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an immersive education

B E YO N D THE CURRICULUM

WORLD READY

DIVE INTO AN IMMERSIVE EDUCATION THAT GOES FAR BEYOND THE CURRICULUM The term World Ready represents the holistic approach we take across the academic, pastoral and extracurricular activities that form part of our immersive education at Downe House. From the moment a girl joins us she will embark on an outstanding academic education, and also a broader structured framework of opportunities, activities and support designed to help take her on an individual journey. We call this the World Ready Programme, designed to nurture individual personal development and equip our girls with the life skills and knowledge they will need to embrace real world opportunities with confidence and humility. This guide gives an overview of the range of activities that go beyond the curriculum – our co-curriculum offering. This ranges from personal enrichment and development, and academic stretch and challenge, through to House spirit and activities that are just for fun, and for rest and relaxation - with plenty of excitement thrown in. Along the way, our pupils are strengthening the key characteristics of the Downe House DNA, as well as forging lifelong friendships and memories to last a lifetime. In this guide you will find details of many of the activities that are on offer during the School week. Our programme is always evolving but this is designed as a guide to the types of activities your daughter could get involved in. This is in addition to the Weekend Activities Programme organised by our Co-Curricular department. For each activity, we have provided details of which year groups and sections of the School can participate: LS = Lower School

US = Upper School

SF = Sixth Form

All = Whole School

Many activities are open to everyone to join, whilst others are by invitation or for specific groups such as Scholars, Musicians or members of specific sports teams. Some are compulsory, others are options, and a few incur an additional cost (£ = cost involved), whilst many more are free. You will also find details of who to contact so that you or your daughter can find out more information – and we recommend discussions with your daughter’s Housemistress or Tutor if you are considering adding regular commitments to your daughter’s schedule. We are certain that every pupil will find something to inspire and excite them within this programme, and we hope that this guide will inspire our pupils to engage more in what they love or try something new. Mrs Maria Reichardt Director of Scholars and Academic Enrichment

DOWNE HOUSE

DNA

COMPASSION COLLABORATION RESILIENCE CREATIVITY ASPIRATION COMMUNICATION

WORLD READY

OUTWARD LOOKING

An immersive education ACADEMIC STRET D I SCO U R S E & E X PERSONAL SKILLS CREATIVE & PERF SPORT, HEALTH & TECHNOLOGY & HOUSE SPIRIT ACADEMIC STRETCH & CHALLENGE These activities are where curiosity These activities thrives, critical are where curiosity thinking blossoms, thrives, critical and intellectual thinking blossoms, boundaries are and intellectual pushed. Students boundaries are can explore their pushed. Students can explore their subjects beyond subjects beyond the classroom the classroom and realise that and realise the pursuitthat of the pursuit of knowledge knows knowledge knows no no limits. limits.

DISCOURSE & EXCHANGING IDEAS

Opportunities to experience discourse as a powerful tool for intellectual growth. These activities foster active listening and critical thinking through respectful dialogue whilst exploring topical and interesting subjects.

PERSONAL SKILLS & DEVELOPMENT

These clubs and activities are platforms designed to nurture the unique talents, skills and leadership potential of every pupil. Beyond the traditional academic setting, these are opportunities for self-discovery, collaboration and the honing of essential life skills.

CREATIVE ACADEMIC& PERFORMING STRETCH ARTS & CHALLENGE These activities are where curiosity A myriad of thrives, critical opportunities where thinking blossoms, students can delve and individual intellectual into boundaries are and collaborative pushed. Students artistic expression through creative and can explore their visual arts, theatre, subjects beyond music and more. the classroom Activities that ignite and realise that imagination and the pursuit of nurture creativity knowledge knows throughout our no limits. vibrant School environment.

BEYOND THE CURRICULUM CH & CHALLENGE CHANGING IDEAS & DEVELOPMENT ORMING ARTS WELLBEING DIGITAL SKILLS JUST FOR FUN! SPORT, HEALTH & WELLBEING

TECHNOLOGY & DIGITAL SKILLS

HOUSE SPIRIT

JUST FOR FUN!

An extensive range of optional teams, clubs and activities that nurture a lifelong commitment to a healthy lifestyle. These promote the health benefits of physical and mental wellbeing, along with developing individual and team sports skills and fostering sportswomanship.

Digital proficiency is vital for our pupils to be prepared for their futures. These exciting handson activities and clubs not only help hone their technical expertise but also nurture creativity and problemsolving abilities – all essential tools for the modern world.

Inter-House events showcase the strength of House Spirit in our school community. Students of all ages and interests can show their allegiance, enjoy the camaraderie and foster a sense of belonging while celebrating the unique identity of their House.

Weekends are for recharging and enjoying time with friends. Our weekend activities programme is packed with an enviable range of activities that includes some weekend extravaganzas that everyone in the School enjoys together.

ACADEMIC STRETCH & CHALLENGE WORLD READY

Academic Enrichment Lectures When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Lunchtime

Sixth Form | Miss Taylor

Lower Sixth

All | Compulsory

A series of academic lectures from STEM, Social Sciences, and the Arts. These sessions are designed to tackle current issues and topics that the 6th Form may be facing, as well as supporting with their academic progress and their plans for the future. In these sessions we will develop power skills, build confidence with AI, gain an insight into university courses and careers, and hear stories from external speakers.

