Press Release

140th Anniversary GDST short film competition

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to Form 5H who were awarded the People’s Choice runner up for their short animation film in the 140^th Anniversary GDST film competition.

Film making is one of several exciting inter-school events that have taken place recently to mark the GDST’s 140^thAnniversary this year. Both the Junior and Senior pupils from Bromley High School put their creative skills to the test, entering two films into the short film competition. The winners were announced on 24^thApril at an exclusive screening at the Curzon Cinema. As well as the winners of each of the four age group categories, there was also an ‘Audience Award’.

Eager to inspire the next generation of young female film makers the Judges Panel comprised of seven successful women in TV, film and the theatre. These included Oscar winning costume designer Jenny Beavan and Neal Street Productions founder, Pippa Harris.

“There was an excited atmosphere in the Curzon cinema as girls from Year 2 to Year 13 from many different GDST schools eagerly awaited the results of the GDST 140 Short Film competition. At Bromley High Juniors we were delighted to be awarded runner up in the Peoples’ Choice award in the Junior category and would like to thank all those who voted for ‘Emma’s First Day’. Congratulations to our Year 5 girls on this wonderful achievement.” Claire Dickerson , Head, Bromley High Junior School.

Bromley High Junior School’s film entry was for the ‘Friendship’ category and the Senior School’s (Years 7 – 9) entry was for the ‘Confidence’ category.

The Junior School Entry was called “Emma’s First Day. “In our group we chose friendship as our theme because friendship brings happiness. We decided to make up a story about a girl who was new to Bromley High, and how she was very worried. Luckily lots of people welcomed her and were willing to be her friend- just like the girls at Bromley High!” Katie Heath, Year 5

“It would be great fun to make an animation again because we now know what we can achieve if we work as a team” Madeleine Bonner, Year 5.

The Senior School Entry theme was confidence and our 3 Year 7 pupils worked hard to create their film “Confidence is Key”. This is a short story about a young girl who has to overcome a bad past experience to follow her dream of performing in the school talent competition. This film shows her story and how she overcame her confidence issues with a little help from her guardian angel.

“To have this chance to enter a film competition has been so exciting and rewarding ”Rebecca Aichen, Year 7 .

GDST Short Film Competition

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

The GDST short film competition is now in full swing!

Although the competition is being judged by a panel, there is also the opportunity to win a public vote award too… we would really appreciate it if you could submit a vote for Bromley High's submissions.

To vote for Bromley High School for the 'people's choice' award, please click here and use the links on the left or below to each category and use the voting form. (To select Bromley High use the drop down menu)

Most of the films are also available to view online. If a film you want to see isn't yet there, it's because we're trying to sort out some music copyright issues. More films will be added as these issues are resolved, so please do come back again.

Even if a film can't be shown online, the judging panel will still see it and it will be included in the main competition.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in London in April 2013.

Bromley High artists win high profile recognition

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Following the success of our artists at the recent John Downton award ceremony, where Caitlin Westgate’s series of photos ‘Retribution’ was awarded the gold award in the 11-16 category and Dasha Veysey was awarded the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) award for mixed media for her work entitled ‘Age in Six’ - Caitlin Westgate and Dasha Veysey have been invited to exhibit their work in the Turner Contemporary exhibition of John Downton Award winners which runs from Tuesday 26^th March – Sunday 14^th April.

The Turner Contemporary is a high profile Art Gallery in Margate, Kent and features the work of many famous national and international artists. Admission is free and the gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday and bank holidays, from 10am-6pm.

Young Sports Ambassadors go ‘GOLD’

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Young Ambassadors is a scheme that has been newly introduced to our school; it gives the chance for students to lead the school forward within sport and become leaders and role models to other students in the school. The seven Young Ambassadors selected (Year 11 Grace B, Maddie C and Hannah C, Year 10 Charlotte B, Caroline W, Buse D and Charlotte R) are the first Ambassadors for Bromley High and we are incredibly proud as all seven of them were selected to be Gold Young Ambassadors for the Bromley Borough. This is a fantastic achievement, as not only do they get to voice their views and opinions within Bromley High but they also meet with neighbouring schools to make decisions about the whole district of Bromley. On Monday the Young Ambassadors went to their first meeting with other Gold Young Ambassadors from other schools and some Platinum Young Ambassadors who led the evening. We as the first Sporting Ambassadors for Bromley High School are all looking forward to developing Bromley High School Sport and taking it forward.

