities we can provide for pupils to listen and learn these approaches in school the better.

Nick Dyson Director of Creative Enterprise

Belgravia in Bloom Jubilee Artwork COMPETITION

Our Year 9 pupils achieved fantastic success in a unique, hybrid Belgravia in Bloom and Jubilee artwork competition in the Summer Term.

The girls were given the brief to create a piece of art in response to the title ‘Beautifully British’, and they took inspiration from artworks including Peter Blake’s photo-collages.

Kaya Dick’s corgis were selected as the overall winner, while Phoebe Smith’s bus and Katie Garrood’s London scene were both runners up.

The student artwork will be recreated on the Cundy development hoarding on Ebury Street later this year.

Phoebe Edgeley Art Teacher

Co-Curricular and Clubs, Clubs, CLUBS!

This academic year has seen the return of our full co-curricular programme after the pandemic.

It has been a joy to witness the high levels of engagement with this programme, particularly the interest amongst our Sixth Formers in running clubs again. Lower Sixth Formers Lucia Sarria and Alexandra Pilot have started the wonderfully creative DIY Club for

our Lower School. Pupils can upcycle almost any treasured garment or object under the watchful eye of our Sixth Form experts.

Meanwhile Pippa Lewin, who only joined our school this year, has successfully launched Cornerstone, the pupil-led School Magazine. We have been able to launch Pottery Clubs, Makaton sessions and other impactful programmes which have seen the resurgence in vertical clubs where pupils from different year groups can meet each other and work on projects together.

We continue to look for innovative ways of connecting with local businesses and experts to ensure that our co-curricular programme is cutting edge. We look forward to launching cooking workshops at Divertimenti, pottery workshops at Studio Pottery near Ecclestone Yards whilst celebrating the clubs which take place on site such as Animal Club, Debating and Board Games Club!

Nick Dyson Director of Creative Enterprise

STEAM

2021-22

It kicked off in September with Ms Rias and Mr Connolly organizing 3D Printing and Robotics clubs. Lego robots roamed the OSH labs under expert control, edible chocolate designs became a reality and students honed their TinkerCad skills. The recent arrival of 3 ‘state of the art’ printers at FHS will unleash even greater creativity next term! Meanwhile, Mr Trussell was concocting fizzing bath bombs, luxury lip balms and sublime smelling shampoo with keen KS3 cosmetics chemists, just in time for Christmas. Next up was an innovative aquaponics project led by Dr Bourne. Students constructed a prototype urban farming system, featuring fish naturally providing the nutrients to grow a lush crop of basil without soil or pesticides and zero food miles accrued - a practical lesson in sustainable food production. Championing a philosophy of design and improvement, the mark II system will be built next term to allow controlled scientific investigations and improve yield. Not to be out done by the Year 9 and 10 urban farmers, Year 7 and 8 naturalists were building a realistic

savannah diorama with the effervescent Ms Vyas. Completing the diorama will create the setting for stop-go animation movie clips, with hand crafted plasticine animal models. Behind the scenes, there is a hive of creativity, curiosity and craftsmanship at STEAM Club. Students receive regular email newsletters, which also inspire engagement in competitions, lectures and STEAM opportunities beyond the classroom.

Claire Price STEAM Champion

was a bumper year for STEAM projects at FHS!

MAGAZINE

Starting up a new club halfway through the year was bound to raise a few challenges…

For instance, the task of recruiting people on top of making sure they were committed was harder than anticipated. This being said, after plastering the walls of the School with promotional posters, it was not too long until a small but enthusiastic group of members formed. This made having a weekly meeting really beneficial - we could discuss ideas that shaped the magazine, and I was

able to keep up to date on the club members’ writing progress.

I knew off the bat that I wanted a club accessible to the whole Senior School, and to provide a new opportunity for the students to express themselves and write about what interests them. Being able to design the entire magazine was also really enriching creatively; I learnt a lot of skills that I’m sure will be useful in the future. And whilst there were of course some hiccups that came along with learning multiple new software programmes from scratch, this only made the final result all the more satisfying. Being able to collaborate and

hear new ideas from multiple students made the resulting magazine, The Cornerstone, even more special and specific to FHS. Furthermore, it was amazing to see the collaboration of pupils across a range of year groups, and I am excited to publish further issues with an even wider range of people.

Overall, I think Magazine Club is a great opportunity for pupils to explore their creative side and, while the tight deadlines did keep me on my toes, I am beyond happy with the final result.

Pippa Lewin Lower Sixth

CLASSICS

This year, Classics Club has continued to thrive. We have learned about ancient Greek and Roman drama, history, mythology and writing systems.

One memorable session involved using lollipop sticks and clay to write ancient cuneiform like ancient Assyrians (ancient people who ran an empire across the ancient Near East).

In the Spring Term, Cecilie and Yagmur from the Lower Sixth joined the club to help design some excellent Classics themed boardgames.

As ever, Classics Club allows our pupils the chance to explore the ancient Mediterranean creatively, with no Greek or Latin grammar allowed!

Sam Hayes Head of Classics

Alex and I have been going to the Fashion School Chelsea for many years now, where we have learned many valuable skills and techniques within the fashion world. This has inspired us to share our knowledge and passion with younger years.

In DIY Club, the girls have the opportunity to express themselves creatively by revamping old clothes that they no longer like to create unique pieces of clothing. As sustainability is an essential pillar of the fashion industry, we encourage every girl in the club to bring in an old piece of clothing that they can upcycle.

DIYThis Summer Term, we ran a special “Sustainable Summer” version of the club, where bright summer colours inspired the girls to create unique embroidery on their clothes. The girls created beautiful embroidered designs on items such as bucket hats and t-shirts that would have usually been discarded, but now have a new life!

We will continue in the Autumn Term with an exciting new focus that will be released soon. Watch this space!

Lucia Sarria and Alexandra Pilot Upper Sixth

SIXTH FORM

TEDX

A TEDx talk is often something that feels far out of reach. As a viewer, you watch them on YouTube as they explore big ideas that feel almost inconceivable to you and never think that you would be the person giving one.

So, when Year 12 learnt of the opportunity to deliver their very own about whatever topic interested them, it is no surprise that we jumped at the chance. After the initial excitement of standing on the perfectly circular red rug and commandingly holding a clicker, everyone began brainstorming ideas for their talk. Some decided to relate

it to their most loved subject, discussing medieval women in literature or the possibilities of quantum computers. Others took it as an opportunity to investigate topics they had always wanted to, such as why forgiveness is worthwhile.

We were introduced to FHS’s public speaking coach, George Håkon-Benson, and began having fortnightly sessions with him. Using his experience, he helped train us to alter our volume, pitch and pauses in order to sound and to feel like a confident speaker. He held workshops where we read out famous speeches, such as Greta Thunberg’s speech at the UN Climate Summit, considering our intentions and how they affect our delivery. We performed segments of our talk to our fellow peers to gain self-assurance which helped in the process of learning them.

After being gifted the famous TEDx lanyards, we finally felt ready. The day had come. The big red letters of T-E-D loomed over the stage and a mix of anticipation and excitement hovered in the air as people filed in. After the first quarter of incredible talks, which took a lot of admirable bravery kicking off the show, we were given an illuminating workshop by AGL Communication, one of London’s leading communication and talent development agencies. The group was taught how to present confidently, following their motto to ‘be human, be present and be clear’ – a very fitting workshop for the day!

Following another segment, with talks on procrastination and redesigning capitalism for a more inclusive economy, came lunch, where everyone eagerly discussed their thoughts on the

commendable talks they had watched. Halfway through the afternoon, the TEDx-ers and audience had a chance to relax for bit during the second workshop of the day. Whether you were jewellery making, biscuit decorating or throwing clay pots, everyone had the chance to stretch their legs and absorb all the fascinating information that had been sent their way throughout the day!

The final quarter of talks finished as everyone gathered on stage for a picture; their friends in the audience beaming with pride. Rapturous applause continued as the event wrapped up and this year’s theme of ‘Take a Moment and Think’ was the message that people left with. That and astonishingly good knowledge on the wonder of water bears...

Isabella O’Neill Lower Sixth

Selected quotes from this Summer’s Presentations

Tess Vogels - Why We Should Say Goodbye to BMI

“Together, we need to push for a better world which dismantles flawed indexes such as BMI and instead makes waves in healthcare, schools, and our general society through different approaches which result in a positive environment for all of us, no matter what we look like.”

Jacqueline Haas - Procrastination

“Following Darwin’s logic, modern affective neuroscience suggests brain mechanisms of emotional reactions to mediate evolved “survival functions”, with emotional ones. Procrastination tends to be a quick fix allowing for the

release of serotonin when we watch another episode or scroll through five more TikTok videos.”

Isabella O’Neill - Why it is Important that Picture Books are Diverse “Diversity in children’s literature in the past has often been just based on the character being from a minority background. Or about them tackling or overcoming an issue that they’ve faced, as a result of it. It has also seemed to focus on just one aspect at a time. Being gay. Or being neurodivergent. What if you’re both? Is that simply too much to ask from one book? Children need to see characters of all kinds engaging in everyday situations and as more than a one-dimensional representation of the particular minority group that they belong to.”

EPQS

Our Lower Sixth produced an impressive range of projects for the Extended Project Qualifications, which they enjoyed sharing with peers at a display afternoon in the Summer Term. Some of the girls have shared their experiences below:

For my EPQ artefact, I wrote part of an historical fiction novel about the Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755, which was followed by a tsunami and firestorm, to determine whether historical fiction novels are a good educational tool. This project taught me invaluable independent research skills and much better time management, although it took several failed self-imposed deadlines to do so! It was a lot of hard work, but this project was incredibly enjoyable and

I am even planning on finishing the novel. I would recommend it to everyone.

Caley Collins Lower Sixth

Completing my EPQ, where I investigated the benefits of reusable sanitary products by sewing cloth pads, not only taught me many valuable skills about research and critical thinking but also challenged me to be creative. The project enriched my Year 12 experience as I learnt how to work independently and develop a small interest into something I am now very proud of.

Isabella O’Neill Lower Sixth

The EPQ is the first original research project I have undertaken and a highlight of my academic career. I thoroughly enjoyed the latitude and independence in selecting a topic of my interest and the approach to researching it. I engage in competitive sports, and the relationship between athletes (me and/or my team mates), coaches, and the elements of

this relationship which lead me and other athletes to wins in our athletic careers, have always fascinated me. I was always keen to analyse this unique relationship and the EPQ afforded me the opportunity to prove my hypotheses about the aspects of the coach-athlete relationship that are pivotal in athletes winning competitions. I thoroughly enjoyed the creativity in structuring my own research project and approach of using both primary and secondary sources to prove my hypotheses. Designing my own questions for my interviews of coaches and athletes and for my survey questionnaire to athletes was especially challenging and interesting, as only the correct design would be effective in proving my hypotheses. The challenge and the creativity of original research posed by undertaking the EPQ was very exciting and I look forward to conducting more original research on topics of my interest in my future academic endeavours.

Sabrina Bet-Mansour Lower Sixth

For my EPQ project, I created a dress. Making the dress was one of my main highlights of the school year, as I learnt so much about time management and had the time to work on something which I enjoyed. The EPQ taught me how to work independently as well as teaching me a whole new skill I otherwise wouldn’t have had the time to develop!

Yella Straub Lower Sixth

Shevah Head of Literacy and Communications

Emma

Sixth Form SPEAKERS

Once again, the Speaker Programme team coordinated an incredible line up of speakers that broadened the opinions and conversations of the Sixth Form students.

This year’s programme kicked off with our own Father Kenny talking about civil discourse and the art of disagreeing well. We have heard from some fantastic media and communications specialists

including Lisa Ferri of CBS News, who was inspiring, and Rick Findler, the war photographer, who told extraordinary stories of his time - and the importance of - photographing people in conflict.

We were delighted to welcome alumna Sarah Esdaile, Director of Call the Midwife, Alex Bellos, Mathematician, and Dr Arthur Turrell, Physicist. Pharmaceutical researchers, a startup opera company and contributions from a charity tackling period poverty called The Cycle made for a very enriching and fascinating programme.

Caroline Wilkes Joint Head of Sixth Form

Young REPORTER

From September 2021 to April 2022, I took part in the Young Reporter Scheme, writing an article each month that was published on the “This Is Local London” website.

At first, the task seemed very daunting, but after reading the handbook outlining the suggested structure and articles from the previous year, I was able to think of several interesting article ideas, choose the best one of these, and draft it. This became easier every month as I learned better what was relevant and engaging, although it could be difficult to invent fresh ideas so often while avoiding overlapping with the topics covered by other participants.

This scheme taught me effective time management skills, making me more conscious of keeping to deadlines, and augmented my ability to work well under pressure. It enhanced my selfdiscipline, independent research skills and perseverance as I repeated the process of drafting new articles each

month, finding and interviewing my own sources, and developed my language skills and vocabulary as I continuously searched for more fluent ways to express myself. It has even led me to arrange work experience writing news articles for a magazine!

I thoroughly enjoyed the scheme and would highly recommend it to any aspiring journalists, English students, or anyone eager to learn transferable skills. It will keep you informed of current events, may teach you something new about yourself and, above all, is fun!

You can read all Young Reporter articles on www.thisislocallondon.co.uk

Caley Collins Lower Sixth

Upper Sixth LEAVERS’ DINNER

In their last full week at school before going on study leave, the Upper Sixth and their teachers gathered in the Senior Hall one more time to say farewell.

The Hall looked spectacular and the food was delicious. The Upper Sixth were delighted to watch a video tribute to them made by their teachers and there were lovely speeches from the Head Girls, Cara Vogels and Lily Leaver, together with a wonderful singing

performance from Mariasole Stewen. For many of the girls who have been at the School since their junior years, this was an emotional moment. However, we are sure they will be back to visit as alumnae!

Caroline Wilkes Joint Head of Sixth Form

Sixth Form TEA GROUP

“There’s

word tea.” So says Lord Peter Wimsey in the Dorothy L. Sayers novel ‘Gaudy Night’, and members of the Tea Group would be very much inclined to agree with him. The promise of tea, together with a museum or gallery visit, has drawn several Sixth Formers and members of staff to grab their bags on a Friday afternoon and head off to sample some of the cultural gems that London has to offer.

