highlights SUMMER 2025
DEAR Families
This magazine tells the story of a Summer term full of joy and celebration with much opportunity for discovery, adventure and fun! The fact that pupils also sat A Levels, GCSEs and end of year tests with such determination and good spirit is testament to the exceedingly well-maintained sense of balance that our Sydenham High community possesses, even through more challenging periods. The excellent public examination results this August are therefore a most fitting conclusion to the purposeful, ambitious yet measured approach of so many.
Our girls have been in fine voice in every way this term: Years 7-9 impressed the Lower School parents and teachers with their fascinating Socrates Programme presentations; Year 8 pupils shone in our ‘One Voice’ public speaking with Dulwich Prep & Senior; and some of our chorists joined the magnificent GDST performance of Mozart at Fairfield Halls, taking solo and semi-chorus roles, alongside our strings players and professional musicians. Furthermore, a cast of sixty fearlessly rose to the challenge of Guys and Dolls and certainly proved that talent was very much the ‘lady’ not ‘luck’ for four fabulous performances.
Whilst we battled some high temperatures in London this last term, our sportswomen remained cool and competitive throughout the athletics and cricket season with plenty of highlights, school records, GDST champions and our Sports Awards Evening. With a wonderful finale, our Sports Day was full of community spirit, a fun-run, picnics on the fields, ice-cream all round, and fervent House spirit.
We are proud to be shortlisted for a number of Education Awards, including receiving the Private Girls’ School of the Year (UK) award but, in keeping with our school ethos, it is really about a personal best or an individual triumph, not dwelling on comparison. We take the opportunity to recognise great progress and celebrate our girls every day, in many ways. A particular favourite of mine is meeting all our Year 7s and 8s throughout the term who become Word Millionaires, sharing with me their latest reading, a passion close to my heart.
And finally, our building development has made great progress since my last site visit, with the full structure standing tall on the horizon now. We await the completion with much anticipation, excited to benefit from the brand new maker spaces, teaching environment, and Sixth Form.
I invite you to visit us soon to experience our warm, happy community first-hand.
Ms Antonia Geldeard Head
A LEVEL results
With sunshine streaming into the Orangery, our Year 13 2025 cohort celebrated a fantastic set of results – a reflection of their hard work and commitment to securing top grades as they spring into the next stage of their educational journey.
We are thrilled that over 51% of all grades achieved were A*/A, with almost 80% graded A*-B, and 95% A*-C.
Economics remains a very popular subject with an outstanding 86% of grades at A*/A and Maths with 71% of grades at A*/A. Seven students are going on to read Economics or Business related degrees. Our girls also
achieved 50% A*/A grades in A level Sciences and several pupils are going on to specialise in Science, including courses such as Biomedical Science, Biochemistry, Pharmacy and Psychology.
Geography and History were subjects in which pupils showed tremendous value added and praised their teachers for their tuition. 67% A*/A grades in Geography and 50% A*/A in History. One of our Head Girls, Lara, is off to read Geography at Warwick and said: “I’m very, very happy! I want to say thank you to everyone in Sydenham, especially and all my teachers! Thank you so much for the support.”
92% are heading to their first-choice university
GCSE
Year 11 2025 achieve our best top grades ever, with almost half of all results graded 9/8 (A**/A*). 27% were awarded a grade 9, and over a third of pupils achieved at least nine GCSEs graded 9-7 (A**-A).
It was a joy to celebrate with Year 11 families as pupils now look ahead to A Levels. Having joined in the first lockdown, they seized every opportunity and excelled.
Humanities were a particular strength, with 86% of Religious Studies and 83% of Geography results graded 7-9. Core subjects also shone: 78% of English and 72% of Maths grades were 9-7, while Sciences saw over 56% at 8/9. In Languages, 85% of French, Italian, German and Spanish results were graded 9-7.
These results reflect the value of a tailored education, enabling every girl to succeed — whether in her strongest subjects or with support where needed. Now they can focus on the areas they are most passionate about at A Level,
“I’m really happy with my results I just want to say thank you to all my teachers; more than words can ever express they’ve done so much for me, they believed in me when I even didn’t believe in myself so I’m really happy with what I got today!”
