SYDENHAM Highlights
SPRING 2025 EDITION
Dear Families,
At Sydenham High our education is centred on developing both a healthy mind and body, providing the power of great balance in our lives. This edition of our Highlights magazine is a real testament to this focus, with a plethora of wonderful events, activities, competitions, trips, clubs and inspirational classes.
Central to our vision is a recognition of the importance of our young women being prepared for their futures, employable and confident as leaders. This term has provided rich opportunities to develop these skills: our Futures Conference and many careers talks have brought visiting experts who shared their workplace advice; the awards evening of our STEAM competition saw inspiring speakers speak about their research journeys as well as praise the creativity and innovation of our young finalists; and our SydX evening was astounding example of the sophisticated oracy and presentational skills of our pupils, who entertained and engaged the audience throughout.
School life here is very much about adventurous exploration. Our term has offered exciting learning with masterclasses in Art, cutting-edge experimentation on show for our scientists and geographers, and Classical discovery with fellow GDST peers. Our teachers seize opportunities to put theory into practice and relate the classroom to the world around us.
We also love to celebrate each other’s achievements. Our terrific Upper School Drama production pushed boundaries for our young actors who performed a recent Pulitzer Prize finalist play; our Music department delivered some breath-taking performances including a scholars’ recital highlight; and our Rowing Gala Dinner commended the grit and determination of our 80+ members alongside speeches from two hugely motivational Olympians. With our Undivided Forum amplifying our pupil voice and collaborative culture, we continue to be stronger than ever.
I invite you to enjoy reading further and to visit us soon to experience us first hand.
Ms Antonia Geldeard Head
Leadership FUTURES &
FUTURES CONFERENCE
We are dedicated to equipping our girls with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world, exemplified through the launch of our inaugural Futures Conference.
Over 100 GDST Sixth Form students joined us for a day of enrichment and inspiration, with a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Felicity Oswald OBE, Chief Operating Officer at the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, explained how she kept an open mind to all opportunities, which ultimately led her to leading a team of over 600 people to protect the UK’s cyber security. Felicity highlighted the importance of curiosity and critical thinking as key to opening doors, noting that we all have unique skill sets to offer, but sometimes we just need to make good judgements and step out of our comfort zones. “We need a little bit of grit to help us get through the rough times,” Felicity acknowledged, as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Her message resonated with the girls, reinforcing the value of resilience, kindness, and the importance of staying focused on one’s own journey.
Cheryl Giovannoni, CEO of GDST, shared her vision of ensuring that all girls fulfil their potential and dreams, equipping them with the knowledge and social skills to thrive. She reflected on her traditional upbringing where she was taught to be submissive, and how she. worked her way up from a secretary in a leading advertising agency, Ogilvy & Mather, to become the CEO of the company’s headquarters in London. Cheryl urged the girls to take ownership of their own journeys, not letting anyone else define their path. She emphasised the importance of building a strong network,
seeking mentorship, and, most importantly, being generous with their time to help others succeed.
“We should all pave the way for women and people with less privilege. This generosity of spirit is what will make the world a better place.
She encouraged the girls to be their own cheerleader, try new things, and never be afraid to ask for help, as they may never know what doors could open as a result.
In addition to the keynotes, workshops offered practical advice and strategies for success. Abi Stephens, a Sports Broadcaster & Leadership Performance Coach, introduced a
high-performance technique known as “BOSS Your Brain,’ which focused on four key practices to help manage pressure and enhance performance: Body, Oxygen, Self-Talk for Motivation, and Self-Talk for Action.
As well as running a workshop on mastering AI in recruitment, James Darley, Founder & CEO of Transform Society, gave the final keynote. With 98.5% of graduate applications being rejected through automated systems, James taught students how to navigate AI-driven processes and stand out. Adaptability, he explained, is crucial. “The goal is not to create a persona that isn’t you, but to augment your natural abilities and showcase your best self.” He highlighted the importance of building a strong CV early, gaining work experience, expanding networks through LinkedIn, and staying adaptable to the ever-changing job market, to position themselves to navigate the future of work with confidence and authenticity.
The whole conference was pitched perfectly to both encourage the girls to dream big but to also help them recognise how competitive the jobs market is and the importance of building a competitive portfolio, starting now. It is clear the day made a real impact on them.
Croydon High School staff
Futures & Leadership cont...
GDST LEAD PROGRAMME INSPIRING FUTURE LEADERS
GDST Sixth Formers came together to pitch their sustainable business ideas as part of the GDST Leadership & Enterprise Advanced Diploma Programme, run in partnership with the London School of Economics. GDST LEAD is an innovative leadership and enterprise initiative designed to equip young women with the transferable skills needed to become future leaders and entrepreneurs.
Our two teams—SecurAfest and Care for Her—have been working hard since September. SecurAfest developed a festival safety app featuring locationsharing and emergency guidance, while Care for Her created care packages for homeless women, distributed through a local charity.
THRIVING MINDS
Some of our Year 12 Academic Scholars attended the Thriving Minds Senior Stretch conference. Hosted at Bloomsbury Baptist Church, the venue was particularly fitting, as it is the place where Martin Luther King Jr gave his speech in 1961—an inspiring location to expand the minds of our students and stretch the boundaries of their knowledge.
Students were inspired by expert speakers: Julie Arliss, King’s College London lecturer, focused on Quantum Mechanics and the concept of quantum fundamentalism. Dr Chris O’Neill, a psychologist from the University of Oxford, explored the topic of unconscious bias. The final lecture, by Mike Grenier from Eton College, delved into Shakespeare and the four humours.
A highlight of the day was a workshop on Oxbridge interview questions,
The competition was fierce, and SecurAfest came close to winning the People’s Choice Award. Both teams demonstrated exceptional creativity, teamwork and resilience. We are incredibly proud of all they’ve achieved!
followed by a student-led debate on TheRiseofVeganism:ATrendorMoral Requirement.Prisha gave a wonderful opening comment in favour of a balanced diet to kick off the debate.
The students all left with a greater understanding of how to respond to quirky interview questions like, “Tell me about a lightbulb!” Interdisciplinary thinking is so important for our young people, and the conference certainly demonstrated the value of this skill.