It has been excellent to revive our monthly trips after Covid, and we’ve had great fun going to the Courtauld Gallery, the V&A, and Tate Britain, as well as delving into the dynastic rivalries of the 16th century via the British Library’s ‘Royal Cousins’ exhibition. A particular highlight this year was our visit to the

Irish Embassy where we enjoyed a superb tour of the portraits by Sir John Lavery of the signatories of the 1921 Anglo-Irish Treaty in the centenary year. Historians and non-historians alike really enjoyed immersing themselves in this era when the foundations of a new relationship between Britain and Ireland were laid. The visit ended with refreshments, and an opportunity to talk with the Ambassador and one of the Counsellors who gave the girls a fascinating insight into diplomatic life. Very many thanks are due to His Excellency the Ambassador and Counsellor Flood for their warm welcome and generous hospitality.

As she retires this summer, I’d like to thank Frau Kaleja for her unwavering support of the Tea Group since its inception in 2017. Hopefully she and some of you will consider joining us in the new academic year for our next round of visits.

Emily Boon Head of History

something hypnotic about the

A LEVEL

At the A Level Art Show in the Summer Term, after much deliberation due to the outstanding quality of all the girls’ work, the Best of Show award was presented to Dulcie Park by award winning artist Morag Caister.

Dulcie created a fascinating Personal Investigation into the beauty of trees, ranging from delicate drawings to large ink studies and even sculptures.

David Edes Head of Art

We have once again been blown away by the calibre of art produced by our A Level artists this year.

GCSE

To make art under normal circumstances is no mean feat; to make art during a global pandemic is a triumph. This year’s GCSE Art cohort took on this challenge head-on, not only creating exceptional portfolios of work under difficult circumstances, but doing so with tenacity, boldness and unreserved creativity.

There were works directly inspired by the events of the past few years, with portrait subjects sitting pensively alongside Dettol hand sanitiser; there were works inspired by the grandeur of the oceans, from exquisitely detailed wave scenes to playful sponge sculptures; and there was everything in between, from colourful pop-art inspired still life scenes to anatomical embroidery.

The girls’ hard work culminated in this year’s GCSE Art Show, wherein awardwinning artist Morag Caister awarded the Best in Show to Amalia Zwart for her beautiful biology-inspired pieces.

Congratulations to this year’s GCSE cohort for creating such stunning work, and we can’t wait to see what these talented artists create in the future.

David Edes Head of Art

Year 9 Still Life and SURREALISM

Year 9 have explored Surrealism, carrying out in-depth research into the art movement in preparation for developing dreamscape sculptures.

These drawings of merging objects are inspired by artists including René Magritte and Méret Oppenheim and use key Surrealist techniques of juxtaposition, dislocation and transformation.

Year 9 have also studied the history of ‘Still Life’: from the symbolism in the

Dutch ‘Vanitas’ paintings of the Baroque period to contemporary artists including Michael Craig-Martin. In these drawings, students have used block colour and patterns inspired by Pop Artist Roy Lichtenstein to capture texture and form.

Phoebe Edgeley Art Teacher

Year 8

CUBIST PORTRAITS

Year 8 have created multiple perspective sculptural portraits, inspired by Cubism.

Working with cardboard, modroc and paint, they translated their own portrait photographs into 3D form.

Phoebe Edgeley Art Teacher

Year 7 FRUIT STUDIES

Year 7 have worked from direct observation, creating large-scale pastel drawings and mixed-media collages of fruits.

The project focused on capturing key elements of art: colour, pattern, texture and form. Students took inspiration from a range of artworks including contemporary ‘hyperreal’ fruit paintings and Georgia O’Keeffe’s studies of natural forms.

Phoebe Edgeley Art Teacher

SPORT

SPORTS DAY

The FHS PE Department waited with great anticipation to run the annual Sports Day this year. New and exciting activities were planned alongside the athletics events; all of us were praying for it to be a dry day!

Sports Day falls in the middle of a busy week for the pupils. Year 9 battled

through their exams and Years 7 and 8 were enjoying a jam-packed week of TIPS. It was therefore fantastic to see the pupils arriving in high spirits, eager to throw themselves into a morning of physical activity. They demonstrated a tremendous spirit of support and endeavour; this being what makes our community so special.

A particular highlight was seeing Lina Colas in Year 11 spending the day supporting the PE Department but also competing in many of the events. Lina was in the middle of her GCSEs but took the opportunity of an exam-free day to produce fantastic performances on the track. She was not alone in her stellar

performances, and we must applaud the athletic efforts from all the girls in the events that took place. A special mention goes to the athletes below who were awarded the Victrix Ludorum:

Year 7 - Maya Al Faisal

Year 8 - Holly Fitzpatrick

Year 9 - Cordelia Jones

Year 10 - Minty Thiel

Miss James in the PE Department organised the ‘open mile’ which took place after the whole school picnic. Spectators and athletes were invited to

participate in the event to raise money for the ‘Mental Health Foundation’; a charity Miss James will be running for in the London Marathon. To see the whole School, including friends and family, moving around the track whether it was skipping, running or walking, and doing so in characteristic FHS spirit, made this a truly uplifting event.

It was a Sports Day to remember, and we look forward to the event continuing to grow.

Georgina Newsome Director of Sport

Varsity NETBALL

In the first week back after Autumn half term, Francis Holland School, Sloane Square hosted our second varsity netball tournament against Francis Holland School, Regent’s Park. Having won the tournament previously, there was much at stake for SW1.

The netball court was awash with colour: red and blue balloons, bunting and ribbons flapping in the wind as both teams began their warmups.

The concept had evolved from our first Varsity meeting; this year seeing the inclusion of all squads from Years 7-13. Each would play their opposition team at Regent’s Park; the school with the most wins overall being awarded the coveted Varsity Cup!

The atmosphere was electric! Pupils from all years had gathered at the court to show their support.

It was the Year 7s who took to the court first, led by captain Victoria. A buzz of

excitement from both teams filled the court and the game was neck and neck. At half time, SW1 were slightly ahead but NW1 pulled the score back to within 1 goal in the second half! The final score was 6-5 to Sloane Square. A well fought match and well-earned first win for SW1.

Next up was the U13 team. They had already met earlier in the season and the team had secured a win, but only by a small margin. However, the U13s need not have worried as they dominated play from the first whistle. Excellent attacking play in the centre court from Helena and Bea allowed SW1 to keep the majority of possession, and consistent shooting from Grace saw SW1 stretch their lead.

The U13s continued to apply pressure up until the final whistle and finished with a dominant score of 17-3 to SW1. A second win secured for us!

The pace of the U14 match was even faster and the skill of the players was evident on the court. Both teams were fighting for every ball and the score kept with the centres. A dominant circle performance from Tara and Margo kept SW1 in touch of the title as the score was level at half time. Our Captain Chloe rallied her team for a nail-biting second half culminating in a last-minute goal from Margo which clinched the win for SW1. Another fantastic performance by Sloane Square, pushing our lead further ahead going into the last 2 matches.

The U15 match also did not disappoint. This squad had never lost to Regent’s Park in their four year history, so there was much at stake. A strong defensive performance from Grace curtailed NW1 goal scoring opportunities, and a well-rehearsed attacking circle in Ella

and Maria saw SW1 push ahead. This continued throughout the game and the girls continued to turn over their centres. A phenomenal performance and superb result: 17-6; another win for SW1.

As the first VII warmed up, the excitement in the sidelines became more and more palpable as girls realised a win here would see a clean sweep for SW1 and the Varsity Cup would once again be awarded to Sloane Square.

Our first team demonstrated their prowess with exceptional attacking and defensive play throughout. Superb movement on

court and tactical application saw SW1 take a strong lead into half time. SW1 continued to net goals throughout the second half, managing to net 22 goals in total, averaging over 1 goal every minute! The final whistle blew, and we had secured the win. An excellent achievement and a demonstration of the all the hard work the girls had put into their netball this term.

Well done to all of the girls who participated in this amazing event! We cannot wait for next year already!

Alexandra Allen Head of Senior PE

Gym & Dance DISPLAY

After two years without this heartwarming event, we were delighted to see so many girls involved in the Global Celebration Gymnastics and Dance Display. This year, parents and staff witnessed the joy and unity dance can bring as they proudly watched girls in Years 7-13 performing various styles and techniques from around the globe. Our announcers educated the audience by explaining the fascinating origins and meaning behind certain dances and how these styles have shaped the evolution of dance.

All the girls who took part had been creating and rehearsing their performances for weeks. There was an atmosphere of great excitement derived from seeing all the costumes

and watching each other’s performances in preparation for the fully packed shows on 16th and 17th March. New for this year, parents enjoyed pre-show refreshments and the opportunity to catch up with friends, having missed so many school events during the pandemic. As parents and staff found their seats, the girls were also waiting in anticipation of the first performance.

Our FHS Gym Squad opened the display with their daring gymnastics skills on the trampette and vault and, later, a tango inspired routine including tumbles and balances. All four of our Year 7 gym groups performed a different style of dance, further adding to the huge variety within the display and demonstrating the breadth of talent amongst the girls.

Backstage, excitement and exhilaration filled the air as girls came back and forth throughout the evening, reporting back on their experiences to those nervously waiting to ‘go on’. In the audience, there were smiles, appreciation and amazement as the girls showcased their hard work.

Our immensely talented ballet scholars impressed us with their Scottish dancing, while Sofia Severson from Year 12 treated us to a beautiful contemporary piece. A Hip-Hop solo, a Slavic Folk duo and a modern contemporary trio further added to the evening’s programme. Miss Gilly’s dance group was a special piece this year, using

the contemporary style to celebrate the three main landscapes of the globe: rainforest, desert and city.

The final piece was a truly unforgettable fusion of elite gymnasts and dancers from across the age groups coming together to highlight their talents. Inspired by signature moves from Latin dance, this number was jam packed with somersaults, lifts, acrobatics, spins, leaps and partner work.

All spectators and performers left with a sense of pride and community. The support and encouragement from all involved made this such a wonderful, joyous event.

Lindsey Sinclair Teacher of Gymnastics

GSA Netball WEEKEND

The GSA Netball Weekend (24th-26th September 2021) is a particular highlight for our netball teams in the Autumn Term. The girls had been selected from trials in the second week of term and proceeded to train together in preparation for the weekend tournament. It was due to be a jam-packed weekend of activities with two full days of netball.

The two teams travelled to Condover Hall near Shrewsbury for the weekend. On arrival, both teams settled into their accommodation and were nervous but

also excited to meet their peers from schools all across the UK.

The girls faced tough opposition on day 1, where they were challenged mentally and physically. The teams stepped up to the challenge and by the end of the first day had found their rhythm. Off court, the teams partook alternately in high ropes, climbing and abseiling. The girls were rightly exhausted by the end of the day and enjoyed a well-earned rest in preparation for the final day of matches.

Inevitably, the teams were carrying several injuries and illnesses as they went into the final day of matches. The U14 team stuck together, remained positive and gave the tournament all they had. The girls played out of position and faced back-to-back matches. They came away with 4 wins and several closely contested games. The U13s had qualified for the plate tournament on the Sunday and got through to the final, narrowly missing out to St Catherine’s School.

The girls came back to London on Sunday very tired, but pleased with their first tournament of the season. The PE staff were proud of the progress the teams had made in such a short space of time and looked forward to the season ahead with excitement.

Georgina Newsome Director of Sport

TRIPS

Year 7 Biology Trip to PORT LYMPNE

Bright and early on Monday 13th June 2022, Year 7 set off for Port Lympne: a wildlife reserve and sanctuary for animals that have either been injured or need a place to stay until they can be released into the wild.

In our first talk of the day, led by one of the keepers at the sanctuary, we learnt all about ‘Hungry Hunters’: predators which have adapted their hunting styles to increase their success rates in killing their prey. For example, tigers’ fur has evolved to be red and orange because most of their prey is red colourblind, making them more camouflaged because their red fur appears brown and green to their prey.

The second talk of the day was all about primates and how they relate to humans and other species. We learnt that there was a capuchin monkey at the sanctuary who had type 2 diabetes. At the beginning of her treatment, she was given insulin shots and a treat afterwards to reward her. Because her species is very intelligent, she soon realised that the insulin was the reward as it made her

feel much better and stopped taking the treat. She is doing very well now!

Next, after a delicious lunch, came the activity we had all been waiting for… safari rides!

We got on the trucks and took a (very!) bumpy ride along the safari track. The sanctuary houses three different habitats - South American, African and Asian - and we were lucky to see many species including giraffes, painted dogs, capybaras and different types of deer, antelope and rhinos.

Overall, we were so lucky to be able to see how these rare animals lived and how different they all were, and were

very happy to see these endangered species being helped and protected from the dangers that threaten their habitats.

We had an amazing time and will remember these incredible creatures for many years to come!

Bea Husband and Sabrina Fleury Year 7

Year 10 Geography Trip to SLAPTON LEY

Our weekend started at 7am at Paddington Station. After a long train ride, we arrived at FSC Slapton Ley. Greeted by staff, our exhausted yet anticipated year group were told what was in store for us this weekend.

We began our fieldwork at Slapton Sands, where we investigated different methods of flood protection and management, including a £2,000,000 sea wall and rip rap. We then used a clinometer to measure the beach profile’s gradient. The physical investigation was very thorough and much more fun than expected.

We headed back to base for supper and, on arrival to the Dining Room, realised that the dashing Radley boys were just leaving (which really made our day!). After supper, plenty of us were drawn to the Games Room to play table tennis or Jenga, some went stargazing, and others stayed inside and did some schoolwork… because GCSEs don’t even stop for Devon!

Saturday morning started at 7.45am, sharp. We headed to Plymouth to collect data to investigate the differences between urban regeneration in two areas: Royal Williams Yard and Adelaide Park. The second part of the day included walking to the bottom-up regenerated Adelaide Park Home Zone to investigate the community led regeneration.