Comfort
“We are absolutely delighted with Leona’s results (10 A** grades) and so grateful to Sydenham for the incredible guidance throughout her GCSE years. Leona joined in Year 10, and the staff made her transition smooth with thoughtful adjustments and encouragement. She’s looking forward to continuing her sixth form journey at Sydenham, and we truly appreciate the care and dedication shown to her.”
Leona’s father
“I am delighted to see our girls achieving such excellent results. I am so proud of the continuous academic progress here, which is a testament to each girl’s dedication as well as the expertise of our staff in inspiring and supporting them to achieve their very best. I look forward to seeing them rise to the exciting new challenges at A Level and pursue their chosen paths.” Ms Geldeard, Head
awards
We are thrilled to announce that Sydenham High has been named Private Girls’ School of the Year (UK) at the Private Education Awards 2025, in recognition of our pioneering Futures Programme and excellent educational offering for girls.
This award affirms our commitment to preparing girls for a rapidly evolving world, where many future careers do not yet exist.
Through a personalised, future-focused approach, our programme equips every girl with the confidence, curiosity and clarity to thrive beyond school. Our Elevate Curriculum is a pioneering approach which ensures that our girls are well-prepared to forge their own path.
PRIVATE EDUCATION AWARDS EDUCATION CHOICES AWARDS
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Following last year’s success as a Finalist for Pre-Prep of the Year, we are thrilled to be shortlisted for Prep School of the Year and a Finalist for Student Wellbeing across the whole school.
Our Prep School is where the magic begins, and we are proud that our focus on each girl’s individual journey has been recognised by the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2025. Happy girls are successful girls, and our culture of kindness continues to be at the heart of everything we do.
Well done to our whole community — we eagerly await the winners announcement later in the autumn.
We are delighted to have been awarded ‘Inclusive SEN Provision’ and recognised with a special mention for ‘Enveloping EDI in the Curriculum’ in this year’s Education Choices Awards!
At Sydenham High, no pupil is ever just a number. Individual learning plans are co-created and monitored, with strong communication between home and school. Our staff receive ongoing training to deliver a rich, balanced, and representative curriculum, ensuring every pupil can thrive.
Informed by the Undivided framework, curriculum audits reflect on whose voices are centred and whose perspectives are missing, covering race, gender, culture, religion, class, and disability. Pupils are empowered to be themselves, leaving school confident, open-minded, and happy.
TALK EDUCATION AWARDS
We are so proud to have been chosen as a Finalist in the 2025 Talk Education awards for Best Use of Technology!
We have been recognised for our proactive, responsible and equitable approach to AI. Our forward-thinking, holistic curriculum is driven by pedagogical needs and not technological hype.
Rather than simply integrating AI; we cultivate a deep understanding of its ethical and practical implications, ensuring that AI is used to enhance learning while upholding academic integrity andempowering girls to be leaders in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
LEWISHAM BOOK AWARD 2025
Year 7 pupils joined the Lewisham Book Award 2025 at Bonus Pastor Catholic College, presenting on shortlisted titles alongside six other local schools. They enjoyed author talks by Rachel Faturoti and Nathanael Lessore, a quiz, and book signing, with The King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore crowned the winner. Pupils left inspired by the power of storytelling and the chance to meet real authors.
Meanwhile, our Year 7 and 8 readers celebrated reaching over one million words on the Accelerated Reader programme with a sunny breakfast and lively book chats—well done to all!
UKMT
Well done to our Year 7 and 8 pupils who took part in the UKMT Junior Mathematical Challenge. An impressive 32% earned certificates, including 3% achieving Gold. Special congratulations to Lucy M (Year 8), who has qualified for the Junior Kangaroo Round for top scorers nationwide.
SCIENCE COMPETITIONS
Our Science Department celebrated pupils’ success in the National Scientific Thinking Challenge and UK Biology Competitions, joining over 430,000 students worldwide in exploring the natural world. Special congratulations to Matilda G, who achieved a Gold Award and was named Best in School!