Marjorie McClure Specialist School Dance Festival

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Marjorie McClure Specialist School Dance Festival

On Tuesday 19^th March we were invited to perform at the Marjorie McClure Specialist School in Chislehurst as part of their annual schools’ dance festival. We took a group of year 9 & 10 pupils to perform a piece from the school dance production. There was a range of local primary schools and two groups from Marjorie McClure participating. We watched each group perform dance pieces with different inspired themes. It was a pleasure to be able to watch a rich mix of dance and abilities, alongside strong personalities. The Bromley High dancers performed very well. One of the primary teachers spoke of how great it was for her students to see older groups perform, and that the experience provided something for her pupils to aspire to.

Charlotte Raven and Emily Yeadon led an improvised ‘seated cool down’ for all pupils and staff. The rest of the Bromley High girls acted as demonstrators. Well done girls!

Our girls came away buzzing from this experience and were asking when they can next collaborate and work with students from Marjorie McClure School!

To see the recent article in Bromley Times about this performance please click here:

We will be welcoming the senior Marjorie McClure dancers on Tuesday 26^th March, when they will be working with our year 7 dance group and performing their piece.

Natalie Gibbs, Dance Teacher

"It was lovely to be able to welcome pupils and staff for this partnership performance. Our girls loved dancing with their new friends, and I know that they learnt much from the experience. We look forward to continuing work with the group in the future". Louse Simpson, Head.

Year 4 spend the day in India!

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

It was India Day for the girls in Year 4 on Thursday and they really looked the part in their beautiful outfits. The aroma of Indian cooking wafted down the corridors and in the classrooms you could see the girls making rangoli patterns, trying to put on saris and acting out traditional Indian stories and playing traditional games.

At the end of the day the girls performed to their parents, singing in Tamil and dancing Bollywood style. This day could not have happened without the tremendous input from several of our parents and we thank them all for their enthusiasm and expertise.

Comic Relief Spirit at Bromley High

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

"The cinnamon was flying and butter was spreading as the staff from Bromley High worked against the clock to make cinnamon wheels for Red Nose Day. My baking skills did not, unfortunately, help us to win, but the girls could not have been a better audience and the atmosphere was certainly a supportive one! Back to the recipe book" Louise Simpson, Head.

In the true spirit of Comic Relief Staff and Students gathered together to encourage the ten members of staff divided into five teams of two in the Great Bromley High Bake Off. Beginning with a roll of puff pastry, some butter and some cinnamon sugar the teams had to make cinnamon pinwheels and create an imaginative design. The winning Chemistry/Geography combo produced a stunning volcano which narrowly beat the amazing snake design of the Maths/English department.

However congratulations to the other three teams with their horse, face and yin/yang symbol. The second part of the event involved decorating a flower made out of cinnamon swirls with a red nose as its centre piece.

Armed with writing icing, silver balls, mini smarties, multi coloured strands and hundreds and thousands the teams created a garden of colourful blooms which were then eaten by the audience!

Congratulations to the Drama/RS department who wowed the audience with a riot of colour and snatched the prize.

Alongside a sweet sale and non-uniform day this event helped raise almost £1000 for Comic Relief!

Mrs Caroline Jenner, English Teacher and Charities co-ordinator, Bromley High School

10th Bromley (Bromley High) Brownies support Blue Peter's Comic Relief Challenge

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Brownies from 10th Bromley (HIgh School) Pack proved they were up for a challenge by backing Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton’s bid to set a new world record while raising vital funds for Comic Relief.

The fundraising wonder woman has set herself seven magnificent challenges which she has vowed to complete in only seven weeks – and she offered Girlguiding members a unique chance to lend a hand.

10th Bromley was among thousands of groups invited to come up with their own fundraising events – the wackier the better - to back the daredevil presenter’s campaign in the run-up to Red Nose Day.

Girlguiding groups nationwide have also been hard at work crafting their own giant fabric triangles to help create the world’s largest bunting line, which Helen – a former Brownie herself - displayed along the 2,200-metre Humber Bridge as one of her Magnificent 7.

Grace Homes age 9 said: “It was a great challenge and we all enjoyed it. We all had fun making mini flags with our initials on to decorate the large bunting and we helped set a world record too. How cool is that!”

Karen Homes, Brownie Guide Leader said: “The girls were really excited about making the bunting and all brought in their old clothes to use as the material to decorate the large flags. They also took on board the fundraising challenge and persuaded their friends and family to sponsor them and come and support them on the night.

“By working together they managed to raise £188 for Comic Relief. It shows what a difference girls in guiding can make.”

10th Bromley Brownies Make a Difference!

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Brownies from 10th Bromley (High School) Pack proved they were up for a challenge by backing Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton’s bid to set a new world record while raising vital funds for Comic Relief.