ARTiculation Competition When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas & Lent Terms | Ongoing

Evening Event

History of Art | Ms Slocombe

Lower Sixth

All | Optional

ARTiculation is an annual event designed to promote the appreciation and discussion of art and design. The competition seeks to engage students, regardless of background or experience, with art and to develop their confidence and ability to express their opinions, thoughts and conclusions. The competition is open to all LVI students, not just those studying Art or History of Art. Students studying other disciplines are encouraged to take part and reflect their own interests within their talk.

Bebras Computational Thinking Competition When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Lent Term | Annual

Various

Computing | Mr Bradshaw

Remove & Upper Fourth

LS | US

All | Optional

Club preparing for the BEBRAS coding competition in March. The Raspberry Pi Foundation Coding Challenge is an event for UK students aged 10-19 who took part in this year’s UK Bebras Challenge. The challenge has been designed to be accessible to all students aged 10+. There will be two types of challenge available for you to enter: block-based programming and textbased programming. Both challenges will include multiple difficulty levels. The aim of the 45-minute coding challenge is to enhance skills, build confidence, and inspire students to develop programmed solutions to computational thinking problems.

Dissection Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Lunchtime

STEM Students | Mrs de Chazal

Lower Sixth & Upper Sixth

All | Optional

Exploring the anatomy of organs, organ systems and even whole organisms. This Society enables a deeper understanding of natural design to help students studying sciences at A Level make links between their experiences and their courses.

Elective Programme When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Mr Breeze

Lower Fifth Lower Sixth

US | SF

Invite | Optional

The super-curricular Elective Programme is a collection of six-week, university-style modules, exploring topics beyond the curriculum. With no examinations or prep, the purpose is academic enrichment and the joy of learning. Students can pursue three different Elective Programme pathways, exploring humanities, social sciences and STEM topics.

Environment and Sustainability Research Group When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Evening

STEM | Mr Rivers

All

All | Optional

A research group for those who wish to investigate the state of the world past, present and future. Students are able to hone their research skills and develop criticality when digesting sources. In a world of AI, this is more important than ever!

Geography Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Fortnightly

Monday | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Mrs Price

Lower Fifth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Compulsory

Students from LV upwards are invited to Geography Society sessions to discuss topics pertinent to them and use it as a forum to ask questions and spend time for further research.

Language Ambassadors’ Programme When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Various

Various | Various

MFL Dept | Mrs Sabnis

Lower Sixth

All | Optional

The opportunity to get involved with language teaching and extra-curricular activities at every level of School. From speaking to pupils in Lower School at taster events and running language clinics for younger pupils, to devising penfriend projects with Lower School in target language countries and helping out in lessons with junior pupils. There are plenty of ways for pupils to contribute to the Languages department.

Maths Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Fortnightly

Tuesday | Evening

Maths Dept | Miss Washington

All

All | Optional

A look at Maths topics and problems outside the standard syllabus. With a partial focus on UKMT Maths Challenge questions and similar challenges, pupils explore and develop problem-solving techniques in a collaborative atmosphere.

Medical Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Evening

STEM | Mr Littledale

Lower Sixth & Upper Sixth

All | Optional

MedSoc is a student-run society that brings together our aspiring medics. Students organise speakers, research groups and documentary viewings.

Microscopy Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Lunchtime

STEM Students | Mrs de Chazal

Remove - Lower Fifth

LS & US

All | Optional

An opportunity to explore a world usually hidden from us as it is too small to see. Students are given the opportunity to study and explore a wide range of samples from the living world as they’ve never seen them before.

Mini TED Talks When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Lunchtime

Academic Enrichment | Miss Killacky

All

All | Optional

Pupils present a topic of their choice for 5 minutes to an enthusiastic audience of staff and pupils in the collaboration space on such diverse topics as fungi’s effect on other organisms, forgotten architects of the history of knowledge, and the evolution of immunotherapy.

Modern Foreign Languages Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Afternoon

Academic Enrichment | Mrs Wallace

Remove - Upper Fourth

All | Optional

Join the MFL (Modern Foreign Languages) Society and explore the rich cultures behind the languages you love! We offer a variety of fun and engaging activities, including French film nights, Spanish cooking sessions, German conversation clubs, and vibrant cultural festivals in Italy and China. Whether you’re a beginner or fluent speaker, there will be something for everyone to enjoy while improving your language skills and making new friends.”.

Psychology Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Lunchtime

Academic Enrichment | Ms Palmer

Upper Fourth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

Are you curious about why people think, feel, and behave the way they do? Whether you’re fascinated by dreams, memory, mental health, social behaviour, or the mysteries of the brain – Psychology Club is the place for you! This club takes place every Tuesday from 12.30-1 (starting on the 23rd Sept). Open to all students from U4-U6, this club is a space to explore anything psychology-related through fun discussions, thought-provoking debates, and real-world applications. No prior knowledge needed – just bring your curiosity and an open mind! We meet in room B or room K depending on group size. Join us to connect with like-minded students, challenge your thinking, and discover how psychology shapes the world around us.

STEM Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Fortnightly

Thursday | Evening

STEM Students | Mr Hollingworth

All

All | Optional

A club run by STEM Ambassadors for older students and younger pupils alike - providing them the opportunity to broaden their experiences in STEM beyond the curriculum.

STEM Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various

STEM | Mr Hollingworth

Remove & Lower Fourth

All | Optional

This is an opportunity for STEM lovers to embrace STEM beyond the classroom, discuss topics of interest and to invite in expert speakers to further inspire them. Open to pupils in LV upwards.

