South East London EG 2022

Bonus Pastor
Catholic College

earpiece.indd 2 31/08/2022 13:4

SEPT 2022

South East London

INCLUDING OUR COMPREHENSIVE
GUIDE TO SCHOOL

OPEN EVENINGS

Bonus Pastor Catholic College

LOGO Lewisham’s Ofsted Outstanding
Mixed Secondary

www.bonuspastor.co.uk 0208 695 2100 @bonuspastor 1

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS
2

WELCOME TO THE

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

TO SCHOOLS

Well what a summer we have had? Normally the weather rarely plays ball in Britain during the 6 weeks holidays but this year
the sun definitely came out to play and it’s been glorious! Who needs Spain when you have all that new decking and patio
furniture to use in your back garden I hear you say… yeah right!

It’s September again and we are back with our 11th edition of the ever popular ‘The Essential Guide to Schools’.

This year we have 64 pages crammed packed full of useful editorial about the all important next step of your child’s
education, the transition to secondary school or higher education.

The Essential Guide is focused on the up and coming open days/evenings of the schools and sixth form’s in South East
London that will hopefully make choosing the right school or sixth form for your child that little bit easier, whether it’s a virtual
open event, a bespoke tour or an open evening at the school, we have you covered.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our readers and advertisers, We have had a fantastic response from the
schools this year, so much so we have had to up our pagination to 64 pages! So a big thank you to all that have been involved,
the more schools that we have on board, the more informative our magazine becomes – thank you, thank you, thank you!

Everybody have a lovely autumn, I personally am already looking forward to Halloween, its bigger than Christmas at my
house… let the pumpkin carving commence!

All the best, Antonia Price CONTENTS

The Essential Guide, Phoenix Business Park, Suite 16, ALLEYN’S SCHOOL.................................................................................... P.50
Christopher Martin Road, Basildon (Head Office) ARK EVELYN GRACE ACADEMY............................................................ P.43
Essex SS14 3EZ ARK WALWORTH ACADEMY................................................................... P.32-33
Telephone: 0203 931 8080 Email: [email protected] BABINGTON HOUSE SCHOOL.............................................................. P.46
Website: www.focusmediauk.com BACON’S COLLEGE.................................................................................... P.9
Editor: Antonia Price BETH’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL................................................................. P.19
Art Directors: Design Cloud & Cherry Pick Design BLACKHEATH HIGH SCHOOL............................................................... P.47
Regional Sales: Justin Price, Antonia Price, BONUS PASTOR CATHOLIC COLLEGE............................................. P.57,64
Andy Price, Daniel Coulson & Megan Jones CHISLEHURST SCHOOL FOR GIRLS................................................. P.18
CITY OF LONDON ACADEMY SOUTHWARK.................................... P.53
The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the CLEEVE PARK SCHOOL........................................................................... P.60
publishers. The copyright on the contents of this magazine, including artwork, DEPTFORD GREEN SCHOOL ………….................................................. P.10-11
logos and articles, when generated by Focus Media remain with Focus Media. DULWICH COLLEGE.................................................................................. P.17
Focus Media make every effort to ensure that the information we include is up HABERDASHERS’ KNIGHTS ACADEMY.............................................. P.6-7
to date and correct. However, we cannot be held responsible for any changes, HARRIS ACADEMY BECKENHAM.......................................................... P.22
cancellations, alterations or closures to or at any of the events, venues or HARRIS ACADEMY BERMONDSEY....................................................... P.26
facilities that we list. HARRIS ACADEMY SOUTH NORWOOD............................................. P.56
HURSTMERE SECONDARY SCHOOL.................................................. P.58-59
KINGSDALE FOUNDATION SCHOOL.................................................. P.40-41
LILIAN BAYLISS TECHNOLOGY SCHOOL......................................... P.27
NOTRE DAME RC GIRLS’ SCHOOL ……………………………………….... P.31
PRENDERGAST LADYWELL SCHOOL................................................ P.52
SEDGEHILL ACADEMY.............................................................................. P.61
ST COLUMBA’S CATHOLIC BOYS’ SCHOOL.................................... P.35
ST MATTHEW ACADEMY.......................................................................... P.62-63
ST PAUL’S ACADEMY ………………………................................................... P.51
ST SAVIOUR’S & ST OLAVE’S SCHOOL............................................. P.16
ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE COLLEGE.............................................. P.55
ST URSULA’S CONVENT SCHOOL…................................................... P.14-15
SYDENHAM SCHOOL ............................................................................... P.2,8
THE JOHN ROAN SCHOOL.................................................................... P.30
THE BRIT SCHOOL..................................................................................... P.23
TRINITY CHURCH OF ENGLAND SCHOOL...................................... P.39

3

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

1 IN 5 KIDS IN THE UK ARE VEGAN
OR WANT TO BE, SURVEY FINDS

Are young people leading the plant-based movement?

N Nearly 60 percent of children in the UK are part of the research. The survey found that 44
vegan or vegetarian or want to be, a new percent of kids said they hope that no food is
survey has found. packaged in plastic in 10 years’ time.
BBC Good Food Survey surveyed 1,004 children Christine Hayes, Editor of BBC Good Food,
between the ages of 5 and 16. commented: “It was fascinating to survey
The global food media brand discovered that 8 children’s eating habits, behaviours and opinions
percent of participants were eating a fully plant around food.”
based diet. A further 13 percent were vegetarian. “They are passionate about exploring alternative
Additionally, 15 percent of children said they diets and methods of food production that
would like to become vegan, and roughly could be more sustainable for the planet, “Hayes
one in five (21 percent) said the same about added.
vegetarianism.
Reports didn’t clarify what the children’s Young people leading the way
reasons were for eating plant-based food. But
sustainability was on their minds for at least The recent findings reaffirm the widely held
belief that young people are leading the charge
toward plant-based living.

A 2019 Britain Thinks
Report concluded that
Gen Z and Millennials
are slightly more likely
to be vegan than
older age groups.
And earlier this week,
it was reported that
a majority of young
people (aged 15 to 20)
were taking action to
help fight the climate
crisis. Specifically,
26 percent of
participants said
they eat plant-based
to help protect the
planet.

4

OPEN EVENINGS

“Where your light will shine”

www.stmatthewacademy.co.uk @stmattacad 0208 853 6250

5

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

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6

We look forward to welcoming
you to Knights Academy

OPEN
EVENING

When Time
5pm
Wednesday 21st
September 2022

Launcelot Road, Bromley, Kent, BR1 5EB
[email protected]
020 8461 9240

For more information about joining our school www.habsknights.org.uk
please visit our website

7

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

SYDENHAM SCHOOL

our students in the Performing and Visual Arts, Humanities
and Languages, providing all of our students with
the opportunity to develop an intellectual and social
confidence, broaden their creative skills, and acquire an
enquiring global awareness.

Sydenham School has been a school of choice since 1917. Our Open Day dates for 2023/24 entry are as follows:
We are a popular and oversubscribed school where ‘Aim
High’ continues to be the school motto. We are ambitious Thurs 15 Sept 2022
for every one of our students and believe that high Tues 20 Sept 2022
academic outcomes are an attainable goal for everyone. Sat 24 Sept 2022
We combine high quality teaching with an inclusive and a Tues 27 Sept 2022
broad curriculum, enabling our students to develop into Wed 5 Oct 2022.
academically successful, open-minded young people with
a sense of community, responsibility to others and a high
regard for themselves. The mental health and wellbeing of
our students is an important aspect of our provision. Our
core values include respect, endeavour and kindness.

The school has excellent facilities and benefitted from
a £24 million rebuild several years ago, resulting in state
of the art STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and
Maths) buildings. We are also committed to developing
8

BACON’S COLLEGE

Bacon’s College is a Church of England School and Sixth • Over 2/3 of A Levels resulted in A*, A or B grades.
Form with a commitment to high achievement within a • 83% of BTEC and CTEC courses resulted in
community of care, underpinned by Christian values.
We are absolutely delighted to have been formally Distinction or Distinction*.
recognised as a Good school by Ofsted in the summer • At GCSE, 82% of Year 11 students achieved a grade
of 2022. Part of United Learning since 2018, we have
been graded ‘Good’ in each area of the Ofsted report: 4 or above in both English and maths, with 64%
‘Pupils have positive attitudes to their learning and they achieving grade 5 or above in the two subjects.
behave well in their lessons. They settle down quickly We are committed to supporting our students to
and focus on their learning. Teachers apply the school achieve the very highest academic outcome that
behaviour policy consistently. As a result, disruption they possibly can, within a clear framework of well-
in lessons is rare. Pupils achieve well and leaders are established values, and getting the best out of
ambitious for pupils to do better.’ Ofsted, June 2022. everyone. A key strength of Bacon’s College is the
Our upward trajectory of performance at GCSE and A strong ethos that is shared by all, and the very high
Level has been further boosted this summer with some quality relationships that exist between members
of our best ever results. of our diverse school community. We have excellent
• Bacon’s College Sixth Form students secured facilities across creative arts, media and IT, and a large
sports centre.
places at some of the most prestigious Russell Bacon’s College welcomes applications from families
Group universities including Oxford, Manchester, of all faiths living anywhere south of the River Thames
Warwick and King’s College University of London. with a South East London (SE) or South West London
(SW) postcode.

Bacon’s College

The best in everyone™

Part of United Learning

Open Evening

Thursday 15th September (5-8pm)

Open Mornings

Saturday 17th September (10am-12pm)
Tuesday 20th September (9-10.30am)
Wednesday 21st September (9-10.30am)
Tuesday 27th September (9-10.30am)
Wednesday 28th September (9-10.30am)

@baconscollege

Proud to be rated a Good school
by Ofsted in 2022.

Come and see us for yourself, book online at www.baconscollege.co.uk

9

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

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10

Alleyn Park, Dulwich, SE21 8SQ

11

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

MULTI SCHOOLS
COUNCIL

The initial inspiration for Multi Difference is something that should the real work is done by the young
Schools Council came from a school be embraced, not feared! people and we have three main
council meeting we held at Market way’s of working with young people.
Field. I was asked by the head to The main objective Our first is to give every school
lead the council and in one of the of the Multi Schools who is signed up to our council the
meetings it stuck with me when a Council is to break chance to attend three meetings
pupil said: “People at this school down the social stigmas across the academic year where
understand us, but we don’t ever get that can be created in they bring their own students who
the chance to meet other children school. then discuss issues that matter
or help others see us for who we are to them. From this, it is then my job
because they just see us as ‘special’. and the job of other professionals
We are just like them really.” to at upon these views and make
things happen. There are many

Although a positive word, the term
‘special’ is often used as a negative
within society and ever since hearing
this pupil speak, it’s been all about
changing that perception.

The vehicle for doing so is the ‘Multi When children are developing issues that matter to young people
Schools Council’. The Multi Schools awareness of themselves and others, and the only way we know what
Council is all about bringing children it’s important we acknowledge and they are is if we ask! Following these
together from different schools embrace everyone’s differences. meetings we have done some of
and backgrounds. This involves Not only will that lead to children the most amazing SEND awareness
children at mainstream and special with learning differences feeling less events including a recent United in
education schools coming together isolated, but it will also empower diversity event, several talent shows,
and developing ideas and projects young people to be confident in an annual special school games and
that link to our aim of breaking down who they are. we even climbed a mountain!
the negative perceptions towards
children with SEND or those who I lead the Multi Schools Council, The second element is our
may be ‘different’. which has now been made into a awareness programmes in schools.
fully funded full-time role within the Currently in Essex we offer the
It gives children a voice, Essex Youth Service and soon an following programmes that have
a voice to ensure that advert will be going out for two full all been designed by young people;
discrimination will not time youth workers to be part of that Autism awareness workshops (staff
start in schools and that team. It has taken us 10 years to get and children), ADHD awareness
we use our opportunity to this point, but this point is only workshops (staff and children) and
of education to build the start. Although I lead the council, Mental health & SEND assemblies.
understanding about
how we are all different.

12

for children who use home to school
transport as part of their educational
offer. It looks as if this is something
we will be raising a national
campaign about and we are always
interested to connect with more
young people and professionals
about this.