ROYAL SOCIETY OF CHEMISTRY OLYMPIAD
Our Sixth Formers took part in the Royal Society of Chemistry Olympiad—the UK’s leading and most demanding Chemistry competition. Designed to stretch pupils beyond the curriculum, it challenges them to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios while developing critical thinking skills.
This year, 16,216 pupils across the British Isles sat the paper, tackling complex questions on topics including radioactive decay, epoxides, iodination of ketones, carbon nanotubes, and Raman spectroscopy.
In such a highly competitive field, we are especially proud to congratulate:
Bronze Award: Rosie G, Jeeya P, Maisie R, Isobel B, Alisha K, Maia B
Silver Award: Sherina S
prizegiving
This year’s Prize Giving ceremonies were truly inspirational, with two remarkable guest speakers who shared powerful stories of perseverance and purpose.
At the Prep School, we welcomed Janette Potgieter, Director at Teneo and member of the all-women rowing crew One Ocean. Janette captivated pupils and parents with her tale of rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic – a test of physical and mental endurance. Her message was clear: focus on what you can control, embrace adaptability, and find joy in the journey. As she now prepares to row the Pacific with her new crew, we will be cheering her on.
At the Senior School, we were honoured to host Helen Seymour, the world’s first female Eurofighter Typhoon pilot. Helen spoke about breaking gender barriers, facing setbacks, and overcoming imposter syndrome. She urged pupils to aim for their personal best, embrace resilience, and value the “wingmen” in their lives – trusted supporters who guide and uplift them.
With reflections from Ms Geldeard, Head, and Mrs Panton, Head of Prep, we celebrated not just achievement, but also the character, kindness, and growth of our pupils.
Prize Giving 2025 reminded us all of the importance of courage, resilience, and striving for excellence with heart.
onwards...
YEAR 7 INDUCTION
The summer term marks a time of transition.
As examinations begin, we bid farewell to Year 13 while also preparing to welcome our new Year 7 and Sixth Form students. Induction and experience days gave them the chance to connect with their peers and get a taste of the exciting journey ahead. Onwards and upwards, we look forward to seeing them thrive in the year to come.
YEAR 10 SIXTH FORM EXPERIENCE DAY
YEAR 11 CELEBRATION
Year 11 marked the start of their GCSEs with a lively day of dress-up, games, and a fun awards assembly.
Y13 LEAVERS’ BALL
Year 13 enjoyed a series of heartfelt farewell events, from their Leavers’ Assembly and Sydenham Tower tradition to a black-tie dinner and Leavers’ Ball.
Both year groups showed great spirit, and as they move onwards and upwards, we know they are ready to embrace the exciting challenges ahead.
futures
FORTNIGHT
Inspiring pathways beyond Sydenham High
Year 12 embraced an inspiring fortnight of experiences designed to explore life beyond school with curiosity and confidence. Highlights included a visit to TP ICAP in the City of London, where pupils toured trading floors, met brokers and support staff, and learned how resilience, teamwork, and communication are as vital as academic knowledge.
The fortnight began with a talk from Sheffield University, providing admissions guidance and support for planning next steps. Pupils also pursued pathwaylinked activities, from museums and theatre visits to a trip to Greece. They undertook academic research and competitions, and attended the UK University and Apprenticeship Fair at Emirates Stadium, engaging with over 130 exhibitors.
Politics students attended the UK Schools launch of Jacinda Ardern’s memoir, ADifferentKindofPower, gaining insights into leadership, climate action, and empathy in decision-making.
The final week focused on higher education preparation and career skills, including workshops with DigData and industry professionals, culminating in mock interviews. Year 12 leave Futures Fortnight inspired, equipped, and ready to take on the world beyond school.
economics
CONFERENCE
Our Year 12 Economics students hosted Sydenham High’s annual Economics Conference – a fully studentled event showcasing their collaboration, leadership and professionalism.