We awoke on Sunday morning, brighteyed and ready for another educational day! After breakfast, we analysed the

data that we had collected over the past couple of days, before heading back to Totnes Station for another fun and scenic train journey back to Paddington.

We would like to hugely thank Miss Mackenzie, Mr Allan and Miss Hammond, as well as the FSC staff, for making this such an amazing weekend; it is one that none of us will ever forget!

Ella O’Connell Year 10 GCSE Geographer

Year 12 Geography Trip to SLAPTON LEY

Our keen Year 12 Geography class embarked on a 3-day trip to South Devon, in aid of our A Level Independent Investigations.

We departed Paddington rather early and the entirety of FHS ate their Pret A Manger acai bowls on the train together. After arriving in Totnes we were greeted by Greg, our fabulous tutor for the weekend, who took us on a brisk walk into Totnes town where we began our data collecting journey. After an exciting first day of lessons, we were all very happy to hop into bed and get some well-deserved rest to prepare ourselves for day 2!

Our second day began with a trip to the coast. Beginning at a windy headland, we walked down a steep cliff, stopping off at key points such as Hallsands, where we learnt about the Trout sisters, in particular Ella Trout who was awarded an OBE for conducting an extraordinary rescue on the coast. After this, we made our way down to North Hallsands then Beesands before calculating the cost vs. flood risk benefit of living in that area.

After lunch, we made our way over to Slapton Sands and began to learn about beach morphology and types of sediment. We randomly selected sediment from the beach so we could identify different categories (igneous, flint, quartz and quartzite to name a few) using a chart. Finally, we made our way back to the centre, exhausted but satisfied having walked a total of

12km along the coastline! That evening we conducted tests on the sediment samples, enabling us to accurately decide what type of rock they were and what processes were at play.

Our final day was short yet funwe began by learning about the water cycle and understanding key terminology, then walked to the woodlands and found ourselves on an arable field where we tested infiltration rates using new equipment.

This trip provided us with many new skills and expanded our horizons on Geography as a whole. Thank you so much to the Geography Department for taking us - it was lots of fun!

Year 12 A Level Geographers

Year 12 HISTORY OF ART

Our Year 12 History of Art students enjoyed exploring many rich art historical hotspots this year, both in the UK and further afield, which they appreciated more than ever after having been unable to visit them over the course of the pandemic. Just a few highlights are described here:

December 2021 - The Victoria and Albert Museum, Raphael Cartoons

To celebrate the end of the Autumn Term and the re-opening of museums, the Lower Sixth History of Art group and I went to the Victoria and Albert Museum to see, amongst other things, the Cast Courts and the Raphael Cartoons in their enormous, newly restored hall.

April 2022 - Florence

The highlights of the Year 12 History of Art programme wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the trip to Florence, the home of some of the finest art in the world, in the Easter holidays.

I was unfortunately unable to make the trip due to getting Covid and was very grateful to Mrs Elphinstone for stepping in last minute. The group explored the famous Duomo Museum and saw the Botticelli paintings in the Uffizi and, of course, Michelangelo’s David. To be walking the Florentine streets in the Easter sun and seeing the paintings they had studied in great detail in person was very special and such a

joyful time for the girls (that alongside a great deal of comic relief courtesy of Mr Edes and Mrs Elphinstone!).

June 2022 - Cornelia Parker, Tate Britain

While the rest of the school was on Expeditions Week at the end of June, I took members of the Lower Sixth History of Art group to the Cornelia Parker Exhibition at Tate Britain. Her remarkable installations and conceptual works provoke, perplex and amuse and we all came away with a new way of thinking.

July

2022 - Masterpiece Art Fair

To mark the end of the Summer Term, I took the History of Art group around the corner to the grounds of Royal Hospital Chelsea to see the spectacular Masterpiece London Art Fair. We saw a vast number of breathtaking paintings, sculptures, drawings, jewellery, ceramics, furniture and more, all of the highest quality, spanning thousands of years and displayed by some of the greatest dealers in the world.

Sarah Carr Gomm Head of History of Art

Year 7 Expedition to CORNWALL

We all had the most incredible time and took part in activities such as surfing, coasteering, Come Dine With Me, talent shows, pizza and burger nights and many others. We were all involved in a total of three surfing lessons, where we were taught to catch and ride the waves. Even in the wind and rain, we all had an incredible time and were filled with a huge amount of joy when we managed to catch a wave and stand up!

Our expedition to Cornwall was a week that will stay with us for the rest of our lives. It was fun-filled and exciting throughout.

Coasteering was also a very exciting activity, where we climbed up rocks and jumped off them into the sea. We developed our 7 Cs by being courageous when jumping from huge heights and communicating when we didn’t feel comfortable. We also developed resilience as lots of us were nervous at first but then we felt really confident after jumping bravely off the rocks.

Year 7 also adored the Come Dine With Me evenings, where we were given food and a recipe and had to cook a meal and present it beautifully to two surprise teachers. We also had to provide entertainment, which was fun! This was the highlight of the trip because we liked the independence and being able to provide a delicious meal for our teachers. In this activity, we had to be

creative and collaborate well with our peers in order to succeed in providing great company and entertainment as well as a beautiful meal.

The following night, the whole year group performed in a talent show that was judged by the teachers. All the groups loved watching and supporting their friends when they presented their acts, particularly when they were impersonating teachers!

Finally, we all thoroughly enjoyed sharing a cabin with our friends and a having huge amount of autonomy when cooking our meals, preparing for the day and cleaning up after ourselves.

Overall, everyone had an amazing time and made unforgettable memories.

Alberti and Penelope Ieva Year 7

Eden

Year 8 Expedition to BERKSHIRE

On Monday 27th June 2022, we embarked on an exciting journey to scenic Berkshire for our Year 8 Expedition! We were greeted by the wonderful staff there and thrown into a whirlwind of new activities.

First we settled into our bell tents, blowing up our sleeping mats and setting down our sleeping bags. We then had our first chance to explore the campsite. There were beautiful grounds and amazing views surrounding us and we were all buzzing with excitement.

Throughout the week, we partook in a variety of activities including canoeing, campfire cooking, canal boating, mountain biking, bushcraft, axe throwing and archery, as well as a beautiful hike with stunning views. At night, there was always a delicious dinner followed by a game to burn off energy before getting ready for bed with the help of marshmallows and hot chocolate! We were put into activity groups that were completely random, allowing us to make new friends. Overall, it was an amazing week where we all had a lot of fun!

My personal favourite activity was canoeing, which took place on the Wednesday morning. This was a new skill for the majority of us but nevertheless we all had so much fun. We quickly caught on how to steer,

move and direct the boat while working together in groups of three. We played a range of games that were challenging but very amusing, especially when some of the boats capsized! The scenery around us was very beautiful and

different to anything we would ever see in London, which made it even more peaceful and relaxing.

Overall, I think it was a great learning experience for us all and also a day that we will never forget!

Luella Gee

Year 8

For me, the highlight of our trip was the mountain biking. It was fun and relaxing and I enjoyed it as it’s something I don’t often do. The mountain biking groups were small so we didn’t have to wait for others and could bike freely.

The setting was also beautiful, as on one side there was a marvellous canal and on the other side there were pretty grass fields with kites flying overhead.

I made a very distinctive memory during this bike ride while I was biking… I lost my balance and fell into the canal! After getting dry and changed and rescuing my bike out of the canal, I was sure that this was going to be my favourite part of the week.

Lorenza Russo Year 8

Year 9 D of E Expedition to the LAKE DISTRICT

On Monday morning, following a very early start at Euston Station, we arrived in the Lake District ready for the long week ahead of us.

Upon arrival, we met our camp leader Louisa, who introduced us to our instructors and taught us some basic skills on navigation in our groups before

we set off to our first destination for lunch. We spent the rest of the day hiking and mapping our way to the campsite, where we set up our tents and figured out how to use our Trangias to cook supper before spending the remainder of the evening playing games.

Tuesday morning began with the worst possible words to hear at that time in the morning: “Time to get up, girls!” from Miss Caister. We reluctantly got dressed and crawled out of our tents to make breakfast, after which we were

briefed on the day head. This consisted of a navigating competition, so we raced against the clock to get to all the different checkpoints in order to be awarded points. We had a well-deserved lunch back at camp, then it was time to head off into the town to get a boat across Lake Windemere, where we enjoyed the stunning view and played card games.

On Wednesday, having completed our Duke of Edinburgh training days, we partook in an activity we had all been looking forward to: Ghyll Scrambling.

We began walking up a river from rock to rock, before reaching a big waterfall which we climbed up (getting very wet in the process!). After our enjoyable but quite scary climb, we continued walking to the top of the mountain where we stopped to admire the view and eat lunch. We then faced the arduous task of hiking back down the mountain. When we finally reached the busses to go home, we were very relieved. The bus drive back was great as we sang along to lots of music and chatted away about our day.

On Thursday morning, after a fun but full on week, assessment day dawned. We had to muster our last ounces of strength to complete our D of E award. After a hearty breakfast, we were dropped off at the start point of our assessed walk and tasked to find our

way back to camp, using our maps to navigate through the checkpoints. At some points it was very easy; however, for me, getting lost trying to get to check point 4 for three hours was definitely not planned…! After a very long walk, we arrived at the campsite, exhausted but satisfied, and enjoyed a welldeserved dinner and early night.

Our final hike on Friday morning was to the train station. Although we were all very tired, the thought of our warm beds and hot showers kept us going and we all made it to the station on time! Thank you to the teachers that made this fantastic expedition possible – we will all treasure the memories for life.

Lily Fellowes Year 9

Meanwhile in MORZINE…

One of the first things our instructor told us was to imagine a rock, a leaf, and a stick. Though this was slightly baffling at first, it came to be a defining feature of my trip.

The rock was a challenge you overcame. The stick, an old habit that you wanted to break. And the leaf was how you grew over the course of the week. I was not there very long, but I feel that this imaginative way of viewing experiences will stay with me forever.

My rock was High Ropes. With shaky legs and a stomach of lead, I stepped

onto the small wooden platform, elevated from my ideal position (firmly on the ground!). The truth was that I was incredibly safe, strapped into a harness with a carabiner locked to the string metal rope above my head, but I stayed put. However, with some coaxing from my friends and encouragement from the wonderful staff working there, I made it to the next tree, then another, then another. And, before I knew it, I was zipping through the summer leaves! In reflection time, set by the instructors as part of our mind hygiene course, I realized that this was my rock.

The fear was less about the fact that I could fall than the fact that I felt like I couldn’t do it. This connects with my stick: simply not giving it a go. There

is nothing wrong with realizing that something is not your thing; that is how we grow. But not giving it a go defeats the reflection that could have been.

I grew into a braver, more confident leader. That was my leaf.

In Morzine, we were taught how to be good leaders by listening to others and respecting their opinions; ameliorating skills we have already gleaned at FHS. And, even though these values are extremely important, there would be no leader with no one to lead. We also learnt how to be good followers by taking action when told to do so but also having the confidence to question your leader in order to better help the group.

BeVenturesome has taught my year and I so much about ourselves, but

also given us the confidence to work together. Thank you BeVenturesome for not only broadening the horizons of our eyes (the mountains were truly breathtaking), but also our minds.

Eva Fleury Year 10

Year 10 got off to an early start at Heathrow, where we eagerly assembled at 4.30am, bags packed and passports at hand, ready to fly to Geneva. After flooding queues at Heathrow’s Pret and Starbucks, and getting our first, tired but happy, look at the Alps, we were immediately thrown headfirst into the exhilarating activities that went far beyond anything we could have ever imagined.

White water rafting, our first activity, was an unforgettable highlight to kickstart the trip. Our French instructors navigated us safely through the currents down the river, but weren’t shy to let us run straight into rocks, or even to allow one boat to capsize ten seconds into the activity! The wakeup call from the freezing water of the Alps during rafting and the beautiful views from our accommodation - a chalet just outside of Morzine - allowed us to forget all about busy London for a couple of days and appreciate the stunning nature. Many of us let the day end on a high at our very own volleyball court, which became the free-time hotspot of the trip.

Over the week, the BeVenturesome team impressed us with a range of activities, from kayaking on a

picturesque mountain lake to rock climbing. The rock climbing was a source of anguish for some of us but, through the support of our friends, many of us overcame our fears. This was proven towards the end of the week, where we no longer had any reservations to take a leap down a sheer drop strapped into our climbing gear and we happily enjoyed zip lines and the different obstacles, such as a Tarzan swing, during high ropes. However, we also had plenty of time to relax and put our French to the test. For example, during our visits to Morzine’s market and a cable car ride up a mountain. Who knew one could take a chairlift during the summer?!

The most challenging, but also most rewarding activity we were grateful to experience was a trek across the border from France into Switzerland. As we first started walking, the peak of the mountain wasn’t even in sight, and it was hard to not lose faith, but all our previous doubts were wiped from our minds as we enjoyed our delicious baguettes at the top.

This trip was truly an amazing experience, and we want to thank the instructors we met there (especially Ian from Scotland!) and of course all the teachers who made it possible.

Linnea Foelster Year 10

Lower School Choir Tour to EDINBURGH

We had a very exciting Lower School Choir Tour to Edinburgh during the May Day Bank Holiday weekend, filled with lots of fun activities and music (of course)! We visited places such as Edinburgh Castle, Loch Lomond (where we sang the one and only song on its banks) and a massive shopping mall, which naturally pleased the girls to no end.

Our first concert was in St Cuthbert’s Church, which was a beautiful venue with a rare Tiffany window painted in 1903, and was the location where Agatha Christie got married before writing Death on the Nile. The audience turnout was really encouraging as lots of members of the public saw advertisements for the concert and came to show their support, which really boosted the choir’s morale and energy whilst singing.

The second concert took place where another famous historical event occurred – the baptism of Mary, Queen of Scots. The church’s Musical Director allowed us to take part in the service before the concert and much of the congregation stayed to hear the music; even giving the girls a standing ovation!

The final concert took place at Edinburgh Cathedral, a gorgeous and ancient venue, where Mrs Elphinstone came to watch. It was the best concert yet, with the girls singing their hearts out and moving members of the audience to tears.