What this aims to do is wherever you might be based in the Over the next few years, we wish to
create awareness about UK (and beyond!). use the template of Essex and what
different differences – we started and ensure over areas
the young people tell Moving forwards, we have some across the UK can use this so that
me that if we never talk clear plans set out by the young more children and schools know
about these things that’s people we work with. This year much more about children with
when they become an we have been working on a SEND. We will be giving our views
issue! communication project, making sure into the SEND green paper review
communication needs are more and as part of this we hope more
Over recent years we have also recognised in schools and we hope awareness can be created. We need
run a resilience programme, again to have an awareness programme in all of your support – whether you are
designed by young people, with the places by the start of 2023. a parent, a school staff member or
idea of increasing resilience levels in a young person there are so many
young people. All of work so far has Following on from our resilience ways you can be involved! Please
been within the county of Essex but work we know lot’s of young people find all our contact details within
we are currently in the process of have low levels of self-esteem this article.
writing a book which will be released and as part of our priority work
by the end of the summer (2022). around mental health we are in the ‘Let’s challenge negative
Our third element is our ambassador process of developing a support perceptions together’
programme. Our ambassadors are programme for this, which like our
young people across Essex and communication programme, we If you feel that your child’s school
beyond who are passionate about hope will be ready by 2023. Some of would benefit or would like to be
challenging negative perceptions. We our young people have been working involved with the Multi schools
have some amazing volunteers who hard on raising awareness of issues Council contact Kieran Pearce
get involved in various awareness [email protected]
projects and we are always looking
for more inspirational young people

13

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

SSTT UURRSSUULLAA’’SS CCOONNVVEENNTT SSCCHHOOOOLL

Welcome to St Ursula’s Convent School and thank you for of all that we do and all that we say. ‘Serviam’ is at the
orofoatlloftheavterwytehidnog. aWneddaelvl etlhoapt swtuedesanyt.s ‘tSheartvipaumt’ thiseiartfatihthe
Wcoenlsciodmereintgo uSst Uasrsualas’schCooonlvoefntchSocihcoeolfoarndyotuhranckhiyldo.uOfuor rinotoot oafcteiovenrybtyhinbge.inWgeinddeveepleonpdsetnutdelenatdsetrhsa, tkpinudt,thfoerigrifvainitgh,
cstoundseidnetsrinagreuschaaslleangscehdootol oefxccehloinceaflol rasypouecr tcshoildf .thOeuir ignetnoeraocutsionof bsypirbiteianngd ipnderespeevnedrienngt. Sletuadenrst,s kwinhdo, aftotregnivdinSgt,
sletaurdneingts aanrde wcheallaernegeedxtrteomeexlcyelprionudalloafspoeucr tsacoafdethmeiicr Ugersnuelrao’susaroef aslpsioritpaanrtdopfearsneavteiroinga.l SatnuddewnotrsldwwhidoeatntetnwdoSrkt
laecahrineivnegmaenndts.wWee aarree ceoxmtremmitetleyd ptorohuedlpoinfgoeuvreraycsatduedmenict UofrsUurlsau’slinaerescahlsoooplsa. rWt eoffiarmnlaytbioenlaielvaentdhawtoornldcwe iadne Unrestuwlionrek,
apcuhsihevtehmeier nptesr.sWoneaal rbeocuonmdamriiettsedantdo rheealcphingoreveexrcyeesdtudtheenitr oalfwUaryssulainneUsrcshuolionles.. We firmly believe that once an Ursuline,
puotsehntihael.ir ApsersaonnaUlrbsuoluinnedasricehsoaonl,dwreacehnsourrexctheaetd their always an Ursuline.
pexoptenriteianlc. eAis oanne Uorfsouplipnoertsucnhitoyo, lp, owsietivietyn,shuarepptinheast stahnedir Our aim is for our students to leave with the skills, knowledge,
ehxigpheraisepnicraetiosnosn. e of opportunity, positivity, happiness and Ocounrfaidimeniscefoar noudrsetulfd-aewntasretonelesasvethwaitthwtihllepsrkeilplsa,rkentohwelmedgfoer,
lcifoenofiudtesnidce SatndUrseulfa-’sa.wareness that will prepare them for
high aspirations. life outside St Ursula’s.
The aspirations and ambitions of our students are We look forward to welcoming you to such a wonderful
sWcehololo. k forward to welcoming you to such a wonderful
nThuerturaesdpibraytitoenaschianngdanadmpbaistitoonrasl sotaf ffoaunrd tshtuedirepnetsrsoanrael school.
dnuevrteulorepdmbeyntteisacahtintgheancdorpeaosftoarlalltshtaatffwaendot.hAelilr spteurdseontasl
adnedveslotapfmf aetnSttisUrastultah’se sctorirvee otof raellacthhatthwe ehigdhoe. sAtllstsatundeanrdts Ursula Norbert
and sthtaaftf iastrSetflUecrsteudla’isnstthrieveptoosirteivaechactthioenhsigahnedstbsethaanvdioarudrs HUresaudltaeNacohrbeer rt
tahnadt tdhraivteisthrefmlectotesduicncetheed.positive actions and behaviours Headteacher

that drive them to succeed.
In order to develop our students fully, we place great

eInmoprhdaesristoon ddeevveellooppinogurclosstuedpeanrtsnefruslhlyip, swweithplhaocemeg.rWeaet
seumppphoartsiws hoenredveevrewloepipnogscsliobslyecpaanr.tnerships with home. We

support wherever we possibly can.
We place our Ursuline ethos and faith formation at the heart

We place our Ursuline ethos and faith formation at the heart

14

OPEN DAY

FOR YEAR 7 ENTRY 2022

Saturday 17TH September 2022
School open from 9am-1pm

Headteacher’s talks throughout the morning

See our website for more information
www.stursulas.com/admissions/open-day/

To book please email
[email protected]

@stursulas_sch

Crooms Hill, Greenwich, London, SE10 8HN Visit our website
T: (0)20 8858 4613
F: (0)208 269 0237
E: [email protected]
W: www.stursulas.com

15

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

ST SAVIOUR’S &
ST OLAVE’S SCHOOL

What St Saviour’s & St Olave’s is all about Our aim is to be transformative – to develop well
Last year our students once again achieved brilliant rounded, capable, emotionally and spiritually engaged
outcomes at GCSE and A’ level, maintaining our excellent young women who take advantage of the opportunities
record. But our school is about more than just our exam offered within the school and beyond.
results - we believe in the importance of educating the We are a supportive school community – we have strong
whole person. From Year 7 through to the Sixth Form, systems built on mutual support and collaboration. We
our students live and learn our school values which have common goals which we work towards, with a focus
are encompassed in these five words - Transformative, on the wellbeing of all.
Supportive, Inclusive, Compassionate and Reflective. We are an inclusive school – everyone is unique, special
and loved by God, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or social
status.
We teach our students to be compassionate –
encouraging them to help and support each other, as well
as serve the wider community.
We are reflective in that we emphasise the importance of
collective worship and we value opportunities to reflect on
what is important to us.
Our students are focused and disciplined. They are
talented and ambitious, they work hard and achieve well.
For more information about our school please visit
www.ssso.southwark.sch.uk

Compassionate... Reflective... Inclusive... Supportive... Transformative...

An 11 - 18 Church of England Girls’ School

Open Sessions 2022

Open Mornings:

September 22nd, 23rd, 26th, 27th, October 13th

All sessions start at 10am (Headteacher’s talk at 10.45am)

Open Evening: 29th September from 6pm ‘CDlooomvgOeeuWlryaiTnnshncdehiseroeasoepaly!my’ sy:

(Headteacher’s talk at 7.30pm)

Sixth Form Open Evening 20th October

New Kent Road, London SE1 4AN T: 020 7407 1843 W: www.ssso.southwark.sch.uk E: [email protected]

16

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top independent schools for boys aged 7 to 18. UK’s fantastic.” - Parent
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caABBaBacuccuoococaaarryyayrrdddsssdeeeeenoonoemmmtffmtffffseesiieicciccrrrcheeheaaaeddodbbobxoiioiaaallcliililttetpppccyyylllalalaaafffennooocccneerreraacttdtdaaaehhhvttvteeeiiDDDssiiirrreeuuuaaallwlwwwggwgheeheiiiccceeggghhhttrrrhhooCCoCeeuuoouorrppllplhllhleeeaaeaegggcccieeierrrssoooaaaiissnsnrrrssseeettttthhiiihhhnnniieesesttthhrUUhrUaaeeeKKKnntt;;t;ggoooyyyeeppoopo..uuu111rrr555sss%%%ooonnnooo’’’sssfff apply online please visit www.dulwich.org.uk/admissions
current school can advise whether he is in this range.
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We ensure that every pupil feels part of College life and is

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200 pupils at Dulwich have free or subsidised places. Find out more and how to apply by scanning the QR code below.

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100% of fees

17

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

CHISLEHURST
SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

confidence in public speaking and preparing students for
a world where they can make a difference and take their
place with resilience and poise.

We also have a wonderful array of musical, sporting and
extra-curricular activities and are proud members of the
International Coalition of Girls’ Schools. We are fortunate to
enjoy beautiful and extensive grounds, where your daughter
can enjoy sports and thrive and grow in confidence.

For 125 years, generations of girls have thrived and In the sixth form we become co-educational and have a
benefitted from an education at Chislehurst School for dynamic and varied offering of subjects. Our students tell
Girls. We are at an exciting point in our history and warmly us of the unique care that they receive, the deep-rooted
invite parents to find out more about our wonderful respect and aspirational determination for their future,
school. As a happy and highly successful place of learning, which is so evident.
our girls have every opportunity to excel academically, We ensure that all of our students leave us with the best
flourish personally and reach their full potential. possible academic achievements, self-confidence and
Our girls take centre stage, have their voices heard, create the ability to speak out for themselves and others and
a culture of achievement and are empowered to become contribute to making the world a better place. It is my
young women of integrity and ambition. We are passionate privilege and honour to serve as Headteacher.
about developing the leaders of tomorrow, promoting Mrs Maria French FCCT FRSA

CHISLEHURST Chislehurst School for Girls is a highly successful
School for Girls Comprehensive School for Girls (11-18) and Boys (16-18)

A highly successful Comprehensive School for Girls with a Grammar School Stream
(11-18) and Boys (16-18) with a Grammar School Stream
We welcome you to join us for our open event, which
We welcome you to join us at our will include a talk from the Headteacher and a chance
Open Evening
to discuss your chosen subjects.
Year 7
SIXTH FORM
OPEN EVENING
OPEN EVENT
Thursday 22nd September
5.30pm - 8.30pm Wednesday 19th October
5pm - 7pm

Developing the Leaders of Tomorrow Developing the Leaders of Tomorrow

Headteacher: Mrs M French Tel: 020 8300 3156 Headteacher: Mrs M French Tel: 020 8300 3156
BA(Hons), PGCE, FCCT e: [email protected] BA(Hons), PGCE, FCCT e: [email protected]
Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, www.chislehurstschoolforgirls.co.uk Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, www.chislehurstschoolforgirls.co.uk
Kent BR7 6HE Kent BR7 6HE

18

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19

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

I THINK MY CHILD IS GIFTED!