Welcoming Year 12 students from GDST sister schools, the conference featured talks from Tom Simmons (Deloitte) on data versus perception in economics, Smita Khanijow (Toybox Charity) on poverty and sustainable development, and Kiran Kaur (entrepreneur) on women and investing.
The event encouraged critical thinking and real-world application. Students asked thoughtful questions on GDP, corruption in development, and government responsibilities in financial education, demonstrating intellectual curiosity and engagement.
These leadership opportunities build skills in planning, time management, stakeholder engagement and are a fascinating insight into life beyond school, developing key skills and a global perspective.
Curioso
WEEK
Curioso Week offered our pupils a week full of curiosity, learning, and adventure across a variety of experiences, giving them the chance to explore, discover, and engage with new challenges both in and beyond the classroom.
EXPLORING TECH AT COLT
Pupils connected classroom Computer Science to realworld applications, impressing the Colt team with their curiosity and professionalism during code-breaking, online safety sessions, and engaging Q&As.
LOCAL GEOGRAPHY
PYear 7 pupils explored Sydenham High Street, observing local architecture, traffic, and community features, and enjoyed a packed lunch in Mayow Park, gaining fresh insights into their surroundings.
YEAR 9 EXPLORE FAITH
Year 9 spent the day faith in action at a Vietnamese temple, a Catholic Church, and an Anglican Church, engaging thoughtfully with religious leaders and deepening their understanding of diverse traditions.
YEAR 8 DISCOVER THE MECHANICS OF FUN
Year 8 enjoyed rides at Thorpe Park, while discovering how computing and programming bring the park to life, seeing sequence, selection, and iteration in action.
GO APE
Year 7 & 8 tackled high ropes, zip wires, and teamwork challenges at Battersea, embracing courage and embodying the school motto, “Fear Nothing.”
sustainability
BIODIVERSITY & SUSTAINABILITY DAY
Year 7 enjoyed a dynamic Biodiversity and Sustainability Day, packed with hands-on activities and fresh discoveries. Pupils built bird boxes, joined a Community Clear-Up, and explored Fibonacci patterns in nature at Crystal Palace Park. In the labs, they investigated woodlice behaviour, experimented with beeswax, and learned about the vital role of pollinators in a fascinating session with local bee-keeper David Rea. The day left pupils inspired, with a greater appreciation for the natural world and how we can help protect it.
SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Year 10 pupils explored sustainability and the circular economy, guided by Leena Ceccolini from clj+ associates, who highlighted the growing demand for ‘green’ skills. Working in teams, they developed sustainable products, created business plans, and designed adverts, drawing inspiration from an idea table and a talk by alumna Steph Aritone, who shared her career journey and the importance of following passions.
The creativity was impressive — pitches included swimwear made from fishing nets, compostable coffins, eco pens, and clothing repair apps. Judges awarded Best Idea to Eco Rest and BioBloom, Best Advert to Stream Green, Best Presentation to Thread Bear, and Best Teamwork to Go Go Juice.
It was a brilliant start to Curioso Week, celebrating innovation, teamwork, and sustainability!
ONE VOICE
Fourteen Year 8 pupils from Sydenham High, alongside 14 boys from Dulwich Prep & Senior, presented their TED Talks to an audience of parents and teachers at Sydenham High. Under this year’s theme, “Humanity Reimagined,” the pupils explored a range of thought-provoking topics.
Over several months, they researched and collaborated to develop their presentations, tackling subjects from the Butterfly Effect and a world without crude oil, to how folk tale morals can guide the responsible use of technology. It was a joy to see these young thinkers confidently share their ideas and unique perspectives on reimagining humanity.
ART & DT SUMMERExhibition
Our Annual Summer Exhibition launched in style with a vibrant private viewing. Over 100 guests joined us for the opportunity to explore an outstanding display of Art and Design & Technology work spanning Prep through to Sixth Form. The exhibition was a true celebration of imagination, skill, and passion — showcasing everything from ceramics and screen printing to pop art, woodwork, upcycled design, expressive acrylics, and more. It was a display of exceptional talent!
