SYDENHAM Highlights
SUMMER 2024 EDITION
DEAR Families
I am delighted to be highlighting another tremendous term at Sydenham High. The energy, inspiration and sheer pace of educational discovery is as impressive as ever. The girls embrace each opportunity and forge their futures with great gusto. Our summer celebration of GCSE and A Level results was a testimony to not only the rewards of hard work but the triumph of value added by excellent teaching. As we bid our accomplished Year 13 leavers farewell on their journey to university, college, conservatoire or apprenticeship, it is poignant to be welcoming our new Year 7s for their first visits - the cycle of school life which keeps us ever rejuvenated, forward thinking and alert.
This magazine showcases the range of talent at this heartwarming school but also the opportunities to be courageous and try something new. Whether through academic enquiry, excursions and trips, our vibrant musical, dramatic and sporting life, or our weekly clubs and societies, we are nurturing and growing a breadth of skills, preparing girls for futures which are exciting and above all, individual.
The summer term, alongside academic challenge, is a time for reward and community occasion. This was certainly no different this last academic year with our Prize Giving, Sports Awards Evening, Summer Fair, Art & Design Technology Exhibition, Curioso Week, a host of performing arts events, to name but a few, bringing together our pupils, parents, staff and governors. I am so pleased to see our educational visits programme
maximising the cultural benefits of our London location, as well as the adventurous excursions around the UK and abroad each year.
Collaboration and partnerships play such an important role in our lives; a central relationship being that between the schools of the Girls Day School Trust. This season, the GDST string day was a terrific opportunity for our excellent musicians to take a leading role, our Economics Conference was well received, hot on the heels of our outstanding Modern Languages Day last term, and with public speaking, sports’ competitions, alumnae events, and our winning performances in the LEAD programme with LSE, it has been a fruitful and successful term of connections.
Looking ahead, we are excited to see our fabulous building project commence this October which will bring innovative and multipurpose spaces, as well as a brand new Sixth Form centre and pavilion.
Do come and visit us again. We look forward to welcoming you.
Ms Antonia Geldeard Head
A CELEBRATORY AUGUST FOR A LEVEL AND GCSEResults
This August has been a time of celebration and reflection as our students received their long-awaited A Level and GCSE results. These results mark not just the culmination of years of hard work, but also the beginning of exciting new chapters in their academic journeys. The anticipation and excitement that filled the air as families and friends
gathered to share in the joy of these achievements. Whether embarking on the next steps towards A Levels or preparing to venture into university life, our students have shown remarkable resilience and dedication, we are immensely proud of them.
A LEVEL RESULTS
“Our happy, confident leavers, celebrating their A Level success, are a testament to our high-quality teaching, personalised learning, and impactful relationships at Sixth Form. The wide range of pathways, whether university, art college, conservatoire, or apprenticeship, promise exciting futures for our young people, in which they will certainly thrive with their broad range of life skills.”
Antonia
Geldeard, Head
It was a glorious day celebrating with our Year 13 students and their families as they received their A Level results. The sun shone and their hard work paid off with over a quarter of students achieving straight A*/A in 3 A Levels or more with 46% of all grades were awarded A*-A.
Our bespoke careers and futures programme ensures that students are well-prepared and supported through their higher education process and we are delighted that this year 93% of leavers met their offer from their chosen destinations.
We are excited to see where the journeys of our newest cohort of alumnae take them, as they venture into studying a plethora of subjects such as Architecture, BioMedical Science, English & Classics, Chemistry, Dentistry, History of Art, International Relations, Languages, Law, Physics & Astrophysics at Oxford, UCL, Warwick, Birmingham, Leeds, Exeter, Cardiff, Queen’s Belfast and York among others.
“We are so proud of our students, who have worked tremendously hard to achieve such wonderful results. They have secured excellent offers for universities, Art Foundation courses and other specialist courses, and we are excited to hear their news as they embark on the next steps of their academic journey.”
Rebecca Parrish, Head of Sixth Form
We are also very pleased for Sienna who heads to Birmingham to pursue her passion for STEM:
We are so proud of Amelia (right) who is going on to study Dentistry at Queen’s Belfast and Florence (left) who, following her A*AA, has been awarded a scholarship to study International Relations at Lancaster University, top 10 in the UK.
“I am delighted with my A Level results and extremely excited to go to the University of Birmingham to study BioMedical Sciences. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Sydenham and will miss it hugely!”
Mei celebrated her A*A*A* with her family and is looking forward to studying English and Classics at the University of Oxford.
“I joined Sydenham at Year 12, and I am so grateful for all the support from all my teachers. Especially my Classic teachers and our Head, Ms Geldeard, who has given me so much support. I really feel enveloped with all the love, kindness, and support for my Oxford journey.”
GCSE RESULTS DAY
It was a morning full of excitement as our Year 11 pupils celebrated their GCSE results with friends and family. We are incredibly proud that nearly two-thirds of the results were graded A*/A! Now, the next adventure begins as they embark on A Level studies at Sixth Form.