Giuditta in Year 8 said of the trip: “This trip was an amazing experience – I had a lot of fun and we will all treasure the memories forever. I made so many new friends, became closer to my existing friends and I hope to go on another one soon to make other friendships closer too. I really loved all the fun activities we

took part in, all of the laughs we had and that we had the freedom to explore this wonderful city.”

Indeed, the whole tour was a brilliant experience for the students and so many of them gave very positive feedback, offering the music department their gratitude for organising such a fun,

musical trip. It was a such a privilege to take the Year 7s and 8s on a trip so soon after the pandemic and it was a pleasure to open their eyes to the world of music outside of school. Here’s to the next choir tour!

Maki Gajic Murata Composer in Residence

Year 7 Geography Trip to EPPING FOREST

lovely long walk through the forest to find the site where we would carry out our investigation. During that walk, we saw all sorts of nature and the forest shimmered in its beauty.

natural beauty.

Excited for the day ahead, we left school and travelled to the camp in Essex. We got our wellies on and walked down the V-shaped valley to find a small stream (the upper course of the river). We learnt about all the things we would be measuring in the river and the exciting experiments we would do that afternoon. We ate lunch back at the Field Centre and then headed out on a

We then used a unique method to measure the velocity of the river. This involved putting a corkscrew in the water and a metre ruler on the bank of the river, then timing how long the corkscrew took to reach one side from

the other. To make sure it was a fair test, we did this 3 times, because multiple factors could make it an unfair test (even the slightest touch of wind!). I also enjoyed measuring the depth and the wetted perimeter of the river.

I had a great day and I particularly enjoyed walking in such a beautiful, magical forest.

Elodie Moncayo-Cavaliere Year 7

Our Geography trip was full of fun and exciting activities and allowed me to appreciate a river landscape and all of its

Year 11 Trip to Bhaktivedanta MANOR

On Tuesday 9th November 2021, Year 11 Theology & Philosophy students visited Bhaktivedanta Manor in Herefordshire to complement their GCSE work on Hinduism.

The pupils were treated to a full day of immersive learning at the Hare Krishna Centre, which was built following a generous donation by George Harrison in the 1970s. The trip included a tour of the famous Hare Krishna Guru Srila Prabhupada Shrine, where we witnessed an aarti ceremony (“the ceremony of lights”). We also explored the stunning gardens and the compassionate farm, where pupils enjoyed feeding carrots to the cows. We even experienced an oxon cart ride!

We enjoyed a delicious vegetarian lunch of paneer curry with rice and poori, followed by lectures from Alison, a member of the community, on different Hindu artefacts and the history of Hinduism.

This was a very enjoyable trip which has really brought the study of Hinduism alive for Year 11.

Pandora Crawley Head of Theology & Philosophy

Year 7 Classics Trip to BATH

On Wednesday 27th April 2022, Year 7 embarked on a daytrip with the Classics Department to visit the Roman Baths in Bath.

This supported the section of their curriculum that covers Roman bathing and hygiene. Our classroom reporter, Louisa Garner, had these words to say:

“We arrived at school very early in the morning to get on the coach, excited in anticipation of our trip. When we arrived in Bath, we had a talk about the baths from one of the men who worked there.

He showed us some artefacts (we were even allowed to hold a few!) and described different aspects of life in Roman times. After that, we had audio tours around the whole of the Roman baths. We even had the chance drink a bit of Roman water from them at the end!

Our Bath trip was such a fun experience and all of us had a brilliant time.”

Sam Hayes Head of Classics

Year 12 and 13 Spanish THEATRE

The Spanish Department decided it would be a good idea to coordinate a local outing with Years 12 and 13 and converse in Spanish with the waiters at Meson Don Felipe in Southwark.

We ordered many dishes that we had studied (and even eaten!) in class, so it was lovely for the students to be able to experience these first hand in a typical tapas style restaurant.

The main purpose of the trip, however, was to go to the theatre to experience the play that we had been studying in class – La Casa de Bernarda Alba by Federico García Lorca. It was a powerful

performance and the girls fed back that it was extremely helpful to see the play, as it not only brought the characters to life, but even improved their essays as they developed a deeper understanding of how

the playwright’s techniques impact the audience. We look forward to running the trip again in the future.

Eden Confino Head of Spanish

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Junior School Head’s WELCOME

We all share a profound appreciation of the importance of your girls’ education, and value giving them the strong sense of belonging that comes from working as a community.

I am lucky enough to see this first-hand when I visit classrooms and witness the breadth and depth of the teaching and learning. I observe the girls’ enthusiastic delight for discovering and understanding new knowledge as they joyfully share their work with me; mastering key skills, conquering challenges and stretching themselves.

Perhaps the last few years have altered our perspectives slightly, sharpening our focus on our family, friends, and

important aspects of life such as schooling. Within the Junior School hive of activity, communication has been more important than ever. The girls have had to consolidate their learning, to develop skills such as performance, which they might have missed out on during the pandemic, and to develop their social skills. This recalibration has meant lots of hard work for the girls, requiring greater teaching flexibility, and deeper understanding from parents.

However, the tenacity and spirit of our girls has shone through as ever, and we have reached the end of another busy, exciting year. September began with an explosion of children heading to their lessons eagerly, and an eruption of full family fun at the September Spectacular. It was during Sports Day, the Quiz Night and the Summer Fête that we realised that approximately half of the Junior School community had not yet experienced these special occasions in our calendar of traditional events. This welcome return for half of us, and an introduction for so many, brought the events even closer to our hearts.

To then add new special occasions, such as the inaugural Francis Holland Junior School Gala at Claridge’s, brought us all together even more. Shows returned with full audiences, and the live experience never fails to deliver.

The girls, like all true performers, universally rise to the occasion once the audience arrives, making the Nativity, the concerts, and the musical, Matilda, performances of incredibly high quality.

I would like to express my gratitude for everyone’s considerate and supportive compassion. Working together as a community has enabled this to be a successful return to everything that a Francis Holland Junior School education embraces. I hope that these Junior School pages will commemorate many aspects of our exciting year.

Suzy Dixon Head of Junior School

Junior EVENTS

The Friends of Francis Holland committee have worked tirelessly, and with huge enthusiasm, to encourage all parents to get involved with the many events that have brought the Junior School back to life!

Events are now seen as a ‘must attend’ by the vast majority of parents, all keen to socialise and rebuild the strength of our resilient community.

Some of the most popular, well attended events have been our September Spectacular, a celebration at the beginning of the year to reunite our parents and girls, Quiz Night, in which the parents battled it out to be year group winners, and International Evening, where more countries than ever were represented by our multicultural community this year.

I think it is fair to say that each one of these sell-out events has been full of a joyous, party atmosphere. The pictures reflect so much of the pleasure that these occasions bring!

Caroline Smith Deputy Head of Junior School

It has been an extraordinary year of parent support in the Junior School!

September SPECTACULAR

As we set off for the first event of the year, and one newly created to celebrate our return to school, the sun shone on us. This enabled everyone to thoroughly enjoy the delicious international themed buffet lunch in the beautifully decorated playground featuring Italian, Spanish, German and Lebanese cuisine, as well as gourmet ice cream and popcorn stalls for pudding.

Mrs Elphinstone and Mrs Dixon gave a rousing speech from the balcony on

the wonderful year to come at Francis Holland Junior School, before the girls, their parents and the teachers were entertained by our extremely talented in-house Jazz Band.

Throughout the afternoon, the girls and their siblings enjoyed a vast array

of activities including Miss Bubbles’ Magic Show, face painting, arts and crafts, Sharky & George, film screenings and, last but certainly not least, a disco workshop in the gym featuring an epic dance off between Years 4 and 6!!

Thank you so much to the Friends of Francis Holland Junior School who worked hard with Miss Smith and Mrs Dixon to create a superb event. Thank you also to everyone who came and made the occasion such a success, and our brilliant catering and facilities teams who made it possible. It really did set the tone by bringing us all back together so gloriously.

Suzy Dixon Head of Junior School

FHJS Has TALENT!

This year’s edition was organised and hosted by Mr Russell and started off with a presentation assembly. The girls were encouraged to think about their passions and talents; be they musical, sporting, dramatic, artistic... or something completely different! They were invited to think of an act, work on it alone or with a team, put themselves forward and audition for the show.

On audition day, all teams presented their talents in front of a jury panel comprised of Year 6 students and Mr

Russell. The variety of the acts, as usual, did not disappoint. This year we had painters, gymnasts, singers and several magicians auditioning, together with skateboarders, drummers and more!

Finally, on a Friday morning in February, the Talent Show took place to the joy of all teachers and pupils. Two finalists per year group were selected by the jury and invited to compete in the final show in front of the whole Junior School. The winners for 2022 were two talented and creative puppeteers from Year 4, who entertained the audience with an elaborate and hilarious number. Second place was awarded to Reception, with a ribbon dance to the

FHJS Has Talent is one of the girls’ favourite events, in which girls from Reception to Year 6 have the opportunity to take part in a talent show.

music of Swan Lake, while two expert gymnasts from Year 4 came third.

Maria Perego and Beth Collins Teaching Assistant and Learning Support Coordinator

Junior PERFORMING ARTS

A diverse range of instruments and repertoire were showcased and the girls participated with great eagerness and energy from start to finish. Whether playing ukuleles, xylophones, recorders, violins, boomwhackers or singing, it was clear that the girls are tremendously enthused by music making! A choir of ninety-six came together for the grand finale songs, ‘Good Morning Baltimore’ and ‘Hamilton Highlights’. The resounding sound, which had many of the audience tapping their feet and wiping their eyes, was proof that music in the Junior School is well and truly flourishing!

Our choral singing continues to go from strength to strength and our choirs were showcased in the Junior School Christingle Service at St Mary’s Church. The familiar Advent lessons combined with the beautiful and technically accomplished singing, provided a moving and memorable occasion. Our youngest girls showed us their musical and dramatic talents in the

Infant Nativity: ‘Lights, Camel, Action’ Featuring the usual cast plus a very grumpy donkey, a reluctant shepherd and a choir of angels with kazoos, the Infants told the Christmas story through lively drama and song.

In the Spring Term, it was fantastic to have a record number of Junior School entries for the Fanny Davies Music Competition. After a day and a half of impressive solo and ensemble performances, Cindy was awarded ‘Junior School Musician of the Year’. Congratulations to our competition winners but also to all the musicians in the Junior School.

The Infant girls worked very hard to refine their pieces for the Summer Concert. They performed with poise and obvious enjoyment. Highlights included another brilliant performance by the Infant Philharmonic Orchestra, the African drumming from Reception and some wonderful massed singing in parts.

The Junior School Winter Concert in November was a fabulous show of talent, enthusiasm and teamwork.

The musical highlight of the Junior School this year was the performance of ‘Matilda.’ It was a resounding success, full of many joyful, comic and moving scenes, and the quality of the performance was astounding. Featuring all the girls in Years 3- 6, the show was a celebration of drama, dance and music. The ambitious stage set, complete with swings and a slide, made us feel like we were in the West End! The girls worked tirelessly with enthusiasm

and extraordinary determination and good humour. The project, as ever, was a great team effort and a bonding experience for pupils and staff alike. The girls should be thoroughly proud of their exceptional achievement.

We’re looking forward to doing it all again next year!

Rachel Floyd Head of Junior School Music

Junior CLASSICS FESTIVAL

On Wednesday 23rd March 2022, Years 4, 5 and 6 took part in the annual Junior School Classics Festival; a celebration of their recent work in Classics lessons.

Each year group prepared work in advance and then took part in some workshops in the afternoon. Year 4 produced labyrinths and a radio play inspired by the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, Year 5 designed creative shoebox dioramas of the story of Orpheus and Eurydice, and Year 6 drew and sculpted (with airdrying clay) Greek vases telling the tale of Pandora’s Box.

The workshops involved making masks, speaking in ancient Greek, and dramatically acting out myths. The Classics Department was so impressed by everyone’s work, but each year group had its own individual champion whose work shone out: well done to Arianna in Year 4, Cecilia in Year 5 and Leyla in Year 6.

We also celebrated the work of an overall Classics Champion, whose artistic vase painting and vase model blew the whole Classics Department away, as well as her excellent work across all of the workshops. Congratulations to Klara in Year 6 for winning this coveted prize!

Sam Hayes Head of Classics

Junior ART EXHIBITION

The whole Junior School became an art gallery, and was awash with colour and buzzing with an incredible energy as the children showed off their artwork with real pride and enthusiasm. From process led art to pieces inspired by famous artists, it was amazing to see what these young artists created and accomplished in their art lessons this year.

Parents and friends were invited to enjoy the stunning artwork. Girls also took part in The Big Draw, a family portrait drawing activity. Many children, parents and teachers enjoyed the fabulous gilding workshop delivered by our very own parent artist, Jodie Glen-Martin. The beautiful butterflies created in the workshop are now elegantly fluttering up the stairs in the Junior School.

Ninette van Kamp Head of Junior Art

What a joyful celebration of art and creativity!

Junior Friends’ SUMMER FÊTE

On Saturday 25th June 2022, the School playground came alive once more, after a three year absence, for the return of the famous Junior School Summer Fête, hosted by the Friends of Francis Holland Junior School.

It was delightful to see the playground awash with colour, as bunting hung high and balloons cascaded from every corner. The food, prepared by

the School’s skilled catering team, was delicious and plentiful, and the bar did a roaring trade all day! This year the event was a sell-out, with almost 500 parents, friends and children filling the playground.

As ever, a wonderful team of parents had spent weeks preparing for the event, creating activities for the children to enjoy. Thanks to the Junior Friends’ Committee, who organised such a successful event. We are so lucky to have such a hugely supportive and generous parent body. The girls had a splendid day and we are already looking forward to next year’s fête!

Caroline Smith Deputy Head of Junior School

Junior World BOOK DAY

At Francis Holland School, we are very fortunate to have three dedicated librarians who are fully involved in Junior School life, and Book Week is always a well anticipated event in the Junior School calendar. This year did not disappoint and was a truly spectacular literary celebration!