SYDx
We celebrated the power of young voices through SYDx, giving Year 11 to Year 13 students the platform to present on topics they are truly passionate about — and they were nothing short of incredible.
After a month of dedicated practice, refining their ideas, and developing their public speaking skills, each student delivered talks that were insightful, engaging, and thought-provoking.
Topics from the world’s oldest computer to the science of chaos and even the phenomenon known as ‘Nobel Prize disease’. Each talk reflected not only deep curiosity but also hard work and genuine passion. When it came time for questions, our students handled them with confidence and professionalism well beyond their years.
We look forward to next year!
MASTERING LIFE SKILLS: UNI SURVIVAL WORKSHOP
YEAR 9 WORKPLACE EXPERIENCES
All Year 9 pupils had the opportunity to take part in a workplace visit day, gaining real insight into the world of work across a wide range of sectors. Thanks to the generous support of family, friends and staff, pupils shadowed professionals in roles spanning law, banking, advertising, architecture, design, healthcare, and more.
To prepare Year 13 for life beyond school, we ran a fun and practical University Survival Guide workshop, delivered by our caterers, Accent. Led by nutritionist Georgia and Chef Graham, pupils learned essential cooking and budgeting skills, from shopping smart to making quick, nutritious meals. Chef Graham even transformed one meat sauce into three tasty dishes in 20 minutes! Our pupils now feel much more confident about independent living.
Some chose to help out at the Prep School, while a small group visited the GDST Head Office in Victoria. There, they met staff from different departments, took on a marketing challenge to promote Sydenham High, and shared their creative ideas with the Communications team. A tour of the building and a photo from the rooftop terrace rounded off the visit.
We’re so grateful to everyone who helped create such a memorable and enriching experience for our pupils.
Undivided
A SENSE OF BELONGING
As a GDST school, we are committed to fostering inclusive environments where the wellbeing of every young person takes priority, and every girl—regardless of her background—can learn without limits.
The Undivided Student Forum is a key event that amplifies pupil voices across the Trust. This week, our KS3 pupils had the opportunity to visit the GDST Trust Office to collaborate and discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I).
The day began with a StratHack, where pupils explored the difference between “equality” and “equity,” reflected on what makes a leader in DE&I, and established their own vision and goals. They
We really enjoyed the Undivided Forum; it was a great opportunity to connect with girls from other schools and share our ideas with decisionmakers.
created mind maps outlining key ideas for a speech they would deliver as alumnae, highlighting their school’s efforts to champion DE&I. Additionally, they identified four influential figures who they believe have made significant contributions to driving diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The forum concluded with pupils pitching their visions to a panel that included Dr Kevin Stannard, Director of Innovation & Learning, and Ms Donna Saby, Head of HR Policy. Their innovative ideas aim to inspire meaningful change within the GDST community.
WHAT OUR PUPILS SAY
95% OF PUPILS FELT STAFF VALUED DIFFERENT VIEWS, BELIEFS AND CULTURES 6% 94% OF PUPILS FELT STUDENTS OF ALL BACKGROUNDS AND BELIEFS ARE VALUED EQUALLY IN SCHOOL 5%
Our commitment to inclusion is evident in the recent Undivided Student Survey by external facilitator, ETS, where pupils were asked how they felt about school in terms of their background and culture, and those of other pupils, was treated. We were proud to have excellent results, with increases from last year.
Maths
MATHS FEST
A group of Year 11 & 12 mathematicians visited the Royal Institution for Maths Fest, a day-long extravaganza of maths talks and demonstrations with lots of audience participation! They learned about the mathematics behind Rubik’s cubes, the difference between ‘true randomness’ and ‘fake randomness’, and why Pac-Man could be the world’s first 3D video game.
A highlight was when our Year 12s, Megan and Cara, took to the stage in the national final of the Maths Slam. In this competition, students took turns to present in under three minutes an area of maths they found fascinating.
The audience and judges were wowed by Megan and Cara’s lively explanation of the maths behind the world’s favourite number (seven, in case you were wondering). Well done!
PI DAY
Our school had a fantastic time celebrating Pi Day with a range of exciting and creative activities. The day began with a House Assembly Pi Recitation Challenge, where Bobo in Year 11 amazed everyone by reciting Pi to an impressive 200 decimal places.
In classrooms, pupils took part in quizzes and interactive activities that tested their knowledge in inventive ways. Year 7 and 8 pupils created
beautiful Pi posters, with standout entries from Bella T, Liv L, and Matilda P. A highlight of the day was Monti O’s brilliant Pi rap performance, which added a fun and memorable twist to the celebrations. Additionally, our Year 9 class achieved a record-breaking Pi-up in just 6.3 seconds!
Pi Day was a wonderful opportunity for pupils to learn, compete, and showcase their creativity in honour of this special day in mathematics.
Humanities
PICTURE THIS...
Students from Sydenham High, Alleyn’s, and Dulwich College gathered for our annual “Picture This…” speaking competition in February. They showcased their passion and knowledge, critical thinking skills and oracy as well as cultivating a deeper appreciation for art history
From Cornelia Parker’s thoughtprovoking installations to the bold statements of Keith Haring and the intricate creations of Michael Rakowitz, the competition highlighted the power of art to inspire and challenge. Xu Bing’s captivating work and Damien Hirst’s controversial pieces sparked lively discussions amongst the audience.
Judges, renowned artist Kirsty Andrew and Chris Christophorou, Technical Manager of the Government Art Collection, faced a tough decision. They praised the students’ insightful analyses and their ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and enthusiasm.
Alleyn’s took home the prize this year for Ceci’s compelling presentation on Damien Hirst’s AwayfromtheFlock , showing passion for the artwork, meticulous research and persuasive delivery of a fresh interpretation of the
THE POWER OF MAPS
Year 12 geographers visited the Royal Geographical Society for a thoughtprovoking lecture about the power of maps, by award-winning author. Professor James Cheshire (UCL). He talked them through a range of fascinating maps and explained how the use of maps has transformed thinking in society, allowing the invisible to become visible.