Let’s hear what Megan and Maia had to say about their outstanding results:
Megan (left) all A*/A: “I am so happy with my results. The teachers have been very supportive, providing extra help during lunchtimes and after school. I would especially like to thank Dr Wallace; she made History the most interesting and fun subject. She is the best!”
Maia (right) all A*/A: “I am also very happy with my results and grateful to all the supportive teachers. Dr Waites has been especially supportive and helpful throughout. I would also like to thank Ms Belardo, who helped me achieve such a great result in Italian.”
loves all her teachers and knows they’ll keep supporting her through her A Levels. She is also delighted that she can still do all her favourite clubs and activities!”
“After two years of hard work, we are delighted that our Year 11 pupils have achieved such outstanding results in their GCSEs! We look forward to welcoming them as they begin Sixth Form with us!”
Sonia Gonzalez Lens, Head of Upper School
We really value the connection between school and families and had such positive feedback from parents, including:
“We are so happy with our daughter’s exam results – she is really looking forward to sixth form at Sydenham High. She
Our class of 2024 A Level students
PRIZE GIVING 2024
At our annual Prize Giving ceremony on 3 July 2024, we celebrated the exceptional achievements of our pupils. This year has been remarkable, showcasing our students’ talent, creativity, and resilience. We were honoured to have Bonita Norris, the youngest person to reach both the summit of Everest and the North Pole, as our guest speaker. Her inspiring journey reminded us that the greatest challenges are within us, and with hard work and perseverance, we can achieve our dreams.
We were also grateful for the closing remarks from Ms Zara Berry, Chair of Governors, who highlighted our strong community spirit. Congratulations to all our prize winners, performers, and everyone who contributed to this successful year. We look forward to an exciting 2024-25!
LEAVERS & Transition
The summer term is always an exciting time as we enter the examination season, bid farewell to our Year 13 students, prepare for transitions and welcome our new Year 7 and Sixth Form students.
To support our soon-to-be Year 7 and Sixth Formers, we organised induction and experience days, allowing them to connect with their new cohort and get a taste of being at Senior School and entering Sixth Form. We hope they had a wonderful experience and know that these familiarisation sessions help pupils to settle in and understand the support they will receive in the coming year.
WELCOME TO YEAR 7
WELCOME TO SIXTH FORM
YEAR 11 CELEBRATION ASSEMBLY
We also held the final assembly for our Year 11 and Year 13 students before they commenced study leave in preparation for their GCSE and A Level exams. During the assembly, they shared their favourite memories at Sydenham and presented the traditional Teacher Awards. Afterwards, they enjoyed a celebration lunch together under the beautiful sun, filled with warm laughter.
It was heartwarming to see them in their school uniforms, exchanging heartfelt messages. As they embark on their new journey, focusing on their studies and preparing for their exams, we are confident they are ready for whatever lies ahead.
YEAR 13 FAREWELL CELEBRATION
YEAR 13 GRADUATION DINNER
The Year 13 Graduation Dinner was an unforgettable evening, filled with joy as students and their families gathered to celebrate. It was touching to see everyone dressed up, marking the end of this chapter in their lives together.
As parents bid their farewells, the atmosphere shifted with the start of the Leavers’ Ball, where laughter and happiness filled the air. The night was a perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement for the future.
We wonder what the future holds for them but are confident they are well-prepared for the next step. This farewell will be cherished in our memories. We wish them every success in their future endeavours and look forward to hearing the stories they will share with us in the near future.
Futures
WEEK
Year 12 had a comprehensive schedule for Futures Week. We welcomed Ella from the London Interdisciplinary School, a new university in London focused on interdisciplinary teaching. They participated in a workshop addressing the complex global issue of inequality, where they collaborated and applied their A Level knowledge to create project submissions highlighting these challenges.
Additionally, they attended workshops and masterclasses on university and higher education applications, with guidance from our heads of department to craft exceptional personal statements.
To wrap up Futures Week, Year 12 visited the University and Apprenticeship Fair at the Emirates Stadium. With over 120 exhibitors, including Russell Group universities and various apprenticeship providers, students explored numerous options, gaining valuable insights to help them make informed decisions about their futures.
These activities have provided Year 12 students with invaluable experiences and insights, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to confidently navigate their future academic and career pathways.
YEAR 12 UNIVERSITY AND APPRENTICESHIP FAIR
INTERDISCIPLINARY
ECONOMISTS LEAD Conference
Our Year 12 economists led a fascinating Economics Conference on Inequality 2024.
Similar to previous years, the conference had an impressive lineup of speakers exploring some of the most current and pressing issues around income and wealth inequality. The Year 12 economists were responsible for producing and delivering all aspects of the conference. Students took on responsibilities including leadership roles, marketing and communication, research and IT.
Economics, Sociology and Geography students from across GDST were invited to join as well as local schools. Students were praised by speakers and guests for hosting a very professional event.
The speakers sharing their insights were:
Richard Wilkinson discussing ‘How inequality harms society’
Richard Wilkinson, world renowned social epidemiologist, best known for his influential book, written with Kate Pickett, The Spirit Level, also author of The Inner Level and co-founder of The Equality Trust. Richard’s influential work has revolutionised our understanding of how economic disparities affect health outcomes.