A definite highlight was the impressive work from our GCSE and A Level pupils. From oil paintings and portrait installations to intricately designed furniture pieces, each project reflected months of thoughtful development. Guests especially enjoyed leafing through pupils’ sketchbooks and design portfolios, journeying through their ideas and inspirations.
We were honoured to welcome Mrs Katie Frade, Specialist Option Leader in Textile Craft at UAL, as our guest speaker. Her words of encouragement and insight added a special touch to the evening.
It was great to welcome alumnae who have gone to the creative arts, who enjoyed both the playful and experimental pieces by our young artists in Prep and the sophisticated and culturally rich projects from our Senior School. It was a joyful and uplifting celebration of creativity at Sydenham High — a true festival of craftsmanship.
GUYS
Over 60 cast members, six months of rehearsals and three unforgettable performances — our production of Guys and Dolls brought the magic of Broadway to Sydenham High. Pupils in Years 7–10 dazzled audiences with their energy, talent and commitment, supported by outstanding work behind the scenes in costumes, sets, props, lighting and music.
Directed by Mr Pratt and supported by the Drama, DT, Art and Music Departments, as well as our Year 12 Drama students, the show was a true community effort. Congratulations to everyone involved in creating a production we’ll remember for years to come!
& DOLLS
sport
The summer term was packed with outstanding sporting achievements, culminating in memorable highlights across athletics, team sports, and school-wide events.
GDST ATHLETICS COMPETITION
Our pupils and staff set off bright and early for the GDST Athletics Competition in Nottingham in June. The team impressed with several personal bests, including in the Year 9 hurdles, Year 10 high jump, and Year 10 javelin.
From the heats, pupils qualified for all four 100m and relay finals, as well as four additional finals. The day ended with us bagging three GDST golds: Nahla (Year 9) in both the 100m and shot put, and the Year 9 relay team, alongside five other podium finishes.
The team placed 5th overall, out of 26, a brilliant achievement to be proud of.
SPORTS AWARDS 2025
We celebrated our athletes at the annual Sports Awards, where over 100 awards were presented across disciplines including hockey, cricket, football, netball, rowing, athletics, cross country, and trampolining. The evening recognised not only top performers but also those who showed remarkable progress, resilience, and commitment. Pamela Cookey, netball icon and inspirational leader, joined as keynote speaker, sharing her journey from a determined young girl to captaining England to their first Netball World Cup victory. She encouraged pupils to keep doors open, embrace opportunities, and believe in themselves—a message that resonated with all in attendance.
SPORTS DAY 2025
Another highlight of the term, with sunshine setting the scene for a day of energy and enthusiasm.
Pupils competed fiercely across heats and finals, supported by cheers from classmates, staff, and parents—a shining example of Sydenham High’s Culture of Kindness.
The Community Fun Run raised funds for the Bone Cancer Research Trust, while a well-deserved visit from Mr Whippy rounded off the celebrations. Special congratulations go to the athletes who smashed seven school records across Years 7, 9, and 10, with Stanley House emerging as overall champions.
From individual brilliance to teamwork and community spirit, the summer term showcased our pupils’ passion, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
music
Another inspiring term of music, filled with opportunities for our pupils to perform, grow, and shine. From the Lunchtime Recital, where Lower School musicians courageously shared their talents, to the vibrant Summer Concert showcasing ensembles, choirs, soloists and even the rock band, music has been at the heart of our school community.
A particular highlight was the GDST Summer Concert at Fairfield Halls, where 250 pupils from across the GDST performed alongside the London Mozart Players in a spectacular concert — with our girls proudly leading roles in the semi-chorus and as solo performers.
Over 100 pupils continued their musical journey through instrumental lessons with our team of 17 dedicated peripatetic teachers, many also taking ABRSM exams this term.
It has been a term — in fact a year — rich with creativity, collaboration, and achievement, and we look forward to building on this momentum in 2025/26 with even more exciting opportunities ahead.
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.