Such as an early map that plotted Cholera outbreaks that helped scientists to understand the cause of cholera and to then work to prevent its spread. A more recent example plotted changes in light pollution that allowed for the analysis of migration patterns in conflict zones. Our students were praised for their insightful analyses and their ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and enthusiasm.
CLASSICS CONFERENCE
Our Year 10 to 13 students of Latin and Classical Civilisation recently attended the Redmaid’s High GDST Virtual Classics Conference, where they heard from leading experts in the classical world from prestigious universities.
Additionally, 25 Year 9 pupils who have opted for GCSE Latin, along with our Year 11 GCSE Latin group, joined a fascinating talk by Professor Sharon Marshall from Exeter University, exploring Aeneid II through a ‘distorted mirror.’
The day was intellectually stimulating and fast-paced, providing valuable insights that will support our students in their future studies. They engaged exceptionally well, taking copious
HISTORY IN ACTION
We were delighted to welcome Paul Sykes, a volunteer from the Imperial War Museum, as part of our Humanities Stretch Programme.
His engaging talk on the Home Front during WWII brought history vividly to life through a range of artefacts, including a fire warden’s helmet, a blackout bicycle lamp, and a 1945 army-issued sock with a darning mushroom.
We were also grateful for his generous donation of two Imperial War Museum books to the school.
notes that will serve as useful references in the years to come.
One of the most encouraging outcomes of the conference was the strong enthusiasm among participants, with many expressing a keen interest in continuing Latin and/or Classical Civilisation at A Level and beyond.
“
I enjoyed listening to the lecture by Thomas Harrison, about ancient Greek and Roman art. I found the analysis of the different subjects fascinating, especially as they centred around art from Athens, which I recently visited, so I connected with what he was talking about. I learnt lots of fun facts, such as the Parthenon originally being intended as the name of a different building next to it.
Morgan, Year 10
Our Year 10 pupils embarked on a walking tour of East London and the City, beginning at Shoreditch and concluding at the iconic Golden Hinde. The tour linked directly to their GCSE studies on migration and the impact of diverse groups on the UK, as well as Elizabeth I’s early reign and Sir Francis Drake’s famous circumnavigation of the world aboard the original Golden Hinde.
Science
#700STEMChallenge 2025
Whilst a stark gender gap has emerged in England’s maths and science education, the eighth year of our #700STEMChallenge writing competition shows no sign of a downturn in interested applicants, with hundreds of essays submitted from over 20 schools across the UK.
Over 200 essays were shortlisted and 28 Finalists were rewarded with first, second and third place prizes in the Under 14, Under 16, Under 18 age groups for Science, Technology & Engineering, and Maths categories.
Our Science judge. Jo Marchant, PhD, freelance journalist and New York Times bestselling author, shared how she was inspired to begin a career in STEM by her mother, who travelled from her girls’ school to the local boys’ school to be able to study science based A Levels in the 50s, and supported by journalist Tim Radford, who published her first piece in The Guardian and explained that writing a great story is like finding the one strand in a pile of spaghetti that you are going to tease out for the reader, putting aside all other elements that don’t progress the story. Her career allows her to not just communicate scientific information but to advocate for a better world. Being a freelance writer allows her to become an expert in a topic and share it with people; she enjoys creating stories containing data as well as a human element. Working in radio has brought a whole new element of science writing as she explore fascinating science stories and works out how to communicate them orally.
Jo revealed her top tips for science writing, including Einstein’s advice:: “Everythingshouldbeassimpleasit canbe,butnotsimpler”
Jo explained how much she enjoyed reading the variety of essays in the Science category, and ended with what she feels is the biggest misconception about Science:
it’s not just a collection of facts, it’s testing our beliefs, building an understanding of the world. It’s about how you think and requires curiosity and passion.
Our Technology & Engineering judge. Justin Bean, Architect and PhD student, also praised the Finalists for their interesting choice of topics and loved how they questioned the how and the why. He linked this to his Architecture practice which, alongside STEM in general, is at its heart all about challenging assumptions.
Justin highlighted how fast the world changes, showing an advert from the 1960s boasting about energy use melting ice caps and noted how challenging it is to think 60 years into the future, given how fast everything shifts. He detailed his fascination with how spaces influence how we learn and exist, as a driving factor in his journey to becoming an Architect. Knowledge is never static, and he noted the connection between design, research and critical thinking, utilising the ‘Futures cone’ to represent the variety of alternative potential futures. Justin explained the varied role he has as an architect, and that the ever-changing world of engineering necessitates architect thinking of new ways to design future proof buildings, acknowledging that spaces should flex as knowledge shifts. He also noted that these ideas don’t always come from initial briefs and sometimes interesting ideas can come from unlikely places, such as speaking with families and cataloguing biodiversity when designing the new R&D building at Oxford University. Science doesn’t standstill and neither does architecture, so we must respond to the uncertainty ahead, asking questions such as how can we improve air quality through building design? As well as ethical questions around how global resources
should be allocated for parity. Justin summarised that classrooms are where curiosity is sparked, but his role as an architect is more than to create, it is to interrogate and push the boundaries of our knowledge of the future, embracing uncertainty. He culminated with the powerful call to action, that the future belongs to everyone willing to ask the next big question.
Our Mathematics judge was Dr Anastasia Kakou, Lecturer, who gave the audience a fascinating run down of her path to becoming a Lecturer in Statistics at LSE.
Dr Kakou began life with an inspiring and liberal teacher – her father. She believes that having an inspiring teacher is a key element for education, and to keep track of your aims, even if that means sacrificing short-term benefits for your long-term goal. She detailed how her State Scholarship changed her life, giving her the opportunity to explore London and apply maths to the real world to make an impact. She detailed her work in analysing the impact of rainfall on hydrological and environmental aspects, as well as her experience of 12 years in investment banking, and the balance between mathematical models and clear communication.
Dr Kakou also addressed the gender and minority gap in STEM, advocating for a more representative field and highlighted that mathematics is not just about numbers, but about the “connections that build a model.”
This year’s entries were of such high calibre, and – as ever – on a plethora of topics, the winning essays in each category are listed on the right to give you an idea!