Kate Anstey discussing ‘Child Poverty in the UK’
Kate Anstey is Head of Education Policy at the UK’s leading charity working to prevent child poverty, the Child Poverty Action Group. The charity works on behalf of more than one in four children in the UK growing up in poverty to understand what causes poverty, the impact it has on children’s lives, and how it can be prevented and solved –for good.
Martina Pardy discussing ‘The impact of climate change on inequality’
Martina Pardy is a PhD student from the London School of Economics (LSE), researching the distributional impact of globalisation and climate change on regional labour markets, income, and innovation inequality. She has also served as a consultant in sustainable development for the Asian Development Bank.
Rosie Graham questioned Richard Wilkinson about policies to address widening inequalities in the UK and what we can learn from other countries. She also asked about how we can help reduce inequalities within our own communities.
Polly Rigby questioned Kate Anstey about the challenges of engaging with the government and policymakers and what can be done in communities and schools to help reduce child poverty and the impact it has.
Viktoriia Fylymonova questioned Martina Pardy about the global response to climate change and its impact on already vulnerable communities as well as the role of corporations in alleviating climate-related inequalities.
“The experts provided valuable insights extending beyond the Economics curriculum and the conference provided students with an opportunity to debate and discuss a wide range of current issues relating to the causes and impact of inequality. Students thoroughly enjoyed leading the project and there was a real sense of achievement when the students could see their weeks of effort come together in a very professional and well run event.”
Ms Murphy, Head of Economics
The cross-curricular nature of the topics provided students with a more comprehensive understanding of inequality, highlighting how it intersects with various fields and affects different aspects of society.
PROGRAMME LEAD GDST
Launched in September 2021, GDST LEAD (Leadership & Enterprise Advanced Diploma) is an innovative programme designed to empower young women with the skills needed for future leadership and entrepreneurship. This year, our Sixth Formers have excelled with their enterprises, “Retro Reads” and “Crimson Connect.”
Over 30 teams from 20 GDST schools gathered to present their sustainable business ideas, developed through the GDST LEAD Programme in collaboration with the London School of Economics. Our team had an outstanding day, winning two prestigious awards. ‘Retro Read’ rewarded the Best Presentation, while notably, a new accolade, “The Judges’ Award,” was introduced to honour the profound impact of Crimson Connect’s initiatives on teenage girls. We are incredibly proud of all the girls and their achievements.
CRIMSON CONNECT
Crimson Connect is dedicated to dispelling myths and taboos surrounding menstruation, particularly for young teenage girls. Through their non-profit initiative, they have created a comprehensive website offering advice, guidance, and factual information. Their innovative approach includes webcasts where women share personal experiences and insights, alongside expert-led discussions on the menstrual cycle. The team’s podcaststyle presentation, led by Tabitha Kayode and Rebecca Whitfield, bravely shared their stories, breaking down
barriers and normalising the conversation. Their efforts earned them the “Judges’ Award,” recognising their role as catalysts for change and an inspiration to others.
RETRO READS
Retro Reads has created a sustainable book ordering service, curating pre-loved books into personalised surprise packages. Customers provide their age, reading preferences, and interests, and Retro Reads handselects and packages books tailored to each individual. Since October, they have turned this concept into a profitable business with a minimal environmental impact. Their exceptional work was recognised with the “Best Presentation” award. CEO Maisie Redford delivered a captivating pitch that impressed the audience, leading to an invitation to present again to all schools, judges, and LSE mentors. Their flawless presentation was celebrated by mentors, sponsors, and LSE alumni.
We are immensely proud of their achievements. Special thanks to Mr Hurst for his guidance and support throughout this remarkable journey.
PUBLIC Speaking
At Sydenham High, we are committed to nurturing our pupils’ public speaking skills through diverse opportunities and supportive programmes.
In June, eight pupils from our Junior Debate team participated in the inaugural Great Lewisham Debate at St Matthew’s Academy. Organised by the Young Mayor of Lewisham’s team, the event featured six local schools debating topics such as national service for young adults, votes for 16-year-olds, and mobile phone use in schools. Our pupils excelled, demonstrating their debating prowess and earning First Place. Special thanks to Mrs O’Neill for her exceptional leadership and support throughout the year.
The Model United Nations (MUN) programme plays a crucial role in developing our pupils’ public speaking and diplomatic skills. On 23 May 2024, eight MUN club members from Years 8-12 attended a workshop at Bromley High, where they practised research and debating skills on issues like the UN’s climate response. This workshop, along with ongoing preparation for the GDST MUN Conference, equips our pupils with vital skills in teamwork, leadership, and negotiation. The experience at the workshop, including drafting and debating resolutions, has enhanced their readiness for future MUN conferences and instilled confidence in their abilities.
Our annual TED Talk-style event, SydX, took place on 20 May 2024, showcasing seven exceptional speakers who covered topics ranging from Modern Feminism to the Antibiotic Crisis. This event provided a platform for pupils to demonstrate their refined public speaking skills, supported by Mr. Hurst, our Assistant Head of Sixth Form. The evening highlighted the intellectual curiosity and depth of our pupils, leaving the audience inspired by their presentations.