Twilight Lectures When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | TwiceTermly

Thursday | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Miss Killacky

Lower Fifth Upper Sixth

All

Invite | Optional

Lectures given by teachers on a subject of interest to them. Talks range from the History of Space to the Four Colour Map Problem, to Who Killed Philip I of Macedonia! Compulsory for Academic Scholars, these talks are also great for any pupils who are intellectually curious and would love to find out more about what inspires their teachers.

Architecture Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Evening

Creative Arts | Mrs Mortimer

All

All | Optional

Archiecture Society’s main goal is to share more knowledge to the student body on architecture from our own personal experiences and discoveries. However we also strive to encourage younger years to push their innovation skills beyond their creative limit! Our club’s motto is to make something out of the ordinary into the extraordinary!

DISCOURSE & EXCHANGING IDEAS WORLD READY

Art History Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

Creative Arts | Mrs Tostdevine

Lower Fifth Upper Sixth

US | SF

Invite | Optional

Art History Society is an opportunity to explore the history, visual culture and art in new and exciting ways. We analyse and appreciate art from all periods of history and from all over the world to enrich your cultural perspective and historical understanding. We’ll also think about art theory and curatorship, giving you the chance to consider the study of History of Art after Downe House, a career in the art world or, at the very least, be a really interesting dinner-party guest!

Eton Book Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Miss Killacky

Lower Fifth & Lower Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

We run two book clubs with Eton, one for the Lower Fifth and one for the Lower Sixth. The evenings are held at Eton, and start with supper, followed by discussion about the book. Subject matter ranges from psychology, to medicine, to philosophy and we look at both fiction and non-fiction texts.

Junior Fledgling Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Saturday | Morning

Academic Enrichment | Ms Eaves

Remove & Lower Fourth

All | Optional

Work with members of the Junior Phoenix Society, who will help you hone presenting skills (articulation, confidence, projection, creating presentations, receiving criticism and feedback) and then impress your peers by presenting on an exciting and interesting topic of your choice.

Junior Phoenix Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Ad Hoc

Tuesday | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Mrs Dourountakis

Upper Fourth Upper Fifth

All | Optional

Junior Phoenix Society participants present a research paper or essay about any topic that interests them. The Society meets twice in michlaemas and Lent terms and once in Summer term to give pupils time to prepare papers to present at Society.

Model United Nations When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Evening

Politics | Mrs Grant

Lower Sixth Upper Sixth

All | Optional

The club meets weekly to discuss and debate current issues of international significance. The year culminates in participation in the International Model United Nations meeting in Bath in March.

Phoenix Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Fortnightly Events Twice/Term

Various Evenings | Events Fridays

Academic Enrichment | Miss Killacky

Lower Sixth & Upper Sixth

All | Optional

Students research and present on a topic of their choice. We always invite a boys’ school to attend and one of the boys also presents. A buffet supper follows. It’s an opportunity to socialise and exchange views on a great variety of interesting topics.

Student-Led Magazines and Journals When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year

Ongoing

Students and Staff

All

All | Optional

There are a number of outstanding student-led journals and magazines. Examples include the annual STEM magazine Origins, the Academic Scholars’ magazine Train of Thought, Scholars’ Essays journal Footsteps, Lingua (the Modern Foreign Languages magazine) and The Low Downe, a student newspaper. Pupils are invited and encouraged to contribute, as well as creating magazines and journals linked to their own interests. Support is on hand from the Communications and Marketing department, as well as subject staff, to enable pupils’ ideas to come to fruition.

DH LINKS When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year

Ongoing | Various

DH LINKS | Ms Aubrey

Lower Fifth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

The DH LINKS programme brings together pupils, alumnae and parents to share professional advice and guidance. Events are run once or twice a month either at School or in London, and give pupils the opportunity to connect with a wide-range of people for networking, mentoring and professional advice.

Medley Lectures When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year

Ongoing | Various

DH LINKS |

All

Open | Compulsory

Medley Lectures are a very important part of our enrichment programme and take place every year with audience members usually consisting of pupils, parents, alumnae, staff, and friends of the School. These lectures take their name from former Headmistress, Miss Nancy Medley, who had a great passion for learning outside the curriculum, encouraging pupils to think and to broaden their horizons.

Law Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

Politics | Mr Gill

Upper Fourth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

The Law Society is designed to foster an understanding of the UK legal system and to prepare for university law courses. We have held a Mock Murder Trial to demystify legal procedure and roles; to sharpen critical thinking; to foster collaboration between pupils interested in law, public speaking and drama; and to provide a safe arena for debating moral ambiguity and the burden of proof. In the Mock Murder Trial, you might play the role of a defence or prosecution barrister, solicitor, defendant or witness. All pupils in UIV upwards are welcome, especially those interested in law, public speaking, debating and drama.

Global Schools’ Exchange Programme When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year

Ongoing

Global Partnerships | Mrs Adams

Upper School & Sixth Form

US | SF

Interview | Optional

The Global Schools’ Exchange Programme offers a unique and rewarding experience for girls to explore different communities and cultures by studying abroad in a number of countries around the globe. For further information click here to see the programme.

Janus (History) Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Mrs Grant

Upper Fourth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

The Janus Society is a student-led History discussion group. Named after the Roman god Janus, whose two faces gaze simultaneously to the past and the future, the society encourages pupils to interrogate historical narratives while considering their contemporary and prospective implications. Meeting every other Tuesday 7-8pm in the Florence Room, members present short papers on topics ranging from classical republicanism to modern electoral reform, followed by structured debate that prioritises evidence, respectful dissent and critical reflection.