<<< Scan here for the video & Finalists’ magazine
SCIENCE
U14 – Wormholes
Freddie Brooks, Colfe’s U16 – What is the Physics behind a pirouette?
Georgia McBride, Wimbledon High U18 – Epigenetics and Healthcare
Alisha Kamara, Sydenham High
TECHNOLOGY/ENGINEERING
U14 – Nanorobotics: How can we use it to increase life span?
Omaira Anand, Alleyn’s U16 – The Truth Beneath the Pixels: The Rise and Risks of Deepfakes
Diana Chorna, Alleyn’s U18 – Can AI replace human doctors in the next 50 years?
Aanya Shadija, Sheffield Girls
MATHEMATICS
U14 – Mission Impossible: Why are Some Problems in Maths Impossible to Solve?
Max Lau, Alleyn’s U16 – Jigsaw Puzzles: A guide for beginners
Lily Oliver, Wimbledon High U18 – The Mathematics of Rollercoasters
Isabella Williamson, Streatham and Clapham High
The #700STEMChallenge, with its impressive participation levels and inspiring speakers, serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring appeal and vital importance of STEM education. It underscores the potential for young minds to shape the future through curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for discovery.
Science cont...
BRITISH SCIENCE WEEK
We celebrated British Science Week in style, with our science department organising an exciting range of inspiring and fun activities across the school.
A standout event was the Year 8 Changing Earth Science Conference where Tom Hance, a Geophysicist from BP, joined us as a guest judge. He was thoroughly impressed by the Year 8 pupils’ research, their articulation, and their ability to engage others with their findings. The event continued with a lunchtime Q&A session, where pupils
CUTTING-EDGE SCIENCE AT RAL
Our A Level physicists had the fantastic opportunity to visit the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Oxfordshire. The visit included an insightful tour of the Particle Accelerator and the Diamond Light Source, giving pupils a fascinating glimpse into the world of advanced scientific research. They also heard from experts working at RAL, gaining valuable insight into the vast amount of data generated and stored at the facility. The experience was truly enlightening and provided excellent support for their Particle Physics studies.
asked insightful questions about the energy industry, including the impact of political events such as Trump’s election.
“As a future Geography A Level student and a keen physicist, I found this talk fascinating. It was so interesting to see how what we learn in class is applied in the real world!” – Jessica, Year 11
We also had our ever-popular Science Open Lab, which featured a Chick Special encounter full of cuddles, laughter, and plenty of names for the chicks. Pupils also learned about the fascinating life cycle of chicks.
Mr Batty and Dr Waites’ famous rat dissection (usually reserved for the Sixth Form Advanced Electives with Dulwich College) was another popular ‘hands-on’ event that everyone enjoyed.
Another highlight of the week was our school-wide collaborations. The Prep School visited a Senior Science lab for an exciting Chemical Reaction Challenge, while our Year 10 pupils and science team visited the Prep School to lead experiments, including pop rockets, parachutes, and water filtering. This truly embodied our SydSister Science in action!
Mr Tan, our Head of Chemistry, shared this about the collaboration:
Our Year 5 and 6 visited the Senior School to take part in a Chemistry experiment as part of Science week. They were aiming to make scientific measurements using different pieces of equipment, observing how dry ice sublimated in water, create dry ice bubbles and also attempted to make a snake skin pattern using food colouring and dry ice. I was thoroughly impressed with how enthusiastic students were and their ability to adapt quickly to the challenges in Senior School Chemistry
It was a week filled with fun and exciting experiments, from growing mushrooms and creating dry ice bubbles to exploring solar cells and extracting DNA in lessons. It was a week that encouraged all our curious minds to dive into the wonder of the scientific world!
ST HELEN’S PHYSICS TOURNAMENT
Four of our fantastic physicists recently competed in the annual Year 10 Physics Tournament at St Helen’s School, showcasing their problem-solving skills across a series of experimental challenges and calculation races.
Our team secured an impressive 2nd place overall out of 24 schools and made history by breaking the tournament record for the fastest escape room time!
After an intense day of scientific challenges, the pupils enjoyed an inspiring talk from an ARUP engineer, who highlighted the significance of bridges and the diverse career opportunities in engineering.
We started off with a momentum-filled ice breaker, allowing us to get to grips with the other teams in the tournament. After this engaging start, we sprung ourselves into action for the Hooke’s Law practical challenge involving the investigation of a spring constant based on mass change. We got quite “hooked” while also being invited into the Physics escape room at the end of the practical task. We accelerated through the escape room eventually beating the tournament record and receiving the winner’s prize. We sped our way through the Calculations contest with great exertion and receiving an overall 2nd place was a rewarding and physics-enriching experience!
Zara, Year 10
Art
MASTERCLASS WITH TESSA EASTMAN
Our Year 10 pupils had the fantastic opportunity to take part in a masterclass with Tessa Eastman, an awardwinning artist with over 20 years’ experience working with clay and glaze. Tessa led the session by exploring the themes of decay and natural forms, guiding our pupils as they responded to form and surface in their clay creations.
This hands-on experience allowed our pupils to explore their current GCSE theme in greater depth while honing both their artistic and technical skills in a creative and supportive environment. We are hugely grateful to Tessa for sharing her expertise and inspiring our pupils to push the boundaries of their work.
CELEBRATING ‘THE ONE TO WATCH’ & ‘PIECE OF THE WEEK’
Throughout the term, our Art Department has produced a wealth of inspiring, high-quality work. To celebrate the achievements of our talented art pupils, we will be announcing The One to Watch (for GCSE and A Level) and Piece of the Week (for the lower school) each week. Let’s take a moment to appreciate some of the outstanding artwork created this term.
THE ONE TO WATCH (GCSE & A LEVEL)
PIECE OF THE WEEK (YEAR 7-9)
Sport
CONDOVER HALL NETBALL ADVENTURE
Our Year 6 and Year 8 netballers enjoyed an exciting weekend of competition and adventure at Condover Hall in Shrewsbury. After a long journey, the teams arrived full of energy and ready for two action-packed days.