These initiatives reflect our commitment to developing our pupils’ public speaking abilities, fostering their confidence, leadership, and critical thinking skills. We are proud of their achievements and look forward to supporting their continued growth their public speaking skill. SYDENHAM
GREAT LEWISHAM DEBATE
MUN CONFERENCE
SYDX
WEEK Curioso
Curioso Week is an annual event designed to spark pupils’ curiosity by exploring the real-life applications of their subjects and extending their knowledge beyond the classroom. It also supports the development of employability skills and encourages pupils to consider potential careers. For Years 7-9, this involved three offtimetable days filled with trips, workshops, activities, and guest lectures across various subjects, including Languages, Humanities, and Science.
YEAR 7
Our Year 7 enjoyed a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture. They participated in a range of engaging activities, starting with a manga workshop led by Manga Artist Sonia Leong, who demonstrated drawing techniques and shared her industry insights. The day continued with a Japanese drumming session by Mark Alcock from Taiko Meantime, where pupils explored rhythm and music. They also took part in Japanese calligraphy and origami workshops and learned about Japanese dining customs from Mr. Sayama. Adding a fun and tasty element, Mr. Tan set up a sushi station for staff. This immersive experience fostered a deeper appreciation for Japanese traditions.
Additionally, Year 7 pupils had a magical visit to Warner Brothers Studios, where they explored the artistry and production behind the Harry Potter films. They gained insights into the intricate work that brings the wizarding world to life and saw the practical applications of mathematics in calculating the scale and dimensions of characters and props. The visit also provided a glimpse into the creative process of filmmaking, leaving pupils with a greater appreciation for both the art and science involved.
YEAR 8
Year 8 embarked on an exhilarating Treetop Adventure at Go Ape in Battersea. They navigated three high rope circuits and enjoyed 27 thrilling crossings, including a super-fast zip wire. This trip was a fantastic way for pupils to bond and have fun after an intense exam period. They tackled obstacles with courage and enthusiasm, embodying our school motto, “Fear Nothing.”
Later in the week, Year 8 pupils enjoyed a practical application of their Computer Science lessons during a visit to Thorpe Park. They observed real-life examples of computational thinking and programming constructs in action, recognising the application of sequence, selection, and iteration in the operation of the rides. This educational day out brought their classroom knowledge to life in an engaging and exciting way.
GEOGRAPHY TRIP
JAPANESE DAY
WARNER BROTHERS
THORPE PARK
To conclude their Curioso Week activities, Year 8 pupils participated in a creative writing workshop with Kathryn Harkup, a former chemist and acclaimed author. Kathryn discussed her journey from science to writing and shared insights from her book “A is for Arsenic: The Poisons of Agatha Christie.” Her talk inspired pupils to integrate their scientific knowledge into their storytelling.
YEAR 9
Year 9 pupils took part in a deeply moving and educational trip to Ypres, Belgium, immersing themselves in the history of World War I. The trip included visits to Essex Farm Cemetery and Duhallow Cemetery, where they paid respects at Scarlett’s grandfather’s grave. They also explored the Bayernwald German trenches and Bedford House Cemetery.
A significant highlight was the Menin Gate ceremony, where Winter, Matilda, and Maiya had the honour of laying a wreath in remembrance of the fallen. The pupils continued their exploration with visits to the Canadian Memorial at Vimy Ridge, the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme, and Newfoundland Park at Beaumont-Hamel. These visits provided a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and deepened their understanding of its historical significance. The trip concluded with a visit to the In Flanders Field Museum in Ypres and Langemark Cemetery, a German memorial site. Overall, it was an enlightening experience that brought classroom lessons to life and fostered a deeper appreciation for history.
YEAR 10
Year 10 pupils participated in a dynamic Business Challenge Day, starting with inspiring talks from alumnae Laura Lincoln, Senior Project Manager (Construction), and Steph Aritone, Consumer Insights Manager and standup comedian. They shared their career journeys and emphasised the importance of seizing opportunities and exploring career options.
Pupils were divided into 11 teams to develop a branding campaign for a new chocolate bar. This included determining the target audience, identifying the product’s unique selling points, naming the product, and creating a promotional campaign. The task required creativity and consumer insights, with a focus on sustainability and profitability. Teams presented their campaigns, and awards were given for Best Team, Advert, Presentation, and Business Idea. The winning teams were:
Advert: Nutrinut (Arianna, Trinity, Maggie, Reya, Melody, Akosua, Anais, and Bay)
Presentation: Yen (Yusra, Chloe, Ottilie, Leila, Saffron, Ainesis, Tori, and Edie)
Idea: 7.00am (Malia, Charlie, Sabine, Eve, Anna, and Bea)
Team: Bumble Bliss (Anoushka, Prashamni, Robyn, Nez, Jenny, and Yasmin)
Thank you to Laura and Steph for joining us and showcasing the possibilities for Sydenham High pupils! Overall, Curioso Week effectively broadened our pupils’ perspectives and encouraged them to connect their studies with real-world experiences. We look forward to seeing how these experiences will inspire and benefit their academic and personal growth in the new academic year.