Classics Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Afternoon

Classics | Mrs Waller

Upper Fourth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

PERSONAL SKILLS & DEVELOPMENT WORLD READY

Astronomy Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Fortnightly

Thursday | Evening

STEM Students | Mr Hollingworth

All

All | Optional

We have seen eclipses, constellations and shooting stars - all enhanced with the use of telescopes and excellent planning.

Cookery Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

Remove - Lower Fourth

All | Optional | £

This club offers students a chance to explore sweet and savoury foods and learn how to make them.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Ad Hoc

Various

CCA | Mr Riddle

Upper Fourth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional | £

Pupils are offered all three levels of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award: Bronze, Silver and Gold. This is done by completing all four components: skill, physical recreation, volunteer work and expedition. For Gold level a residential is also required.

Engineering Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Evening

STEM Students | Mr Littledale

Lower Fifth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

This society gives students a chance to further enhance their expertise by gaining valuable insight in all things engineering.

First Aid Course When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various

Sixth Form | Miss Taylor

Lower Sixth & Upper Sixth

All | Optional | £

A two-hour first aid course for Sixth Form to hone their emergency aid skills.

First Chapter Fridays When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year| Weekly

Friday | Afternoon

Development | Miss Kirby / Miss Prentice

All

LS | US | SF

All | Optional

A reading club for students and staff, designed to build reading confidence and broaden literary awareness - one chapter at a time. Each week, participants receive the opening chapter of a new book via email/Teams and meet in the Library to discuss first impressions, make predictions about what happens next, and consider literary devices such as narrative technique.

House Investment Competition When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Lent Term & Summer Term | Fortnightly

Various | Evening

Business Studies & Economics | Mr Bradshaw

Upper Fourth Upper Fifth

All | Optional

The competition will be run by each House who will have a team of investors. Each House will receive a token £100,000 to invest on the Champion Investment website. Each team will maintain five companies at a time and will be able to change up to two of the companies every two weeks. Teams will also need to consider the ethical dimensions of their investment. The House with the highest value portfolio wins the Investment Cup and £200 for their chosen House charity. The runner-up team will receive £50 for their chosen House charity.

House Prefects When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Termly | Ongoing

Housemistresses

All

Apply | Optional

House Prefects are chosen by the Housemistresses and change every term, a role for those who want to be positive role models to those around them.

Interview Exchange When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Annual

Afternoon

Futures | Mrs Barnard

Upper Sixth

Invite | Compulsory

An afternoon spent with students and teachers from other local schools, discussing subject choices and having mock interviews as practice for university interviews.

Ivy House Award When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All | Weekly

Various | Evening

External l Miss Oldham

Lower Sixth

Apply | Optional | £

The Ivy House Award develops leadership and life skills, giving Lower Sixth students the knowledge and confidence they need to step up and take ownership of their future.

Learn to Lead When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All | Weekly

Various | Evening

External l Miss Taylor

Lower Sixth

Apply | Optional | £

A selective programme that provides education on leadership, teamworking and networking, focusing not only on the individual but also on working with others and with systems.

Leiths Academy When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All | Weekly

Various

Food Tech | Miss Singh

Lower Sixth

Apply | £

An Introductory Certificate in Food and Wine, completed over three terms which teaches the skills needed to be a confident, capable and efficient cook. It's a course for students who enjoy cooking and gives them a practical qualification and access to 'Leiths List', which is the Academy's own agency for students seeking work.

Mini MBA When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Timetabled

Sixth Form | Mrs Henson

Lower Sixth

Apply | Optional | £

An exciting qualification that stretches learning beyond academic qualifications and traditional extra-curricular activities. Modules are based on personal impact, business performance and marketing and strategy, culminating in an exciting five-week business simulation course. Run in conjunction with Hult Ashridge Executive Education.

Positions of Responsibility When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Apply Lent Term | All Year

Ongoing

Headmistress

Lower Sixth

Apply | Optional

These positions are chosen by the Headmistress and open solely to Sixth Form, a role for those who want to be positive role models to those around them.

Roots When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Lunchtime

Pastoral | Miss Prentice

All

All | Optional

A relaxed and inclusive environment in which anyone can learn about the Christian faith, and how to apply its teachings in our daily lives.

Self Defence When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Termly | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

Upper Fourth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional | £

Each term we run a group session for one whole year group where a number of instructors teach the students self defence.

Study Skills When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Mr Matthews

Lower Sixth

Invite | Optional

These study skills sessions support Lower Sixth pupils in developing effective routines for A Level study, including organisation, independent learning habits, and strategies for managing workload and deadlines. They will help pupils work more efficiently, build confidence, and establish strong foundations now to improve performance as they prepare for Upper Sixth, A Levels, and higher education.

Wakefield Award When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various

Lower School | Ms Scott-Kerley

Remove - Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

A young achievers’ award that the girls work towards in the Lower School years at Downe House. Through fun and exploration they aim to extend theri horizons and discover their potential.

CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS WORLD READY

DH Acting Company When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Lunchtime

Drama & Dance | Mr Gould

Lower Sixth

Invite | Optional

A 3 ½ term Actor Training Programme for the Lower Sixth. The company is designed to expose its members to advanced acting techniques, commonly taught at Drama Conservatoires. Techniques taught in the past have included those pioneered by Sanford Meisner, Uta Hagen, Stanislavski, Viewpoints, Laban and Stella Adler. The work of the company also includes indepth scene study and acting for camera technique. The training programme culminates in a final production where the whole School and local communities are invited.