Alongside their netball matches, pupils took on thrilling outdoor challenges, including climbing, abseiling, high ropes, trapeze jumps, archery, tunnelling, and the laser maze. Every activity pushed them out of their comfort zones, and they tackled each challenge with determination, teamwork, and enthusiasm.
On the netball courts, both year groups showed fantastic skill and effort. Our Year 8 pupils demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship and teamwork. While their results didn’t fully reflect their effort on the court, their perseverance, support for one another, and positive attitude were truly commendable.
Overall, it was a fantastic weekend, not just for the sporting achievements but for the camaraderie, teamwork, and personal growth each pupil experienced. They represented the school brilliantly, and we hope they left Condover Hall with incredible memories of a weekend full of challenge, fun.
ELITE SPORT WORKSHOP
Following last term’s workshops on nutrition and how to fuel their bodies and aid recovery, our High Performance (HPP) and Most Able & Talented (MAT) programme participants had the privilege of welcoming Benn Fillingham, a GB kickboxer and taekwondo instructor, from Miles Martial Arts.
Benn shared his journey on the performance pathway and offered invaluable advice on balancing studies with high-level training.
The highlight? A hands-on training session where they learned new tips and skills, leaving them feeling more confident than ever!
GDST SPORTS SCHOLARS’ DAY
Our Sydenham High sports scholars joined 250 pupils from across the GDST family at Sutton High School for an unforgettable Sport Scholars’ Day on 14 February, hosted in partnership with the Mintridge Foundation. The event provided an invaluable opportunity for our pupils to develop their confidence, leadership, and sporting skills alongside professional athletes and inspiring alumnae.
The day began with an inspiring keynote from former world top 20 badminton player Liz Cann, who highlighted the importance of selfleadership, stepping outside one’s
comfort zone, and practical techniques for managing pressure. Our pupils were also motivated by GDST alumnae, including Commonwealth Gold Medallist Eboni Usoro-Brown and Olympic Bronze Medallist Sarah Jones, who shared insights on balancing sport and academics, as well as the importance of collaboration in highperformance sport.
Two of our elite athletes attended a talk hosted by GB hockey player, Sarah Jones, who spent time in the Olympic Village and shared her firsthand experiences. This session was incredibly inspiring for our young athletes, offering invaluable insights
into the daily demands of performing at the highest levels.
The day was packed with handson workshops, including a hockey practical, a netball session, and a gymnastics workshop, led by professional athlete, Grace Harrison. These workshops allowed our pupils to refine their skills, gain expert advice, experience new challenges, and connect with fellow sports scholars across the GDST. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting girls in sport and reinforced the GDST’s commitment to fostering confidence, resilience, and ambition through physical activity.
Sydenham
Rowing
ROWING GALA DINNER
We enjoyed a beautiful celebration dinner in February with the rowing team. Over 80 members of the rowing teams and their families gathered to celebrate their achievements. We were honoured to welcome Hannah Scott, an incredible rower, advocate for women in sport, and Olympic gold medallist, as our guest speaker for the evening. We were also able to raise money purchase a new set of Concept 2 Smoothie2 Vortex Edge Blades—elite-level sweep blades used by top school crews. The event was a collaborative effort, and we are grateful to our parents for their continued support and generosity.
MODERN FOREIGNLanguages
BRINGING LANGUAGE TO LIFE AT FRANCO MANCA
What better way to learn a language than by putting it into action? Our Year 9 pupils, who have been studying Italian as their Modern Foreign Language option, took their learning beyond the classroom with an authentic Italian dining experience.
As part of their studies, pupils have been exploring Italian menus and practising how to order food in cafés and restaurants. To bring this to life, our MFL team took them to Franco Manca in East Dulwich, where they put their language skills to the test—reading the menu, ordering their meals, and fully immersing themselves in the experience.
Not only did they enjoy some truly authentic Italian pizza, but they also gained confidence in using Italian in a real-world setting. A huge thank you to Franco Manca for hosting us—we have no doubt that their language skills have taken a big step forward after such a delightfully delicious experience!
Modern Foreign Languages is definitely one of the popular departments at Sydenham High, nurturing language skills and making them relatable while adding fun to the learning experience.
We are sure the love for languages will only grow every day.
WIR LIEBEN DEUTSCH!
In March, we celebrated the wonderful German language and all the benefits of learning this fantastic subject. Our Year 8 pupils enjoyed a German treasure hunt and quiz round the school and thought about their answers to the question “Was ist dein Lieblingswort auf Deutsch?” They picked some interesting words – from fünfundfünfzig (fifty five) to Eierschalensollbruchstellenverursacher (eggshell cracker)! Deutsch macht Spass! (German is fun!) While Year 9 and 10 pupils took part in an online workshop by Munich Supercrew, who specialise in using music to teach German as a foreign language, even more exciting was the opportunity to sing and enjoy some cake afterwards!
All year groups shared their favourite words in German and it was also interesting to see how they change and develop from Year 8 to Year 11. All pupils were also invited to enjoy Kaffee and Kuchen (or Saft – juice instead of coffee!) on Friday lunchtime and we listened to some German music and danced to a few songs.
Drama
THE WOLVES PUSHES BOUNDARIES
Our talented Upper School and Sixth Form cast brought Sarah DeLappe’s ‘The Wolves’ to life in the Westwood Theatre, delivering a gripping and dynamic performance that captured the intensity of teenage life, friendships, and ambition. Set entirely on the sidelines of an indoor football pitch, the play follows a girls’ high school team as they navigate the pressures of competition, personal struggles, and the unspoken rules of growing up.
See the Director’s Note from Mr Pratt (Director of Drama) and Miss James (Production Manager and Actor in Residence), who share their insights on this extraordinary production:
“We chose this play because we wanted to do something different, something challenging, something that would really push the company out of their comfort zone, challenging their perceptions of what a school play could be. It is safe to say they have risen to this! The cast have been brave, taking many risks, physically and emotionally, to create a memorable and unique performance.
Football (or soccer, more like!) hasn’t come naturally to the majority of the cast, so it has been really enjoyable to see the students work and improve their football skills for this play. This may not have been what they’d expected to learn when signing up for a Drama production!
