DH Beyond the Curriculum by Downe House School

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 STRETC DISCOURSE & EXC PERSONAL SKILLS CREATIVE & PERFO SPORT, HEALTH & TECHNOLOGY & DI HOUSE SPIRIT & JU 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 S & DEVELOPMENT ORMING ARTS WELLBEING IGITAL SKILLS UST 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

Friday | Lunchtime

Sixth Form | Assistant Head (Sixth Form)

Lower Sixth

All | Compulsory

A series of academic lectures from STEM, social sciences and the arts.

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

Michaelmas Term | Annual

Various

Computing | Mr Bradshaw

Remove & Upper Fourth

LS | US

All | Optional

Taking part in a national competition that enhances computational thinking skills.

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 - Lower Fifth When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Mr Breeze

Lower Fifth

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.

Elective Programme - Lower Sixth When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Summer Term | Weekly

Various | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Mr Breeze

Lower Sixth

Invite | Optional

The Lower Sixth Elective Programme includes modules created by members of staff according to their own academic interests, based on topics or areas beyond the curriculum which are designed to be intellectually challenging and rigorous. It is intended to promote scholarly independence as well as assisting with university preparation. Students can opt to take either one or two Electives.

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!

French Language Stretch (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Weekday Mornings

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Small group French language sessions with a native speaker.

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.

Linguistics Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Lent Term | Weekly

Various | Various

MFL Dept | Mrs Sabnis

Lower Sixth

All | Optional

Preparation for the UK Linguistics Olympiad, where competitors have to solve linguistic data problems by using logical thinking and demonstrating an aptitude for language analysis. Not just for modern linguists! Mathematicians, Classicists and Musicians often find the skills they have from their own specialist areas help them to decode the language puzzles!

Maths Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Fortnightly

Monday | Evening

Maths Dept | Mr Wills

All

All | Optional

A look at Maths topics and problems outside your standard syllabus. With a partial focus on UKMT Maths Challenge questions and similar challenges, students will explore and develop problem-solving techniques in a collaborative atmosphere with the opportunity to include coding to solve problems.

MedSoc 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.

Scholars Book Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Fortnightly

Wednesday | Evening

Scholars | Mrs Hill

Upper Fourth

Invite | Optional

A book club specifically for the Upper Fourth Scholars to share books that they love or have recently read, but also to choose a book that the group can all read together and discuss. There are almost certainly some edible treats involved too!

Sorties (Academic and Cultural) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Thursday | Afternoon Sunday | All Day

DH Sauveterre | Mr Dix-Pincott

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Weekly excursions with a focus linked to the academic curriculum on Thursday afternoons and with a more cultural focus all day on Sundays.

Spelling Bee Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Various

Literacy | Mrs Reichardt

Remove

All | Compulsory

Preparation for the annual Remove Spelling Bee (alongside spelling focus in lessons). Fun and interactive games take place in a House setting. For pupils who want to build their literacy skills, and to challenge themselves to expand their vocabulary.

STEM Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Fortnightly

Thursday | Evening

STEM Students | Mr Littledale

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.

Twilight Lectures When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | TwiceTermly

Various | Evenings

Academic Enrichment | Mrs Reichardt

Scholars/by Invitation

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.

World Scholars’ Cup When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Lent and Summer Term

Various

Academic Enrichment | Mrs Palmer

Remove & Lower Fourth

All | Optional

An academic challenge with opportunities for debating to encourage independent research and study skills and confidence in public speaking.

DISCOURSE & EXCHANGING IDEAS WORLD READY

Debating Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

(SF) Wednesday | Evening (US) Monday | Evening

Enrichment | Mr Matthews

Lower Fifth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

There are three debating clubs at Downe House: Junior Debating Club for Upper Fourth, Intermediate Debating Club for Lower Fifth and Upper Fifth, and Senior Debating for the Sixth Form. In each we discuss a variety of topics and motions, as well as honing debating skills. External coaches are on hand before we head out to competitions.