Art Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Jones

All

All | Optional | £

For anyone who likes Art from the beginner to those who have more experience. The focus is very much based on the things that you enjoy. The lesson is relaxed and informal, and pupils can try new ideas out and have fun. Support is provided throughout and all aspects of Art are encouraged.

Audience Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Ad Hoc

Weekend

Drama & Dance | Mr Castell

All

All | Optional | £

A regular opportunity for students to join us on trips to the theatre, attending a variety of different shows, plays, dance events and more. Whether locally at the famous Watermill Theatre or in the heart of the West End, we simply love to be in the audience! (Age restrictions may apply to some performances)

Band Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

Music | Mr Hunter

All

All | Optional

Band Club is a new co-curricular opportunity for students from Remove to UVI to develop ensemble skills and perform in Pop, Rock and Jazz styles. Led by Mr Hunter, it runs on Tuesday evenings (6–7pm) in the Concert Room and welcomes both beginners and existing bands. It is ideal for pianists, guitarists, bassists, drummers and singers.

Chamber Orchestra When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All | Weekly

Friday | Evening

Music | Mr Leadbeater

All

Invite | Optional

This is the flagship orchestral ensemble of the School involving the most musically advanced players in the School. The ensemble provides the opportunity to rehearse at a faster pace and perform at a higher standard. The ensemble aspires towards all players grade 7/8 and above, exploring a variety of advanced repertoire. During the Michaelmas and Lent and Summer terms, this ensemble meets weekly on a Friday evening for a 60-minute rehearsal (6-7pm) in the Concert Room. The Chamber Orchestra performs at all major musical events in the year: the Michaelmas Concert, the St John’s Concert and Founder’s Weekend.

Creative Arts Award Holders’ Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Evening

Creative Arts | Mrs Jones

All

Invite | Compulsory

Dedicated sessions with expert mentoring for Award Holders as they progress on their creative journey. Group and individual projects are undertaken, and outcomes are exhibited in School and the wider community. Pupils are encouraged to respond to the work of artists and designers, embrace new techniques and explore a range of media. The focus is to stretch and challenge pupils as artists, develop new skills and build on their strengths. Additional trips and artist-led workshops are organised as part of the programme.

Dance Academy (Lower School) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

Drama & Dance | Mrs Ward

Remove & Lower Fourth

Invite | Optional | £

The Dance Academy rehearses once a week. They work to improve overall dance technique as well as working towards dance productions and competitions.

Dance Academy (Upper School) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

Drama & Dance | Mrs Ward

Upper Fourth Lower Fifth

Invite | Optional | £

The Dance Academy rehearses once a week. They work to improve overall dance technique as well as working towards dance productions and competitions.

Dance Company When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

Drama & Dance | Mrs Ward

Upper Fifth Upper Sixth

US | SF

Invite | Optional | £

The Dance Company rehearses once a week. They work to improve overall dance technique as well as working towards dance productions and competitions.

Drama Scholars’ Play When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Lent Term | Weekly

Monday & Thursday | Evening

Drama & Dance | Miss Slaymark

Lower Fourth Upper Sixth

All

Invite | Compulsory

All Drama Scholars are invited to be part of the Drama Scholars Play and a Drama Scholars Dinner. Pupils meet twice weekly for the rehearsals - previous productions have included Alice in Wonderland, Downe House on Deck and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

In Harmony (Choir) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Lunchtime

Music | Mr Gill

Upper Fourth

All | Optional

In Harmony is a choir for girls in LIV and UIV singing in two and three parts. The choir performs at the Michaelmas and Founder’s Day Concerts, and at the Carol Service in London.

Jazz Band When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Saturday | Morning

Music | Mr Tostdevine

All

Invite | Optional

Jazz Band is open to all students who would like to experience the enjoyment of making music together in a jazz ensemble. The group performs traditional jazz standards as well as contemporary arrangements, and is a popular feature at the Michaelmas Concert and Founder’s Weekend.

Knitting Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

Remove - Lower Fourth

All | Optional | £

This club offers a relaxed space for knitting lovers of all abilities to share ideas and knit to their heart’s content!

Meet the Experts When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Various

Various | Evening

Drama & Dance | Mr Castell

All

All | Optional | £

Throughout the year, we bring in industry experts to talk to students, and run workshops and Q & A sessions. Directors, actors, writers, choreographers, we cover a broad range so that students can feel inspired about what might be ahead for them.

Murray Music Moments When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Lunchtime

Music | Mr Tostdevine

All

All | Optional

Pupils of all ages perform pieces to a larger audience which includes pupils, staff and visitors to the School and from the local community, who can drop in during lunchtime to enjoy musical performances. Murray Music Moments provide an oasis of calm in the middle of a busy week.

Once Removed (Choir) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Lunchtime

Music | Mr Tostdevine

Remove

All | Compulsory

This is our youngest choir at Downe House which includes all girls from Remove, singing an eclectic mix of choral music. The choir aims to provide an exciting start to their musical journey at Downe House where choral foundations are laid for the future. Once Removed sings at the Carol Service and at the Michaelmas Concert and Founder’s Weekend Concert.