We launched proceedings with a Book Week Quiz, where the girls showcased impressive literary talent as they battled it out in assembly. Secret Readers then

surprised each classroom; popping in to read a mystery book. Our readers came from all over the School, from Philippe in the Dining Hall to Mrs Elphinstone herself, to remind us that we never grow out of the magic of picture books.

As always, we were also delighted to be visited by some key authors.

Our very own Emma Shevah (author in residence) spoke to Years 5 and 6 and pupils from St Barnabas School about her many wonderful books. Anna James of the brilliant ‘Pages & Co.’ series gave a talk to Years 4, 5 and 6. Hannah Shaw visited Reception and Years 1, 2 and 3 for a colourful and imaginative illustration workshop with her hilarious Unipiggle character.

On World Book Day itself, the costume parade gave us all an opportunity to show off our inspired fancy dress. Surely one of the best years yet! And, as always, we have to thank the Junior Friends, who ran the most fantastic book exchange.

Caroline Smith Deputy Head of Junior School

Junior School GALA

From the moment the doors to Claridge’s Ballroom opened, the dazzling celebration began. The glorious location, resplendent in its newly refurbished Art Deco glory, matched the glittering array of Francis Holland Junior School parents and teachers. It seemed as though everyone was ready to party!

The gorgeous flowers and the beautiful chimes of the harpist set an elegant tone, savoured by those first arrivals who were served their champagne and began to mingle. Quickly conversation and laughter overcame the Reception Room as everyone became engulfed by the warmth of the friendly atmosphere.

The Ballroom doors opened with a quiet grace, allowing the glamorous dresses and stunning suits to glide towards the perfectly set round dining tables. We were set for a stunning evening of

delicious food, complementary wines and the warm, vibrant atmosphere that Francis Holland Junior School is renowned for.

What a celebratory way to bring our community together, and what a lively

evening we had. Conversation and wine were flowing when the live bidding began. Popular lots kept coming up, as teacher experiences were auctioned off for higher and higher sums – a whole new take on the value of teachers! With the silent auction running alongside, the bidding became exciting and competitive. Many thanks for all the generous donations of such superb variety.

The auction made more than £40,000, which is a magnificent way to launch our Enrichment Foundation. 10% of this sum has been donated to Katherine Low Settlement.

Suzy Dixon Head of Junior School

Junior HISTORY DAY

The Junior School celebrated its second History Day in April 2022. At 8am, when the Carmel door opened, a flurry of footsteps pattered along the corridor. Historical characters flocked to the playground, donned in some spectacular attire.

The bell was rung with the announcement of no maths assessments or spelling tests for an entire day. This was met with loud cheers and beaming smiles. Reception transformed into Kings and Queens; Year 1 were Pirates; Year 2 embraced the Victorians; Year 3 became Ancient Greeks; Year 4 turned into

Ancient Egyptians; Year 5 took on World War II, and Year 6 were the Tudors!

History Day helps create a deeper understanding and appreciation of history for girls in the Junior School.

During the morning session, classes analysed historical sources, created interactive timelines, and assumed the role of archaeologists to conduct fact finding missions. Throughout the rest of the day, there were STEAM related activities where girls created a prop from their specific era, developed script writing and enjoyed drama workshops.

Across all year groups, girls utilised critical thinking, problem solving, research and reading skills. From creating flamboyant jewel encrusted crowns to mummifying oranges, the day was a great success with all girls going home armed with a plethora of fun facts about their respective historical period.

William Russell Year 6 Class Teacher

Charity DOG SHOW

On a sunny Tuesday afternoon in the Summer Term, we transformed our playground into an arena and opened our school doors to the most prestigious dogs in Chelsea. Thank you to all who joined us for our first ever Charity Dog Showwhat a success it was!

We kicked things off with our Obedience Round, during which the dogs followed a set of commands. In the end it was Teddy who impressed us the most. Well done to his owner, Remi, for being such a professional dog handler!

Next up, we had the best dressed dogs enter the arena and showcase some fabulous outfits. After some incredibly hard judging, it was Amelia’s bulldog, Apollo, who stole the show and won first place in his cow outfit.

Finally, it was time for ‘Most Like Their Owner’ – a potentially controversial round but one that was surprisingly popular! Following much deliberation, the first-place rosette was awarded to Maverick Brenninkmeijer who showcased an FHJS summer dress to match his owners, Genevieve and Vivian.

Thank you to all who took part and to those who paid to come and watch the show. We raised a grand total of £668 for Bees & Refugees and Safe Passage.

Bartlett Year 2 Class Teacher and FHJS Charity & Community Coordinator

Elizabeth

Junior School Charity and COMMUNITY

times, this fundraising felt particularly critical. It was lovely to see the girls connect with these organisations and we enjoyed opening our school doors to welcome the founder of Bees & Refugees, Ali Alzein (or ‘The Bee Man’ as Reception call him), and a few representatives from Safe Passage.

Most of the money raised went to our chosen charities, Safe Passage and Bees & Refugees. These two organisations raise money for refugees and, in these

Our fundraising events were a real success. Who knew that selling cakes could raise over £3,000? Although after seeing some of the beautiful decorative detail that went into them and tasting their delicious flavours, it is no surprise.

Another favourite event was our ‘Bring a Parent to Breakfast’, when we all enjoyed seeing the girls chatting and eating pancakes with their loved ones, especially when we were lucky enough to have them topped with some of Ali’s organic honey! In fact, the reviews were so good that we had to open ‘Miss Bartlett’s Honey Stall’ for everyone to purchase their last-minute stocking fillers.

Our most successful fundraising event was the Charity and Enterprise Fair, during which the girls worked in teams to create recycled and eco-friendly products. Teamwork and passion shone throughout the hall, and we all left with very full hearts (and tummies!). We topped it all off with the Junior School’s

What a year for charity it has been! We raised a staggering £11,082 through our numerous fundraising events and incredibly generous donations.

first ever Charity Dog Show, and what a success it was! We were blown away by the fabulous outfits and impeccable behaviour of the dogs and could not have wished for a better fundraising event to close the academic year.

This year, with the help of a dedicated parent team, we also hosted the first ever Junior School Gala at Claridge’s. This event was held to raise money for the Junior School Enrichment Foundation, with 10% of all monies raised being donated to Katherine Low Settlement.

Elizabeth Bartlett Year 2 Class Teacher and Charity and Community Coordinator

Key Stage 1 Francis Holland FORESTERS

The Summer Term saw the launch of our new Forest School initiative: Francis Holland Foresters.

Our aims are to:

• Develop a love, appreciation and respect for nature

• Understand more of the world around us

• Evaluate and encourage sustainable initiatives

• Challenge ourselves, move out of our comfort zones, and take risks

• Be creative and try new things

• Encourage team skills and bonding

• Further develop problem solving, reflective and inquisitive thinking

• Build resilience

On a warm Wednesday in May, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 had an early start for their Forest School trip to Wimbledon Common.

The girls were in high spirits and the sun was shining to welcome their arrival for the first Forest School trip of the year. They spent the day exploring the forest and learning all about habitats and shelters. In the morning, they built their own birds’ nests, making sure to think carefully about the structure and important features of a nest. Following this, they built their own mini shelters –some even complete with flooring, fires, and doorways!

In the afternoon, Reception re-enacted the lifecycle of a butterfly by performing all of the different stages, thoroughly enjoying pretending to be beautiful, fluttering butterflies. The girls created their own fabulous butterfly art using natural materials such as sticks, leaves and feathers, with some even creating different stages of the butterfly life cycle. Following this they ventured further into the forest on their own minibeast hunt where they used their magnifying glasses and special minibeast containers to find a huge variety of insects such as

caterpillars, millipedes, beetles, spiders and worms.

After giving themselves special animal themed forest names using alliteration skills, Year 1 enjoyed pretending to be all kinds of different animals one might find in the forest. They danced like buzzy bees, wriggled like caterpillars,

marched like ants and fluttered like butterflies. They spent the afternoon on a habitat scavenger hunt, looking for clues as to which animals might be found in the area. They used their mathematics skills to fill in tally charts, showing the different habitats that they had found and deciding which were the most common. They enjoyed looking for footprints, droppings, slime trails and nibbled leaves, and using these clues to think about what animals and insects might live on Wimbledon Common.

Year 2 had their maths hats on as they went on their own minibeast and habitat hunt. They created Venn Diagrams using hoops and the results from their mini-beast hunt, assessing the features of each of the habitats that they found and what they had in common with each other. They enjoyed building bug hotels with some very impressive creations.

Key Stage 1’s positive approach to outdoor learning was impressive, with displays of growth mindset. The girls all took part in the activities with vigour and used their problem-solving skills to overcome any challenges.

Helen Pople

Year 1 Class Teacher and Reception to Year 3 Forest School Coordinator

Key Stage 2 Francis Holland FORESTERS

On Friday 20th May 2022, the Juniors embraced the elements and made their way to Wimbledon Common. Despite the torrential rainfall, the girls ventured into the woods carrying packed lunches and their necessary bushcraft kit for the day.

Before the girls embarked on their first session, there was a discussion on being mindful of nature and how to respect and be aware of wildlife and their habitats. The girls were stunned to learn that they were sharing the forest with badgers, moles, weasels and stoats, to name but a few local creatures.

With the rain battering down on them, Years 3-6 went off in groups to build ridge line shelters using rope, tarpaulin and tent pegs. These highly impressive shelters served an excellent purpose of protecting everyone from the elements (including teachers). A wonderful effort from all participants.

Will Russell Year 6 Class Teacher

Sustainability and the GREEN FLAG

In the Autumn Term, they participated in a lengthy environmental review to assess what the Junior School was already doing well and where it could improve. Following this, a detailed action plan was written to address their three chosen key areas: waste, marine and biodiversity.

Feeling invigorated by their findings, the girls made incredible efforts to make a real difference. They have made bird boxes, conducted environmental surveys in the playground, made posters to educate about the importance of protecting our oceans, introduced Terracycle boxes to all classrooms, gave an assembly on the importance of recycling, and introduced a weekly Eco Tip to be announced in assembly.

In the last week of term came the glorious news that all of these great efforts, and so much improvement across

the whole Junior School in how we manage sustainability, meant we had met all the criteria to receive the award! We can now fly our green flag!

Francis Holland Junior School are now the proud owners of the prestigious Green Flag Award which showcases just how environmentally minded we all are. The girls will be continuing their hard work next year to make even more of an impact!

Lottie Adams Year 4 Class Teacher

As they moved towards achieving the EcoSchools Green Flag, the Eco Club have worked tirelessly over the year to improve sustainability in the Junior School.

Year 4’s Global Plea on the ENVIRONMENT

In the Autumn Term, Year 4 wrote a joint letter to several world leaders asking them how they were tackling climate change following COP26. They spoke passionately about how they would contribute to making a positive impact and highlighted what they thought countries could do to help.

As a result of their efforts, the girls received several responses from various embassies and were delighted to host and welcome the Greek Ambassador, Ioannis Raptakis, on behalf of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and the Chinese Ambassador, Zheng Zeguang, on behalf of President Xi Jinping.

Both ambassadors delivered personal letters from their leaders and spoke of how impressed they were by the power of Year 4’s environmental message. Year 4 have also received letters from Prince Charles and Number 10, Downing Street.

Lottie Adams Year 4 Class Teacher

Junior CO-CURRICULAR

In the Junior School, we aim to provide the girls with a wide array of opportunities to develop their talents, skills and interests beyond the confines of the classroom.

Our co-curricular provision is wide-ranging, challenging, enriching and inspiring. We aim to have something to cater for all the girls, from our youngest in Reception to our oldest in Year 6. We encourage the girls to try different clubs each term so that they start understanding where their passions and talents lie.

Our clubs run after school as well as during lunch breaks and vary from term to term.

This year, many clubs have been extremely popular, including some classics:

Chess Club Speech and Drama Club Nature Club Eco Club Pottery Club

We have also had some new additions, which have been big hits: Comic Book Club Gardening Club Greek Myths Christian Union

Caroline Smith Deputy Head of Junior School

Junior BALLET

The girls have continued enthusiastically with their curriculum ballet lessons and, with many girls choosing to take exam ballet lessons, they have participated in Royal Academy of Dance examinations. The results have been fantastic and are a real credit to the girls’ hard work and determination throughout the year.

Our Musical Theatre club has also been hugely popular this year and it was a pleasure to witness the most magical performance at the Gym and Dance Show from the dancers.

Chelsea Ballet School has been invited to perform a Nutcracker Christmas Gala with English National Ballet at The London Coliseum on 19th December 2022. We have had a number of Francis Holland School girls audition to take part and an incredible total of 23 girls have been selected to dance in this special performance.

Moor Chelsea Ballet Schools

How wonderful it has been to have a full year of in person ballet lessons!

Melissa

Junior Science and STEAM

In the Autumn Term, with all eyes on COP26, the girls explored how they could reduce their carbon footprint, considered the consequences of climate change and the benefits of using renewable energy. We designed floodproof homes and models were made which faced an extreme weather test with varying levels of success!

National Science Week saw us getting creative with the theme of ‘Growth’, both in lessons and at home. Many girls rose to the challenge of growing cress seeds in unique and imaginative ways out of egg boxes, clay models, coconut shells and even inside a sweet potato, to name but a few creations. Once again, Little House of Science wowed us all with inspiring demonstrations and hands-on experiments, including the extraction of chlorophyll from leaves. Reflecting on the concept of growth in the animal kingdom, some determined girls in Year

4 tried their hand at nest building; quickly discovering it was no easy feat to create a safe home to protect fragile eggs.

During the Summer Term, we welcomed new life into the Junior School and watched in awe and amazement as tiny caterpillars transformed into beautiful butterflies and fluffy chicks hatched and rapidly grew before our eyes. The girls in Reception delighted in the successful release of their painted ladies into the roof garden on a sunny June day, while everybody enjoyed having a cuddle with the hatchlings during their short stay. These wonderful creatures provided the perfect way for pupils to learn all about different life cycles and to marvel at the wonder of nature.

Helen Anstee Head of Junior School Science and STEAM

It has been another busy year of experimenting, investigating, and inventing in the Junior School.