We feel this play has brought the students together to create a genuine, strong and unified bond, which really makes you believe they are an American soccer team—The Wolves.
We want to thank everyone who has been involved in the creation of this show, including Mr Worthington-Bourg for his technical insight and expertise, Ms Oppong for her costume creation, and the whole SLT staff for their ongoing support and encouragement to make this show a success.
As co-directors, it has been a great experience working with these young women, creating what will be a wonderfully engaging and memorable performance.
We hope they have enjoyed it as much as we have enjoyed seeing them grow into their characters as well as their kit!
Music
HOUSE MUSIC COMPETITION TRIUMPH
This year saw a record number of participants, with each House going through a rigorous audition process to reach the final show. The competition showcased an impressive range of musical talent—from classical pieces and musical theatre to pop songs and even original compositions by our pupils. It was truly a celebration of musical diversity! We witnessed outstanding musicianship, with pupils demonstrating remarkable dedication to their craft. There were instrumental and vocal performances of an exceptionally high standard, as well as heartfelt displays of passion and creativity.
MUSIC SCHOLARS’ SHOWCASE
Our music scholars came together to deliver a breathtaking evening of music in our beautiful Recital Hall. Families gathered for a delightful catch-up before enjoying 12 exceptional performances, showcasing a range of instruments, including piano, flute, trumpet, cello and violin.
SPRING CONCERT
The concert showcased some stunning classical music, including a beautiful vocal duet of You Raise Me Up, which left the audience in awe. Our Year 7 vocal group brought a delightful charm to the stage with the catchy Wellerman sea shanty, while our up-and-coming Year 8 Rock Band wowed everyone with their powerful performance of Glue—a song they were inspired to perform just five weeks ago after a surge of excitement for rock music. Their dedication and passion were clear, and the audience was truly impressed by their hard work.
AMAZING ICELAND
Twenty-five Geographers from Years 9-13 enjoyed an unforgettable adventure in Iceland over February half-term! From witnessing the Northern Lights dance across the sky to exploring the raw power of geysers, this trip was packed with memorable experiences.
They were incredibly fortunate to witness the Northern Lights on two separate nights! The dancing aurora filled the sky with vibrant green colours, creating an unforgettable spectacle. On another evening they celebrated Icelandic culture with a fun quiz and a creative troll-making competition!
Throughout the journey, students gained valuable insights into volcanic activity, tectonic plate movements, glacial landscapes, geothermal energy and the unique geography of Iceland. This trip brought their classroom learning to life in a truly magical way! The Iceland trip has provided our students with memories and experiences they will cherish forever. It was an incredible opportunity to explore the wonders of our planet and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Trips
CLASSICS COMES ALIVE IN SICILY
Our pupils immersed themselves in Sicily’s rich tapestry of history, culture and language this Easter. First stop, a group photo at the foot of majestic Mount Etna, followed by a stunning day exploring the coastal town of Taormina. Compliments from locals revealed the warmth, politeness and enthusiasm of the group’s conduct.
In Siracusa, our Classics and Italian pupils stepped back in time, exploring the dramatic Greek theatre, Roman amphitheatre and ancient quarries of the archaeological park. The vibrant island of Ortygia offered a change of pace with lunch, shopping and a fascinating visit to the Temple of Minerva – a powerful example of Sicily’s layered religious and cultural past. A sweet granita and brioche tasting and a hilarious mythological fashion show ended the day on a high.
Pupils explored the spectacular mosaics of the Roman Villa in Piazza Armerina – a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of unexpected scenes, from toga-clad athletes to ostrich-drawn chariots. Then they travelled to the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, walking in the footsteps of ancient civilisations surrounded by the golden ruins of Concordia, Hera and Herakles.
Throughout the trip, the pupils’ curiosity, kindness and impeccable behaviour shone through. From cultural landmarks to culinary treats, the trip was packed with discovery and delight.
LIVERPOOL RESIDENTIAL
Over 50 of our Year 8 pupils embarked on an exciting trip to Liverpool as part of Mind, Body & Soul Day, immersing themselves in the city’s rich history and vibrant art scene.
The adventure began with a workshop at the International Slavery Museum, where students explored the history of transatlantic slavery, its lasting impacts, and the powerful resistance movements. The experience sparked thoughtful reflection on the importance of learning from history and ensuring we do not repeat its mistakes.
The group then enjoyed a scenic boat
ride along the Mersey, soaking in the stunning views of Liverpool’s waterfront. During a city walk, they visited the iconic Beatles statue, discovering the hometown of this legendary band. The evening was filled with fun and friendly competition as pupils bonded over a spirited bowling session.
Before heading back, the group visited the Walker Art Gallery, renowned for its impressive collection of works that have inspired countless young artists. The gallery offered a chance for pupils to expand their artistic horizons, and we look forward to seeing how the inspiration from the trip translates into beautiful sketches and creations.
WORLD BOOK DAY
We celebrated World Book Day with a fantastic assembly dedicated to our love of reading! Mr Seddon, Head of English, took us on a journey through the history and evolution of books, from the world’s oldest literary manuscript, The Prisse Papyrus (circa 1800 BCE), to modern Kindles and audiobooks.
Reading is not only a wonderful hobby but also brings significant benefits in all areas of life. According to the National Literacy Trust, children who enjoy reading in their spare time are twice as likely to have above-average reading skills (34.2%) compared to those who don’t (15.7%). Additionally, children who read at least once a month report that it helps them to relax (56.6%) and feel happy (41%), learn new things (50.9%), understand different perspectives (32.8%), and learn about other cultures (32.4%).
Throughout the day, our pupils shared their favourite reads, and our Library was busier than ever, filled with excitement as pupils chose new books and took part in the Best Costume competition! We saw some incredibly creative outfits, bringing beloved literary characters to life.
It was a fantastic day of celebration, and what better way to highlight the joy of reading? Let’s keep the enthusiasm alive and continue exploring the magic of books!