Polyphonix (Choir) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Lunchtime

Music | Mr Leadbeater

Lower Fifth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

Polyphonix provides a solid foundation in choral singing, developing vocal technique and teamwork skills, broadening choral repertoire and performing experience, as well as widening girls’ general musical experience and appreciation. Polyphonix is open to all girls in Lower V and above without audition and rehearses once a week in the Concert Room (Wednesdays 12.10pm-1.10pm) There are around 60 members in the Choir. It is directed and conducted by Mr Alexander Leadbeater and accompanied by Mrs Susan Norman, Principal Accompanist and Chapel Music Co-Ordinator. The Choir takes a central role in major School musical events such as in the Senior Carol Service, Confirmation Services, Chapel services, lunchtime concerts, Michaelmas Concert, Founder’s Weekend as well as undertaking Cathedral Evensongs.

Prima Voce (Choir) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Morning

Music | Mr Leadbeater

Sixth Form

All

Invite | Optional

As our flagship choral ensemble of Downe House, Prima Voce represents our most senior choristers of the School. They were finalists for the Barnardo’s Choir of the Year Competition 2022 and 2020. Recent performances have included appearances at the Royal Albert Hall, Royal Festival Hall, Cadogan Hall, Birmingham Town Hall, Winchester Cathedral and performing with Katie Melua in London as well as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall last November. The choir is enthusiastic about all things musical!

Silver Jewellery Making Workshops When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Thursday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

Remove - Lower Fourth

All | Optional | £

Pupils are given the opportunity to create a piece of silver jewellery.

Small Musical Ensembles When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various

Music | Mr Leadbeater

All

All | Optional

Small ensembles are formed according to pupils’ requirements, meet on a weekly basis under guidance from a member of the music staff, and perform at school events such as Murray Music Moments and school assemblies. In recent years, there has been a string quartet, wind quartet, percussion ensemble, flute quartet, piano ensemble, and other groups such as a trio of two violins and a piano. These chamber music groups give more advanced performers the opportunity to play one to a part, developing ensemble skills and providing wider repertoire to perform.

Symphony Orchestra When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Thursday | Evening

Music | Mr Tostdevine

All

LS | US | SF

Invite | Optional

Performing a variety of works from classical music to film music, Symphony Orchestra is our largest orchestra involving musicians who are around Grade 5 and above. Symphony Orchestra performs at a variety of concerts throughout the year, including the Michalemas Concert and the Founder’s Weekend Concert, as well as inspiring our young musicians at our Prep Schools’ Orchestral Fun Days. This ensemble gives the wonderful opportunity of feeling the buzz of a large orchestra! Recent repertoire includes “The Snowman” (accompanying the film), “Peter and the Wolf” (narrated by Mrs McKendrick) and “Danse Macabre”.

Young Musician of the Year Competition When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Lent Term | Annual

Various | Evening & Weekend (Finals)

Music | Mr Leadbeater

All

All | Optional

The Downe House Young Musician of the Year Competition promotes music making at all levels, encouraging our musicians of the future as well as celebrating the advanced musicianship of girls at Downe. As such there are four separate classes: Music Maker (Grades 1-3), Intermezzo (Grades 4-5), Maestro (Grades 6-7) and Virtuoso (Grade 8+).

Sinfonia When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Morning

Music | Mr Gill

All

All | Optional

Sinfonia is Downe House’s training orchestra for players from Grade 2 to Grade 5, performing at the Michaelmas and Founder’s Concerts. Recent pieces include the March from “The King and I”, the Theme from “The Great Escape”, the “Doctor Who” Theme, “In the Hall of the Mountain King”, Beethoven’s 5th Symphony, and “The Blue Danube Waltz.

SPORT, HEALTH & WELLBEING WORLD READY

Sports Team Training

All Year | All Year Groups | All Sections | Invite | Compulsory If your daughter is in a School sports team, she will need to attend compulsory team training sessions. These may take place before, during or after the school day. Individual members of staff leading the teams contact pupils to arrange their attendance. Team training, strength and conditioning sessions and skills workshops include but are not limited to: lacrosse, hockey, netball, swimming, athletics, tennis and squash, volleyball, cricket, basketball and badminton. For information about sports team fixtures, visit the Downe House SOCS Calendar and login to access team lists and details.

Athletics (Newbury Athletics Club) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Thursday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

Remove - Lower Sixth

All

All | Optional | £

This external club is offered to anyone who would like to do extra training at Newbury Athletics Club.

Badminton Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

Sport | Mr Payne

All

All | Optional

This club offers students an opportunity to improve their shuttle skills and fitness by practising and learning specialised skills that wouldn’t always be taught in a lesson.

Basketball Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Thursday | Evening

Sport | Mrs Riddle

All

All | Optional

This club offers students an opportunity to improve their ball skills and fitness by practising and learning specialised skills that wouldn’t always be taught in a lesson.

Climbing Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Monday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

All | Optional | £

This external club takes place at a local Reading Climbing Centre each week.

Conditioning (Scholars) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Morning

Sport | Mrs Lauder

All

Invite | Compulsory

This training session is for all Scholars to work on physical conditioning.

Feelgood Friday When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Lunch

Pastoral | Mrs Llewellyn

All

All | Optional

Opportunity for any student to engage in a wellbeing activity run by a staff member in the Helix Room.

Fencing Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

All | Optional | £

This club takes place weekly with a specialist fencing instructor and there is an opportunity to enter competitions with other schools.

Football Club (Cold Ash Football Team Training) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas & Lent Terms | Weekly

Friday | Evening

Sport | Miss Williams

All

Invite | Optional | £

An opportunity to participate in a local football club with weekly training sessions and a commitment to play for the team in matches at weekends.