CELEBRATION EVENING Socrates
Socrates once said, ‘the unexamined life is not worth living’ and our bespoke programme, coined in the great philosopher’s name, intends to foster that mentality. Through the Socrates Programme, pupils gain the confidence, support and recognition to think for themselves and plan their own independent research, while receiving regular guidance from their own individual mentor and inspiration from guest speakers. The Socrates Programme gives every pupil the opportunity for stretch and challenge beyond their timetabled lessons.
On Monday 24 June, Sydenham High School celebrated the graduation of the 2024 cohort of Socrates Scholars with an exhibition of work and presentation of awards.
The Sports Hall was buzzing with families all learning about a plethora of topics from our scholars in Years 7-9 as the culmination of a year of workshops, lectures and project development came to fruition. The girls produced fascinating rationales for their research projects on such an array of subjects such as building sustainable housing, the residential school cover up in Canada, forgotten female composers, creating natural dyes, how optical illusions impact the subconscious mind and the rise of consumerism.
After the exhibition came the awards ceremony and our special guest speaker. Award-winning investigative reporter and best-selling author, Tom Burgis, spoke passionately about the importance of curiosity as the only way to finding the truth and how his career path began with his love of the written word, an inspirational stay in Chile, whilst revelations about Pinochet were bubbling to the surface, combined with his propensity to ask questions and desire to bear witness to the truth. He was highly impressed with the in-depth research on such a variety of topics and encouraged the girls to be subversive, ask questions beyond what is written in history, as that is just the story that gets told, and most of all – to have fun!
Congratulations to all 78 of our scholars and a special well done to our award winners:
YEAR 7
Gold: Indiana L-Towers, The Impact of the Suffragettes
Silver: Lily GM, Natural Dyeing
Bronze: Rae E, The A-Z of Horses and Ponies
YEAR 8
Gold: Roberta Cl, Eco House
Silver: Iliana F, The Canadian
Residential Schools
Bronze: Reeya P, Spices for Life
YEAR 9
Gold: Charlotte B, Atomic Challenge
Silver: Sophie C, Flower Painting
Bronze: Elise M, The Life and Legacy of Henry Smith & Kitty Harris, Social Anxiety
Huge thanks to Ms Belardo, Socrates Programme Coordinator,
for her dedication and another successful year!
“Every school should have a Socrates Programme or something similar. The idea of allowing pupils to develop key learning skills through whatever interests them most lies at the heart of a modern, relevant approach to developing a life-long love of learning. Nothing matters more. Bravo to the educators at Sydenham High.”
Christopher Lloyd, author, lecturer and CEO, What on Earth Publishing
ART & DT SUMMER Exhibition
On 11 June 2024, we hosted our annual Art & DT Summer Exhibition, a highlight event in Sydenham that attracted a highly engaged audience of current families and new Year 7. This wonderful event was centred around showcasing the impressive work of our GCSE and A Level pupils, featuring installations, paintings, and sculptures. The exhibition was a testament to the technical skill, imagination, and creativity of our pupils, who produced a wide range of exciting and personalised outcomes.
In addition to the Senior School pupils’ artwork, the exhibition also featured sculptures by Year 9 and artwork from our budding artists in the Prep School. The diverse collection demonstrated the incredible talent across all age groups.
The Design and Technology department presented an array of projects from all year groups. Our GCSE pupils showcased products designed for gardens, wildlife, home study, and games. A Level pupils displayed innovative creations such as portable storage for jewellery displays, an activity maze for people with Parkinson’s, concrete tables, toolboxes, and chair models. Year 10 pupils impressed with their denim upcycling clothing and accessories.
Our guest speaker, Sheree Abraham, Chief Executive of Sydenham Arts, was highly impressed by the high standard of artwork across various mediums and themes, highlighting the diversity of creativity within our school. She praised the uniqueness of each artist’s work and the strong support they receive from their teachers. Sheree expressed enthusiasm for continuing to collaborate with us and hopes to showcase some of our pupils’ art pieces in their exhibitions later this year.
The Art & DT Summer Exhibition was a vibrant and engaging event, celebrating the artistic achievements of our pupils and the strong sense of community at Sydenham. A special thank you to Mr Dunne, Ms Ferrier, Mrs Curran, Miss Oppong and the departmental teams.
Music
This summer term was filled with musical achievements and memorable moments for our music department.
GDST STRING DAY
Nine of our talented string players joined over 50 pupils from GDST schools for an unforgettable concert, hosted by Sutton High. The girls had the privilege of working with the London Mozart Players and the esteemed conductor, Otis Lineham. Year 10 pupils, Leona and Noa, took on leading roles as first violin and first cello in the String Orchestra, contributing to a truly impressive performance. This inspiring experience allowed our pupils to learn from professionals and collaborate with their peers across the GDST network.