Events
RAVENA GURON INSPIRES YOUNG WRITERS
One of the highlights was the visit from Ravena Guron, author of the gripping ThisBookKills
Ravena is a London-born author known for her engaging middle-grade (MG) and young adult (YA) fiction. Her career path is as diverse as her storytelling; a degree in biochemistry and practiced as a lawyer. This unique background enriches her writing, crafting intricate plots and complex characters. Ravena shared her inspiring journey and explained how she transformed her creative ideas into a thrilling murder mystery. She talked about the process of refining drafts and revisions and encouraged the girls to really trust what they believe in and go for it!
Ravena also led a creative writing workshop with our Year 8 pupils, offering valuable tips to spark their imaginations.
“I really enjoyed the visit from author Ravena Guron. She shared her personal experiences, as well as the challenges she faced in the time it took to write each book. There were some really helpful tips for anyone interested in murder-mystery and fantasy writing.
Maya, Year 7
I liked how in the creative writing workshop, she told us how she writes and then gave us the freedom to write whatever we wanted in a murdermystery/thriller style.”
Maya, Year 8
ACTIVITY Charitable
YEAR 8 HOUSE CHARITY DAY
Sydenham High was buzzing with excitement as Year 8 hosted their House Charity Events, raising a fantastic £359.47 for their House charities.
After weeks of planning, pupils came together to deliver a brilliant range of fundraising activities, strengthening their House spirit while supporting meaningful causes.
Grey raised £91.55 for Lives Not Knives with a biscuit decorating stall.
Shirreff brought in £68.65 for Freedom4Girls with a nail salon and bath bomb sales.
Stanley’s Cosy Day, featuring Oodies, Onesies, and hot chocolate, raised £151 for St Christopher’s Hospice.
Gurney’s ‘Guess the Sweets’ challenge raised £49.27 for St Mungo’s.
The energy, teamwork, and generosity shown by Year 8 were truly inspiring.
YEAR 9 HOUSE CHARITY DAY
Year 9 took the lead on house fundraising for their respective charities, bringing an incredible range of creative ideas to life! The action-packed Grey’s Red Light/Green Light game had everyone involved, while Gurney’s mystery bag draw offered a chance to try their luck. Stanley’s “Guess the Staff Baby Photo” was highly entertaining and Shirreff’s car and minibus cleaning service added a wonderful act of service element to the day.
The event was buzzing with energy, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Year 9 worked together seamlessly, and their efforts paid off, raising an impressive total of £215, with Shirreff raising £110, Grey £33, Gurney £44, and Stanley £28 for their chosen causes. A big congratulations to them for their hard work, and thank you to all the pupils and staff who took part in making the day a success!
LECTURES Socrates
SOCRATES LECTURE: MEHALA FORD
Mehala Ford, founder of the Friday Sari Project concept store, which showcases South Asian designers, and Common Ground, a South Asian arts platform, spoke to our Socrates scholars. Mehala shared her passion for creating platforms at the intersection of fashion, art, music, and culture.
She also provided insights into the future aspirations of the workforce, highlighting how they are both farreaching and inspiring. According to GoHenry’s Youth Economy Report, future careers will involve embracing new-age technologies, valuing purpose over pay, prioritising a good work-life balance, and breaking away from the traditional 9-to-5 routine.
It is crucial for us to remain versatile and open-minded, especially in an everchanging world. Many of the roles our pupils will encounter in their lifetimes don’t even exist yet. This underscores the importance of developing a broad and transferable skill set that enables them to pursue engaging and creative careers. Mehala shared her inspiring mantras for success:
• Create work from your interests
• Manifest your ideas
• Build your own networks
• Carve your niche
Don’t wait for permission Be of service
SOCRATES LECTURE: ROMOLA BASU-WILKEN
Our Socrates scholars also welcomed Romola Basu-Wilken, who shared her inspiring journey shaped by curiosity and passion. Born in London and raised in Canada, Romola has spent 25 years working in luxury retail, sales, and marketing with renowned brands across the UK, France, Belgium, and Canada.
Romola spoke about how a secondary school perfume project sparked her love for French, leading to a career with brands such as Godiva, Harrods, Ladurée, and Diptyque. Now, her latest venture sees her working with Qinwan, a luxury date company based in Qatar.
Romola encouraged us to embrace change and follow what excites us, reminding us:
“
Whether you end up working in luxury retail, business, technology, or something completely different, curiosity will always be your greatest tool.
Her inspiring message left us reflecting on our own passions and the opportunities they can create.
CAREERS Exploring
EXPLORE YOUR FUTURE: STEM
As part of our Futures programme, we connect our pupils with real-life experts, giving them the opportunity to hear first-hand about their journeys and explore the world of possibilities.
Two of the external speakers we welcomed this term were CEO and Founder of BioGrad, Dr Natalie Kenny, and Dr Joni Paton, a Perinatal Psychologist,
Dr Kenny came in to speak to BioChemMedSoc about gender representation in Life Sciences and her own career path. Having worked across the global in medical research, including for John Hopkins Medical School in Peru and St George’s in the Amazon jungle, Dr Kenny is currently exploring Immunotherapies and the impact they can have on treating diseases, particularly cancer. She spoke passionately about the need for female representation, not just in the laboratory, but also in taking part in pharmaceutical research. As a business founder, Dr Kenny also shared the wider challenges women face when starting their companies and how, against the odds, she now runs a multi-million pound business with major clients in the UK, including Boots and Phillips, and across the world.
Students explored the world of Clinical Psychology with Dr Joni Paton, a Perinatal Psychologist, as well as Clinical Tutor on the Doctorate of Clinical Psychology course at King’s College London Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IOPNN). She talked about her career pathway from Psychology undergraduate to her work with mentally ill young adults before starting her doctorate and her current roles within the NHS. As part of the Q&A, she answered questions about her average working day, the challenges of the role, the different pathways within Psychology, and what she enjoys most about the job. The most striking statistic was the fact that there are almost 1500 applications for the 44 places on the Doctorate programme offered at the IOPNN.
ROZ DINEEN INSPIRES DURING NATIONAL CAREERS WEEK
As part of National Careers Week and in celebration of World Book Day, we were delighted to welcome Roz Dineen for another ‘Explore Your Future’ talk.