Golf at Donnington Golf Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

All | Optional | £

Golf lessons are offered at the nearby 18-hole Donnington Valley Golf Club.

Gymnastics Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Monday | Evening

Sport | Mrs Broyd

All

All | Optional

This club offers the opportunity for every girl to learn and expand their fundamental movement skills. All abilities welcome.

Gymnastics at KD Gymnastics When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

Remove & Lower Fourth

All | Optional | £

This is an external club which offers a variety of training facilities for gymnasts.

Hockey (County) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas & Lent Terms | Ad Hoc

Friday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

Invite | Optional | £

Students who are selected for County Hockey training are supported to attend specific training days.

Hockey Club (Juniors) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas & Lent Terms | Weekly

Thursday | Evening

Sport | Mr Riddle

Remove & Lower Fourth

All | Optional

This training session offers the opportunity for students to improve and learn specialised hockey skills in preparation for hockey fixtures.

Horse Riding at Wellington Riding When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Sunday

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

Upper Fifth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional | £

We offer one-hour group riding lessons at Wellington Riding on a weekly basis. All riders are put into groups based on their riding ability. Private lessons are also available on request.

Kick Boxing When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

All | Optional | £

Kick boxing club is taught by an external instructor ensuring skills are perfected and allowing belts to be acquired for each individual girl’s level.

Lacrosse Stick Work (U12) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Lunchtime

Sport | Miss Williams

Remove

All | Optional

This is a lunchtime club for all Remove to practice lacrosse 'wall ball'.

Paddle Boarding When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Summer Term | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

All | Optional | £

This weekly club takes place at a local watersports centre off-campus.

Performance Pathway - Strength & Conditioning When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Morning

Sport | Miss Gibbons

Upper Fourth Upper Sixth

US | SF

Invite | Compulsory

This session is for those selected onto the Performance Pathway and is designed to improve their physical capacity, movement capability and sports performance.

Running Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Thursday | Morning

Sport | Miss Williams

All

All | Optional

Running club gives all the girls the ability to practise running techniques and cardio, whether it be a relaxed jog or a time testing run!

Ski Team Training When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Sunday | Various

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

Invite | Optional | £

A selection of students train together as part of the Ski Trials team prior to the British Schoolgirls Ski Races that they take part in.

Sixth Form Lift When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

Sport | Miss Gibbons

Lower Sixth & Upper Sixth

All | Optional

This session offers an opportunity for Sixth Form pupils to engage in resistance training and learn correct techniques for free weights exercises.

Skipping Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Morning

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

Remove - Lower Fourth

All | Optional | £

This weekly club takes place in the morning and teaches the students various skipping techniques.

Strength & Conditioning (Scholars) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various | Various

Sport | Miss Gibbons

Remove - Upper Sixth

All

Invite | Compulsory

This session is exclusively for Scholars and is designed to improve their physical capacity, movement capability and sports performance.

Swim (Open) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Evening

Sport | Mrs Kearins

All

All | Optional

An opportunity for students to enjoy a relaxed free swim in the Downe House pool.

Swimming (Newbury District Swimming Club) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various | Morning & Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

Invite | Optional | £

This external club offers various early morning and evening training sessions.

Fun Swim with Inflatables When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

Remove - Lower Fourth

All | Optional | £

A session purely for fun with inflatables in the pool.

Table Tennis (Open) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

Sport | Mr Goodall

All

All | Optional

Open table tennis allows the girls to practise key skills to further their abilities.

Volleyball Club (External) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

All | Optional | £

This club takes place each week at Newbury Volleyball Club where they run a group training session.

Wellbeing Activities When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Ongoing

Various

CCA | Mrs Pilgrim

All

All | Optional | £

We offer a range of wellbeing activities including puppy therapy, head and shoulder massages, bedtime yoga, gong bath and workshops on-site with a variety of external teachers running the classes.

Wellbeing Committee When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Lunch

Pastoral | Mrs Llewellyn

All

Invite | Optional

Whole School student-led committee focusing on all things wellbeing, healthy mind and healthy body.

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY SKILLS WORLD READY

Coding Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Evening

Computing | Mr Bradshaw

All

All | Optional

Learn how to code in computer languages such as Scratch, Python and Java, and how to solve problems using computers and robots with sixth-form coders. Each session lasts about 45-60 minutes and afterwards, the sixth-formers stay to offer help to GCSE Computer Science pupils.

Digital Ambassadors When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various

Digital | Mrs Basnett

All

Invite | Optional

Digital Ambassadors help spearhead digital initiatives and communication about good use of digital technology within the School, such as running drop-in Tech Desk sessions, or creating guideline posters on topics such as AI and staying safe online.

Film Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various

Film & Media | Mrs Hughes

All

All | Optional

Open to any students to watch iconic films and explore recreating scenes using film equipment and showing of work.

LinkedIn Training When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Annual

Various

Digital Delivery & Innovation | Miss Taylor

Lower Sixth & Upper Sixth

All | Compulsory

All our Sixth Form are taught how to create and navigate LinkedIn to best prepare them for the future.

Microsoft Office Certification When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Various | Weekly

Timetabled

Sixth Form | Mrs Henson

Lower Sixth

All | Compulsory

Digital skills training focused on a number of crucial areas such as being safe online, communicating, collaborating and sharing online, as well as mastering some key applications that will enhance students' future studies and work.

Podcasts When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Ad Hoc

Various

Admissions and Marketing | Mrs Reeve

All

Invite | Optional

Pupils are invited to participate in one of the School's many podcasts, talking with friends and staff about life at Downe House and the academic and other activities that happen at the School.