W e all look forward to that have at least one teacher designated as the Gifted and
rst recognisable word from Talented Co-ordinator ensuring that the children are
our children, to their rst identi ed and that in each component of the school’s
unaided step and, with trepidation, provision there are ideas for extension and challenge. If
to their rst day at school. You would you ask you may also nd that the school is working on
be a very unusual parent indeed in-school teaching and learning programmes to extend
if you had not, at least mentally if them. Some schools have gone further and are linking
not out loud, compared your child’s to out- of-school-time providers. Just enter ‘gifted and
achievements and development to talented’ in any Internet search engine and see how
their peers. Was yours the rst to many provider sites appear.
hold a crayon and draw rather than What should you be doing if you think your child is
eat it? Did they start to recognise gifted or talented? Firstly, talk to the school. Compare
shop signs before their friends? observations, share observations and nd out what
Most parents will nd themselves may already be going on. Every child is di erent so don’t
wondering if their child is gifted assume there is one right answer to be found in the
or talented in some respects. books and websites that your research will uncover. Be
Alongside your observations many
of the professionals who see your guided by the school so that you are
child regularly will also be making assessments. working together.
Health visitors or doctors may comment on rapid At home spend time reading with
development during the first four years and playgroup your child and reading to them. Talk
sta may be passing on observations that your child to them about the pictures and
is able to do much more than their peers. Already in guess what may happen next in the
place and developing at pace is a national programme stories.
to identify and support youngsters who are gifted or Classrooms often feature ‘word
talented. So let’s look at what these words mean. ‘Gifted’ walls’ – postcard size signs, each
is used to refer to the top 5% children in each year group with a word that will appear in the
in academic subjects. ‘Talented’ refers to the top 5% in next topic of work. Borrow the idea
non-academic fields such as music, art and sport. Ask for home. Have the names of items
another ‘expert’ and you’ll be told the figure iis 10%, ask of furniture stuck on them. Every
a third and the answer will be that at least 40% of any now and again collect the cards and
year group will be gifted or talented to some degree. challenge your child to put them
The majority of primary schools are working to a gure back in the right place. Make it a
of 5 – 10% of each year group as a guide. They will game – not a test! Add new words

20

regularly. Why not have a ‘Word of the Week’? Let your Don’t be afraid to control the number of experiences.
child search to find it and then read it to you. Count the Too many can be overwhelming unless there is time to
letters or talk about what other words it is like. mesh them in to existing ideas and thoughts.
The best time to learn a new language is when we Even the most gifted must experience failure and be
are young so if you are bi-lingual then help your child allowed to make mistakes. Don’t be over- protective.
become so too. Don’t be put o by people who claim Coping with mistakes often leads to new discoveries.
learning to speak two or more language will lead to All through this process keep in touch with school
confusion. ‘Word walls’ can be bi-lingual. Public libraries so that you can work together, linking out of school
can o er help in nding books in most languages. experiences with in-school activities.
There are many websites that are suitable to feed your Some parents reading the above comments will have
child’s sense of awe and wonder at new knowledge. come to a startling discovery of their own! Yes, you are
Refer to the school if you are having trouble finding right – they apply to all children.
good sites.
You can also ask them to make a news poster each AFTER ALL, DON’T ALL
week combining words and pictures about a new PARENTS KNOW THAT THEIR
discovery they have made or a recent experience. Can
you bind them all together in to a giant book? CHILDREN ARE SPECIAL?
Children need to develop their
interpersonal skills. Go out together 21
and experience the world. Talk
to people, ask questions, make
discoveries. If you haven’t been to
a museum since you were young,
you will be amazed by how much
they have changed. Include physical
activity – doing, building and playing
all contribute to a general tness. Once
again, make it fun. How big a tower can
you build out of food packets? What
rules do you need to remember when
building? Count the packs, discuss
their weights, read their names – make
learning a fun experience.
A gifted or talented child will want
to be involved in many many things.
Sometimes you will need to provide
a quiet time, a time to think and order
all the new things they are nding out.

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

HHAARRRRIISS AACCAADDEEMMYY BBEECCKKEENNHHAAMM

The school’s culture of aspiration and ambition is clearly
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- Ciara Warnock, Principal
-- CCiiaarraa WWaarrnnoocckk,, PPrriinncciippaall

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Harris Academy Beckenham T: 020 86508694 24/08/2022 14:46

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22

harris-resized.indd 3

THE BRIT SCHOOL

The BRIT School in Croydon is free to attend and open to Book a place at one of our Open Events via https://joinbrit.
anyone with a passion for the arts. eventbrite.co.uk/
This Autumn we are hosting two Open Events to meet Whether your goal is to be a performer, technician,
you- the next generation of creative talent who wish to designer, musician, artist, teacher, facilitator or a business
study here at Key Stage 4 and Post 16. This is a chance professional, studying at The BRIT School is the best way
to see the school and discover if this is the place for you. to prepare yourself for the future. We offer a creative and
well-rounded training that will stretch and challenge you,
as well as provide you with a wide range of skills and
opportunities to help you succeed in your future careers.
In 2021, 97% of students went on to higher education at
top universities studying a diverse range of subjects, or
to leading vocational drama/dance schools and music
conservatoires and/or full time employment.
You can apply online at www.brit.croydon.sch.uk/apply to
join in Autumn 2023.
@TheBRITSchool

#theplacetobeyou

Thursday 29th September 2022
Wednesday 12th October 2022
Sign up to visit:
joinbrit.eventbrite.co.uk

Follow @TheBRITSchool

23

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

TIKTOK. WHAT PARENTS
NEED TO KNOW

Despite only launching in 2018, TikTok has enjoyed a dramatic rise
to become one of the most popular social media apps on the planet.

Y oung people, in particular, love its consistently stayed at the top of both the
short-form video focus, and it is now Google Play Store and Apple App Store charts.
one of Generation Z’s favourite tools of What sort of content is on TikTok?
expression. There’s a good chance your child is You can find videos relating to almost all
either using it already or asking to be allowed interests on TikTok, from DIY tricks and make-
on it – but what exactly is it, and are there any up tutorials to gaming and sports. People are
risks you should be aware of? allowed to let their imagination run wild on
Here’s everything parents and carers need to TikTok, as there isn’t really a ‘right’ or ‘wrong’
know about TikTok. type of content. Your child might use TikTok
What is TikTok? to pick up new skills, learn how to play an
TikTok was born out of a merger between two instrument or even connect with people they
already popular apps, Douyin and Musical. share an interest with.
ly. It’s based around many of the same The videos are often playful and take
features found on those platforms and is maximum advantage of the editing tools to
primarily a social media app where users can make the 15 seconds of video as memorable
both create and watch short video snippets, as possible. Although most of the content
often accompanied by music. Over the two you will find is upbeat, funny and joyful,
years since its launch, the app has amassed people also use the platform to respond to
more than 800 million active users and has current events such as the #BlackLivesMatter

campaign and the COVID-19
pandemic. This has led to
controversy in the past, with
TikTok having been accused
of censoring politically-
charged content which was
especially critical of the
Chinese government.

But TikTok has a set
of community guidelines all
content must adhere to and
does not permit, for example,
violent, racist, extremist or
sexually explicit content on
the platform.

24

How can I help my
child be safer on
TikTok?

Using social media can be an enriching activity And last but not least, make sure that your
for young people and a good way to stay in child knows how to report videos or users if
touch with their social circle during these they stumble across inappropriate content and
strange times. Although TikTok has significantly how to block users who are bothering them.
stepped up its efforts to keep young people
safe, it’s important that your child is aware of How to report and block a
the risks they could encounter and know how user:
to respond.

First of all, remind your child to be mindful of •Go to the user’s profile and hit
what they share and who they share it with. If the three-dot menu in the top-right
they choose to have an open profile, they need corner of the screen.
to understand what that means – everyone •Click either ‘Report’ or ‘Block’ from the
can see what they post and TikTok even has menu that will appear at the bottom of
a feature that allows other users to save their the screen.
videos (to disable this option, go to the Privacy •In both cases you’ll be asked to give
and Safety option and turn off ‘Allow your a brief description of the issue and
videos to be downloaded’). Try going through complete a few more steps.
the settings together, so you can both share
your views on what should be adjusted.

Social media can be hotbeds for How to report a video:
misinformation and scams, so encourage your
child to think critically about the things they •Find the video you want to report in the
see in their feed. If something seems too good feed or on the user’s profile.
to be true, chances are it probably is. •Click the arrow-shaped ‘Share’ button on
It might seem obvious, but reassure your child the right-hand side and select the flag-
that if they have any questions about the app shaped ‘Report’ icon from the menu.
or have had an uncomfortable experience,
they can come to you for support.

25

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

HARRIS ACADEMY
BERMONDSEY

Basmala is off to Receiving the offer boosted her academic confidence too, C
Merton College, Oxford she said. “Talking to the academics at Oxford gave me this
We are extremely proud renewed vigour to tackle my subject better, which has C
that one of our 6th been a massive source of strength and given me a sense M
Form students will be of direction academically and also personally,” she added.
taking up her offer of a Basmala is following in good footsteps. In 2019, another M
place at Merton College, Harris Academy Bermondsey sixth former, Chantoi, Y
Oxford to study History. received an offer from Balliol College, Oxford, to study
Basmala, who studied Ancient and Modern History, while in 2020, Jona, Elizabeth Y
English Literature, and Korede all received offered from Oxbridge universities. CM
History, Religious Studies In 2021, students at Harris Academy Bermondsey
and Drama at A Level, secured university places to study subjects such as CM
has secured her place veterinary nursing, law and pharmacology. In all, a hugely MY
at Merton College having impressive 25% of university offers were from prestigious
exceeded her offer grade Russell Group universities and 2022 sees this picture MY
by achieving a phenomenal 2 A* and 2 A grades. improve further with 32% of university offers coming CY
“It’s the biggest source of anxiety and excitement at the from Russell Group Universities. Students will be taking
same time,” said Basmala. “Whenever I felt like I was up places at universities such as UCL, LSE, King’s Queen CY
struggling through things, I just remembered that I got an Mary and Durham. CMY
offer from Oxford to work towards and it gave me drive.”
CMY
K

K

26

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS & COLLEGES
THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

LILIAN BAYLIS
TECHNOLOGY SCHOOL

LBTS aims to “Educate, Empower, Excel” and we do this Languages, Cooking, Debating, Drama, and many more!
LthBrToSugahimosurto5 “sEcdhuocoaltvea, lEumesp: ower, Excel” and we do this SLatundgeunatgsesc,anCaoloskoinogp,t tDoesbtautdinyga, mDurasmical, inasntdrummeanntyfreme oorfe!
t•hArochuigehveomure5ntschool values: cShtuadrgeen.ts can also opt to study a musical instrument free of
• Ascphireavteiomnent charge.
• ARsepsilriaetniocne At GCSE students can study options in Geography, History,
• Resiplioensciebility SAot cGioCloSgEy,stRuSd,enAtrst, cSapnosrttuSdcyieonpcteio, nMsuisnicG, eDorgarmapah, yB, uHsiisnteosrys,
• Respoecntsibility CSocmiopluotgeyr, SRcSi,enAcrte,, SFpoordt TSecciehnncoelo, gMy,usDice,sigDnra&maT,ecBhunsoinloegsys,
• Respect TCeoxmtipleust,eraSs ciewneclle, aFsoodseTpeacrahtneoloGgCyS, EDesSigcnien&ceTsech(Bniology,
Students are provided with an ambitious curriculum as well CTehxetmileist,rya&s Phwyeslilcs)afsor stehpoasreatheatGwCisShE toSpcuiernscuesa c(Barioeleorgiyn,
aSstuadennutms abreer porfoevnidreicdhmwiethnta/n eaxmtrbaictiuoruriscucluarrriaccutluivmitieass. wTheilsl fiCehledms isturcyh& aPshymsicesd)icfionrethoorseenthgiantewerisinhg.toSptuudrseunetsa canreearlsino
iansclaudneusmbBearsokfetebnarlilc, hmFeonotb/alel,xtraDcaunrcreic,ulaArnaimcteiv, itieCso. dTinhgis, sfiteuldsy Psourcthugausesme,eFdriecninceh oarndenAgrianbeiecriansg.adSdtuitdioennatls GcCaSnEsa.lsIno
iLnacnlugudaegses,BaCsokoektbinagll,, DFeoboatbinagl,l, DDraamncae, , anAdnimmea,nyComdoinreg!, ostuurdsychPoortlu6gtuhesFeo,rmFr,esntcuhdeanntds Acaranboicptasfoardadvitaiorineatly GoCf SbEosth. IAn
LSatundgeunatgsesc,anCaoloskoinogp, t Dtoebstautdinyg,a mDruasmicaa,l iannsdtrumeanty frmeeoroef! Loeuvreslchanodol B6TthECFocrhmo,icsetusd. eFnrotsmcahneroeptthfoery apvroagrireetsysoifnbtootthoAp
cShtuadrgeen.ts can also opt to study a musical instrument free of ULenviveel rasintidesBaTnEdCHcighhoeicreLse. vFerloAmpphreenretictehsehyippsr.oWgreewssorikntwoitthopa
charge. nUunmivebresritieosfanudnHivieghrseitrieLsevedl iArepcptrleyntticoeshpirposv.iWdee wmoerkntwoirtihnga,
Students are provided with an ambitious curriculum as well nexupmebriernceof dauynsiverasnitdieshedlpirecwtliyth toappplircoavtidoens, mseuncthorinags,
aSstuadennutms abreer porfoevnidreicdhmwiethnta/n eaxmtrbaictiuoruriscucluarrriaccutluivmitieass. wTheilsl eCxapmebrireidncge undiavyesrsitayn, dGolhdeslmp ithwsitahndaKpinpglisc.ations, such as
ainsclaudneusmbBearsokfetebnarlilc, hmFeonotb/alel,xtraDcaunrcreic,ulaArnaimcteiv, itieCso. dTinhgis, Cambridge university, Goldsmiths and Kings.
includes Basketball, Football, Dance, Anime, Coding, We have also been awarded “Investors in Careers” due to our
pWaerthnaevrsehaiplsowbitehenmawajoardebdus“iInevsesetosr, sininclCuadrienegrsS” tduTehtoomoausr’
Hpaorstpnietarsl,hiCpitywwitirhe, mIBaMjo, rMbicursoisnoefsts, eBse, rkinecleluydHinogmSets, TWhhoimteas&’
HCaosep,itPael,nCguitiynwPirueb, liIsBhMe,rsM, iacnrodsmofat,nBy emrkoerle.yTHheosmeebsu, sWinheistese&s
Cpraosvei,dPeengmuiennPtourbsl,isheinrss,pairnadtiomnanl y mspoereak. eTrhseseabnudsinewssoerks
oppropvoidrteunitmiese.nItnorasd, ditionns,pioruatriosntuadl entsspetakerps artaindartswaonrdk
ospoprotrstupnriotijesc.tsInwaitdhdilteioand,inogurnasttiuodneanl tosrgtankeisaptaiortnsin, inarctlsudaindg
TspaotertsMporodjeercnt,s wthiteh lReoaydainl g Fneasttioivnaall oHraglal,nistahteionGs,loinbceludaindg
pTarotefesMsiondaelrns,potrhtse clRubosy,asl ucFhesatsivAalrseHnaalll,antdheSurGreloybCeouanntdy
pCroicfkeestsiColnuabl.sports clubs, such as Arsenal and Surrey County
Cricket Club.