Eton Book Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Evening

Academic Enrichment | Mrs Reichardt

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

To Be Announced

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 (Sixth Form) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Monday | Evening

Politics | Mr Lane

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 | Ms Natta

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, and Lingua, the Modern Foreign Languages magazine. 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 | Mrs Barlow

Lower Fourth 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 | Mrs Barlow

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.

Model United Nations (Upper School) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Evening

Politics | Miss Hillier

Upper Fourth

All | Optional

An excellent introduction into Model UN for Upper Fourth students. We meet weekly to learn about global issues, international relations, negotiating, and mini conferences.

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.

PERSONAL SKILLS & DEVELOPMENT WORLD READY

Astronomy, Physics & Engineering Society When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Fortnightly

Thursday | Evening

STEM Students | Mr Littledale

All

All | Optional

This society aims to broaden students’ understanding of physics, astronomy and engineering beyond the curriculum.

Bushcraft (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Ad Hoc

Saturday | Morning

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Bushcraft skills sessions in the grounds of the Downe House Sauveterre Château.

Chess Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various

Pastoral | Willis Housestaff

Upper Sixth

All | Optional

Chess club offers Upper Sixth girls the opportunity to have both relaxed or competitive matches.

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.

Cookery (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Friday | Afternoon

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Weekly cooking activity focusing on French cuisine.

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

Monday | 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

Tuesday | Evening

Sixth Form | Assistant Head (Sixth Form)

Lower Sixth & Upper Sixth

All | Optional | £

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

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 Liggins & Mr Chapman

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 Taylor

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 in conjunction with Hult Ashridge Executive Education 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.

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 | Evening

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 Course 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.

Self Defence (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Ad Hoc

Monday | Afternoon

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Group self-defence lessons delivered by a local instructor.

Self Defence One-Off Session When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Annual | One-Off

Tuesday | Evening

Sixth Form | Miss Taylor

Lower Sixth

All | Compulsory |£

A bespoke self-defence session for all our Lower Sixth students.

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 their 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.

Arts & Crafts Session (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Saturday | Morning

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Teacher-led arts and crafts session exploring a variety of media and stimuli.

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)

Berkshire Young Musician of the Year Competition When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas & Lent Terms

Various

Music | Mr Gill

All

All | Optional

The Berkshire Young Musician of the Year Competition is a county-wide competition open to all pupils who play certain instruments. Pupils are supported to apply via their instrument teachers.

Chamber Orchestra When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All | Weekly

Friday | Evening

Music | Mr Gill

All

Invite | Optional

The most advanced instrumental musicians are invited to play in this ensemble based upon the conventional set up for a small classical orchestra. Focus is on mainstream concert repertoire - highlights have included pieces by Mozart, Haydn and Bartók.

Circus Skills Workshop (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Annual

Weekend

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Two-day circus skills workshop and performance.

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.

Drama Workshops (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Annual

Weekend

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Two-day writing and performance workshop led by specialists from the Downe House Drama and Dance Faculty.

French Hip Hop Workshop (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Annual

Weekend

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

All-day Hip Hop composition and dancing workshop.

Hot Chocolate Concerts When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Thursday | Lunchtime

Music | Mr Gill

All

All | Optional

Hot Chocolate Concerts provide an opportunity for pupils of all ages and abilities to perform to a small audience in a more informal environment than Murray Music Moments and other concerts.

In Harmony (Choir) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

Music | Mr Gill

Upper Fourth

All | Optional

In Harmony is a choir for girls in Upper Fourth and provides an excellent foundation for girls wishing to explore choral singing at a higher level. They perform at our Carol Services and are regular competitors at our Bring The House Downe competition. They have performed Evensong at Winchester and Gloucester Cathedrals.

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 wanting to take part in the uplifting experience of playing jazz music. They perform traditional jazz standards alongside more modern pop music.

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 Gill

All

All | Optional

Pupils of all ages and abilities can perform pieces in a slightly more formal setting than Hot Chocolate Concerts, 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 towards the end of a busy week.