SUMMER CONCERT
The summer concert was a blissful evening, bringing our community together to enjoy a wonderful showcase of our Senior School pupils’ talent and dedication. The concert featured performances from the orchestra, guitar band, flute choir, senior choir, piano, harp, jazz band, and more—a true celebration of musical diversity.
Special recognition was given to Year 13 pupils Harmony and Amaya, who shared their musical journey at Sydenham. Their heartfelt testimonials reflected their dedication and the support they received from the music department. We wish them all the best as they move on, and they will be greatly missed by the community.
A big thank you to Ms Phillips and Mr Ip for their tireless work in providing these enriching opportunities for our pupils.
GDST String Day
Drama
Our Drama Department celebrated remarkable achievements with two outstanding productions that showcased the immense talent and dedication of our pupils.
YEAR 10 PRODUCTION: ‘THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING’
The highly anticipated debut of our first-ever Year 10 production, ‘This Changes Everything’ by Joel Horwood. Over two nights of full-house performances, more than 150 audience members were captivated by the thoughtprovoking themes and powerful staging. The play raised important questions about society and change, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present. Our Year 10 pupils delivered exceptional performances, demonstrating their passion and skill. As one parent remarked, “It was such an emotionally intense play, I can’t believe these pupils are only in Year 10; their performance was of such a high standard.”
YEAR 8 AND 9 PRODUCTION: THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
The Westwood Theatre was transformed into a magical Narnia for our Year 8 and 9 production. With enchanting lighting, snow effects, and costumes, the pupils delivered a spellbinding performance over two nights. Their hard work and countless rehearsals paid off, creating a truly memorable experience for all involved.
These productions were a testament to the dedication and creativity of our pupils and staff. Special thanks go to Ms Eastaugh, Miss James, and Mr Pratt for their unwavering support and guidance. We are immensely proud of our pupils and look forward to many more successful productions in the future.
Sport
Our summer term in the sports department has been remarkable, featuring a range of athletic and cricket fixtures, outstanding achievements, and memorable events.
SPORTS DAY
On 27 July 2024, our Senior School Sports Day was a tremendous success. With glorious weather and over 500 participants on our field, the day was filled with exciting events such as long jump, high jump, triple jump, shot put, discus, javelin, hurdles, and various running races. Our athletes demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship, with many pupils running alongside friends to offer encouragement. The day was marked by several highachieving athletic performances, including:
Nahla, Year 8: Shot put – 9.11m, 100m – 13.09
Elliot, Year 8: 300m – 48.68
Claudia, Year 8: Hurdles – 12.66
Maggie, Year 10: Long jump – 4.89m, 200m – 27.84
Alli, Year 10: Triple jump – 9.45m
Edie, Year 10: 300m – 49.53
Orla, Year 10: 800m – 2.26, 1500m – 5.04
One of the day’s highlights was the Fun Run, where pupils, staff, and parents came together for a 300-metre run to raise funds for the Bone Cancer Research Trust, with our Chair of Governors leading the way. The event was also enhanced by a refreshing treat from Mr Whippy, thanks to our fantastic PSA. Congratulations to Grey House for winning the overall house cup!
SPORTS AWARDS EVENING 2024
The Sports Awards Evening was a highlight of the year, with former GB Olympian swimmer Kate Haywood as our guest. Kate’s inspiring story—from being the youngest swimmer at the Commonwealth Games to competing for Great Britain at the London 2012 Olympics—resonated deeply with our pupils. Over 70 students were recognised for their outstanding achievements and contributions to sport, embodying the Sydenham High spirit.
Throughout the year, our sports programme excelled with over 150 fixtures, including a memorable sports tour to Barcelona and a sports careers trip to Selhurst Park. We proudly support 15 pupils in our High-Performance
Programme and 24 in the Most Able and Talented Programme, many of whom are national and county players. Our Senior Netball Team achieved top positions in Kent Netball and GDST Netball, while our J15B rowers ranked eighth at the National Schools Regatta. The addition of a new rowing coach and a training camp in Portugal further strengthened our rowing programme.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff, resilient pupils, and supportive community. The 2024 Sports Awards not only celebrated our achievements but also set the stage for even greater success in the coming years.
Rowing
TASTER DAY
Year 8 pupils had an exhilarating time during their first rowing taster day! The day began with a mix of excitement and nerves as they started with pool tests before moving on to two sessions on the river at Putney.
Rowing is a very popular sport at Sydenham, requiring high levels of dedication and stamina. We look forward to welcoming new members to our rowing team next year!
Trips
School trips, both local and international, are essential at Sydenham High School, extending learning beyond the classroom. These excursions enhance subject knowledge, foster cultural understanding, and bring learning to life.
Whether exploring local venues or discovering new cultures abroad, these experiences deeply enrich our pupils’ education and broaden their horizons.
Our Year 8 and 9 computer science pupils recently embarked on a transformative trip to Bletchley Park, where they immersed themselves in the history of World War II codebreaking. Learning about the vital contributions of the approximately 14,000 individuals, predominantly women, who worked at Bletchley Park and remained unrecognised for decades, our pupils gained firsthand insights into the importance of problem-solving.