She shared her fascinating career journey, which began as a receptionist at The Times Literary Supplement while studying for her Master’s at SOAS. Roz then wrote for The Wall Street Journal before returning to The Times Literary Supplement, where she eventually became an Editor. She left in 2020 to work on her first novel, BrieflyVery Beautiful , which was released last summer.
Roz spoke about different roles within the sector, the challenges of writing a novel, and her creative process. She also answered questions ranging from the excitement of seeing her name in print for the first time to the potential impact of AI on the profession.
Alongside this, she shared valuable insights to help our students as they consider their futures: the importance of handling failure (and the fact that everyone will experience it at some point), how to navigate alternative pathways when faced with setbacks, and the value of staying true to one’s beliefs while discovering what brings joy.
Speaking about her inspirations, Roz shared this quote from Virginia Woolf:
“Life is not ‘a series of gig lamps symmetrically arranged’ but a luminous halo, a semi-transparent envelope surrounding us from the beginning of consciousness to the end.
We are grateful to Roz for an inspiring and thought-provoking session.
YOUNG MAYOR OF LEWISHAM ELECTION
The Young Mayor of Lewisham election was a fantastic opportunity for young people to exercise their right and responsibility as citizens. Throughout the day, we took turns voting, having carefully studied the candidates’ visions to make informed choices. With an impressive 74% voter turnout, the results truly reflect the voice of our school community.
CELEBRATING OUR UNIQUE STRENGTHS AND DIFFERENCES
Neurodiversity Week is about recognising that everyone’s brain works differently. Miss Pascal, our Head of Learning Support, led an assembly, alongside some of our Year 12 students, to share valuable insights.
What is neurodiversity?
It means recognising that everyone has a differently-wired brain and their own unique way of thinking, interacting, and experiencing the world. Neurodiversity is based on the idea that neurological differences should be recognised and respected, just like any other human variation such as gender, race, or sexual orientation.
Our brains are masterpieces, uniquely built for each of us — no two are exactly alike. The wide range of natural neurological variations affects how people think, learn, and process information.
At Sydenham High, we value courage, character, and kindness — and respecting differences is key to upholding our school community.
Neurological differences mean that some may find certain things
Voice PUPIL
The Young Mayor programme provides a vital platform for young voices to be heard by decision-makers, and empowers young people to engage with democracy and shape the future of our community.
We are incredibly proud of Nielle and Annam for stepping up and standing as candidates in the election. It was a fantastic experience in democratic participation! challenging that others find easy — and vice versa. Neurodiversity is about understanding that these differences are not “abnormal,” but simply another way of thinking and being. It’s important to understand these differences and the impact they may have. You can read more about specific neurodifferences here.
Why Does Neurodiversity Matter?
The concept of neurodiversity encourages acceptance of all individuals, recognising that everyone has unique minds, needs, and abilities. This approach moves beyond labels like autism, dyslexia, or ADHD and instead focuses on the strengths that these differences can bring. Many employers actively seek neurodiverse employees because of their unique problem-solving skills, creativity, and
fresh approaches to challenges. We celebrate the strengths and talents of our community with learning differences, and recognise the hard work, resilience, and determination these students demonstrate.
People who are neurodiverse may sometimes feel misunderstood or face challenges in their daily lives. That’s why it’s important to celebrate the positives that come with thinking differently.
How Can You Support?
• ✅Celebrate the successes and individuality of those around you. If you see someone struggling, ask if they’d like some help. If you can’t help, connect them with someone who can.
Be kind, understanding, and encouraging.
• A small act of kindness can make a big difference.
Let’s remember that our differences make us stronger. By embracing neurodiversity, we create a more inclusive, compassionate, and understanding environment — one where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive.
CELEBRATING DIVERSITY: LEARNING ABOUT RAMADAN
Zara, Laila, and Molly, Year 10. delivered an insightful Q&A-style assembly, sharing Zara’s personal experiences of how she and her family observe this holy month. Through their discussion, we gained a deeper understanding of fasting, traditions, and celebrations, offering a personal perspective on this significant religious festival.
Ramadan is the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting from sunrise to sunset (with exceptions such as young children, pregnant women, the sick etc). As one of the five
pillars of Islam, it is a deeply meaningful spiritual practice. As the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, the dates of Ramadan change annually. Beyond fasting, Muslims focus on prayer, self-reflection, and charitable giving, fulfilling another pillar of Islam— Zakat—by donating to those in need.
Ramadan concludes with Eid-ul-Fitr, a joyous three-day festival where families gather to celebrate with special foods, beautiful clothing, and acts of gratitude. It is a time of community, generosity, and appreciation.
At Sydenham High, we believe that understanding, respecting, and celebrating our differences makes us stronger. Learning from one another, we grow as individuals and a community.
YOUNG LEADERS
Our Young Leadership Team represent our lower and upper school pupils and put forward ideas to improve the school experience. Each year, Year 12 students create manifestos and participate in hustings so that pupils can cast an informed vote for their new leaders.
We are delighted to welcome our new Head Girls, Anais and Kristina, and Deputy Head Girls, Rubi and Isobel, who stood out during the election process with their exceptional leadership skills. They will play a vital role in school life, driving initiatives that align with their vision for positive societal impact.
Leadership is one of the most essential skills for the future, and through these opportunities, our girls develop confidence, initiative, and the ability to inspire others—all within a supportive environment.
We extend our gratitude to YLT 2024 for their dedication and the positive changes made to our 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 offers a series of insightful, thought-provoking pieces that reflect timely topics and educational developments.
This term, we are delighted to highlight three standout articles from a range of our staff.
Our Deputy Head Pastoral reflected on the recent compelling Netflix documentary, Adolescence , and how its themes resonate with our own school policies and pastoral priorities.
Is social media the root of all evil?
Our EdTech Lead shared a compelling piece on the integration of AI in education, underlining the importance of updating policy and how we are embracing emerging technologies within our curriculum.
Harnessing the power of AI
One of our Languages teachers marked International Mother Language Day with a beautiful piece celebrating linguistic diversity and the importance of nurturing a multilingual, multicultural environment at school.
The importance of language
Prep School
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