Music Lessons (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Saturday | Morning

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Individual Music lessons delivered via Microsoft Teams with Downe House Visiting Music Teachers - to enable pupils to keep up their instrumental studies whilst on their term in France.

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, who sing 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.

Outreach Project with Local Primary Schools (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Annual

Weekend

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Storytelling and musical exchange project with primary schools in the local area of Downe House Sauveterre.

Photography (DH Sauveterre) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Michaelmas Term | Weekly

Saturday | Morning

DH Sauveterre | Mrs Ponchant

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

A session dedicated to learning and honing photography skills and creation of an individual photography portfolio.

Polyphonix (Choir) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Wednesday | Lunchtime

Music | Mrs Norman

Lower Fifth Upper Sixth

US | SF

All | Optional

This is a senior non-auditioned choir that meets once a week, open to all girls in Lower Fifth and above. Following Prima Voce winning Barnardo's Senior Choir of the Year in 2018, Polyphonix went on to win the title in 2019. Polyphonix sings a wide range of music from music theatre and pop to film music and light classical.

Prima Voce (Choir) When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Morning

Music | Mrs Norman

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 Gill

All

All | Optional

Small ensembles are formed according to pupils' requirements; there is 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 Michaelmas Concert and the Founder's Weekend Concert.

Treblemakers When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Lent & Summer Term | Weekly

Wednesday | Lunchtime

Music | Mr Raby

Lower Fourth

All | Compulsory

Treblemakers is made up of our Lower Fourth cohort. After spending a year in Once Removed, the choir builds on their choral foundations and extends their repertoire. Treblemakers sing in a variety of settings including the Carol Services and at Founder's Weekend.

DH 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 Gill

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), Rock ‘n’ Pop, Maestro (Grades 4-6) and Virtuoso (Grade 7+).

Sinfonia Orchestra When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Friday | Morning

Music | Mr Raby

All

All | Optional

This ensemble is our training orchestra for players around Grades 2-5. They play popular and enjoyable music preparing them for the move to Symphony Orchestra in the future.

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.

Sport at DH Sauveterre: A Term in France During their term in France, pupils in the Lower Fourth enjoy a multitude of sports and healthy pursuits both within the timetable and during free time, including but not limited to the following. For information about sports and activities during the term in France contact Mrs Ponchant.

Sport

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Details

Criteria

Athletics

Various | Timetable

DH Sauveterre staff

Regular PE lessons.

Compulsory

Football

Monday & Wednesday | Afternoon

Qualified Football Coach

Games sessions delivered by a qualified coach.

Compulsory

Handball

Monday & Wednesday | Afternoon

DH Sauveterre staff

Games sessions delivered by a qualified coach.

Compulsory

Lacrosse

Various | Timetable

DH Sauveterre staff

Regular PE lessons.

Compulsory

Swimming

Monday & Wednesday | Afternoon

DH Sauveterre staff

Free swim, supervised by a qualified coach and lifeguard.

Optional

Tennis

Monday & Wednesday | Afternoon

Qualified Tennis Coach

Group and individual tennis lessons delivered by a qualified coach.

Optional | £

Volleyball

Monday & Wednesday | Afternoon

DH Sauveterre staff

Access to the on-site beach volleyball court in free time.

Optional

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY SKILLS WORLD READY

AI/VR Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Various

Digital | Mrs Basnett

Lower Sixth & Upper Sixth

All | Optional

Learn how to use Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality effectively.

Coding Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Evening

Computing | Mr Bradshaw

All

All | Optional

Learn how to code from Scratch, Python to Java.

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.

LinkedIn Training When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

Lent Term | Annual

Various

Digital Delivery & Innovation | Assistant Head (Sixth Form)

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 | Miss Oldham

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.

Minecraft Club When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Weekly

Tuesday | Lunchtime

Science | Mr Webb

Remove & Lower Fourth

All | Optional

An opportunity for students to create, discover and learn in a virtual world.

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.