The fundraising wonder woman has set herself seven magnificent challenges which she has vowed to complete in only seven weeks – and she offered Girlguiding members a unique chance to lend a hand.

The group of 17 girls, all aged between 7 and 9, chose to carry out “step ups” equivalent to the number of steps it would take to climb to the top of Statue of Liberty, New York and Elizabeth Tower, London. Girlguiding groups nationwide have also been hard at work crafting their own giant fabric triangles to help create the world’s largest bunting line, which Helen – a former Brownie herself - displayed along the 2,200-metre Humber Bridge as one of her Magnificent 7.

Grace Homes age 9 said: “It was a great challenge and we all enjoyed it. We all had fun making mini flags with our initials on to decorate the large bunting and we helped set a world record too.How cool is that!”

“By working together they managed to raise £188 for Comic Relief. It shows what a difference girls in guiding can make.”

For more information on guiding both nationally and locally, log on to www.girlguiding.org.uk.

Arkwright Scholarship News!

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations are due to the following Year 11 girls who have all passed the first stage in the selection process for an Arkwright Scholarship.

Ellen Birke

Helena Coleman

Sophie Durman

Honor Jennings

Arkwright Scholarships are national scholarships awarded to pupils showing particular aptitude in Design Technology. The successful girls all sat a rigorous two hour scholarship paper in February. They have now been invited to a day of selection challenges and interview at London University, Imperial College. Should they be successful at this next stage they will receive a financial scholarship plus backing and mentorship from one of the UK’s leading engineering companies.

We wish them the best of luck in this final stage.

Karen Bowman

Happy Mother's Day!

Sat, 09 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Reception class at Bromley High have been very busy making a wonderful surprise for Mothering Sunday

Welcome to our new Head Girl team

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

The 2013 Head Girl Team consists of 8 girls: Head Girl - Olwen Mair; Deputy Head Girls - Alex C and Emma N ; Senior Prefects- Bethan B, Rachel C, Alex O, Faye H and Joumana N.

Between us we study a whole range of subjects from Physics to Drama and are involved in a large number of extracurricular activities such as Jazz band and rowing. Olwen and Alex are both involved in the music department at Bromley High while Joumana and Bethan are keen members of the Drama Department. This year, the Head Girl Team is dominated by Scientists, with 5 members taking at least one science as one of their AS options! We hope that with our vast range of interests, we can relate in some way to all girls at BHS.

We are excited to contribute to student life and work with the wider community through our range of innovative new ideas. As a team, we hope to use our year in office to benefit as many BHS girls as possible and we have already set up a twitter account – follow us @BHSHeadGirls where you can find out more about the team’s plans for Bromley High School!

Bromley Music Festival 2013

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

"A fantastic festival of musical flavours! We were treated to everything from the double base to the recorder, through drumkits and the French horn. The girls played with passion and remarkable energy and the audience were enrapt!" Louise Simpson, Head

A wonderful celebration of instrumental and vocal talent was heard on Wednesday in the annual Bromley High Music Festival. The competition featured 131 entries from the Senior School and 50 from the Junior School. After making it through the preliminary rounds, the finalists performed in one of seventeen classes on the day of the competition, ranging from Popular Song to Advanced Woodwind. Our adjudicator this year was Eileen Field, a former music teacher at the school. She currently divides her time between professional performing as a Soprano and accompanist, training ABRSM grade examiners and adjudicating festivals around the world.

A packed but rewarding day finished with an outstanding evening concert starring the top two performers from each class – it was wonderful to see such a great display of the depth and breadth of musical ability here at Bromley High. Congratulations to all who participated!

Mr Iain Sansom, Acting Head of Music

Bromley High Music Festival 2013

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Mr Iain Sansom, Acting Head of Music

World Book Day March 7th 2013

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

The Libraries in both the Senior and Junior Schools have been in a Celebrational Mood and shared a brillliant World Book Day with the girls.

In the Senior School we have been 'getting nostalgic' about the books we loved as small children, putting together a short film “Do You Remember…..”

The staff have also been looking back and thinking about their favourites, and the covers of these books are now on display in the English corridor. The girls have been invited to try their skills at matching up the book with the teacher in the latest Library competition.

The Junior School World Book Day Assembly takes place on Tuesday, when their own competition will be launched. The Prep girls (Reception, Year 1 and Year 2) have been asked to create a picture of their favourite book character, to be drawn, painted, a collage made or created on a computer. Hawthorns (Years 3 -6) have been invited to design a bookmark with a reading or book promotion slogan. All three competitions will close on March 25th - Good luck to all the girls concerned,

Mrs J Murrell, Librarian

Bromley Borough Mayors' Cross Country

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

On Wednesday afternoon Bromley High took part in the Bromley Borough Mayors’ Cross Country run. There were 2 races to run on the day, the under 13 race and the open race. We had a strong field of runners in the under 13 team in which the Bromley High team ran a fantastic race with all girls finishing well and 4 finishing in the top 20 and the U13 cross country team placed 2nd overall.

