Head of English

Sydenham High School is a mainstream, independent, all-through girls' school with sixth form, situated in Lewisham, south-east London. The school caters for over 750 students aged 4-18.

Sydenham High School was founded in 1887 by the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), the leading group of independent girls’ schools in the UK. The Senior and Prep Schools have their own grounds located minutes apart and an 8 acre sportsground, used by all pupils, is a 20-minute drive from the school.

Head

Antonia Geldeard

Mission, vision and values

Our purpose

We aim to inspire the future generations of creators, independent thinkers and trailblazers. We open eyes and hearts by educating the whole person: to balance mind, body and soul. Our diversity of academic and enrichment opportunities enables every girl to forge her own path, strive to be her best and excel. We seek to empower every girl to discover and nurture her unique talents whether in the classroom, the laboratory, the library, the studio, the field, the water, the community or beyond.

We believe that educating the whole person leads to happy, confident and courageous children who flourish and make a positive difference to their community.

Our values

Courage and character: With our school motto at the fore, (‘Nyle ye drede’, ‘Fear nothing’), we aim to foster in every girl the strength of character and courage to discover and pursue her own path.

Curiosity for learning: We seek to empower every girl to learn without limits, cultivating an intellectual and creative mindset through an inspiring and joyful approach to education.

Culture of kindness: We focus on developing a happy and respectful community with strong relation­ships, prioritising every child’s wellbeing and celebrating diversity.

Generosity of spirit: We aspire to be outward looking, giving back, taking on leadership and having a positive impact.

The school motto, Nyle ye Drede, (‘Fear Nothing’), lies at the heart of all Sydenham High does. A Sydenham High education is centred upon the pupil, where academic excellence and pastoral excellence go hand in hand. The school actively encourages pupils to step outside their comfort zones, developing both independence of mind and the courage to take risks. This mentality is fostered throughout the school, allowing every pupil to develop academic enthusiasm, an enquiring mind and the ability and awareness to stand up for what is right.

Sydenham High School emphasises the importance of a broad curriculum complemented by a bespoke co-curricular offering. The school delivers an education that goes beyond the classroom, through a range of additional academic programmes, lunchtime societies, local and international trips and in-school events. These allow pupils to make connections between topics and apply their learning to real life. .

ISI report

“Pupils make rapid progress and achieve excellent results. Pupils develop high levels of self-confidence and the inner strength needed to succeed, as a result of an understanding not to fear failure. Their sense of responsibility to themselves, their school and the wider community is highly developed.”