School Social Media Channels When

Day | Time

Run By | Contact

Year Group(s)

Section(s)

Criteria

All Year | Ongoing

Various

Various | Heads of Department

Seniors & Ambassadors

Seniors/ Ambassadors | Optional

Many of our departments and faculties have a social media account which Seniors and Ambassadors can help to run - with support and training from the School's Communications and Marketing team as well as department staff.

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

• TEDWOR

a ur

• AISHO

• HOLCOM

s ici m

•

CREN GAT AN

USE • HO

•

REN GAT NC

- DOWN TH

st a

USE • HO

us cu m

- DOWN BE

DOWNE

SE • OU H

h il O b st a t

•

•A

A d A st r a

OUTH - DO ES

NE HOUSE W

RTH - D NO

NE HOUS OW

At q u e O b

U buntu

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

Creative Award Holders’ Club

Global Schools’ Exchange programme 12

DH Acting Company

AI/VR Club

Dance Academy (Lower School)

Golf at Donnington Golf Club

Dance Academy (Upper School)

Gymnastics Club

Art Club

Dance Company

Gymnastics KD Gymnastics Club

ARTiculate Competition

Debating Society

Hockey (County)

Arts & Crafts (DH Sauveterre)

DH LINKS

Hockey Club (Juniors)

Astronomy, Physics & Engineering Society

Digital Ambassadors

Horse Riding

Dissection Society

Hot Chocolate Concerts

Athletics (Newbury Athletics Club)

Drama Scholars’ Play

House Competitions

Audience Club

Drama Workshop (DH Sauveterre)

House Investment Competition

Badminton Club

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme

House Prefects

Basketball Club

Elective Programme - Lower Fifth

In Harmony Choir

Elective Programme - Lower Sixth

Interview Exchange

Engineering Society

Ivy House Award

Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge

Berkshire Young Musician of the Year

Bushcraft (DH Sauveterre)

Environment and Sustainability Research Group

Jazz Band

Chamber Orchestra

Junior Fledging Society

Eton Book Club

Chess Club

Junior Phoenix Society

Feelgood Friday

Circus Skills Workshop (DH Sauveterre) 19

Kick Boxing

Fencing Club

Climbing Club

Knitting Club

First Aid Course

Coding Club

Lacrosse Stick Work (U12)

Football - Cold Ash Football Club

Conditioning (Scholars)

Language Ambassadors Programme

Cookery Club

French Hip Hop Workshop (DH Sauveterre)

Learn to Lead

Cookery Club (DH Sauveterre)

French Language Stretch (DH Sauveterre)

Leiths Food and Wine Certificate

Linguistics Club

VITIES LinkedIn Training

Running Club

Treblemakers (Choir)

Maths Club

Medley Lecture

MedSoc

Scholars Book Club

Twilight Lectures

Self Defence Courses

Volleyball Club (External)

Silver Jewellery Workshop

Wakefield Award

Meet the Experts (Drama & Dance)

Sinfonia

Weekend Activities (CCA)

Microscopy Society

Sixth Form Lift

Wellbeing Activities

Microsoft Office Certification

Ski Team Training

Wellbeing Committee

Minecraft Club

Skipping Club

World Scholars’ Cup

Mini MBA

Small Music Ensembles

DH Young Musician of the Year

Model United Nations (Sixth Form)

Social Media Channels

Model United Nations (Upper School)

Sorties (DH Sauveterre)

Murray Music Moments

Spelling Bee Club

Music Lessons (DH Sauveterre)

Sport at Downe House Sauveterre

Once Removed (Choir)

Sports Team Training

Outreach (DH Sauveterre)

STEM Club

Paddle Boarding

Phoenix Society

Strength & Conditioning (Performance Pathway)

Photography (Sauveterre)

Student-Led Magazines & Journals

Podcasts

Swim (Open)

Polyphonix (Choir)

Swim - Fun with Inflatables

Positions of Responsibility

Swimming (Newbury District Club)

Prima Voce (Choir)

Symphony Orchestra

Roots

Table Tennis (Open)

Tech Club

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