Year 5 Architecture in SCHOOLS

5

in Schools - an exciting initiative run by Open City that is a creative learning programme aiming to inspire the next generation of city shapers and to understand how architecture informs the world around us.

Working in partnership with the world famous Foster + Partners, the programme was delivered over the Autumn Term through a series of three in-house sessions and three concept

development and design workshops.

It culminated in an exhilarating 3 hour building workshop. Working from their drawings and plans created in the previous session, Year 5 used a variety of materials and 3D skills to problem solve and creatively construct a range of structures and landscapes. The brief stipulated that the children redesign a local building/neighbourhood working to the theme ‘Celebration City’.

The overall concept was to transform Sloane Square into an exciting, accessible and celebratory destination where families, friends, children, grandparents and babies could enjoy a variety of activities. Different parts of Sloane Square were to have different activities – each based around the overall theme ‘celebration city’. Some of the activities and ideas for these

zones included a street food market, a theatre, a fairy swing, rope swings, a reptile petting enclosure, green forests, orchards and a water/splash park.

The children were encouraged to think big and bold, and yet at the same time focus on others and their many individual needs, to bring their neighbourhood to life in quite a spectacular way. They worked collaboratively and drew from their many experiences as well as core

Year

had the privilege to take part in Architecture

curricular links to create something that really celebrates community and all the things that are important to them. Their individual contributions and collective designs were imaginative, sustainable and inclusive – a year-round wonderland created for all!

What was particularly great about this project was that every single child in Year 5 made a valued contribution to the design of Sloane Square, and they all felt a real sense of ownership over the finished work.

Ninette van Kamp Head of Junior School Art

Junior SPORTS DAY

After having missed out on our Sports Day for a couple of years, the girls were very excited to spend an entire half term preparing for a wide variety of events. Luckily the weather was wonderful on the day, reflecting the mood of the event. In lessons, practice afternoons and early morning athletics training, our athletes trained to compete in Houses, in running, throwing, jumping and other classic events.

One girl in Reception claimed that the egg and spoon was her highlight and she “wished she could do it every day”. The parent support was fantastic – “I know that they have missed the event as much as the girls, and the post celebration picnic spreads were quite the sight!”

Several new school records were set throughout the day by the following girls:

Elena Samonigg Von Staszewski – 1200m (5 minutes 14 seconds)

Remi Bianchi- Year 4 Rounders Ball Throw (17.30m)

Leah Davis – Year 5 Javelin (9.10m)

Eleanor Sims- Year 6 Javelin (9.80m)

Amelia Djouhri- Year 5 Shot (11.65m)

Sofia Rothwell- Year 6 Shot (12.87m)

After fantastic efforts in the relays, which are worth double points, Woolf came out victorious on the day and retained the trophy and bragging rights for 2022.

The training begins now for next year! We look forward to welcoming returning and new members to our Running Club, which runs throughout the year to prepare the girls.

Annaleece Feeney Head of Junior PE

Junior Gym and Dance DISPLAY

Inspired by well-loved children’s stories past and present, the Francis Holland Junior School classes created Gymnastics and Dance routines to celebrate these stories and their characters. The girls displayed skills from across the curriculum including flight, balances, rotation and expressive choreography.

Using books and videos to provide more context and get to know the characters, our girls enjoyed imagining they were inside a cartoon portrait with Mary Poppins, and creating calypso inspired sequences to represent Paddington

Bear’s visit to Portobello Market. The show was an inclusive representation of our Gymnastics and Dance provision at the School, featuring elite individual and team performances from our Gymnastics Squad to the music of Wicked, and open level recreational Gymnastics to a remix of the Harry Potter soundtracks.

Mrs Sinclair selected Clivia to perform her highest scoring floor routine from this year’s British Schools Floor and Vault Competition. As part of the process, the girls researched their stimuli and used this to inform the movements and outfits for their piece. Year 6 tie-dyed their own costumes with love hearts as a nod to Ella of Frell feeling the love in the local tavern.

Annaleece Feeney Head of Junior PE

Reception Trip to London WETLAND CENTRE

On the penultimate day of the Spring Term, Reception visited London Wetland Centre in the most glorious sunshine.

On arrival, we visited the Pond Zone. Carefully dipping their nets, the girls discovered an exciting world of wildlife beneath the surface of the water. The mud kitchen was where they

were able to get messy and create some glorious concoctions in pots and pans.

In the afternoon, they navigated a wild walk over wobbly rope bridges and finished the day in the adventure playground. Many braved the zip wire, and everyone enjoyed the giant vole tunnels and slides.

Reception Enjoy The POSTAL MUSEUM

Reception became posties for the day when they visited The Postal Museum on Wednesday 4th May 2022.

First, we had a fun-filled workshop based on The Jolly Postman. The girls listened to the story and helped to collect, sort and deliver mail to familiar fairy tale characters. We then

went on to enjoy the play area complete with post offices, letter boxes and a sorting area, which was sack-loads of fun!

To complete the trip, we rode on the Mail Rail where we journeyed through the original tunnels of London’s postal railway. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and the girls enthusiastically responded to all that they had learnt.

Flora Jackson Reception F Class Teacher

Davina Greig Head of EYFS and Reception H Class Teacher

Year 1 Explore WINDSOR CASTLE

This year in History, Year 1 have been learning all about British Kings and Queens as well as the features of different castles. They were lucky enough to visit a real castle when they went to Windsor.

The girls had a great time spotting whether the Queen was in by looking for the correct flag, visited the beautiful state rooms where they were wowed by the amazing detail (particularly the chandeliers and the ceilings) and enjoyed viewing the intricate elements in Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. They also managed to spot King Henry VIII’s suit of armour and visited St George’s Chapel where they waved to one of the Queen’s Guards.

A great day out was had by all!

Helen Pople Year 1 Class Teacher

Year 2 Discover the Horniman

MUSEUM

In the Spring Term, Year 2 went on a wonderful trip to the Horniman Museum.

The girls took part in an African workshop, during which they explored the Maasai people’s traditional way of life. They loved trying on the beautiful bright clothing, as well as playing the drums and taking part in a very lively market roleplay.

We were also lucky enough to see lots of different animals whilst we were at the

museum. The aquarium took us all by surprise with its exhibits that showcased aquatic environments from all around the globe, ranging from the classic British pond to a Fijian coral reef!

We then ventured on an animal trail in the sunshine before rolling down the humongous hill surrounded by golden yellow daffodils.

It doesn’t get much better than that!

Elizabeth Bartlett Year 2 Class Teacher

Year 3’s Day Out at LONDON ZOO

On a wonderfully sunny day in June, Year 3 ventured to London Zoo to take part in a Rainforest Explorer Workshop.

The girls loved the immersive experience. They had the opportunity to spot unique rainforest wildlife, take temperature and humidity readings and learn about animal adaptations. The girls also learned about the threats that rainforest animals face and how we can help to conserve this amazing habitat.

We could not leave the zoo without exploring the other habitats and animal enclosures. The girls delighted in observing animals from all over the world; highlights including Gorilla Kingdom, Penguin Beach, and the Reptile House.

Hilary Dixon Year 3 Class Teacher

Year 6 Trip to GREENWICH

On Friday 4th February 2022, despite the torrential rain, Year 6 soldiered on and set sail down the wild waters of the Thames, with the girls pointing out the Tower of London, The Shard and Canary Wharf before hopping off at Greenwich Pier.

We made our way to the Maritime Museum and discovered epic stories of exploration and endeavour from the high seas. These ranged from Tudor times to the vast tea and spice trade with the East. The girls also learnt about the indigenous communities which reside in the Arctic and Antarctic; knowledge which is so important in such a crucial time of climate change. The girls were captivated by several artefacts, particularly the very jacket that Nelson was wearing when he was shot at the Battle of Trafalgar!

When the sun finally came out, we made our way across the lawn to Queen’s House, the first Classical building in Britain and home to an internationally renowned art collection. The girls practiced their ballet in the Great Hall, envisioning themselves as guests of the Queen herself, and descended the stunning Tulip Stairs; the first self-supporting spiral staircase in England.

To everyone’s excitement we embarked aboard the Thames Clipper once more, where luckily the girls were so well behaved that Mr Russell ensured no one had to walk the plank!

Will Russell Year 6 Class Teacher

Year 6 Camping Adventure in OXFORDSHIRE

Taking place in September 2021, this was a very special start to Year 6 as the girls usually have to wait until the end of the academic year for their residential trip.

While there were a few wary faces when Mr Russell read out the itinerary, with some not expecting to partake in such adventurous activities as fire making and knife skills, the girls bounded onto the coach with delight at the prospect of three days’ camping in Blenheim Woods.

The scene was set for a spectacular adventure and, as soon as they saw the camp in the diverse woodland filled with old oaks and beeches, the girls became fully immersed in not only the outdoor activities, but the experience as a whole.

With the absence of screens and technology, they were given the chance to develop new skills, while working and interacting with their peers in an exciting and creative environment.

A highlight for the class and teachers was when four brave spirits volunteered

to fully chew and digest the eyes of a raw salmon which, once gutted and filleted by Miss Collins and Miss Free, was cooked over the campfire and served as our delicious supper.

The grand finale saw a plane crash in the middle of the woods, where the girls had to impart the first aid skills they had learnt that morning. Dealing with smoke bombs and some authentic looking blood and broken bones, the girls ensured all the teachers made it out alive.

The girls felt proud of all they have achieved - they could not have started their 11+ year on a better note.

Will Russell Year 6 Class Teacher

Year 6 Residential Trip to SOMERSET

On Monday 6th June 2022, the highly anticipated Year 6 Residential had finally arrived.

This trip is seen to be a great highlight of the girls’ journey through the Junior School as it provides countless memories which they take away with them. Friendships, which have been sculpted and moulded over a period of seven years, came to fruition in a week away in the middle of the Somerset countryside.

Mill On The Brue served as the idyllic setting, where the Year 6 girls took part in a variety of team bonding and problem-solving activities. Whether it was the petrifying tower jump, canoeing down the murky river, scaling over the tops of the high ropes or enduring the arduous assault course, the girls faced their fears and worked as a team to conquer complex tasks. Dormitories of eight meant there was little sleep to be had. However, everyone rose at the crack of dawn for a hearty breakfast before taking on the day’s activities. Stories around the campfire solidified the fun-filled week enjoyed by all.

The only low point was when the girls had to head back to London on Friday morning. Tears were shed by many at the inevitable end to what was a truly unforgettable adventure.

Will Russell Year 6 Class Teacher

ALUMNI

Class of 2020 Leavers’ RECEPTION

Finally, in September 2021, the Class of 2020 were able to celebrate their time at FHS at a magnificent reception hosted in the Old School House.

Our Class of 2020 leavers and their parents joined staff, the joint Heads of Sixth Form (plus former joint Head of Sixth Mrs Sawyer, who returned especially for the event!) and the Headmistress for their Leavers’ Reception.

The event, postponed twice due to the pandemic, took place in the architecturally impressive Old School House Common Room. High spirits ensured the evening was triumphant, with alumnae jubilant and excited to return to School for their welldeserved send-off. With over a year to wait, the evening was highly anticipated, and this was very much reflected in the warm and happy energy of the occasion.

A big thank you to our alumnae for their patience in what was an historic final year for them.

Claire Brazer Alumni Relations Officer

Alumni Association BIRTHDAY DRINKS

In honour of the School’s 141st birthday in March, we were delighted to welcome our alumni community back to FHS for the Old Girls’ AGM and birthday drinks. Former and current staff and alumnae from the Class of 1956 up to the Class of 2020 took to the Senior Hall to enjoy this celebratory evening, as they reconnected with old friends and staff alike.

Also in attendance was Headmistress and President of the Old Girls’ Alumni Association, Lucy Elphinstone, who spoke at the event, describing the joy in being able to once again welcome our community of Old Girls back to the School (this was the first alumni event held in school following the pandemic), before the Business Enterprise Award winners were announced by Co-Chair of the Alumni Association, Audrey Mitchell. The Award is a new initiative which offers up to a total of £10,000 to support fellow Old Girls in Business and Entrepreneurship initiatives (read more about the Business Enterprise Award overleaf).

Congratulations go to winners Alice de Muller (Class of 2000), Natalija Jovasevic (Class of 2015), and Nour Yakoob née Kalla Sacranie (Class of 2003), who each

spoke of their thanks to the School and Alumni Association for the opportunities afforded to them. Nour also baked an incredible 141st Birthday cake for the event, which was cut enthusiastically by Mrs Elphinstone and savoured by guests.

Thank you to all who attended the event, and to our wonderful Alumni Association for making it such a special occasion.

Claire Brazer Alumni Relations Officer

Alumni Association Business Enterprise AWARD

From early-stage startups to established small businesses, FHS Alumni Association award up to £10,000 to support fellow Old Girls in business with the Business Enterprise Award.

The FHS Alumni Association, under the directive of Co-Chairwomen Audrey Mitchell and Anne Cyron, launched the Business Enterprise Award in March 2022, offering up to £10,000 to support fellow alumni in a variety of Business and Entrepreneurship initiatives.

The calibre of applications was impressive, reflecting the entrepreneurial culture of the FHS Community. Five alumnae were invited through to the second round of the application process, which involved submitting a business plan, further detailed financial information and reference checks before proceeding onto an interview with Alumni Association Committee members. The judges meticulously assessed each business proposition on a number of factors, including sustainability and social responsibility, before deciding on three winners.

The winners were announced at the Old Girls’ Birthday drinks on Tuesday 1st March 2022 and invited on stage to speak about their businesses.

Said Audrey: ‘Judging the Business Enterprise Award applications has been a really enjoyable process, and a great way to showcase our entrepreneurial alumnae. I run my own business and understand it is really hard, and for new businesses in the age of Covid it is doubly hard. Headmistress Lucy Elphinstone has established a culture of enterprise, with female founders and business leads rising up through the school, and from this we wanted to support our own alumnae by providing financial and mentoring support from the Alumni Association.’

We are delighted to announce the three winners of the Business Enterprise Award 2022 below. Many congratulations go to runners-up Claire Gill (Class of 2008), with Storystock, and Beatrice Petitbon (Class of 2006) with Library Essential.

