Prep School FAQs

Start your story...

Welcome to Sydenham High Prep School where we are committed to providing our girls with an outstanding educational experience and where we encourage them to embrace opportunities, and to be bold, fearless and resilient learners.

Throughout the school, the values of kindness and generosity are promoted, and our girls are happy and confident learners.

Through academically ambitious and inspiring teaching, a broad, balanced and engaging curriculum and an extensive co-curricular programme of opportunities, our girls are well-prepared for a rich and fulfilling future.

Our year 5 girls have kindly prepared this leaflet to answer some of our frequently asked questions and you have the opportunity to write your own story about Fina the giraffe.

We are delighted that you are considering Sydenham High Prep School and we hope that you enjoy your visit.

Victoria Goodson Head of Prep

How can I get involved with the outdoor classroom? “There are so many ways you can enjoy it! Sometimes your teachers will plan to teach your lessons out there. You can have any lesson in the world in the outdoor classroom, from music to science to maths. We had some great lessons creating volcanoes out there this year.

The outdoor classroom is often open during playtime and lunchtime. On Fridays the fire pit is lit and you can have lots of fun singing campfire songs or telling stories. There are also lots of chances to get involved with gardening and bird watching out there too!�

What is special about being part of Prep School? “The number one most special thing is that we are all Giraffe Girls. Our Prep School mascot is Fina the giraffe. No matter what we do, we try to make sure we stand tall, stick our necks out and try new things. Being a Giraffe Girl feels very special; it is like having a super power that helps you when you feel nervous and want to try something new for the first time.

It does not matter if you are in the classroom, playground, swimming pool, even at home. The Giraffe Girl spirit is always with you. Our school site is also very special; everywhere you look there are giraffes reminding you of what you can achieve.�

When I need help or support, who can I turn to?

“All the adults that work at Prep School are always ready to hear what you’ve got to say so you can approach anyone you feel comfortable speaking to. They are amazing at listening to what we have to say and helping us find a solution.

We have lots of Kid Coaches who help us work through our feelings, as well as Playground Leaders who are older pupils on duty to help with playtime everyday.”

What can I expect from the lessons and teachers? “The lessons are all different and the teachers make them fun. There is always for the chance for you to work with other people and you are never on your own if something is tricky.

We also do lots of work to help us understand what makes us the best learners we can be.

When you get to year 5 and year 6 you also have more specialist lessons, such as computing, science and classical studies.�

Start your story One day Fina went on an adventure...

To be in with a chance to receive a special prize, please submit your story and illustrations to the Prep School Office.

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