WALKS THROUGH HISTORY IN YPRES
Year 9 embarked on a moving journey to Ypres, exploring the history and personal stories of the First World War. Highlights included Essex Farm, where InFlandersFieldswas written, preserved trenches at Bayernwald, and the Menin Gate ceremony. Pupils visited key cemeteries and memorials, including Tyne Cot, Langemark, and the Somme region, reflecting on the immense human cost of war. Throughout the trip, they showed respect, empathy, and curiosity, connecting deeply with both history and the personal stories of those who lived it.
INSPIRING ART IN ST IVES
Year 10 had a magical time in St Ives, sculpting clay pots, painting en plein air, and working in Porthmeor artists’ studios. They met talented practitioners, made excellent progress on GCSE coursework, and enjoyed sunny days by the sea (with a few cheeky seagulls!). Evenings were filled with beach rounders, BBQs, and film nights — a creative and memorable experience that brought learning to life beyond the classroom.
SOUTHWOLD: WHERE GEOGRAPHY COMES ALIVE
Forty Year 10 Geographers enjoyed a sunny day in Southwold as part of the #NationalFestivalOfFieldwork. They investigated coastal processes, measured beach profiles, and used a drone to explore a tricky section of the coastline. The day ended with well-earned fish and chips (or pizza!) by the sea — and some expert seagull-dodging! A brilliant experience of hands-on learning and coastal discovery.
EXPLORING HISTORY & LANGUAGE IN BERLIN
Three days into our History and Language trip to Berlin, pupils have enjoyed a rich mix of insight, reflection, and fun. Highlights included a walking tour, visits to the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate, Cold War and Holocaust explorations at the Spy Museum, Stasi Prison, and Haus der Wannsee Konferenz, plus making chocolate bars at Ritter Sport and a cinema trip. A busy, meaningful, and memorable trip!
SOUTH ASIAN Heritage
DAY
South Asian Heritage Day at Sydenham High was a vibrant celebration of identity and culture under the theme “Roots to Routes.”
From moving stories in assembly to a lively lunchtime marketplace of chai, saris, henna and more, the day brought South Asian heritage to life across our community. Lessons shone a spotlight on music, language, philosophy and architecture, sparking curiosity and reflection. A joyful reminder of how our roots shape the many routes we take.
houses
QUICK DRAW
The annual House Quick Draw Challenge returned with energy, creativity, and house spirit. Twenty-four pupils competed in fast-paced knockout rounds, sketching surprise prompts in just five minutes.
Judged by Sixth Form Art students and staff, the event celebrated imagination, skill, and speed, with the crowd cheering every round.
Congratulations to Bess and Iris, who reached the final, where Bess claimed the crown with a stunning and original piece. A brilliant showcase of talent, courage, and school community spirit!
CHARITY FUNDRAISING
Each year group takes turns to run fundraising events throughout the year, with a huge range of different activities to get pupils to part with their cash and donate to good causes!
After a week of end-of-year assessments, Year 7 let off steam with a House Charity Walk in Crystal Palace Park. Sponsored per lap, many turned it into a race, raising money for a good cause — and enjoying a well-earned ice cream treat!
Our final House fundraising event of the year was a spectacular celebration of creativity, energy, and teamwork. Year 10 pupils led a variety of fun activities: Gurney’s costume obstacle course had everyone laughing, Shirreff’s ‘Sponge the Teacher’ stall was a firm favourite, Stanley offered stunning henna art, and Grey kept the energy high with a non-stop dance party.
Thanks to the generosity of families and the enthusiasm of staff and pupils, the fundraising totals were impressive: Stanley £1,331.13, Shirreff £1,267.24, Grey £936.13, and Gurney £853.11. Congratulations to Stanley for raising the most — but this was a win for all, leaving lasting memories and making a meaningful impact.
THINKING socratic
The Socrates Programme at Sydenham High is our unique enrichment initiative for Years 7–9, designed to spark curiosity, critical thinking and a love of learning. Over the year, pupils explore big ideas through lectures, guest speakers and independent projects, culminating in a creative artefact and reflection.