In the open race was Sabrina Sinha who must be commended on an excellent race. This race was 6250m long and included boys as well as all age groups from under 17 down. Sabrina ran in great style and finished 1st in the girls’ race and overall came 22 beating the majority of the boys!

All the girls who took part must be commended on a great run . Ms Jo Higgins, 2nd PE

STOP PRESS Also congratulations to all girls who took part in the GDST Cross Country. Bromley High entered teams from year 6 through to year 9 who all showed great support to one another. All girls ran very well and must be commended on their efforts. We are still waiting on the results so keep your fingers crossed". Ms Oliva Helm, Head of PE

A wonderful range of subjects and styles of presentation

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Prestigious Public Speaking Event held at Bromley High School

This year for the first time, Bromley High School hosted the very prestigious GDST Chrystall Prize Public Speaking Competition. The Prize itself was set up in memory of Chrystall Carter a fromer GDST employee to commemorate her work at the Trust and her belief in the power of reasoned argument, and is open to all Year 11 students in GDST schools around the country.

Each of the five Year 11 finalists had already been through the fierce semi-finals round to win against other schools in their geographical cluster.

Our own Eleanor Blackwood, competed at Sydenham High School against Blackheath, Croydon, Sutton and Sydenham High Schools with the winning public speech, 'We are all responsible for the premature sexualisation of children'.

The standard of public speaking for the final was examplary, facing the judges, children's author Malorie Blackman, Bromley High School Governor Valerie Letley and Artistic Director of the Bromley Little Theatre Pauline Armour, with an almost impossible decision.

Although Eleanor was pipped to the post, her speech 'An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth'. 'Can revenge ever be justified?' was outstanding and we were all very proud of her as she kept the audience riveted for the full seven minutes and answered difficult questions with aplomb.

“The extremely high standard of each of the Chrystall Prize finalists made our job as judges incredibly difficult. Each speech was considered, meticulously researched and presented with intelligence and conviction. Well done to all who took part”. Malorie Blackman.

“A wonderful range of topics and styles of presentation – but all of them brilliant! There was a hair’s breadth between the 5 finalists from across the GDST schools represented and I am only grateful that I was not one of the judges! Well done to all concerned and grateful thanks to our excellent judges”. Louise Simpson, Head, Bromley High School.

The event was streamed live to all of the GDST schools.

The contestants were judged on a range of criteria encompassing the following: ability to engage an audience; appropriateness of style and language to both subject and audience; depth and clarity of argument; grasp of subject matter; clarity of expression; effective use of time and ability to deal with questions.

Congratulations to the winner Ella Rechter, Oxford High School, GDST, whose chosen topic was 'Technological innovation has exacerbated the worst aspects of human nature.'

The End

The finalists and their chosen topic were as follows.

Bromley High School – Eleanor Blackwood

'An Eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. Can revenge ever by justified?'

Streatham & Clapham High School - Nicola Peach Equal runner-up

'Social media – an invasion of privacy?'

Sheffield High School - Nancy Thorpe

'With so many doubts being raised about the intellectual rigour, quality of marking and constant changing of criteria, are examination results in Britain today worth the paper that they are written on?'

Heathfield School - Krupa Ravi Equal runner-up

'You are what you wear'.

Oxford High School - Ella Rechter Winner

'Technological innovation has exacerbated the worst aspects of human nature'.

The judging panel:

Pauline Armour, has enjoyed a long career as an educational professional alongside an active engagement in theatre as both a performer and director Head of Support Services to schools in London Borough of Southwark and Artistic Director of Bromley Little Theatre. She is currently performing at Bromley Little Theatre in a European premiere of a new award winning American play 'Very Still and Hard To See' by Steve Yockey which BLT will be taking to the 2013 Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August.

Malorie Blackman who has written over 60 books for children and young adults, including the ‘Noughts and Crosses’ series of novels (‘Noughts and Crosses’ won the Red House FCBG Children’s Book Award as well as being included in the top 100 of the BBC Big Read). Her latest book is ‘Boys Don't Cry’, published in April 2011.

Valerie Letley has worked in television production on a number of iconic programmes such as ‘Arena’, ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Top of the Pops’. As a Script Supervisor, specialising in situation comedy she has been involved in many hit shows including ‘Sorry!’, ‘Hi-De-Hi!’, ‘The Vicar of Dibley’, ‘Harry Enfield and Chums’ and over 60 episodes of ‘As Time Goes By’, starring Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer.