Come join us for our open
mCoomrneinjogisn/euvsefnoirnogusroonpen
tmhoerfnoilnlogws/ienvgednaintegss: on
the following dates:

Mornings Evenings
9M-o1r1anmings E4:v30en- i7n:3g0spm

9 - 11am 4:30 - 7:30pm
September: September:
1S9ethp, t2e0mth,b2e1rst:, 26th, 2S9etph tember:
1297tthh,,2208tthh, 21st, 26th, 29th
27th, 28th
October:
3Ordc,t4otbh,e5rt:h
3rd, 4th, 5th

32 27
32

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

APPLYING TO A GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Your child is unique, and so is every school. You will want to be fully informed about all
the options to ensure that you make the best possible secondary school choice. If your
child seems to need more academic challenge than the majority of their peers you could
consider applying for a grammar school and registering your child to sit an entrance test.
This might seem daunting but it doesn’t need to be. By starting your planning early, when
your child is in Year 5, you will find it easier to make informed decisions and reduce the
stress as much as possible for both you and your child.

GWHAT IS A GRAMMAR SCHOOL? WILL WE HAVE A CHANCE TO VISIT THE GRAMMAR
rammar schools take students from all walks of SCHOOL?
life who can demonstrate that they would benefit Yes. All these schools hold open events during the
from an academic education. Of the over 3,000 school day or evening. These generally take place in the
secondary schools in England, only 164 are grammar summer term, and prospective students would ­usually
schools. They are state secondary schools, whose visit while they are in Year 5. Events are ­advertised via
places are applied for in the usual way, through the Local the websites of individual schools and also on the CSSE
E­ ducation Authority. They do not charge fees. Grammar website.
schools are usually not local schools, because they take
from a large catchment area. Places in these schools HOW DO I APPLY FOR A PLACE AT A GRAMMAR
are allocated selectively, by academic ability, based on SCHOOL FOR MY CHILD?
­performance in an entrance
test, often known as the Grammar schools are the only
11+ . There are a number of state schools that are allowed
grammar schools in Essex and by law to select all their
surrounding counties, many pupils on the grounds of high
of which are represented by academic ability. You must
the Consortium of Selective register your child to sit an 11+
Schools in Essex www.csse. test and also name the school
org.uk If your child enjoys as one of your preferences on
academic c­ hallenge, then your Local Authority Common
grammar schools can be very A­ pplication Form. For non
exciting and inspiring places CSSE schools, the ­appropriate
to be. test application forms are
HOW CAN I COMPARE RESULTS AT DIFFERENT available via the website of
GRAMMAR SCHOOLS? your chosen school.
You can also look for results on the www.gov.uk/school-
performance-tables website. Some newspapers also WHAT IS THE 11+ TEST?
produce tables of exam results by type of school. For The 11+ is the name commonly given to the ­selection
example, if you go to www.telegraph.co.uk and search for test for entrance to a grammar school. In reality there
‘GCSE results’, there are articles written in August each are different tests for different schools. In Essex ten
year that will lead you to tables showing c­ omparative of the selective schools use a common test ­organised
GCSE (or A level) results for most grammar schools. by the CSSE which saves children, whose parents
express a preference for more than one ­selective school,
28 having to take multiple tests. For CSSE schools there

are two papers, English and Maths, each 1 hour long HOW WOULD I PREPARE MY CHILD FOR THE 11+
and worth equal marks. The English paper ­comprises TEST?
c­ omprehension, grammar and vocabulary questions, two All grammar school Headteachers share a concern
pieces of creative writing and applied ­reasoning (literacy/ that extensive coaching for the 11+ is inappropriate,
verbal) and the Maths paper ­comprises q­ uestions can be counterproductive and may mean that a child
consistent with the more challenging ­elements of the succeeds in the test but is not actually able to cope
KS2 National Curriculum and applied reasoning (maths/ with the demands of a highly academic curriculum. It is
non-verbal reasoning). Details of tests for non CSSE however, a good idea for children to spend a few hours
schools in Essex are available via the websites of the familiarising themselves with the style of responses
individual schools. required in the exam papers. This can be done at
SHOULD MY CHILD SIT THE 11+ TEST? home, using materials and sample papers available on
It can sometimes be difficult to decide as a parent the CSSE website or on the individual school websites.
whether or not your child should sit the 11+ test and often Booklets of sample ‘11+’ papers can also be purchased at
your child’s primary school teacher will be the best person large bookshops or online.
to advise you. The Headteachers of the CSSE selective
grammar schools in Essex have ­suggested that some of IF MY CHILD DOESN’T ACHIEVE A HIGH ENOUGH
the qualities such children will have demonstrated are: MARK TO GET INTO THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL OF MY
CHOICE, CAN THEY BE RETESTED?
curiosity, enjoyment of learning and problem solving It is not possible for your child to be retested for entry
perseverance and completion of challenging tasks into the same year group. The in year admission policies
understanding of all concepts taught at primary differ between schools and are published on the relevant
school school websites.
enjoyment of a wide range of literature and/or
non-fiction texts and familiarity with reading and WHEN DOES THE 11+ TEST TAKE PLACE?
responding to texts with a reading age greater than 11 The 11+ tests for admission to grammar schools in
understand of the rudiments of spelling, grammar September 2020 will take place in September 2019.
and punctuation Dates for the tests vary to enable applicants to take
creativity in sustained writing more than one entrance test if they choose to do so.
ability to make connections between various areas It is essential to register well in advance for the test.
of knowledge Registration for schools within the CSSE usually opens in
a good memory June and closes in mid July.
imagination and original ideas
ability to work at pace and assimilate information
quickly
appreciation of numerical conventions and ability to
apply mathematical concepts

29

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

THE JOHN ROAN SCHOOL

At The John Roan School we are relentless in our • 41% of vocational entries achieved Distinction or
pursuit of excellence. We aim to ignite ambition in every Distinction*
student through teaching that empowers and inspires;
a calm and disruption-free learning environment; and a • 67% of Year 11 students achieved a grade 4 or above
strong character education programme in both GCSE English and maths
At The John Roan School, we pledge to provide a rich,
broad and varied education that stretches students • More than 50% of students achieved a grade 5 or
both academically and socially to achieve their full above in both GCSE English and maths
potential. We are ambitious as well as inclusive, setting
high expectations of everyone in the school community, • Just over a fifth of students (21%) achieved a grade
and providing a learning environment in which students 7 or above in GCSE English and maths.
can flourish and achieve success from year 7 right
through to year 13. We develop the whole person not • Sixth Formers secured places at top Russell Group
just the mind. Our students have opportunities to lead universities including Warwick University, Queen
and to serve their local community. Sports, music and Mary’s University of London, University of the Arts,
the arts are key components of our curriculum. University of Sheffield and Loughborough.
Our exam results this summer are a direct reflection of
the progress that we have made since becoming part Through the John Roan Foundation, students have
of United Learning in 2019, access to our extensive playing fields, an outdoor
• 71% of A Level entries achieved A*-C grades education centre, Scholarship Programme, free
music lessons and much more. We enjoy very close
community links through our award-winning Parent-
Teacher Association, the JRSA. Founded in 1677, as one
of the oldest state schools in the country, The John
Roan School has a long and distinguished history of
educating the young people of Greenwich.

Open Evening

Wednesday 12th October 2022
6pm - 7.30pm

Open Morning Tours 9am - 10am

Tuesday 20th September
Tuesday 27th September
Tuesday 4th October
Tuesday 11th October

Book online at www.thejohnroanschool.org.uk

@TheJohnRoan TheJohnRoan

30

NNOOTTRREE DDAAMMEE RRCC GGIIRRLLSS’’ SSCCHHOOOOLL

Our Ethos Our Offer
OA uhridEdtheonsgem south of the river, we are a small, all girls’ WOuer Obefflieerve in each individual and their potential and care
CAahthidodliecn sgcehmoosl ouptrhovoidfintghe arniveer,duwceataiorne acosnmsaisltl,enatll gwiriltsh’ Wdeeepblyelaiebvoeutintheeawcehllbinedinivgidaunadl daenvdelothpemirenptootef notuiarlpuanpdils.cOaurer
CChatrhisotilaicn tsecahcohoinl gpfroorvidpiunpgilsanof eadllubcaactikognroucnodnssisatnedntfawithitsh. dcuererpiclyulaubmoutotfhfeersweallbberienagdatnhd adnedveldoeppmthentoof faocuardpeumpiials. aOnudr
FCohurinsdtieand itneathcehinfogotfsotreppsupoiflsStofJuallile bBailclikagrtr’osupnidosneaenridngfawitohrsk. ccureraritcivuiltuym, usoinffgertsheafabcrileitaiedsthofanoudr dinenpetrh ciotyf laoccaadtieomn iato atnhde
iFnougnirdlse’dedinucthaetiofono, twsteepcsonotfinSuteJutolieeBmilpliaorwt’esrpyioonuenegrinfegmwaolerks cfurella. tAivsitya, ussminagllthsechfaocoillitwieisthofsmouarllienrnethr acnityavloecraatgieonctlaossthees
itnodgairyl,s’eqeudiupcpaintigonth, ewme wcoitnhtianusetrotongemmoproawl eprurypoousnegtofepmlaayleas fcuolml. bAinsead wsmithalla sccuhltouorle wofithcarsimngalpleror fethsasinonaavliesrmag, eweclaksnsoews
dtoydnaaym, iecquainpdpinregstphoenmsibwleithroalestirnonagmmoodrearlnp,udrpivoesresetosopclaieytya. ceoacmhboinfeodurwpituhpailsciunldtuivrieduoafllcya, rfionrggipngrocfelossseiorneallaistimon, swheipskninowa
Rdyenseamarcich asnhdowressptohnatsibglierlsrooluetpineraformmodbeoryns, dwivheernsensootciinetya. ceoacmhmoifttoeudr apnudpislsupinpdoivrtidivuealelyn,vfiroorngmingenctl.osOeurreblaetsiopnoskheipYseainr a7
mReixseedarcschhoshool wansdtohuart hgiigrlhs aosuptirpaetriofonrsmenbsouyrse awllhpenupnilsotminakea bcoumildminigttheedlpasnmd askueppyoorutrivdeauegnhvtireorn’smtreannts. itOiounr fbreosmpopkreimYaerayrto7
mmiexaesdursacbhloeopl raongdreosusrrehgigahrdalesspsiraotfiothnesirenstsaurrteinagllppouinpti.ls make bseucilodnindgahryelspcshmooalkaesysomuroodtahugahstepro’ssstirbalnes. ition from primary to
measurable progress regardless of their starting point. secondary school as smooth as possible.
Our Future
“OBuerinFgutaumreember of the Notre Dame Community has taught
“mBeeinthgea fmolleomwbinegr: otof tbhee rNeostilrieenDt,amopeenCotommneuwnitoyphpaosrtutanuitgiehst
amned tahbelefotolloswtrinivge: ttoowbaerdrseswilhieantte,voepr eI nwtaontnteowaochpipeovretuinnitliifees.
aTnhdesaebqleuatolitisetsrivheavteowshaardpsedwmhaeteavsera Iywouanngt twooamcahnievaendinI laifme.
Tcohnefisedeqnutaltihtiaets thhaevye wshilal pgeudidme emaes tahyroouugnhg wmoymjoaunrnaneyd Iasama
cstoundfiednetn, tantdhaGtotdhewyillwinigll, agufuidteurme leeatdheror.u” gh my journey as a
s-tFuodremnte,rasntdudGeondt.willing, a future leader.”
- Former student.

