Founded in 1887, Sydenham High School is an independent day school for girls aged 4–18 and is part of the GDST (Girls’ Day School Trust). The GDST is the leading network of independent girls’ schools in the UK. As a charity that owns and runs 23 schools and two academies, it reinvests all its income in its schools. For further information about the Trust, see p. xxiii or visit www.gdst.net. Pupil numbers. Senior School 483, Prep School 239.
135 years ago four pioneering women championed the unfashionable cause of education for women, with the aim to provide an academic grounding, first-class teaching and an environment that developed character and personality. Radical at the time, but a shining example of the values of courage, resilience and determination that Sydenham High School is built upon. Our motto of “Fear Nothing” emboldens pupils as they forge their own path through life.
Sydenham High actively encourages its pupils to step outside their comfort zones, developing independence, curiosity of mind and the courage to take risks. This mentality is fostered throughout the school, allowing every pupil to develop academic enthusiasm and the ability and awareness to stand up for what is right. Ready to call out inequality or injustice in whatever form it may present itself, pupils have strong moral compasses, and are accepting and respectful of themselves and others.
A Sydenham High education is about so much more than an excellent set of results. The inclusive nature of the school is a point of pride, and a lifelong love of learning is fostered through tailor-made enrichment opportunities such as their Lecture Series, Socrates Programme, Plato Programme and #700STEMChallenge. Pupils are empowered with self-belief and confidence in all that they do, so that in an ever-changing world they are able to respond positively to the ever-increasing demands placed on them, both at school and in their future lives.
Alumnae are climate change consultants, doctors, authors, scientists, artists, Grammy Award-winning musicians and even a horse-racing icon. Our girls value remaining true to themselves even if that means going against the grain.
There is no mould for a Sydenham High pupil and that’s what makes the school so special.
Curriculum. The school offers a broad curriculum, ensuring all our pupils are stimulated and excited by learning. English and Maths provide solid foundations while languages offered include French, German, Spanish, Italian and Latin. Pupils study Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate sciences. Creative and practical subjects include Design Technology, Art, PE, Music and Drama, as well as Computer Science. Humanities include History, Geography, Religious Studies and Classical Civilisation.
In the Sixth Form, there are 26 subjects to choose from: Art, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design Technology, Drama & Theatre Studies, Economics, English Literature, French, Geography, German, Government & Politics, History, History of Art, Italian, Latin, Mathematics and Further Mathematics, Music, Philosophy, Physics, PE, Psychology, Religious Studies, Sociology and Spanish. Our ‘Next Steps’ programme ensures that sixth formers own their future and are equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in higher education and beyond. Following what is right for each individual is key. There is no one mould for our pupils. Our Oxbridge and Competitive Courses preparation provide targeted and focused guidance to support in making applications to Oxford or Cambridge, alongside applications for medicine, veterinary, dentistry and law. Degree apprenticeships and Art Foundation courses are increasingly popular. Another key feature is our Active Citizen Programme, incorporating a Professional Skills programme which ensures that students are well versed in the soft skills required for the workplace, Volunteering to reflect pupils' strong social conscience and Enrichment to develop skills beyond the curriculum. Alongside this, we offer a huge range of additional opportunities including the chance to take part in the Young Enterprise programme and leadership responsibilities within the school.
Personalised subject guidance at both GCSE and A Level ensures that our pupils are fully informed when choosing their options. Bespoke timetabling means we are able to offer pupils the widest range of subject combinations to suit their interests. Regular careers events and opportunities broaden pupils’ knowledge of career options and sixth form students go on to read a range of subjects at competitive universities. The breadth of co-curricular opportunities ensures there is something for everyone, encouraging pupils to get involved and develop key skills. Performing Arts are an integral part of school life, whilst we offer over 20 sports, including rowing. Involvement in the wider community is encouraged through our successful involvement in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme and charitable activities.
Fees per term (from January 2025). Senior School: £7,969.92, Prep School: £6,266.40. Fees include VAT.
School fees include textbooks, stationery and other materials, choral music, PE and swimming, Careers counselling. They do not include examination fees, instrumental music, speech and drama, and externally-run after-school clubs.
Scholarships and bursaries. A number of scholarships are available each year for entry to the Senior School at 11+ and the Sixth Form at 16+. Scholarships are awarded on merit for Academic, Art, Drama, Music and Sport (plus Rowing at 16+) and no financial means test is involved.
The GDST provides means-tested bursaries which are intended to ensure that the school remains accessible to bright girls who would benefit from our education, but who would be unable to enter the school without financial assistance. Bursaries are awarded on the basis of financial need and academic merit. Details can be obtained from our Registrar. It is recognised that occasions will arise when some form of short-term assistance is required – a small fund exists to help pupils in such cases.
Charitable status. Sydenham High School is part of The Girls’ Day School Trust, which is a Registered Charity, number 306983.
Governors & Staff:
Chair of Local Governors: Ms Z Berry, BA, MA (Reading)
Head: Ms A Geldeard, MA Cantab, PGCE
Deputy Head (Academic): Mr C Batty, BSc Bangor, Wales, PGCE
Deputy Head (Pastoral): Dr E Waites, PhD Birmingham, Maitrise Poitiers, BSc Liverpool, PGCE
Head of Prep School: Mrs G Panton, MA St Andrews, PGCE
Deputy Head (Academic & Operations) Prep School: Miss J Wollaston, BEd (Hertfordshire)
Assistant Head & Head of Sixth Form: Ms R Parrish, BA Southampton, PGCE
Assistant Head (Teaching, Learning & Innovation): Ms J Speck, BA (King’s College London), PGCE
Assistant Head (Enrichment): Ms L Dodds, BA Nottingham
Director of Finance & Operations: Mr A Rout, BA Nottingham Trent
Director of Marketing & Communications: Miss L Hooper, BAEcon Manchester, PGDip