Supporting Green Week 4-10 March 13

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

There was a buzz in the canteen today for all the tasty vegetarian food on offer for Meat Free Monday. The positive response was fantastic from the girls, many who were keen to take part and do something good for the environment! House points were awarded for each vegetarian meal bought or eaten in a packed lunch. The winning Form and House will be announced in the whole school assembly next Monday.

Meat Free Monday is a simple but effective strategy to support Green Week. If people are able to observe one meat free day a week this will help to curb carbon emissions as well as realise other benefits to the environment. How you may ask?

1) Rising affluence has triggered a shift to a greater amount of meat consumed, this means that the rearing and keeping of livestock uses much more of the world’s crops and a great deal of freshwater, fertilisers and pesticides – this is unsustainable.

2) The keeping of more livestock adds to global warming by adding methane gas into the atmosphere.

3) Reducing food chains by eating less meat will make our crops go further - there are less animals to feed and so more food will go to the world's growing population (UN have said that food production would have to increase globally by 70% by 2050 to feed the world’s surging population).

The biggest thank you must go to Grace Baylis who had the mastermind idea of dressing up as a cow and asking students in the dinner queue not to eat her!

Dr Snehal Desai, Science Teacher and Environment and Sustainability Coordinator - Senior School

Supporting Green Week

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

There was a buzz in the canteen today for all the tasty vegetarian food on offer for Meat Free Monday. The positive response was fantastic from the girls, many who were keen to take part and do something good for the environment! House points were awarded for each vegetarian meal bought or eaten in a packed lunch. The winning form and house will be announced in the whole school assembly next Monday.

Meat Free Monday as one strategy for Green Week because if people are able to observe one meat free day a week this will help to curb carbon emissions. How you may ask?

2) The keeping of more livestock adds to global warming by adding methane gas into the atmosphere.

3) Reducing food chains by eating less meat will make our crops go further as there are less animals to feed and so more food will go to the worlds growing population (UN have said that food production would have to increase globally by 70% by 2050 to feed the world’s surging population).

Thank you to all the staff and students who took part today and a really big thank you to the head girl team and head of houses who counted house points and added to the competitive element to lunchtimes proceedings. The biggest thank you must go to Grace Baylis who had the mastermind idea of dressing up as a cow and asking students in the dinner queue not to eat her!

All creatures great and small

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

As part of our creative curriculum topic of “All creatures great and small” the Prep Department learnt about endangered animals. They decided to raise some money to adopt an endangered animal. In order to do this they held a book fair using books donated by the children. It was a great success and the children were really excited about their purchases. They raised over £60.

"Last Friday the Junior School hall was buzzing with girls in Reception – Year 2 taking part in their ‘Book Swap’ to raise money to adopt an endangered animal. It was lovely to see the girls so enthusiastic about their new books, with many not even able to leave the hall before they had started reading"! Claire Dickerson, Head, Junior School

U13 and U15 go to County Finals of Lady Taverner's Cricket Tournament

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to the U13 and U15 Cricket Teams who have both qualified for the County Finals of the Lady Taverner’s Cricket Tournaments.

We wish them both luck for their tournaments to be held on the 28^th Feb for the U13’s and 1^st March for the U15’s both held in Canterbury.

On Thursday the under 13 cricket team played in the Kent County Cricket tournament winning all their games. They now proceed to the Regional finals in April.

Ski Canada 2013

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

A total of 55 of us went on this year’s ski trip to Mont Tremblant in Quebec, Canada and we all had a brilliant time.

We stayed in apartments in the village and eat our breakfast and dinner at Casey’s.

Our accommodation was on-slope and so we could ski down to the door at the end of the day - even those who had never skied before were able to do this by the end of the week which was very impressive. The weather was very cold at the beginning of the week but on Wednesday we had lots of snow which warmed the temperatures up a bit and made for the most amazing conditions.

What with brilliant instructors, beautiful scenery, excellent skiing and an opportunity to get to know people we don’t usually talk to in our day to day school life, it was a very fulfilling trip for all concerned. We even managed to squeeze in a bit of tubing, a treasure hunt and an obligatory snowball fight or two!

It is my hope that we will return to this destination next year as this was so successful – and because there are a few activities and slopes we have not yet tried.

Thank you to everyone who came – pupils and staff – you were all a pleasure to spend time with and get to know a little better.

Dr A Major, Head of Year 7, RS and Ski trip organiser

Language trip was hard work but fun!