At our Socrates Celebration Evening, 72 scholars showcased an inspiring range of projects — from interior design and eco-initiatives to research into ultraprocessed foods, coffee history and tailored fashion. Their confidence in presenting and answering questions was particularly impressive.
Guest speaker and Patron Christopher Lloyd praised the pupils’ curiosity and encouraged them to keep experimenting, learning from mistakes and pursuing their passions.
Special awards were presented to outstanding projects across all year groups, with Gold Awards going to Alice B (Year 7), Georgia O (Year 8) and Michelle Z (Year 9).
Now in its eighth year, the programme continues to grow in ambition and creativity, reflecting the dedication, talent and imagination of our young scholars.
BRAIN Bootcamp
The strength of our award-winning pastoral care lies in the triangulation between parents, pupils, and school. We listen carefully, adapt proactively, and educate staff and families as well as pupils.
Year 6–13 parents and pupils joined our annual Brain Bootcamp on nutrition, sleep, and study. Sophie Crosswaite RNutr from Accent Catering shared tips on brain-boosting foods, emphasising balanced breakfasts, healthy fats, hydration, and “eating the rainbow.”
Georgia Ridgeway ANutr explored adolescent sleep, highlighting its impact on focus, memory, and wellbeing, and shared practical strategies for better rest.
The session concluded with a tasting of healthy recipes and expert advice, supported by a take-home Brain Food recipe book from Accent Catering.
FOR THE FUTURE building
In June, Ms Geldeard joined three pupils: Saskia (Year 12), Isabel (Year 10), and Lanya (Year 8) on a behind-thescenes tour of our developing building site.
Guided by Senior Site Manager Andrew Davies, they explored the foundation work, viewed the first concrete floor, and learned how the team carefully plans to stay on schedule while minimising disruption to school life.
A highlight was sitting in the digger’s control seat, and the pupils impressed the team with their curiosity and thoughtful questions.
We look forward to watching the building take shape and involving Upper School pupils in the interior design, creating new learning spaces that truly belong to the Sydenham High community.
SYDblogs
SydBlogs allow staff to share their professional expertise and passion. We are proud of the subject specialists in our community and invest in continuous training to help them grow their knowledge and skills. Each term, SydBlog
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE
RIGHT SCHOOL FOR YOUR DAUGHTER?
In London we are blessed with a plethora of options for girls and boys, but that often makes it even harder as parents trawl through adverts, articles and websites...
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REVOLUTIONISING
PSHE: PIONEERING A BOLD, NEW CURRICULUM
Recognised for our awardwinning pastoral care and trailblazing educational approach, we are proud to announce our innovative and bespoke PSHE curriculum...
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offers a series of insightful, thought-provoking pieces that reflect timely topics and educational developments.
This term, we are delighted to highlight four standout articles from a range of our staff.
INVESTING IN GIRLS’
FUTURES: OUR INAUGURAL FUTURES CONFERENCE
In a world where women’s rights and voices are facing erosion, it is crucial for us to prepare our girls not only with skills to enter a workplace for a job that may not even exist yet....
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THE POWER
OF THE PIVOT: WHY EMBRACING FAILURE IS YOUR GREATEST ADVANTAGE
At Sydenham High, we believe that true growth happens when you have the courage to fail...
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FORGE YOUR FUTURE
We aim to inspire the future generations of creators, independent thinkers and trailblazers,opening eyesand hearts by educating thewhole person: to balancemind,bodyand soul.Our diversityofacademic andenrichment opportunities enableseverypupil to forge their own path.
CHARACTER Courage FOR LEARNING Curiosity
&
We embrace our motto, ‘Fear Nothing’, building courage and character to shape our own path.
We learn withoutlimits. We are ambitious,exploring ideaswith curiosity and creativity, making learning joyful andinspiring.
A CULTURE OF
Kindness
We look out foreachother, focus on wellbeing, and celebrate the diversity that makes us stronger together.
OF SPIRIT Generosity
We areoutward-looking and lead theway. Together, we have thepower to make apositive difference to theworld.