OEEOvvppeeeennnnttss The open session dates are October:
6Otcht:ob9e.1r5: - 10.30am
The open session dates are 162tthh:: 95.1050--170.0.300pamm
12th: 5.00 -7.00pm
September:
2S8etpht:em5.0b0er-: 7.00pm
3208th: 59.0150--170..0300pam
30th: 9.15 - 10.30am

118 St George’s Road, www.notredame.southwark.sch.uk 020 7261 1121
1L1o8nSdtonGeSoEr1ge6’EsXRoad, www.notredame.southwark.sch.uk 020 7261 1121
London SE1 6EX

31

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

ARK WALWORTH ACADEMY

Ark Walworth Academy is a nationally recognised, award-
winning school in the heart of the Southwark community.
This year, we have received the Bronze Award for Secondary
School of the Year in the category of ‘making a difference’
and we feel this is a true reflection of the work we do
for our young people. We are recognised on the honor
roll by the UK Social Mobility Awards, and were highly
commended in the TES national awards for Community and
Collaboration – all of which is a testament to the inclusive

and transformational school experience we provide.

Our students leave us for elite destinations – some to
prestigious universities including Cambridge, Bristol,
and Kings College London - and some to top flight
apprenticeships with companies such as UBS and Balfour
Beatty. This is made possible through a school experience
which focuses on developing young people as citizens and
strong working relationships with industry partners such as
BP, Nat West and a range of providers in the medical and
healthcare field.

We teach the full national curriculum and more, with We know families are finding things tough at the moment
integrated Community Weeks in which we focus on broader so we do our best to support you too. All Walworth
themes. These weeks enable young people to manage Academy families receive a uniform voucher to help with
themselves in 21st century society with topics including the cost of transition, and every Walworth student receives
personal safety, citizen’s rights, and financial literacy. a laptop to support them during their time at school, totally
On top of that, every student in our school does an hour free of charge. We also work with partner organisations to
of enrichment each week. Activities range from chess provide family counselling and other support services at
to first aid, samba drumming to crochet, engineering to times of challenge if you need it.
community advocacy! We know young people need a range We think our school is offers a supportive community and
of experiences to enable them to find their future pathways an exciting place to learn; we look forward to sharing it with
and we have a proven track record in making this happen you at our Open Sessions!
for our students; alumni of Walworth Academy hold national
records in sports such as rowing, and one of our former
students represented Nigeria in the women’s U21 Football
World Cup this year! We’re hugely proud of the Walworth
Academy Family!

32

OPEN SESSIONS

Thursday 15th September 2022

9.15 - 10.30am – Principal’s Talk at 10:30am

Friday 16th September 2022

9.15 - 10.30am – Principal’s Talk at 10:30am

Thursday 22nd September 2022

9.15 - 10.30am – Principal’s Talk at 10:30am

Tuesday 11th October 2022

5.30 - 7pm – Principal’s Talk at 7pm

For more information on our Open Sessions, scan the QR code or
go to www.onlineopenevening.co.uk/walworthacademy

33

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

BEATING THE
BEDTIME BLUES

W ith the kids now back at school after Further findings revealed that more than one in ten
the summer holidays its estimated that parents freely admitted that they don’t take responsibility
approximately 49% of parents will be for ensuring their children go to bed at a decent time
struggling to get their children back to a ‘school sleeping’ each day with 23% of the parents quizzed admitting that
routine. they would happily go to sleep first if their children were
On average it will take them seven days to revert their refusing to go to bed.
kids back to an ‘early to bed programme’.
A recent poll of over 3,000 parents revealed that 42% of The study also showed that children’s bedrooms are
adults don’t know how much sleep their children should changing from places of rest and tranquility to places
be getting and on average 44% of parents are sending where there were lots of things to keep them awake. 53%
their children to bed between 9pm – 12.00 am on a of the parents asked said their children have a TV, DVD
school night. player and games console in their bedroom and 38% of
One in five parents said that they are constantly arguing the parents also confirmed that they do not read their
with their children over bed time and 47% of parents children a bedtime story.
confirmed in the study that the subject of ‘going to bed’
causes chaos in their household. So, how do we get them to get
the correct amount of sleep?
CHILDREN’S SLEEPING GUIDELINES
• Establish a regular time for bed each night and
Age 2 10.5 – 12.5 hours don’t vary from it
Age 3 10.5 – 12.5 hours
Age 4 10 – 12 hours • Create a relaxing bedtime routine, give your
Age 5 10 – 12 hours child a warm bath/ shower
Age 6 10 – 11.5 hours
Age 7-11 9.5 – 11.5 hours • Make bedtime fun – read a story to your child
• Don’t give your child any food or drinks that
9% of parents who took part in the research also
admitted to using ‘staying up after bed time’ as a contain caffeine prior to bedtime
bargaining tool to get their children to help out with • Avoid giving your child large meals close
various household chores, with the most popular being
washing up closely followed by cleaning their room or to bedtime
eating vegetables. • Make after-dinner playtime a relaxing time as
The most popular excuses children seem to use for
negotiating extra ‘staying up time’ seem to be; wanting to too much activity close to bedtime can keep a
watch a specific television programme, having homework child awake
to do, needing to have a shower/bath, being hungry and • Exercise should be included in your child’s day
thirsty and wanting to read for a bit longer. to help them sleep well
The research also revealed that 87% of parents think • There should be no television or music playing
children nowadays go to bed later than they themselves while your child is going to sleep
did as children. Furthermore, 75% of adults agreed that • Ensure the temperature in your child’s
sleeping patterns that are endorsed during childhood bedroom is comfortable
affect your perception and importance of sleep in • Make sure the noise level in the house is low
adulthood. • Infants and children should be put to bed
when they appear tired but still awake (rather
than falling asleep in their parents arms or in
another room

34

ST COLUMBA’S
CATHOLIC BOYS’ SCHOOL

St Columba’s – Valuing Children as Individuals parents to enable students to achieve their very best. Gospel
St Columba’s is a Catholic Comprehensive Academy. We values inform all aspects of school life and learning - in
are a welcoming, vibrant and happy community dedicated the school community everyone has the right to be happy,
to faith, learning and achievement and we welcome boys safe and achieve. We are proud to be an inclusive Catholic
of all academic and religious backgrounds. The school school that welcomes students from all faiths or none.
has a tradition of high standards and high expectations. As a During our last OfSTED visit in 2019, inspectors recognised
caring Christian community, we work in partnership with this defining characteristic when they said ‘You and your
governors aim to provide a highly inclusive education….
The Catholic values you hold are evident in the safe and
welcoming community the school has become.’ We are
proud to be a school where every child is known and
valued as an individual and this too was recognised ‘Warm
and positive relationships are a strong feature of your
school. As a result, pupils feel confident in lessons to ask
questions and push themselves forward in their learning.’
Students are set by ability so that each individual
is challenged to achieve their best. To support their
successful transition, Year 7 students have their own
playground. As a comprehensive school, every child
really does matter and St Columba’s help each individual
to grow spiritually, academically and socially. For more
information, please visit www.st-columbas.bexley.sch.uk.

35

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

CONSIDERING OUT OF
CATCHMENT AREA SCHOOLS

Choosing to apply for a place at an out of catchment school is an emotional
roller coaster ride – and there is no guarantee of getting off safely at the end...

Of course, the local education authority would for being in the ‘right’ area and don’t be surprised if
prefer all families to opt for their local school. the school is over subscribed. Some schools receive
Unfortunately, not all schools are the same – the two or three times the number of applications they
result of successive Government policies – so there can accommodate. Some families have tried to use
will always be some families who decide that the alternative postal addresses, anything from business
most appropriate school for their child is not the local premises to a relatives address in the catchment area.
one – hence an out of catchment application. The authority will check, thoroughly, and confirm the
It may be you are looking for a particular specialism, usual residential address of the adult with whom the
like performing arts, or the ethos of a church school. child resides. This and other deceptions have all been
Whatever the reason the road ahead will be hard and thought of and there are systems in place to ensure
I urge you to be absolutely clear of your reasons for that such attempts fail!
the choice. There will be much guidance on how to
express your preference and by what deadlines. Miss IT IS ESSENTIAL, WHICHEVER SCHOOL
a deadline and, effectively, you will have fallen at the YOU ARE REQUESTING, THAT YOU OPEN
first obstacle. AND MAINTAIN A DIALOGUE WITH THE
One rather dramatic way to achieve a place is gaining
in popularity. Encouraged by estate agents in the SCHOOLS ADMISSIONS STAFF.
literature they produce to describe homes for sale,
some families resort to moving house. Obviously So, how do you improve your chances of achieving an
moving in to the catchment area will improve out of catchment place?
your chances, but even then a place may not be Firstly, you will need to start early – preferably during
guaranteed. Others will have had the same idea. Year 5 – to allow yourself enough time for detailed
Expect to find property prices showing a premium research. Each school has admissions criteria, always

clearly stated and published.
Many are distance based. Some
choose to measure distance
in straight lines while others
measure along ‘safe’ walking
routes. There are schools which
reserve places for certain
categories. Some schools
have been built on one level to
make them easily accessible to
wheelchair users and some will
have specialist units, such as
Dyslexia support units, where
the County allocates the places
based on assessed need.
Others, such as the selective
schools, offer places based on
performance in selection tests.

36

Many schools will place an application for a place for a The admissions staff are dedicated and determined
sibling higher in the waiting list than a first application. to treat all applicants fairly and in accordance with
the published guidelines. Realistically the nearer to
THE ONLY WAY TO ACHIEVE AN OUT OF September the date, the less your chance of success.
CATCHMENT PLACE IS TO KNOW WHAT The only way to achieve an out of catchment place is
to know what the entry criteria are for your preferred
THE ENTRY CRITERIA ARE FOR YOUR school, be clear that you meet them and then work
PREFERRED SCHOOL. with the staff to go through the process.

It is essential, whichever school you are
requesting, that you open and maintain a
dialogue with the schools admissions staff
Many people requesting out of catchment places will
be unsuccessful. To ensure that you are not one of
them you need to access the schools experience
and be guided by their advice. Some schools can
be extremely supportive. If you know that the first
response to an out of catchment application is a
standard refusal, you will not be surprised or deterred
when it arrives. You may have to re-confirm your
application; you may be unsuccessful two or three
times; you may even be offered the option to state
your case in front of an impartial panel.
Knowing these are all part of the process allows you
to prepare and respond to them appropriately. At
each stage some families will drop out and accept
the catchment school place or other alternative
offered.
By June and July of Year 6 – a time of happiness
and celebration – the majority of children will have
confirmed places. They will have visited their new
secondary school, met their teachers and new
classmates. If you are still holding out at this stage,
then you certainly have nerves of steel! Many others
will have decided that the stress of not knowing is
more than they wish their child to experience. The
scales will have tipped and the benefit of knowing
you definitely have a place exceeds the pressures of
not knowing and living in hope.

37

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

BUILDING CONFIDENCE

By the time your child reaches school age they will have developed a sense of self
esteem. A child with high self esteem has the confidence to try new things, make friends
and generally succeed, whereas, a child with low self esteem has a much tougher time
in all of these areas and will need extra help from you in building their confidence.

T here are lots of ways in which you can both It’s not only critical things said directly to your
boost, and, maintain your child’s confidence children that can undermine confidence. If your
without ‘mollycoddling’ them which can child overhears you tell someone that they’re
often make self esteem issues worse as ‘clumsy’ or ‘have two left feet’, for example, they
opposed to better. may well think you really believe this and feel it can’t
be changed. This can be extremely damaging to a
• Believe in your child and show it – let them child’s motivation.
know they are a worthwhile and loveable If you completely overreact to situations your
individual. child may worry that you really cant handle life’s
challenges. This won’t give your child an example
• Give praise and positive feedback – of a positive, optimistic attitude to life and how to
your childmeasures their worth and handle problems.
achievements by what you think of them.
Reassuring your child that it’s ok to make Think before you speak and choose your words
mistakes and that it’s all part of growing up with care – it’s very easy to say something without
will encourage them. thinking, then wish you hadn’t. Too many negative
remarks like this result in children believing they’re
• Criticise behaviour, not your child – It’s very useless or stupid.
easy to fall into this trap, but too much And finally, Say ‘sorry’ if you get it wrong. None of
criticism tells your child they’re a bad person us are perfect, and we all say things sometimes that
and are causing things to happen because we simply said out of anger and regret immediately.
of their stupidity or wickedness. This is very It’s vital that this is acknowledged straight away.
damaging if it goes on for a long time. Be Remember, confident, happy children grow up
clear with them that it’s an action your angry into confident and happy adults!
about or behaviour you don’t like.