BLETCHLEY PARK
Engaging in codebreaking activities, they experienced the thrill of deciphering messages while learning to balance meticulous attention to detail with a broader perspective. This journey not only ignited a passion for history and technology but also fostered critical thinking skills essential in today’s digital world. Inspired by the legacy of Bletchley Park, our pupils are poised to continue the tradition of innovation and resilience for generations to come.
BUDDHAPADIPA TEMPLE
On Monday 10 June, our Year 10 Religious Studies pupils had the opportunity to visit Buddhapadipa Temple, a stunning architectural marvel that holds the distinction of being the first Thai Buddhist temple built in the UK.
During their visit, pupils learned about the core beliefs of Buddhism, including the early life of Buddha and the concept of dharma. They participated in a seated meditation
ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL
session, focusing on breath and cultivating loving kindness.
Additionally, they had the privilege of meeting with a monk who emphasised the significance of the mind and guided them through a walking meditation. It was an enriching experience that provided insight into both the architectural beauty of the temple and the profound teachings of Buddhism.
Our Year 10 Religious Studies pupils embarked on a trip to St. Paul’s Cathedral, immersing themselves in one of London’s most iconic landmarks to deepen their understanding of Christian beliefs and practices. Throughout the tour, they encountered a wealth of Christian art within the cathedral, contemplating the diverse styles and messages within the context of the Christian faith.
Following this exploration, they courageously ascended the cathedral’s dome, relishing some of the finest views of the city before descending to observe a live Eucharist service. It was indeed the perfect day to enjoy the city view.
COASTAL FIELD TRIP
The Science Department took Year 7 on a trip to explore Space Physics, which they will be studying later in the Autumn term. The pupils spent the day delving into space and rocket physics, learning about how humans explore space! They’ve studied the moon, observed Sputnik, compared
The Art department had an amazing trip to St Ives with 33 GCSE and A Level art student! They have etched, drawn, photographed, and painted the beautiful landscape. Highlights so far included meeting local artists, visiting the Tate St Ives, and a spooky ghost walk. The pupils were fantastic, showcasing their creative talents under the Cornish sunshine.
Our GCSE Geography pupils enjoyed a residential to Southwold investigating coastal processes. They focused on longshore drift and erosion, studying how these processes are impacting the beach. Additionally, they are evaluated the effectiveness of various coastal management strategies in place. The trip was blessed with plenty of sunshine, making the experience even more enjoyable. To top it off,
SCIENCE MUSEUM TRIP
rocket fuels, and explored Newton’s laws of motion. A definite highlight was viewing the Earth from the International Space Station at the IMAX cinema!
the pupils concluded their day with a delightful fish and chip (or pizza) supper on the picturesque promenade.
This hands-on experience provided valuable insights into coastal dynamics and management, making it a memorable and enriching day for all.
SUSSEX UNIVERSITY TRIP
Our year 10 pupils had an insightful morning visiting Sussex University where they got to experience sitting in university lecture theatre for the first time and listened to a student ambassador of the university giving them all kinds of advice from what to consider when choosing the right university course for you to the importance of being a good housemate in your student digs. Our pupils were amazed at the range
of courses on offer throughout British universities, the opportunities to study and work abroad on some courses and found the practical advice on the importance of budgeting helpful if a little daunting!
Following a tour of the campus, they then enjoyed some much-earned free time with each other exploring the lanes of beautiful Brighton.
NEWS Community
Sydenham High School is a close-knit and diverse community, with everyone from the PSA to our alumnae playing a vital role. We are deeply committed to our local community, celebrating different cultures, and upholding our sustainability commitments. A culture of kindness and generosity of spirit are core values that we live and breathe every day.
SOUTH ASIAN Heritage
MONTH
In advance of South Asian Heritage Month, which falls in our school holidays, we celebrated early at school and everyone was invited to wear the colours of the flags of the countries of South Asia: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. We started the day with a culturally rich assembly led by our teachers and pupils, who shared their heritage, culture, and family stories with us. The theme for this year is “Free to be me.” It is important for all of us to learn, understand, and embrace each other’s cultures so that we can continue to show support and respect for one another.
All our pupils had the opportunity to try Chai and Daddii’s Samosas, made by Sabine’s grandmother, which were a big hit! We also had Ms Hunt and our guest yoga instructor, Priya Karia, lead us in a beautiful meditative yoga session, focusing on the unity of mind and body.
We were honoured to have Arali’s mum, Mehala, share with us the history, culture, and know-how of wearing and working a sari worthy of the catwalk, sharing her exploration of her own heritage through the Friday Sari Project.
We also had a beautiful art session on Sri Lankan mask painting led by Mr Barathan. He shared with us the meaning of the masks, traditionally worn to ward off evil demons and find inner peace with mandalas. We saw many different expressions as the outcome of the session.
There was also the very fun Bollywood Just Dance section led by Jeeya and Deeya. Everybody had a great work out and got their bhangra moves on!
Special thanks to Mrs Vaughan, Mrs Dudani, and Mr Barathan, and everyone who supported and celebrated, for running a very successful event.