Alice de Muller, Class of 2000

LOVE ALICE is a fashion retail brand championing preowned designer and vintage clothing, aiming to disrupt the landfill cycle and keep beautiful clothes in rotation. LOVE ALICE was established in September 2020 and comprises a team of two full-time employees. LOVE ALICE have been allocated £3,500 from the Business Enterprise Award.

www.love-alice.co.uk

Natalija Jovasevic, Class of 2015

Natalija’s business, Ayllu Box, offers sustainably packaged beauty and wellness goods from the UK - all plastic free. Ayllu Box were awarded £3,500.

www.ayllubox.com

Nuun was established to bring together Nour’s love of design, fine patisserie and social justice. During lockdown, Nour focussed on producing bespoke and creative celebration cakes inspired by art, architecture and nature, and the business has been growing ever since.

Nour was invited to create a bespoke cake to commemorate the School’s 141st birthday, which was presented at the Old Girls’ Alumni Association Birthday Drinks Party on 1st March. Nuun received a £3,000 award.

www.thisisnuun.com

Nour Yakoob (née Kalla Sacranie), Class of 2003

Claire Brazer Alumni Relations Officer

Dear EVAN HANSEN

In November 2021, 25 current and former pupils and staff, including this year’s Lower Sixth A Level English students, enjoyed an evening at the Noël Coward Theatre.

The coming-of-age musical Dear Evan Hansen, about a lonely High School student who longs to fit in, has won six Tony Awards, including best musical.

Taken from the 2018 novel by Val Emmich, Dear Evan Hansen has also been adapted into a film which was released earlier this year.

We were especially delighted to see both new and established alumni at our first live event since the pandemic. It was a privilege to also welcome our Lower Sixth students and, although another year or so away from leaving FHS, they were able to get an idea of the

sorts of events they can expect to enjoy as alumnae.

Said pupil Natasha O’Donohoe: “It was lovely to be able to meet some of the FHS alumnae as well as staff. I had already seen Dear Evan Hansen once, and I loved it so much, I was thrilled to be able to go

again. I had a wonderful time last night and the show was incredible.”

Co-Chair of the Alumni Association Anne Cyron commented on the lively and buzzing atmosphere at the event.

Claire Brazer Alumni Relations Officer

Old Girls’ Lecture by FARAH NABULSI

The alumna and filmmaker inspired her audience with an impassioned talk at November’s Old Girls’ Lecture, which included a screening of Farah’s Oscar nominated and BAFTA award-winning film, The Present

Directed by Farah, The Present is a short film about a father and his young daughter who live in the Palestinian territory of the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Farah began working in the film industry in 2015, founding a production company through which she writes, produces and directs fiction films, enabling her to explore the Israeli military occupation of Palestine.

Born and raised in London, Farah was educated at Francis Holland School, Sloane Square - “I give a lot of credit to my education at Francis Holland for enabling me to get where I am today” - before establishing a career in finance as an institutional equity stockbroker, and then running a child-focused business for 10 years.

Attended by over a hundred former pupils and staff, parents, sixth form pupils and current staff, Farah’s lecture presented an engaging account of both her own and her family’s experiences that inspired her to write and direct The Present. Said Farah: “I chose film as the medium with which to express myself because I wanted to tell these stories far and wide in a way that would shed light on that reality. The film itself is fiction but rooted in a cruel, absurd reality.”

With grateful thanks to Farah for such a moving and informative lecture.

Claire Brazer Alumni Relations Officer

Alumnae CAREER TALKS

In February, we welcomed alumnae Susi Barran, Kate Ewart-Biggs OBE and Meg Gordon Sussman to exhibit at the FHS Careers Fair. Kate, who is Deputy Chief Executive at the British Council, also spoke to an audience of pupils and parents about her fascinating career to date. Meanwhile, Speech and Language Therapist Susi Barran has since returned to FHS to give Makaton training to pupils during TIPS Week.

In March, we welcomed back Class of 2019 alumna Caroline Swenson, who returned to FHS to speak to Sixth Form pupils about the US University application process. Caroline is currently a third year Physics undergraduate at University of Notre Dame, Indiana. Caroline spoke at length about her college experiences at Notre Dame and gave some undoubtedly invaluable advice about the application process to universities in the US.

Later in March, alumna Camilla Craven (née Bradley) spoke to Lower Sixth

Camilla left Francis Holland Junior School in 1999, completing her education at Woldingham and Charterhouse. Camilla’s illustrious career to date has included roles such as Associate Director at PR agency Halpern, Head of PR and Events at Benefit Cosmetics, and Directorship roles at Charlotte Tilbury, Vashi and FACEGYM. Camilla has since offered work experience placements at FACEGYM to current Upper Sixth pupils and FHS alumnae at university, for which we are incredibly grateful and are in the process of organising.

Business Enterprise Award winner and alumna Natalija Jovasevic also returned to FHS in March to discuss the concepts of creative enterprise with Sixth Form Enrichment Programme students, inspiring them to create some truly impressive business pitches. Natalija spoke of her journey studying an MSc in Globalisation and Latin American Development and subsequent role as volunteer at sustainable and ethical fashion NGO, Hecho por Nosotros.

Having discovered a gap in the market for plastic-free packaging, in August 2021 Natalija established sustainable beauty

and

Co-Chair of the Alumni Association and alumna Anne Cyron presented to Sixth Form students at a Life Skills class in April. Anne, Councillor at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, spoke to students about local government and the importance of voting ahead of the local elections.

May 2022 saw two alumnae speak as guests in the Sixth Form Speaker Programme. Emma-Victoria Farr, who left FHS in 2007, presented to Lower Sixth students about her career as a Financial Journalist and European Correspondent at Reuters. Esteemed Television, Film and Theatre Director Sarah Esdaile was our final alumnae guest speaker of 2022. Sarah spoke with passion and humour about her career and experiences at FHS while giving some fantastic advice to the drama students who were keen to learn from her experiences.

Thanks go to all our alumnae speakers, whose experience and wisdom have enlightened many of our pupils.

Claire Brazer Alumni Relations Officer

Alumnae have been instrumental in contributing towards the School’s dynamic programme of careers events.

pupils about her career as Global Brand and Marketing Director at FACEGYM.

packaging company – and winner of the Francis Holland Alumni Association Business Enterprise Award - Ayllu Box.

STAFF NEWS

Staff Leavers and

JOINERS

Staff Joiners

Iona Bhatti

Alexander Bishop

Emily Bourne

Lily Brown

Eden Confino

Rachel Floyd

Maki Gajic Murata

Scott Graham

Daisy Houlder

Tatty Hunt

Lottie James

Lucinda James Joseph Keay

Rowena Kibblewhite Hannah Margerison

Mary McLaren

Bonny Miller

Claudio Neves

Aoife O’Neill

Eva Pelnena

Sarah Pittaway

Claire Powell Tom Robertson Diana Russell

Emma Shevah Lindsey Sinclair Abigail Smith Shivani Vyas Imogen Wigdahl

Staff LEAVERS

Paul Stubley

Good times never seemed so good. It has indeed been a golden age, having Paul in our midst for over ten years – watching him high-five the junior girls as they came into school, hearing his cheery whistle across the playground, knowing that any request would be met instantly with twinkling Yorkshire humour.

Paul is deeply loved by absolutely every member of our community. Nothing is too much trouble for him, and many of us are indebted to him for his resourceful and indefatigable dedication. I would certainly have not managed a couple of house moves without his strength and determination, far beyond the call of duty. What a legacy to leave! There are few of us who could command such universal affection and respect, and it has been our honour to have him lightening our days and easing our problems.

Staff Leavers

Georgie Bullock

Sarah Carr Gomm

Neil Casselle

Heather Casson

Fiona Corrigan

Holly Free Sarah Gregory Xia Haiying Fiona Holland Doris Kaleja Father Mark Kenny Jenny Norman Maria Perego Claire Powell Kate Price

Csaba Simon

Carolyn Sleightholme

Amy Snowden

Paul Stubley

Naoual Taghi Emily Whitbread Tilly Wood

Paul’s talents extend far beyond his plumbing, tiling and carpentry, of course. Our tribute at the end of the Summer Term was to his singing and performing skills. The entire community made a video of one of his favourite numbers, (Is This The Way To) Amarillo. Many a staff party has been enlivened by his karaoke, and he will always be an honorary member of the boys’ band, aka The Three Tenors. Apart from his devotion to his family (just how many times have you redone your kitchen for the wife, Paul?), his other great love is football, and in particular Leeds United. It was our joy to present him with a Leeds shirt and a card of good wishes signed by the team on his final day.

Paul has told me so often that FHS is his ‘second family’. He has loved his work in the School, and his worsening health must have been the greatest trial for him and a deep sadness for us. Still, he has been made an honorary member, and

has an open invitation to come in and cheer us with his smile and humour any day – if only to keep him from retiling the bathroom for the tenth time. Our lives have been the richer for Paul’s part in our community, and we are eternally grateful for his wonderful contribution.

Lucy Elphinstone Headmistress

Staff LEAVERS

Sarah Carr Gomm

Cargs arrived at Francis Holland School over 23 years ago as Head of History of Art. Before that, she had worked in various other educational institutions, set up her own business, ‘Art History Abroad’, taking students trips to places of culture, and written a number of books in her chosen field.

As a result of all of this, she has brought a range of skills and experiences which have been of immense benefit to numerous cohorts of Francis Holland girls. Cargs is a passionate teacher who has inspired many students and teachers with her love of both history and the way that art has been shaped by and has shaped human beings throughout the ages. Cargs is an enthusiast and a lover of people, and is always seeking to extend her knowledge of the world around her.

She has a young heart, and successive generations of A Level students have delighted in getting to know her and have benefitted from her absolute commitment to their success, both personally and intellectually. Both in the classroom and

on endless trips abroad, to places such as Rome, Florence, Paris and Madrid, Cargs has engaged, inspired and enriched the lives of the young people in her care. As a form tutor, her care for others, and her passion for young people, has been evinced in the many ways that she has pastorally supported and nurtured the lives of her students.

Cargs has been more than a colleague to many members of staff; she is a kind and generous friend who loves the chatter of the staffroom, and has been generous and hospitable to many of her fellow teachers. She is a great cook, and her home has been a place of much feasting and great conversation for many of her teacher friends over the years.

Father Mark Kenny Director of Spiritual Care

Father Mark Kenny

My good friend Mark, or Father Kenny, or Papa K, had more roles at Francis Holland School than he had names and all of them demonstrated his kind, generous and thoughtful soul.

For nearly 20 years, he was an eternally inspiring Theology and Philosophy teacher and was Head of Department for many of them, challenging students to think deeply about the important questions in life. One of the many successes of his career at FHS was to co-found, along with Julia Banks, the debating programme which gave girls the opportunity of voicing informed and reasoned arguments. Their confidence grew, and they are now winning major competitions and are armed with skills that can take them high places. Perhaps his most prominent position in the School was as Director of Spiritual Care, guiding us all through a maze of moral conundrums, and his sermons and assemblies touched each and every one of us.

Mark is a great listener and, in clerical collar or in bow tie and velvet jacket, he was often seen in the Staff Room deep in conversation with a colleague. His Chaplaincy was a place of refuge for many, where staff and students alike could confide in him and find sound advice and solace. He is not only a professional teacher, preacher and counsellor but also a passionate gardener; his magical, highly colourful garden and conservatory provided the background in videos of how to propagate plants as part of his drive to carry us through lockdown.

His dogs, Max and Poppy, adored by him and his husband, Nick, featured at every opportunity and provided more evidence, as if it were needed, of the caring and loving nature of our good friend, Mark.

Without doubt, he will be sorely missed.

Sarah Carr Gomm Head of History of

Art

Staff LEAVERS

Doris Kaleja

After twenty-eight years of outstanding service at Francis Holland, Ms Kaleja has decided to retire. Her professionalism and dedication have been an inspiration to us all and will be missed. Ms Kaleja’s contribution to our community, school and to the MFL Department will leave a mark for many years to come.

Ms Kaleja worked as a MFL teacher, Head of Careers and Head of German. Under her leadership, the German Department has consistently been achieving many great results, but it is her passion that will be remembered by students and colleagues alike.

Not only a superb linguist, but also a keen historian, Ms Kaleja organised

many trips with the History Department to Germany and the Somme. A curious mind, Ms Kaleja was a regular member of the Sixth Form Afternoon Tea Group.

She was a wonderful, immensely reliable, cooperative, highly cultured and frankly indefatigable colleague. Ms Kaleja relished being part of the wider MFL department. No one was ever more dedicated to her students and no students ever more loyal to their teacher. For them - with great respect and affection - she was always simply ‘Frau’.

We wish Frau Kaleja a wonderful and well deserved retirement.

Calvet Head of Modern Foreign Languages

Neil Casselle

It was a sad moment when Neil Casselle finally decided that his long journey to SW1 really was too long and he waved us farewell after nearly six years at FHS. His warmth, ready humour and generosity will be much missed by colleagues and girls alike.

Under Neil’s tenure, Psychology grew to become one of the most popular A Level subjects. He welcomed all comers, encouraging and championing every student, whatever her level of ability. Every lesson was imbued with humour, whether this was due to the amusement inherent in topics such as some rather questionable Relationship Theories or simply his ironic presentation or rather drier material. Excuses for late homework were drowned out by his playing of ‘The World’s Saddest Violin Music’ on YouTube.

In his role as Head of Academic Mentoring, Neil oversaw the introduction of the ‘Learning to Learn’

programme, dispensing invaluable evidence-based advice on learning and revision. He was the king of stationery and multi-coloured pens as he advised on revision plans, mind-mapping, Cornell note templates, flashcards and every tip and trick an aspiring examtaker needed. He had endless patience and was particularly supportive of those students who found learning difficult or simply needed help to approach a problem in a different way.

And outside the classroom, he was always ready to get stuck in and give just about anything a go. He loved expeditions and would pitch tents, play frisbee and plunge headfirst into anything, including lakes and raftbuilding. It was exactly this ‘give it a go’ attitude that led to over-exertion in a Staff vs Girls netball team and a serious leg injury that required surgery and miserable weeks on crutches. Accidentprone, he certainly was.