• Focus on Strengths, not weaknesses – both
yours and your child’s.

• Respect your child’s interests, even if they
may seem boring to you – take a genuine
interest in your child’s friends and what’s
happening at school.

• Encourage independence – encourage your
child to take chances, and try new things.
Succeeding gives a huge boost to confidence,
and sometimes your child will need to learn
by their mistakes.

• Focus on your child’s successes – swimming,
music, whatever they are succeeding at.

38

ETTENNRRIIGGNNLLIIAATTYYNNDDCCHHSSUUCCRRHHCCOOHHOOLLOOFF

Trinity Church of England is an all-through school, incredibly • pupils do not simply learn facts. Our curriculum enables
Turniniqituye,Cohfufercrihngopf uEpniglslatnhde sistaabnilitayll-atnhdropurgohgrsecshsiooonl,thinecyrendeiebdly, • pthuepmils tdooanpoptlystimhepirlyklneoawrnlefdagcets, .sOkiullrs caunrdricuunludmersetannadbilnegs
ufrnoimqueth, eofafegreinogf p4utpoils16t.hWe esttaabkielitypraidned ipnroogurresosuiotwnatrhdeylonoekeindg, tinheamll lteoaranpinpglyatrheeaisr aknndowbleedrgigeo, rsokuislllsy aanndd usynsdteermstaatnicdainllgy
farnodmfotrhweaardg-ethoifn4kintog c16u.ltWuree,taaskewepraidree ainscohuorool uthtwatawrdellcooomkinegs • itnauaglhl tletahrenicnogrearsekailslsaonfdrebaedirniggo, rworuitsilnygaanndd smysattehmemataictaiclsly.
aamanlllledffmaafoiibttrhhewssrsaaartdnno-ddtfhunnilnoofinnklieent..hgAAecittruTTlptrruoiinntriieett,nyy,,atiswwalwee, epaararreeerpeaaaariffsnaacgmmhtoiillhyyoe,,lmssthttrratiivvotiiwnntggaeklffceooorrtmhooeeuuisrrr • taught the core skills of reading, writing and mathematics.
mplaecmebaesrcsittiozefnuslfiolftthheeirwpoorltde.nWtiaele, npvreispioanrinogurttheermrifictoTrtiankiteartihaenisr A specially designed Character Education Programme
ptolabcee aOspceintizMeninsdoefdt,hCeawrionrgld, .CWoeureangveiosiuosn, oRuerflteecrtriivfiec,TPrrininitcaiprilaends, • Ato sspuepcpioarlltyoduer spigunpeilds’ Clifheasrakcilltse,rhEedlpuincgattihoenmPrgorgorwambomthe
tInodbeepeOnpdeenntM, Iinnsdiegdh,tfCual,rRinegs,ilCieonutraagnedoKuns,oRwelefldegcetiavbel,eP. rincipled, • taocasduepmpoicratlloyurapndupilsso’ cliiafellys, kiilnlst,oherlepsipngontshiebmle gmroewmbboetrhs
Independent, Insightful, Resilient and Knowledgeable. aocf atdheemiccoamllymuannidty saotctaiainllyin, g inatosurcecsepsosnfsuilblcearmeeermpbaetrhs.
We are a ‘Good’ School with Outstanding elements, Ofsted • of the community attaining a successful career path.
2W0e21a, raena‘O‘Guotsotda’ndSicnhgo’ oSlcwhoitohl OinutosutranSdtiantguteolreymInesnptse,ctOiofsnteodf • An inspiring Personal Development Curriculum with age-
A20n2g1li,caann a‘OnudtsMtaenthdoindgis’ tSSchchooool lisn (SouIArMSSt)atruetpoorryt Iannsdpewcteiohnavoef aApnpirnosppriiraitneglePsesrosnosntahlaDteevnealbolpems cehnitldCreunrrtiocumluamkewiniftohrmageed-
Abenegnlicaawn aarnddedMweitthhotdhiset ISncclhuosoiolsn (QSIuAaMlitSy) Mreaprokrtasanad‘Cweentrheavoef adpepcirsoiopnrisatealbesosuotnsththeairt eonvaebrlaelsl chhieldarltehn toanmdakwe einlfl-obrmeinegd.
Ebexceenllaewncaerd’. ed with the Inclusion Quality Mark as a ‘Centre of decisions about their overall health and well-being.
Excellence’. An Inclusive Community and Multi-Cultural Environment
We are proud to be Trinitarians and our Ethos is forming the tAhnatInwcleuscievleeCbroamtemtuhnroituygahnoduMr utaltiil-oCreudltucurarrliEcunlvuirmonamnednat
Wfoeunadraetipornouodf otuor bdeailTyripnritaacrtiiasness aanndd souucrcEetshsoess bisasfoerdmoinng: the tbhroatadwreancgeeleobfraatcetivtihtireosugehmboruarctinagilodrievdersciutyrriincuallul mforamnsd oaf
foundation of our daily practises and successes based on: bourorasdocraientgye. of activities embracing diversity in all forms of
Learning – we are a Learning Community with high academic our society.
sLteaanrdnainrdgs.– we are a Learning Community with high academic A successful Careers Information & Guidance
standards. AProgsruacmcmesesfaunld aCnarAeleurms ni Innefotwrmorakt,iomnany& of Gwuhiodmancgoe
Loving – we belong to a Caring family which includes pupils, Ponrogtoramfumrtheear nedduacnatAiolunminnci lnuedtinwgorOkx, bmridangey oafndwhRoumssgeoll
sLtoavfifn, pga–renwtes banedlongogvteornaorCsa. ring family which includes pupils, Gonroutop Ufunritvheersr iteiedsu.cation including Oxbridge and Russell
staff, parents and governors. Group Universities.
Living – we are living our lives to the full and we seek to serve
Lthivoisnegin– nweeedarwe iltihviinngoouurrwliivdeesr tcoomthme fuunliltay.nd we seek to serve SECONDARY PHASE
those in need within our wider community. SLEEACRNOINNGD• LAORVIYNGP•HLIAVISNGE
We offer:
LEARNING • LOVING • LIVING
We offer:
• An Aspiring and Dynamic Environment for our pupils
• eAnnsuArsinpgirinoguranldearDnyenrsamaicre Enevnigroangemde, ntstifmoruloauterdpuapnilds

echnasullerinnggedoautr alllelaeranrnerinsg aanred seoncigaalgaerde,assotnimaudlaatielydbaasnisd.
challenged at all learning and social areas on a daily basis.
• “A Revised, Well-Planned and Ambitious Curriculum from
• “EAaRrleyvYiesaerds,tWoeYlel-aPrl1a1n.”nOefdstaenddreApmobrtit2i0o2u1s. BCeucrariucsueluamt Trfirnoitmy,
Early Years to Year 11.” Ofsted report 2021. Because at Trinity,

A forward thinking, all-inclusive AT TRINITY
sAchfoorowl awrdiththainsktriongng, aflal-miniclylufseievel! LLAIIFFWWTEEFTEEUTTROOLLLINIILVV!TTITEEHHYEE
school with a strong family feel!
FULL!
OOPPEENN EEVVEENNIINNGG
WE ARE A
Oct 13, 2022
5O:c3t01p3m, 2-072:320pm ‘GWOE AORE AD’
5:30pm - 7:30pm ‘GOOD’SCHOOL WITH

0208 325 4551 www.trinitylewisham.org OUSTANDING
0208 325 4551 www.trinitylewisham.org SCEHLOEMOELNWTSITH
OUSTANDING

ELEMENTS

Trinity Church of England School, Taunton Road, Lee, London SE12 8PD
Trinity Church of England School, Taunton Road, Lee, London SE12 8PD

39

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

FAC OMNIA AD DEI GLORIAM KKIINNGGSSDDAALLEE FFOOUUNNDDAATTIIOONN
FAC OMNIA AD DEI GLORIAM

Kingsdale - First Class and Top of the Class! Subsidised excursions to amazing destinations such as Malaysia,
Kingsdale - First Class and Top of the Class! NSuabmsibdiase, dBreaxzcilu, rtshioenUsStAo aamndaztihneg FdreesnticnhatAiolpnss asurechscahseMdualeaydsitao,
‘This popular school is a harmonious environment where pupils Nreasmumibeiat,hBisrayzeial,rt!he USA and the French Alps are scheduled to
l‘eTahrisn phowputloarbsecshuococlesissfaulhinarmmoodneiornusBreitnavinir.o’ Onfmsteendt2w01h7ere pupils resume this year!
learn how to be successful in modern Britain.’ Ofsted 2017 Kingsdale is a dynamic, remarkably popular and progressive
Kingsdale is Outstanding in every area (Ofsted 2017) and presents Kscinhgosodl athleatihs aas indvyensatmedico, vreerm£a3r0kmabtloydpeovepluolparananadwaprdro-wgriensnsiinvge
eKxincgepsdtiaolneaisllyOurticsthanodpinpgorintuenviteierys atroea c(Ohafsllteendg2e01s7tu) danedntpsreosfenatlsl secdhuocoaltitohnaat lhlaesairnnvinegstendvoirvoenr m£3e0nmt. to develop an award-winning
aebxcileitpietisoinnaclluydirnicghpropvipdoinrtguonpittieiosnstoto cshtuadllyenLgatein,sEtucdoennotms icosfanadll educational learning environment.
aPbsyilcithieosloingcyl.uTdhinegrepirsoavlisdointgheopcthionicsetotostleuadrynLtawtion,laEncognuoagmeiscsfraonmd For further information, please visit
Pthseycshtaorlot goyf .YeTahre7refoirs gailfstoedth&etcahleonictedtolinlegaurinsttsw. Koinlagnsgduaalegeasttrfraocmts wFowr wfurktihnegrsidnafloerfmouantidoant,iopnlesacsheovoils.iotrg.uk
tmhaensytaarbt loef sYteuadre7nftosragnifdteodp&ertaatleesnatedivlienrgsue,isetsx.paKninsgivsedacluerraitcturalucmts www kingsdalefoundationschool.org.uk
mtoamnyeeatbtlheestpuadretinctuslaarnndeoedpseraantedsaaspdiirvaetirosen,seoxfpaalnl osifvoeucrusrtruicduelunmts
taondmteheetitrhfeampailrietisc.ulTahr enesecdhsooanl dofafesrpsiratwioindseovfaarlileotyf oouf rasctauddeemntics
asunbdjetchtesirinfcalmudilinegs. 4Tohre5 socphtoioonl aolfcfeorusrsaeswsideleecvtaerdiebty eoafcahcachdieldmiinc
saudbdjieticotns itnoccluod-cinugrri4cuolra5r aocpttivioitnieasl ceovuersyedsasye.lected by each child in
addition to co-curricular activities every day.