Robotics Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Lunchtime

STEM | Mr Webb

UV, LVI and UVI

US | SF

All | Optional

For students to construct and program lego mindstorm/spike robots to achieve set aims. For UV Physicists, LVI and UVI Physics/maths/computer science.

Tech Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Thursday | Lunchtime

AV Dept | Mr Laing

All

All | Optional

A club for those interested in lighting, sound, video and all things related to the technical side of theatre and productions. Pupils not only hone their technical skills - they have opportunities to help support Downe House productions and events behind the scenes, alongside the professional tech crew.

HOUSE SPIRIT

WORLD READY

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Every pupil is a member of one of our five Upper School Houses from the moment they join. For Lower School pupils, this is the House they will move into for their Upper School years, and that they will go on to lead and champion as they move into the Sixth Form. Each House has its own unique character – but what is common to all is the sense of camaraderie and allegiance across pupils, staff and parents – it’s this House Spirit that spurs pupils on to put themselves forward, to try something new, to give it their all in the spirit of friendly competition, whether taking part or supporting - to show everyone that their House is the best! Inter-House competitions take place throughout the year, culminating in the presentation of the House Cup during the final Assembly of the year. Entries are usually, but not always, coordinated by the Sixth Form and this is a wonderful way for relationships to build across the year groups.

Michaelmas Term

Lent Term

Summer Term

House Drama House Investing (Finale) House Science House Spelling Bee Winter Sports Day Inter-House Sports (By Year Group) Badminton Basketball Cheerleading Cross Country Football Hockey Indoor Fitness Challenge (Rowing, Cycling, various DH Fit Games) Lacrosse Netball Orienteering Squash Swimming

House Art (Biennial) House Gym & Dance House Music House Debating House Investing (Launch Event) Inter-House Sports (By Year Group) Cross Country Hockey Lacrosse Netball

House Investing (Ongoing) Sports Day (Athletics) Inter-House Sports (By Year Group) Cricket Football Tennis Volleyball

JUST FOR FUN!

WORLD READY

WEEKENDS Weekends at Downe are filled with an exceptional range of opportunities that offer rest and relaxation, fun and excitement in equal measure. Whether on campus, in the boarding houses or trips far and wide, the Co-Curricular Activities team host an outstanding programme of activities. Each term, the Lower School, Upper School and Sixth Form pupils can sign up to join in these activities, and each term there is a weekend-long extravaganza such as a Fun Fair and Roller Disco, Winter Wonderland or Outdoor Cinema evenings for all to enjoy. Pupils and parents receive an overview of the termly activities. Contact cca@downehouse.net to find out more about our action-packed weekends.

AC T I V Academic Enrichment Lectures

DH LINKS

House Competitions

DH Acting Company

Digital Ambassadors

House Investment Competition

Architecture Society

Dissection Society

House Prefects

Art Club

Drama Scholars’ Play

In Harmony (Choir)

ARTiculate Competition

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme

Interview Exchange

Art History Society

Elective Programme

Ivy House Award

Astronomy Society

Engineering Society

Janus History Society

Athletics (Newbury Athletics Club)

Jazz Band

Audience Club

Environment and Sustainability Research Group

Junior Fledging Society

Badminton Club

Eton Book Club

Junior Phoenix Society

Feelgood Friday

Kick Boxing

Fencing Club

Knitting Club

Film Club

Lacrosse Stick Work (U12)

27 8

Band Club Basketball Club Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge

First Aid Course

Language Ambassadors Programme

Chamber Orchestra

First Chapters Friday

Law Society

Classics Society

Football - Cold Ash Football Club

Learn to Lead

Climbing Club

Geography Society

Leiths Academy

Coding Club

Global Schools’ Exchange programme 12

LinkedIn Training

Conditioning (Scholars)

Golf at Donnington Golf Club

Maths Club

Cookery Club

Gymnastics Club

Medley Lecture

Creative Award Holders’ Club

Gymnastics KD Gymnastics Club

Medical Society

Dance Academy (Lower School)

Hockey (County)

Meet the Experts (Drama & Dance)

Dance Academy (Upper School)

Hockey Club (Juniors)

Microscopy Society

Dance Company

Horse Riding

Microsoft Office Certification

ITIES Mini TED Talks

Sports Team Training

Mini MBA

STEM Club

Model United Nations

STEM Society

Modern Foreign Languages Society

Murray Music Moments

Strength & Conditioning (Performance Pathway)

Once Removed (Choir)

Student-Led Magazines & Journals

Paddle Boarding

Study Skills

Phoenix Society

Swim (Open)

Podcasts

Swim - Fun with Inflatables

Polyphonix (Choir)

Swimming (Newbury District Club)

Positions of Responsibility

Symphony Orchestra

Psychology Club

Table Tennis (Open)

Prima Voce (Choir)

Tech Club

Robotics Club

Twilight Lectures

Roots

Volleyball Club (External)

Running Club

Wakefield Award

Self Defence

Weekend Activities (CCA)

Silver Jewellery Workshop

Wellbeing Activities

Sinfonia

Wellbeing Committee

Sixth Form Lift

DH Young Musician of the Year

Ski Team Training

Skipping Club

Small Music Ensembles

an immersive education

Downe House, Cold Ash, Thatcham, Berkshire RG18 9JJ E: correspondence@downehouse.net T: 01635 200286 www.downehouse.net

The Downe House Podcast available on all major podcast channels