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

The greatly anticipated trip to Santander took place between 15-19 February 2013 for 29 girls in years 9 and 10, accompanied by teachers Sra Iglesias, Sra Mateos and Sra Kidner.

Accommodation was full-board at Hotel Los Hidalgos in Santillana Del Mar, a very friendly family run hotel in a very pretty part of the region of Cantabria in Northern Spain. We also had the added bonus of having the hotel to ourselves!

Santander is situated in a protected bay on the coast and surrounded by the snow-topped Picos de Europa mountains and other interesting sites, including the famous Caves of Altamira with their prehistoric paintings although unfortunately we were only able to see a replica of these caves. The impressive Cabárceno wildlife park and a boat cruise around Santander harbour, which included sightings of dolphins, were very memorable excursions as well as a visit to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao anda flamenco dancing workshop.

We were very fortunate as the sun shone for us throughout our stay with a maximum temperature of 16 degrees! Tapas tasting was a great chance for the girls to try some Spanish dishes and the Karaoke evening gave them the opportunity to sing songs in both Spanish and English. Most importantly during the trip, the girls worked conscientiously to practise and improve their Spanish with 8 hours in total taught by native teachers at a local language school.

All in all it was an extremely enjoyable and successful trip.

Mrs Annette Iglesias, Spanish Teacher and Trip co-ordinator

Years 5 - 8 enjoy flight-based cross curriculum enrichment day

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

On Tuesday 26th February Bromley High School girls in Years 5-8 joined forces to take part in an exciting, challenging and fun-packed cross-phase curriculum enrichment day. They were able to explore and create in an inter-disciplinary manner and learn beyond subject boundaries. The girls were able to make connections between different areas of their learning by getting them to work together on a variety of projects following the theme 'Man and Machine with some groups focussing on flight, wind farms or code breaking.

In all it provided an enriched learning experience which encompassed a broad range of subjects including Science, Design Technology, Art & Design, Modern Foreign Languages, Drama, RE, Geography, English, History, Music and Mathematics!

"This was a day of exciting opportunity for our girls to work together and enjoy an inter-disciplinary approach to their learning. The buzz words were creativity and lateral thinking and it was great to see girls of all ages from Y5 to Y8 working so brilliantly together. The teaching staff has done an amazing job in working collaboratively to bring diverse subject areas together and we could not have been happier with the outcome. A truly enriching day". Louise Simpson, Head.

Below are some of the comments from the girls about the day:

“I really enjoyed the art section of our flight based cross phase day. We had the chance to make flight inspired cane models. Mine was called ‘cloud bug’; the invisible cloud ladybird! The day was brilliant, we learnt a lot and made new friends.” Kirsty Turnbull, Year 6.

"Writing encrypted codes was very interesting and unscrambling them was difficult but challenging.” Lois Hill, Year 8.

“I really enjoyed making different sounds with suitcases and sticks to make an airport scene”. Eloise Berry, Year 8

“Watching the girls from across the year groups, working so enthusiastically together to make a structure inspired by ‘flight’ was a highlight. Working in small groups, they had to achieve their goal so quickly, they just launched into planning, designing and making. It’s amazing what can be achieved creatively in a restricted space of time”. Ms Becky Shepley, Head of Art and Design.

Many thanks to David, Sue and Christopher Johnson, from 'Sparks are Flying'

Bronze Medal for Sabrina

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

English National Cross Country Championships, Herrington Park, Sunderland 23/2/13

M any congratulations to Sabrina Sinha who came third in the above championships on Saturday. This year she was competing out of age in the 15 and under age group. The top 3 runners battled for the medal positions throughout the 4.25k course, with the lead frequently changing. The course was the hardest course Sabrina has ever competed on with steep hills and inclines. This was hampered by freezing conditions, snow showers and at least a foot of snow underfoot which over the day became churned up with underlying mud/ slush and ice. She was presented with her medal by Steve Cram.

Sabrina Sinha has also recently won the South of England Cross Country Regional Championships at Parliament Hill fields. She ran in the U15 age group and competed against 187 other runners!!!

She has the UK inter county championships in 2 weeks’ time in Birmingham so we wish her the very best of luck in that.

What an incredibly busy time of year this is for Sabrina!

We are all behind you Sabrina and very proud! Keep up the great work!!

Jo Higgins

South of England Cross Country Regional Champion

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to Sabrina Sinha in winning the South of England Cross Country Regional Championships on Saturday at Parliament Hill fields. Sabrina ran in the U15 age group and competed against 187 other runners!!!

She travels up to Sunderland on Friday 22nd February to compete in the English National Championships - although Sabrina will be competing out of age we have our fingers crossed for her!

