Address: 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL
Website: sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net
Founded: 1887
Number of Pupils: 483
Fees: £6,244 per term or £18,732 annually
Ages: 11–18
Head Teacher: Ms Antonia Geldeard
Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational
Entrance Procedure: Entrance exam and interview for year 7 entry. Scholarship exams for all entry points. Scholarship exams for year 7 and 12. Bursaries available.
Contact: Admissions Office 020 8557 7004
Email: admissions@syd.gdst.net
School Visits: Open events and taster sessions are all bookable online.
The Curriculum
Pupils study a broad range of academic subjects which develop analytical, creative and lateral thinking skills to build a strong foundation for A-levels and university. At sixth-form, the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) prepares students for the independent learning required at university.
Games & The Arts
The school’s bespoke Mind, Body & Soul offering and sports for all approach, alongside an elite sportswomen programme, expands the mind, takes care of the body and feeds the soul. Sports include cricket, rowing, fencing, trampolining rugby, hockey and netball. Creativity is embraced, through regular concerts, pop up exhibitions and productions such as a highly impressive Billy Elliot.
Pastoral Care
Our inclusive environment allows all of our students to be independent, take risks and learn resilience through trying new things without the fear of failure. Our Sense of Self Programme, combined with the Positive Project, equips our pupils with an essential toolkit to draw upon when facing challenges and setbacks.
University Places
Students leave with excellent results and go on to study at a range of higher education destinations including Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, medical schools and art colleges.
Head Teacher’s Philosophy
We balance academic rigour with well-being. A social conscience is integral to school life; we encourage pupils to find their voice and get involved. One current parent commented, our pupils “are interested, enjoy the lessons and are self-motivated, rather than spoon-fed” whilst prospective parents remark that we are “a breath of fresh air”
Outstanding Characteristics
A smaller but high achieving school where pupils develop the necessary skills for university and employment in an inspirational environment where students can be themselves, learn to take risks, develop independence and resilience, leaving happy and confident about their future. ISI found that ‘Pupils develop high levels of self-confidence and the inner strength needed to succeed.’