Neil was a wonderful colleague and teacher whose ability always to look on the bright side and find the hilarity

in every situation endeared him to all. We wish him every success in his new position as Head of Psychology at Sutton Valence School in Kent.

Julia Banks Joint Head of Sixth Form

Fred

PRIZES

PRIZES 2021-22

Year 7

Theology and Philosophy Serene Karoni Progress Espérance Tardy-Joubert English Eden Alberti Progress Imogen Lysaght Mathematics Mia Efthimiou Progress Thania-Benni Chair

Latin Emily Parker Progress Gazel Aksoy Physics Sabrina Fleury Progress Lucia Alonso-Cobo Chemistry Beatrice Husband Progress Amelia Aitken

Biology Alexia Favre Progress Heidi Hunter French Amalia Abdulkerimova Progress Lily Funnell History Chloe Vlahcevic Progress Katherine Demol Geography Candice Nasser Progress Kayla Kahwa

Music Lara Patel Progress Carla Sarria

PE Victoria Steinhauser Progress Sonia Kazakova Art Amber Moghadam Progress Eliza Pearce

Drama Louisa Garner Progress Martha Payne

Computing Sacha Zelouf Progress Melissa Ettedgui

Year 8

History Violeta Monascal Uribe Progress Emily Walsh

Geography Louisa Regulla-Wilkens Progress Maia Redbourn

Music Cerine Al-Hariri Progress Ludovica Verdun Di Cantogno

PE Grace Keane Progress Alicia Grispou

Art Jemima Gray Progress Leia Goldstein Drama Ava Broadhurst Progress Beatrice Morrissey Computing Ava-Valerie Hellmich Progress Amaya Cotterill

Geoffrey Allen Cup for Excellence Most Promising Young Scientist in Years 7-8 Alaia Cadbury

Year 9

Theology and Philosophy Ella May Treuer Progress Alisa Ermak

English Poppy Das Progress Ginevra Ieva Mathematics Julie Dehmel Progress Ruby Baird Latin Phoebe Smith Progress Georgia Parker

Physics Caroline Dehmel Progress Raffaella Poggio-Magnus Chemistry Tarini Malhotra Progress Ginevra Ieva Biology Catherine Garrood Progress Mia Lee

French

Theology and Philosophy

Violeta Alvarez Carcedo Progress Giulia Westermann

English Yasmin Aldiyar Progress Alexandra Curtis

Mathematics Theadora McCourt Progress Elizabeth Paget

Latin Sophia Lenhard Progress Giuditta De Simone Niquesa Physics Avaline Greenhalgh Progress Mia Brenan Chemistry Amelia Waring Progress Lily Stillman

Biology Manha Khalid Progress Mia Brenan

French Lavinia de Lacey Progress Georgia Sherman

German Klara Andonegui Sehnalova Progress Saskia Ribbons

Spanish Aurelia Charbonnier Progress Zoe Petropoulos

Antonia Dantas Tenorio Progress Lilianna Haith

German Romina Fallahdar Progress Claudia Elliot

Spanish Tara Cameron Progress Alice Valette

Pepper History Prize Romina Fallahdar Progress Clodagh Lysaght Geography Mika Bianchi Progress Zoe Anselme

Music

Amalia De Oliveira Munoz De La Espada Progress Octavia De Heinrich

PE Chloe Flames Progress Aliki Frangoulis

Art Mia Cosham Progress Ava Stolkin

Drama Isabelle Brown Progress Freya Murray Computing Sophia Spink Progress Salome Cosgrove

Sheelagh Majury Mathematics Prize Achievement in Years 7-9 Julie Dehmel

Caroline Lamb Science Prize Progress and Promise in Year 9 Cordelia Jones

Ferriman Geography Prize Achievement in Years 7-9 Catherine Garrood

Longworth Progress Prize Progress in Years 7-9 Phoebe Smith

Year 10

Theology and Philosophy Xanthe Birch Progress Carlotta Sofer English Ophelia Stride Progress Pia Kebell

Mathematics Ava Natalie Haugan Progress Layla Hashemi

Further Mathematics Kamilla Nizar Progress Anetta Aspandiiarov

Classical Civilisation Allegra Berni Progress Maria Gabriella da Silveira Pinheiro Latin Deniz Kilic Progress Yseult Start

Greek Chiara Nonnis Salazar Progress Eva Fleury & Maya Smith

Physics Linnea Foelster Progress Anetta Aspandiiarov

Chemistry Alexia Abecassis Progress Ana Rodriguez-Cueto Biology Katie Higgins Progress Layla Hashemi French Niovi Singh Progress Amaia Burke

German Nikki Maxwell Progress Grace Stolkin

Spanish Sophia Stephanakis Progress Charlotte Horner History Eleanor Kogan Progress Charlotte Bennett Geography Ella O’Connell Progress Georgia Moore

Music Inga de Vegvar Progress Summer Goldberg PE Carolina Rassmuson Progress Isabella Arculus

Art Lina Heath Progress Sofia Russo

Drama Ismay Bunce Progress Holly Hunter

Computing Leonie Bordes Progress Ania McNamara

Upper School Debate Cup

Debating Skills in Upper School Emily You

Elizabeth Louis Debate Cup

Excellence in the Art of Debating Kate Zhao Kunzelmann Prize Overall Progress in Year 10 Jiayi Xiao

Stephanie Pattenden Academic Prize Achievement in Year 10 Maria Reznikovich

Year 11

Theology and Philosophy Anna Campbell Progress Millicent Hildreth English Honor Jones Progress Saskia Zainchkovskaya Mathematics Philippa Anglin Progress Isabella Rassmuson Further Mathematics Andrea Johnson Progress Sophia ElBishlawi

Highett Classics Prize Beatrice Baldelli Progress Rose Patterson

Latin Angelina Poggio-Magnus Progress Elizabeth West Greek Angelina Poggio-Magnus Progress Violet Russell-Smith & Verushka Haener

Physics Emma Grant-Diaz Progress Layla Phillips Chemistry Ada Ambrose Progress Clementine Cecil

Biology

Ada Ambrose Progress Francesca Glanville

Helen Brooke History Prize Emily Flynn Progress Sophia ElBishlawi

Geography Allegra Bryant Progress Pia Von Sanden

French Alice Wiwen-Nilsson Progress Elize Martin

German Victoria Hamlyn Progress Kyla Farha

Pardal Spanish Prize Matilde Leandro Progress Betsy Leighton Music Victoria Hamlyn Progress Cosima Reed

PE Antigone Mathews Progress Claudia Capuano

Pringle Art Prize Paloma Fleury Progress Verity Harrison

Drama Sofia Gironi Progress Keziah Atherton Computing Katarina Ghanem

Outstanding Science Prize Achievement in Year 11 Emma Grant-Diaz Sheelagh Majury Mathematics Prize Achievement in Years 10-11 Andrea Johnson

PRIZES 2021-22

Lower Sixth

Theology and Philosophy Tess Vogels Progress Isabella O’Neill English Mairi Stewart Progress Ariana Barinstein

Laurence Mathematics Prize Sophia Efthimiou Progress Lottie Lane

Further Mathematics Michelle Modiano Progress Alice Dempsey Physics Anna Acerbi Progress Jasmine Amin Chemistry Anna Acerbi Progress Gabriela Rodriguez-Cueto

Biology Maria Kind Progress Saffiya Massood

Claudine Pous French Prize Teresa De Oliveira Munoz De La Espada Progress Cecilie Maurin

Spanish Catarina Leandro Progress Mia Wilson

Classical Civilisation Zoe Crowe Progress Mischa Adel-Yearsley History Eloise Burkey Progress Lucy Morse

Politics Mia Wilson Progress Lottie Lane

Kent Geography Prize Lina Abrahams Progress Mia Hensher-Goodlad

History of Art Clara Flatau Progress Grace Wharton

Madden Gorman Art Prize Emma Bower Progress Yagmur Aydin

Economics Aayana Chandok Progress Julia Pierce Psychology Caley Collins Progress Anya Valimahomed Music Teresa De Oliveira Munoz De La Espada

Drama Tess Vogels Progress Jacqueline Haas

Merewether Prize All-round Proficiency in PE Sabrina Bet-Mansour

Stephanie Pattenden Academic Prize Achievement in the Lower Sixth Anna Acerbi

Upper Sixth

Theology and Philosophy Isabella Brankovic Progress Francesca Elliot

Father Kenny Prize for Excellence Marysia Fanner-Brzezina

Kunzl-Tacchi English Cup Cara Vogels Progress Amber Khlat

Mathematics Maya Yastrib Progress Heloise Quiviger

Further Mathematics

Helena McCormick Paice Progress Sara Nabli

Physics Helena McCormick Paice Progress Olivia Daniel Chemistry Helena Garrood Progress Hana Abdel Motaal Biology Heloise Quiviger Progress Emma Johnson French Kiara Kontaloni Progress Pagan Reed German Lily Soyoye Progress Mariasole Stewen & Sonsoles Ortega Goldaracena

Kazan Spanish Prize Meritxell Brennan Progress Lily Jevons

Nadia Zilkha History Prize Grace Stuart Progress Lucy Downes

Politics Amber Khlat Progress Saskia Lavelle

History of Art Olivia Tookey Progress Zahra Khan

Classical Civilisation Isabelle Samuels Progress Cerys Howard-Jones Geography Caroline Lewitt Progress Molly Downes Art Lily Leaver Progress Dulcie Park Economics Molly Downes Progress Alisha Mahtani Psychology Isabelle Samuels Progress Alisha Mahtani Music Sophie Irving & Alexa MacLaren

Fanny Davies Music Prize Alexa MacLaren Drama Cara Vogels Progress Francesca Elliot Computing Trinity Adom Progress Alexa MacLaren

PE Katie Castillo-Bernaus & Isabella Tribolati

Ballet Helena Garrood

Jane Wilson Science Prize Maya Yastrib Extended Project Qualification Prize Best Project Olivia Tookey

Special Prizes

Vivian-Neal Prize Grit and Determination Anastasia Serebryakova

Longworth Leadership Prize Outstanding Leadership Cara Vogels & Lily Leaver Headmistress’ Prize Character and Community Wala Awad & Amber Khlat

Leavers’ Prizes

Hana Abdel Motaal

Trinity Adom

Ariana Amiri

Wala Awad

Kitty Bedford

Isabella Brankovic

Meritxell Brennan

Katie Castillo-Bernaus

Olivia Daniel

Lucy Downes Molly Downes

Sofia Dwek

Polina Dyakonova

Francesca Elliot

Marysia Fanner-Brzezina

Emily Fox Kayla Gal Miranda Garcia Santos

Junior School Prizes

Helena Garrood

Cerys Howard-Jones

Sophie Irving

Lily Jevons

Emma Johnson Zahra Khan Amber Khlat Kiara Kontaloni Saskia Lavelle

Lily Leaver Caroline Lewitt Alexa MacLaren Alisha Mahtani Helena McCormick Paice Sara Nabli Olivia Nolan Sonsoles Ortega Goldaracena Lina Palm-Hattane

Dulcie Park Eloise Patterson Heloise Quiviger

Liv Quix Clara Recouso-Larkai Pagan Reed Isabelle Samuels Anastasia Serebryakova Jemima Sharkey Lily Soyoye Lago Starck Mariasole Stewen Grace Stuart

Olivia Tookey Isabella Tribolati Cara Vogels Maya Yastrib

Boyd Cup for English: Cecily Row (Year 3), Nina Lai (Year 4), Rose Zhang (Year 5), Maya Ritchie (Year 6)

Junior Maths Cup: Maya Kurtoglu (Year 3), Eve Haggar (Year 4), Lita Tuli (Year 5), Blanca Pollan (Year 6)

Junior Science Award: Lily Sharman (Year 3), Sofia Lewis-Williams (Year 4), Catherine Maddocks (Year 5), Scarlett Manami Mash (Year 6) Katrine Collins Globe for Young Geographer and Environmentalist: Cara Segan

Lily Goekjian History Prize: Remi Bianchi

Molly Brown Award for Kindness, Courtesy and Good Manners: Sophie Jerjian Tamlyn Cup for Improvement and Hard Work: Leyla Guliyeva

Stead Cup for the girl who applied herself to school life with the most enthusiasm: Sibella Greenwold

Collett-White Award for Kindness and Curiosity: Aara Hussain

Pattenden Cup for Progress in Year 5: Talia Majali

Stella Roberts Cup for Creative Thinking: Amanda Nuzzo

Sarah Styles Cup for Tenacity and Determination: Aisha Orsi

Marina Gallagher Cup for Mathematical Reasoning: Eleanor Sims

Eileen Gallagher Cup for ‘Junior Scientist’: Addison Moore

Jennifer and Lauren Spottz Music Award: Cindy Van Rooyen

Phrosso Pfister Ballet Cup: Victoria Southall

Daisy Hayes Ballet Cup: Thalia El-Ansary and Klara Nakamura-Rott

Prizes for Effort, Determination, Dedication and Improvement in Ballet: Blanca Pallas and Yasmin Da Silva Abbassi (Reception), Julia Konarzewski (Year 1), Peri Dumanoglu (Year 2), Hepzibah Simpson (Year 3), Remi Bianchi (Year 4), Elena Samonigg Von Staszewski (Year 5), Darcy Bussell Ballet Shoes Class Award (Reception)

Sir Peter Wright CBE Ballet Award for love of dance, dedication and high achievement: Isabella Lewis-Williams

India Dowley Sports Cup for Excellence: Elena Samonigg Von Staszewski

Junior Swimming Improvement Cup: Elizabeth Southall

Junior Swimming Championship Cup: Evelyn Row

Mr Spencer’s Cup for Young Philanthropist: Nancy Scullion

Ms Schott’s Cup for Perseverance in Reception: Juliette Hill and Charlotte Meriggio

Creative Arts Cup: Soraya Westmacott

39 Graham Terrace London SW1W 8JF

tel: 020 7730 2971

office@fhs-sw1.org.uk www.fhs-sw1.org.uk