Well Done and Good Luck Sabrina!

Dance Production 2013 .....

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

The Dance Production celebrated the end of a fantastic first half of term. Many congratulations to all the girls involved in the show and to Miss Gibbs and her staff team for making it happen so wonderfully.

What a fabulous night! The smiles from the girls and the audience just said it all. In Miss Gibb’s first dance production we saw a new style, a fabulous theme and some great music. The whole show was a real treat!

Louise Simpson, Head.

Congratulations to Rt Hon Margaret Hodge MP, named one of UK's most influential women

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

We are thrilled that Bromley High School alumnus Margaret Hodge MP has been named one of the UK's most powerful women in the BBC’s Woman’s Hour Power List 2013 (www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b007qlvb/features/power-list-100)

A panel of judges compiled a list of the country's 100 most influential females for Radio 4's Woman's Hour, with Margaret Hodge being named among the Queen, Home Secretary Theresa May and author JK Rowling.

Margaret Hodge was educated at Bromley High School before obtaining a BSC at the London School of Economics. In 2010 she became the first ever female Chair of the Public Accounts Committee elected by fellow MPs in the first elections to be held for Select Committee Chairs.

She has been MP for Barking since 1994.She worked in market research and consultancy before being elected as councillor for the London Borough of Islington in 1973. She was a co-nominator for Tony Blair's bid for leadership of the Labour Party and joined his government in 1998, becoming the first Minister for Children in 2003. She continued to serve as a junior minister under Gordon Brown before her return to the backbenches.

We were delighted to welcome Margaret Hodge back to her old school last year as Guest Speaker at our 2012 Prize-Giving.

Picture: Rt Hon Margaret Hodge Presenting Prizes at Bromley High School Prize Giving 2012

Kent Schools Cross Country Championships

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to all girls who took part in the Kent Schools Cross Country Championships - Danson Park, February 2013

Special mentions go to Imogen D who came 26th and Serena H who came 60th in their race which consisted of 80 girls.

Anne M who came 6th in the Under 17s. As only the top 4 runners automatically go through to the English schools championships, Anna now awaits to see if she has been selected as the next fastest in the squad they choose from. Sabrina Sinha won the under 15 age group. She is now selected to compete for the Kent schools team at the English Schools Cross Country Championships to be held in Derbyshire on the 16th March. Well Done to all girls and Good Luck to Sabrina in this Championship!

BIATHLON- QUALIFIERS FOR THE NATIONAL SCHOOLS FINALS!!

Very well done to: Tamara Elliot and Sabrina Sinha who have qualified for the above event. This takes place at Crystal Palace on the 24th March. We wish both girls the very best of luck in this event.

Jo Higgins, PE Dept/2nd PE

Visit by Nathan Fox GB Triple Jumper

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

On Thursday 7th February we were honoured to be in the presence of Nathan Fox a Great Britain triple jumper who is ranked 3rd in the UK.

During his morning at Bromley High Nathan motivated and encouraged girls in years 5-8 throughout a fitness circuit which consisted of star jumps, press ups, spotty dogs and leg drives. After all the girls had taken part in this Sports for Schools Challenge, Nathan took an assembly where the girls learnt more about his participation at elite level, witnessed a sporting demonstration and then had a question and answer session. The girls were then lucky enough to have photos taken with Nathan, I think this was a highlight for many of them and it was a struggle to find a pathway for Nathan’s escape!

Sports for Schools is a fun, educational and exciting way of raising funds for our school and the charities Action for Children and Young British athletes training towards international Championships. Hopefully all the girls who took part felt inspired and are able to raise some money through sponsorship from participating in this challenge. They have until the 14th February to bring their money in to the school office.

Olivia Helm Head of PE

Below are some quotes from Year 5

I liked seeing how far Nathan could jump when he was 16 – it was a huge distance!”

“ Very inspiring!”

“ I found it really funny when some girls got up to try some warm ups with Nathan. I also

enjoyed asking questions and getting to know a bit more about him.”

“ I liked being chosen to do the triple jump with Nathan!”

Thank you for donating your old school uniform

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0100

We are delighted to be able to share with you these fabulous photos of the children in Nankesido, Ghana who have received your donated old uniforms. The school will be paying the transport costs of the final shipment, as our Christmas charity donation for this year.