‘The curriculum is broad and balanced, supporting pupils’
‘oTuhtestacnudrirnicgulouumtcoims esbrboeacdauasendof bthaleanccheadn,cesuppupoilrstihnagveptuopbilse’
osuuctcsteasnsfduilnign aouratcnogme eosf sbuebcjaeuctsse.’ Oofsthede 2c0h1a7nce pupils have to be
successful in a range of subjects.’ Ofsted 2017
Kingsdale is rated as a very high performing non-selective school
Kfoinr gatstdaainlemisenrattneadtiaosnallvyearyt KheigyhStpaegrefo4rmanindghnaosna-sveelreyctiimveprsecshsoivoel
froecr oartdtaoinfmbeeinntgnoantieoonfatllhyeaftoKremy Sotsatgsech4oaonlsd, ihnatshae LvoercyalimAuptrheossrivtye,
rfoecr oorudtcoofmbeisnagtoKneey oStfatghe 5fowreitmhossotmscehtoruolys,oinutshteanLdoicnagl Aaucathdoermitiyc,
froesruolutst.comes at Key Stage 5 with some truly outstanding academic
results.
The school has one of the best pupil to teacher ratios of any
Tmhaeinsctrheoaoml hseacsoonndearyofscthhoeobl ienstSopuutphilLotondtoeancahnedr raavteiorasgoefclaansys
msizaeins satrreeanmormseaclolynadpapryrosxcihmoaotleilny 2S0ouacthroLsos ncodroensuanbdjecatvse.rage class
sizes are normally approximately 20 across core subjects.
‘Pupils’ personal development and welfare is outstanding because
‘oPfutphiels’cpaerersoanadl adtetevenltoiopnmtehnattasntadffwpealfyarteoismoauktinstganpduipnigls’bteimcaeusine
oscfhtohoel cparroeduanctdivaettaenndtisoanfet.’hOaftstsetdaf2f 0p1a7y to making pupils’ time in
school productive and safe.’ Ofsted 2017
40

Alleyn Park, Dulwich, SE21 8SQ Open Days & Evenings 2022

First Class & Top of the Class! Wednesday 21st September 2022
9.30-11.30am, 1.30-3.30pm & 5.30-8pm
Take advantage of the chance to visit
Kingsdale Foundation School: An Ofsted rated Saturday 24th September 2022
exceptionally Outstanding School 10am-12 noon, 1-3pm & 4-6pm

We invite you to come to West Dulwich in South London to Wednesday 28th September 2022
discover just how we get the best out of our students and 9.30-11.30am, 1.30-3.30pm & 5.30-8pm
harness top talent within an ethos characterised by warmth,
culture and care.The amazing popularity of the school Wednesday 5th October 2022
is a reflection of our renowned academic achievements, 9.30-11.30am, 1.30-3.30pm & 5.30-8pm
inspirational award-winning learning environment and the
unusually rare opportunities we provide. Saturday 8th October 2022
10am-12 noon, 1-3pm & 4-6pm
Kingsdale is extremely proud of its special reputation and
heritage in Music and Mathematics. We offer scholarships Wednesday 12th October 2022
for artistic or sporting talent. Scholars receive free individual 9.30-11.30am, 1.30-3.30pm & 5.30-8pm
or small group tuition provided by expert professionals, to
the value of £1,000 per annum.There is equality of access for Saturday 15th October 2022
admission places irrespective of distance from the school or 10am-12 noon, 1-3pm & 4-6pm
home locality.

Kingsdale offers private tours of the school during normal
working hours throughout the academic year. Tours are
arranged for prospective parents at a time that best suits them!

For further information, visit www.kingsdalefoundationschool.org.uk

41

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

CHOOSING A SECONDARY SCHOOL

When it comes to choosing a secondary school there are a few things
you may wish to consider. Here are a few pointers that may help you
make the right choice for your child.

Before you visit a school it is The Government guideline, the gold school will be whether there are any
important that you do some standard for GCSE, is for schools teachers visible at the end of the day.
research. Enormous amounts to guide as many students as Staff around the ­neighbourhood of
of information are easily ­available in possible to achieve at least 5 A* to the school suggests that the ethos
standard formats about C grades. Make sure you look at is one of respecting its ­community
all schools. The key to using the what the subjects are that make and of ­wanting to supervise s­ tudents
­information ­successfully is knowing up those five or more GCSEs. A as they come and go. Are the
how to interpret it. s­ tudent who achieves seven GCSE ­relationships between the staff
Let’s start with the Government’s passes but does not achieve at and students friendly or highly
m­ easurements of a school’s least a C in English and Maths is still disciplined?
­success. Examination league going to have ­problems gaining a When you eventually visit the
tables are ­published annually, college place or employment. The school it would be worthwhile to
detailing the n­ umbers of students Government knows this and so the go prepared with a list of questions.
entered for ­different subjects and core subjects must now be reported Make finding out the answers the
the p­ ercentage gaining each grade. distinctly in the league tables. focus of your visit. How does the
Schools will all publish the edited school respond when a child is stuck
highlights, ­identifying the best Another source of and unable to ­complete homework?
statistics and including them in their unbiased information Are they punished or ­supported?
promotional literature. is the OFSTED report. What if the ­homework is not done
because of home ­commitments?
A school that does not Another source of unbiased What will the school want to do if
achieve 100% may not be a i­nformation is the OFSTED report. you say that your child is unable to
Within a few weeks of being get on with a particular teacher?
lesser school. inspected, a school’s report will be
accessible on the internet. Beware Some schools still
Your role is to try and read between however that a report more than a ­foolishly deny that
the lines. If a school has 200 students year old is ancient history. A poor b­ ullying takes place.
­eligible to take GCSE and 170 of report will have led to rapid and
them are entered and achieve a massive changes in a school, many Ask any eleven year old what
grade between A* and C is this a supported and supervised by the w­ orries them most about moving to
mark of s­ uccess or failure? I guess it local education authority. The school s­ econdary education and it will not
depends if you expect that your child could be much much better than be long before they mention bullying.
will be amongst the 170 of their year the report indicates. Some schools still foolishly deny
group or the ­mysteriously missing If you have a chance, why not park that bullying takes place. The realistic
30. It is said to be easy to achieve up near the school, either when the ones accept that it does and will
100% success in examinations. children are arriving, or at the end detail the many strategies they use
All that schools have to do is only of the day? Are they going in ­happily to deal with it.
enter the students who they are or grudgingly? At the end of the Take the school gate gossip with a
sure will be successful. A school day, is the exodus of children total large pinch of salt and make sure
that does not achieve 100% may or does it look as if there are many you do your research.
not be a lesser school – it may be extra-curricular activities to keep the
working harder on behalf of all its students on site? A useful ­indicator
students and giving them a chance of discipline and expectations in the
to succeed.

42

AARRKK EEVVEELLYYNN GGRRAACCEE AACCAADDEEMMYY

ARK Evelyn Grace is a school that will stop at nothing to develop We have very high standards of student behaviour and every
AthReKtEavleenlytns oGfraecveeriys cahsicldhoinolittshactarwei.llWsetobpealitenveotthhinatgktonodwevleedlogpe Wruelehaanvde evxepreychtaigthionstiasncdeanrdtrsedofonstuednesunrtinbgehthaavtioluerarannindgegvoeersy
itshepotawleenr tasnodf tehveermy ocrheildthiantitassctaurdee. nWteknboewliesveanthdautnkdneorwstlaenddges ruunlientaenrdruepxtepde,catantdioanllismceemntbreerds oonf oeunrsucroinmgmthuantitlyeaferenlisnghagpopesy
aisbpoouwt ethreanwdortlhdewmeoarell tohcactuapys,tuthdeengtrekantoewr sfreaenddoumnsdethrsetyanwdilsl aunndintsearfreu.pWteede, xapnedcatllemveerymsbteurdseonft otourbceomcomurutneoituysfeaenlsd hpaopliptey
saebcouurtetfhoer twhoermldsewlveeasllanodcctuhpeyc, othmemgurenaittieersftrheeeydoamresmtehmeybwerilsl aanndd wsaefea.reWeexpexlipcietcatbeovuetrwy hstautdtheantt ltoookbselickoeu. rAtReKouEsvealnydn Gporalictee
osef.cure for themselves and the communities they are members aAncdadweemayreperixdpelsiciittsaeblof uint wbheaintgthaatcloomokms ulinkeit.yAoRfKlEevaernlyenrsG. rOacuer
of. tAecaacdheemrsyaprerideexpseirttsselinf itnhebireiancgadaecmoimc fmieuldnsityanodf aleimartnoeresn. aObuler
Given this belief, the development of our teachers’ craft is teevaecryhecrhsiladretoegxrpaeprptsleinwtihtheiar nadcamdeamstiecrfkieelydcsoanncdeapitms atnodenskaiblllse.
cGeivnetnralthtois obuerlieetfh, oths;etedaecvheelorspmwehnot aoref oaulwr atyesacehaegersr’ tcoraleftarins Oevuerrytecahcihldertso gmraopdpelleowuirthbealniedf mthaasttethr ekreey icsonncoesputsbsatnitdutsekifllosr.
wceilnltdraelvetolopoutrheetshaoms;eteeaxcchiteerms ewnhtoanadrethailrwstayfsorekangoewr tleodlgeearinn hOaurrdtweaocrhkearnsdmthoadtetlhoisurisbtehleiekfetyhatot sthuecrceesiss.no substitute for
twhiell sdteuvdeelonptstthheeysatemaeche.xcitement and thirst for knowledge in hard work and that this is the key to success.
the students they teach.
ARK Evelyn Grace is part of the highly successful ARK schools’
AchRaKinE,vwehlyonseGrsahcaereisd pmaristsoiofnthise thoigehnlysusruectcheastsefuvleAryRcKhsilcdhgoooelss’
ctohauinni,vwerhsoitsyeosrhsaerceudremsisthsieoncaisreteor eonf stuhreeirtchhaot iecvee. ry child goes
to university or secures the career of their choice.
We are driven by three core values:
We are driven by three core values:
1. Self-discipline - We believe that success is achieved
1. tSherlof-udgihscsieplfl-indeisc-iplWinee abnedliehvaerdtwhaotrks. uccess is achieved
2. tEhxrcoeulglehnsceelf--dWisceipblienleieavnedthhaatrdevweorryk.student can achieve
2. Eexxcceelllleennccee. - We believe that every student can achieve
3. Eexncdeellaevnocuer. - We do what it takes to achieve excellence.
3. Endeavour - We do what it takes to achieve excellence.

OOPPEENN DDAAYY
EEVVEENNTTSS 22002222

“Nurturing talent for life-long happiness and success”
“Nurturing talent for life-long happiness and success”

OOppeenn MMoorrnniinnggss && EEvveenniinnggss SCAN OR CODE TO
SCRAENGIOSTRECRONDOEWTO
Morning Events - 9:00am-10:30am
WMoerdnniensgdEayve2n1stts, 2-89t:h00Saempt-e1m0:b30eram& 5th, 12th, 19th October REGISTER NOW
Wednesday 21st, 28th September & 5th, 12th, 19th October

Evening Events - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
EThvuenrsidnagyE2v2enndtSse-p5t:e0m0pbmer -&71:30t0hpOmctober
Thursday 22nd September & 13th October

Saturday Events - 10:00am - 12:00pm
SSaattuurrddaayy1EstvOencttosb-e1r0:00am - 12:00pm
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225555 SShhaakkeessppeeaarree RRooaadd,, LLoonnddoonn,, SSEE2244 00QQNN || wwwwww..eevveellyynnggrraacceeaaccaaddeemmyy..oorrgg

43

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR
ON AN OPEN EVENING

Secondary schools have or short talk to help give you Don’t let this worry you. Instead
developed a great expertise an overview of the school and look to see if the rooms look
in promoting themselves to its ethos. Take the opportunity well-cared for and tidy.
try to ensure that all their available to look around you. Are their
places are full each September. representatives from the Parents’ The youth of today are a computer
You will have received the Essex Association in attendance? This generation. You should expect
County Council guidebook to may indicate that the school that a secondary school would
choosing a school and how to go works well with parents and likes have many more computers than
about registering your preference. to involve them in many aspects most primary schools. The key
It is important to do this by the of its life. Don’t, however, assume question is not how many, but how
published deadlines, but before that because they are not evident accessible are the computers?
you do it is even more important that the school does not involve Are they treated like trophies, on
that you go and visit at least two parents. You will just need to look display but with little evidence
secondary schools. The best harder and ask more questions. of use? Or are they clearly used
time to go for your visit is during How many students from the every hour of every day? Ask.
the school’s Open Evening. school are in attendance? If there Do all years have access? What
are many, this may suggest that is the student/PC ratio? Do all
Some schools they are there because they are subjects have easy access to this
provide guided proud of their school. Don’t be resource? What is the school’s
tours on Open afraid to talk to them. In fact, talk internet use policy? How do
Evenings. to as many of them as you can. they stop students reaching
The people who know schools unsuitable web sites? Schools
When you visit expect to find the best are the students. Ask are moving on and laptops may
excellent displays in corridors them about sets, homework, be in evidence, perhaps even
and classrooms. It is worth rewards and punishments wireless for greater flexibility.
looking in detail at the displays and even what their favourite Again, talk to the students to find
– what proportion is students’ subject is. Whilst talking to them out how they are used.
work? Look for indications of the take the opportunity to look at
students’ age to see if all ages are their uniform. Is it worn with One of the recent innovations
represented and all ability levels. pride? Why not ask them what in schools are Interactive
It is also worth considering who the school badge represents? Whiteboards. A wonderful
you meet on the night. You should Some schools provide guided addition to teaching, they are still
expect to meet the Headteacher tours on Open Evenings. Others expensive but highly desirable.
and some of their senior staff. will let you wander freely. A tour Look for them and ask questions.
There may be a presentation does not mean that they are Is their use restricted to teachers
trying to hide something – they or do the students use them as
may want to make sure you see well?
everything. Nevertheless, take the
opportunity to look everywhere – The funding available to schools
including places not on the tour. varies considerably. The most
Look in to classrooms that are important asset of any school,
not in use. Furniture may be old. however, is not the furniture,
equipment or new paintwork.
The key to every school’s success

44

is its staff – the teachers, the Take time to ask about how
support staff and the Governors other subjects in the school are
who make the key decisions in being developed and resourced.
support of the Headteacher. As In choosing a new home you
you tour a school site take a look at have to look beyond the vases of
the staff. Do they look interested flowers and smell of fresh coffee
and happy to be there? When to see the real truth. Choosing a
they talk are they talking to other new school is similar. There are
parents or are they concentrating no right answers as each child
on the Year 5 and 6 visitors? is different and you are looking
for the school whose ethos
Take the time and visit and methods will support and
some schools. Take extend your child. This is why we
your child with you. have not offered any answers to
Go in open minded. the questions we have raised.
What is right for one will
There will certainly be certainly not be right for
demonstrations of many of another. Take the time and visit
the school’s resources. If the some schools. Take your child
school is a Specialist School with you. Go in open minded.
it will have received additional Listen to many people’s view,
funding to develop and extend but listen to only your own.
its specialist area. There are a Just as you know instantly when
range of possible specialist you walk in to that house that will
subjects such as Performing Arts, be your perfect new home, so
Sports, Science, Mathematics, you will know which is the right
Languages or Business. You school for your youngster.
should expect the facilities in this
specialist area to be exceptional
and for there to be clear plans for
further development.