Charitable
Generosity of spirit is a core value at Sydenham High, reflected in our successful year-round fundraising efforts for various charities. As highlighted by ISI, our pupils are deeply committed to giving back, including donations to local foodbanks, demonstrating the importance of supporting those in need.
YEAR 10 Outreach
YEAR 10 FUNDRAISING SUCCESS
In March, Year 10 pupils launched a fundraising campaign for the British Red Cross as part of their Upper School Outreach Programme. The British Red Cross has been a vital source of global support during crises for over a century. The pupils aimed to unite the school community, have fun, and support this worthy cause.
Throughout the spring and summer terms, guided by their form tutors, the pupils organised a series of engaging events, including a movie night, disco, summer fair, and an American-themed day. These activities not only enriched school life but also fostered cross-year bonding.
Their remarkable initiative and planning skills resulted in over £1,600 being raised for the British Red Cross, demonstrating their dedication and community spirit. We extend our gratitude to all parents and pupils for their generous support, which made the fundraiser a tremendous success.
These activities also provided significant pastoral benefits for the pupils involved, enhancing their leadership, event management, and communication skills. They fostered a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and empathy, contributing to a culture of kindness within the school.
The Year 10 Outreach Programme has been a stellar success, showcasing the pupils’ ability to organise impactful events while supporting a meaningful cause. Their efforts have united the school community, developed their personal skills, and made a positive difference.
AMERICAN THEMED DAY
SUMMER FAIR
DISCO & MOVIE NIGHT
LITTER PICKING Competition
Our Eco Prefects led a highly competitive House Litter Picking Competition at Crystal Palace Park. It was a sunny day, and the enthusiasm was fantastic! The teams brought their packed lunches to the park, enjoying a meal together before getting on with the litter picking competition. In total, we collected over 10kg of rubbish. A huge thank you to all the Year 8 and Year 12 volunteers for their hard work and dedication.
Engaging in community service reminds our pupils of the importance of taking care of our environment and the impact of their actions. It is essential to foster a sense of responsibility and demonstrate how collective efforts can help preserve and improve our surroundings.
Congratulations to Gurney for being the winning House!
SUMMER FAIR PSA
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY SPIRIT
A huge thank you to our fantastic Parent-School Association (PSA) for organising a truly memorable Summer Fair. With the sun shining brightly, the event was a tremendous success, bringing joy and excitement to everyone involved.
The fair was packed with fun activities that delighted both children and adults. The inflatables on the astro were a major hit, providing endless entertainment and laughter. Our variety of refreshments were eagerly enjoyed, and the teddy tombola was a particular highlight, with all prizes disappearing in no time!
It was also wonderful to see so many local businesses participating with their stands, adding a vibrant touch to the fair and fostering community connections.
The Summer Fair not only served as a great opportunity for our school community to come together and have fun but also played a crucial role in raising funds. These funds will support various activities and events, ensuring that the PSA can continue to enhance our school environment and meet the needs of our community.
We are already looking forward to the Frost Fair in December, where we hope to build on this success and celebrate the festive season with even more community spirit.
CELEBRATING OURAlumnae
This term, Sydenham High School has been delighted to reconnect with several of our remarkable alumnae, highlighting the enduring relationship we cherish with our former pupils.
VISUAL ARTS ALUMNAE
We were thrilled to welcome back our talented Visual Arts alumnae: Elisa Morris, who graduated last year and is now pursuing animation at Bournemouth University; Zayn Rahman, who completed her studies at Manchester Metropolitan University after graduating from Sydenham High six years ago; and Marta Pearson Saenz, who is currently studying visual communication at Central Saint Martins after graduating two years ago. Their return was a highlight of the term as they shared their experiences and insights with our Year 10 Art pupils. The talks were both inspiring and informative, providing valuable perspectives on studying visual arts and exploring various career pathways. They emphasised the significance of A Level Art and how the skills and knowledge gained at Sydenham High have been instrumental in their journeys.
BUSINESS DAY
We also had the privilege of hearing from two other amazing alumnae: Laura Lincoln, now a Senior Project Manager in Construction, and Steph Aritone, a Consumer Insights Manager and stand-up comedian. They shared their career journeys and stressed the importance of seizing opportunities and exploring different career options, offering true inspiration to our Year 10 pupils during their business day.
CLASS OF 1974
Additionally, we had the honour of hosting the Class of 1974 for their 50th Year Reunion on 1 June 2024. Many alumnae made the effort to travel from abroad for this special occasion, making their return even more meaningful. It was heartwarming to see familiar faces and hear their fond memories of Sydenham High. As they reminisced, they noted that although time had passed, their return felt like coming home. We enjoyed strolling down memory lane with them, reflecting on how the school has evolved over the decades. The dining hall, once their gymnasium, and the open space where the Centenary Building now stands were poignant reminders of how much has changed while maintaining the essence of Sydenham High.
These gatherings and interactions underscore the enduring bond between our school and its alumnae. We look forward to celebrating more milestones and welcoming back our alumnae in the future.