45

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

BABINGTON HOUSE SCHOOL

Children progress from our award-winning Nursery into
Preparatory. Alongside the Key Stage 2 curriculum there are
some brilliant innovations, like option choices for children
in Year 3 to Year 6 – where Philosophy, Yoga, Coding and
World Films are just some of the subjects on offer.

Babington puts the success down to a culture of intensive
hard-work, tailored to each pupil’s individual needs and
everything being continually monitored so help can be
given quickly when needed.

Every pupil gets a chance to shine This is an exciting time for Babington House School with
At this independent, co-ed, day school, the academics are increasing pupil numbers. There’s definitely a ‘Watch This
strong - and the size means every pupil gets their chance Space’ feel around this rising star of a school.
to shine. The School is located on Grange Drive in Chislehurst (3
Babington House School is an excellent school, inspiring minutes’ walk from Elmstead Woods Station), within a
pupils from Nursery to Sixth Form. There is a current roll of handsome group of buildings.
450 pupils from 3 to 18 years, with classes of no more than Headmaster, Tim Lello comments “Our commitment to
20 children and is co-educational throughout. provide an academic and well-rounded education with
small class sizes, tailored to the needs of our pupils is
really paying off, our pupils and parents are happy and we
are achieving excellent results.”

46

BLACKHEATH HIGH SCHOOL

Blackheath High School is incredibly proud to have academic performance, with 86% of students achieving A*,
been awarded excellent across all categories, in its A or B in its 2022 A-Level results.
most recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) Blackheath High School has a comprehensive co-
report, the highest accolade possible. curricular programme which fosters these characteristics
Blackheath High School is incredibly proud to have been in students. The report highlighted various examples
awarded excellent across all categories, in its most recent of outside-the-classroom learning, including students
Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report. using coding software to create robots; entering the
Following an inspection, ISI found pupils’ academic Royal academy summer show for young artists; taking up
achievements and personal development to be excellent, weightlifting; and volunteering locally.
the highest rating obtainable. ISI praised students for their Mrs Argile, Acting Head of Blackheath High School said: “ISI
attitude, focusing on their wide range of creative skills. has confirmed what we witness every day, that our girls
Achieving this accolade reflects Blackheath High are well rounded, confident and articulate individuals who
School’s commitment to student wellbeing and personal understand how to make the most of the opportunities
development alongside academic achievement, which around them”.
continues to be the focus of the Blackheath and Blackheath High School operates under the Girl’s Day
Greenwich-based girls’ school. School Trust (GDST) and is an Independent Day School for
Furthermore, students were credited as being ‘highly girls aged 3-18.
articulate, effective listeners and communicators’ Book now to visit our open day on 1st October: https://
Blackheath High School has a reputation for its high www.blackheathhighschool.gdst.net/1952/open-days

My future Our girls can explore possibilities
i s up t here that are simply out of this world,
like studying GCSE Astronomy at
Space X are going
to Mars. I want to the Royal Observatory.

be part of that . Where girls boldly go
blackheathhighschool.gdst.net
Open
Morning

Oct 1

Book online
now

Independent Day School for Girls aged 3-18 years

47

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

FIRST AID – DO YOU
KNOW THE BASICS?

In every office across the UK there is that person Nurse, is very passionate about her role, ‘At its
in the office who is the designated First Aid most basic, first aid is the initial care given to a
Officer (not me by the way) and the standard person who has been injured or who is suddenly
certificate is on the wall with their name on it, so taken ill. It is vital that everyone has at least a basic
someone in the office knows what to do, right? understanding of first aid, as it can literally be a
If I choked on a Cola Cube, Dan in Accounting matter of life and death. That’s why we believe that
would know the Heimlich Maneuver and be able first aid should be taught not only to adults and
to dislodge that sweet sugary treat? Oh god, my in the workplace but to children as well. Children
life is in his hands! Now that’s a sobering thought respond to the practical learning and in small
if you knew Dan in Accounting. But although I groups, we can bring the subject to life and really
joke whilst writing this it made me realise how engage with the kids, with the use of mannequins,
important first aid training is, how little I knew and defibrillators, choking aids, bandages and other
how important I now think it is for my children to teaching aids we can make the teaching a truly
have this knowledge. engaging, memorable and enjoyable experience’.

First Aid is now an approved part Choking
of the PHSE curriculum, however,
knowing the best way to teach 1 Ask the child if they are choking and if so encourage the
this complex topic to children can child to cough.
be a challenge. I spoke to Emma
Hammett who owns First Aid for 2 If the child cannot cough, place your hand between
Life, A First Aid and Paediatric First their shoulder blades and hit hard up to 5 times,
Aid training service. Emma, a former this will hopefully encourage the object causing the
blockage to move.
Now, as a person with minimal
First Aid knowledge, I thought of 3 If the child is still choking, stand behind the child, hugging
two situations where I would like them, placing your fists beneath their rib cage and above
to start to learn so I chose choking their belly button and squeeze sharply up to 5 times.
and CPR. Luckily, I have never
been in a situation where CPR 4 Continue with 5 back slaps and 5 abdominal thrusts (in
(cardiopulmonary resuscitation) step 3) until item has been dislodged.
has had to be administered but I
have had to deal with a choking 5 Ensure to call for an ambulance if the child is still
child, luckily a quick slap on the choking after one cycle of first aid (step 2 & 3).
back was all that was needed
on that occasion but what if that Be prepared to give lifesaving first aid if the child goes unconscious. (CPR)
wasn’t enough? Emma has kindly
put together an easy to follow
bullet pointed guide opposite
that could help you in these given
situations.

‘First aid is an important life skill
,that everyone should learn.

48

CPR Do you know when to safely conduct CPR?
Do you know what CPR is?

CPR consists of:

1 Check your casualty, call their name to see if they can hear you.
2 Open the casualty’s airway by using the head tilt, chin lift method shown in the picture
3 Establish whether your casualty is breathing normally, abnormally, or not at all by looking down at

the chest to see it rising and falling.

4 If not breathing, continue to hold their head back (head tilt, chin lift) and blow 5 breathes into
their mouth, holding their nose and sealing your mouth on theirs. You should see their chest rising
and falling.

5 Place the heel of your hand on the sternum in between the nipple line and push down with your
body weight. You will need to push a 3rd of the depth down. Do this 30 times.

6 Give TWO breaths (same method as step 4) followed by 30 chest compressions (same as step 5)

Ensure help is coming - Remember no-one will arrive if you haven’t called for help.

CPR can increase the First aid is an important life skill
that everyone should learn, and
‘ chances of survival from there is no better time to start
19%-75% depending on the than as a child. First aid training
,patient’s condition. teaches children how to be self-
reliant and how to deal with
medical emergencies. It is also
valuable in empowering them with
skills that they can use throughout
their lives. After speaking to the
talented team at First Aid for Life,
I will be speaking to my child’s
school to see if First Aid is part
of their curriculum and if not,
how do we make sure that it is.
I also know I will be booking in
with them privately, so I don’t
have to rely on Dan in Accounting
anymore…

Written by Antonia Price with the help
of Emma Hammett First Aid for Life
www.firstaidforlife.org.uk.

First Aid for Life is a multi-award-
winning, fully regulated, first aid
R) training provider specialising in First

Aid for Pupils and Staff in Schools.

Free resources: to access the free
online courses, lesson plans, work
sheets and posters – please visit their
website.

For more information please visit or
email [email protected] Tel
020 8675 4036

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THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

FRESHEN UP YOUR LUNCHBOXES

A RECENT STUDY REVEALED THAT OVER 40% OF LUNCHBOXES
DON’T HAVE A SINGLE PIECE OF FRUIT OR VEGETABLE.
I t’s just as important to make sure the lunches children take
to school provide a healthy balanced meal, this means HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS TO GET YOU STARTED:
making sure plenty of foods contain nutrition children need
and fewer that are high in sugar and saturated fats. MONDAY
Starchy foods are a good source of energy and should make
up a third of the lunchbox. It’s also important not to make Banana sandwich on wholemeal, tomato, boiled
things too boring. Instead of sandwiches try bagels, pitta bread, egg, low-fat fruit yogurt, box of raisins and semi-
wraps and baguettes. Use brown, wholemeal or seeded bread
instead of white bread. skimmed milk
Children often like food they can eat with their fingers so chop
up some raw veg such as carrots or peppers and give them a TUESDAY
pot of hummus or cottage cheese to dip them in.
Replace chocolate bars and cake with fresh fruit, dried fruit Melon and satsuma kebabs, soy milk, banana and
or unsalted nuts. Vary the fruit each day to get them to try strawberry smoothie, salmon and rice salad with
different things.
A balanced packed lunch should contain a mixture of: peas sweetcorn
Starchy foods – bread, rice, potatoes and pasta
Protein foods – meat, fish, eggs and beans WEDNESDAY
Dairy foods – cheese or yoghurt Three oatcakes with red Leicester cheese, reduced salt

It may take a while for your children to get used to a healthier ham, cherry tomatoes, carrot & cucumber sticks, fruit in
lunch box but it will be worth it in the long run for their health. jelly, dried apricots and semi-skimmed milk

THURSDAY

Tomato mozzarella and pastrami ciabatta pizza,
carrot sticks, kiwi and strawberry fruit salad and a

bottle of water.

FRIDAY

Chicken and couscous salad and a banana milk

ALLEYN’S SCHOOL Alleyn’s
School

Alleyn’s: A Spirit of The school warmly WeV
Possibility welcomes applications
from children of all - lleyn's
Alleyn’s is where 400 years backgrounds and offers
of heritage, tradition and means-tested bursaries for Alleyn’s offers co-educational excellence in a
resourcefulness meet the those who might flourish at caring community for children aged 11-18.
liberal, exciting energy of Alleyn’s but who may not
southeast London – it be able to afford the fees. It We offer a range of scholarships and means-tested
is dynamic, enterprising, also offers scholarships in bursaries. For more details, and to learn
creative, and full of fun! art, drama, music, DT and about life at Alleyn’s and our next Open
Based in Dulwich, Alleyn’s sport. Event dates, please visit our website.
is one of the country’s Alleyn’s invites interested
leading co-educational families and applicants to www.alleyns.org.uk
independent schools with experience its unique buzz
a history of outstanding in person, at a dedicated 020 8557 1500 | Townley Road, Dulwich, London SE22 8SU
academic achievement and Experience Alleyn’s day for
co-curricular success. Head Year 6 pupils (spaces must
Jane Lunnon describes be reserved) or at one of its
Alleyn’s as: “a school where 11+ or 16+ Open Events.
there is space for our young Explore Alleyn’s at www.
people to be whoever they alleyns.org.uk
want to be, to try new
things and to discover who
they are.”

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