"What a wonderful way for us to make a real difference to the lives of these children, for whom a smart school uniform is a real luxury. Thank you to those of you who have already donated and please remember to donate if you still have old uniforms to give away". Louise Simpson, Head

The next collection will be the end of Summer Term 2013; provisional dates for collection of out of date uniform are 9^th – 11^th July 2013 . Further details will be provided nearer the time

Viking Day at Bromley High Junior School

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Thorulf, a famous Viking warrior, visited Year 3 at Bromley High Junior School on Wednesday 30th January and was greeted by a hoard of excited Year 3 Vikings. Dressed as Vikings, the girls and their teachers travelled back in time over 1000 years to the time of the Vikings. They learnt about where the Vikings came from and where they travelled to in their amazing longships. Thorulf told us about the sort of life a Viking would lead and what they ate; lots of fish stew and if they were lucky wild boar but no potatoes (no chips!). He described how Vikings lived and traded and each child was given a coin welded by Thorulf. We played a Viking game called Taefl and saw how Viking coins were made. The day ended with a great battle between the Anglo Saxons and the Vikings!

“At Bromley High Junior School learning is creative and dynamic. By immersing the girls in the sights, smells and sounds of the Viking era for a day they have a rich experience to use in their future learning”. Mrs Claire Dickerson, Head of Junior School

“I really enjoyed taking part in a Viking battle”. Amelie
“I found the day very interesting and learnt a lot about the Vikings”. Hibba
“It was great fun dressing up as Vikings and making our own shields and swords”. Amelie
“I really enjoyed it, it was so much fun. My favourite part was when we played ‘Fox and Geese’. The Viking coins were very pretty. I loved it when the Vikings fought a battle. The best bit was when we had a fight with our swords and shields”. Grace
“I really enjoyed Viking day. My favourite part was doing the Viking Quiz. We had to find the right answers on the fact boards. I also liked listening to all the things about the Vikings fighting the Saxons. I loved the fighting that we did against the other class. It was a draw!” Isabella

The event was organised in conjunction with a Suffolk-based company called ‘Portalstothepast’ which specialises in providing fun and educational workshops of this nature.

Leading independent school in Bromley

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0100

“We are very proud of what our girls achieve in their academic subjects and the national league tables which have just been published yet again show us as the leading Independent School in Bromley when measured by academic success in Public Exams for June 2012.

We are in the top 227 schools nationally (at number 63 in fact) for the number of pupils who gain good grades (at least 2 As and a B) in so called “facilitating subjects” that are commonly seen as a route into leading Russell group universities. This reflects the girls’ achievement in Maths, Further Maths, English, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, History, Economics, and Modern and Classical Languages. Locally we are ranked as the best Independent School by this measure (by some margin, the next Independent School is 9% behind us). By AS and A level points per pupil we are also the best Independent School in the area, with 948.9 points per pupil (some 12 points ahead of the next school).

Very well done to the girls of the U6th from last year who achieved these fabulous results and the teachers and parents who helped them to get there!

But as you know, Bromley High is not just about exams; this year, to celebrate 130 years of the school, we hope to make a difference by helping those less fortunate than ourselves. We have challenged every one of our 900 girls and all the staff to spend 130 minutes doing good things to help others and for the older girls, we hope that they will be able to spend 130 hours on community service in 2013. This is a tough challenge but I look forward to seeing what the girls choose to do to make a difference to others”.

Louise Simpson, Head, Bromley High School

Celebrating 130 years 1883 - 2013

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High School is a school with 130 years of tradition but with a view to the future.

The school opened its doors on 18th January 1883 at the Elmfield Road site in Bromley and was the second wave of schools to be opened across the UK by the Girls’ Public Day School Company (now known as the Girls’ Day School Trust). Bromley High School characterised the GPDSC schools, offering high levels of scholarship and a strong interest in language. The first headmistress was Mary Louisa Heppel, an expert in French and regarded as a pioneer of education, who remained at the helm for 25years.

In 1883 Victorian Britain was slowly becoming accustomed to State provision of education. The opening of Bromley High School marked the first public recognition in Bromley of the importance of a formal education for girls. The increasing popularity of the school led to a move to bigger premises in 1979 to the present site in Blackbrook Lane set in 25 acres. The school was formally opened by HRH Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester, and Patron of the Girls’ Day School Trust on 13th May 1981. The school has throughout its history remained dedicated to its original message ‘Fides et Opera’ (Faith and Work).

To celebrate the 130th anniversary, there will be a variety of activities taking place at the School across the year

Kent Cross Country Championships

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to Sabrina Sinha who won the under 15 age group (she gets to run in the same age group again next year) at the above championships on Sunday, held in Detling, Kent. There were over 50 club runners from the county and she won the race in 13 minutes and 24 seconds beating second place by an impressive 49 seconds. The course was 3690 metres and was covered by a thick fog, so it’s amazing that she found her way around! Very well done Sabrina- a great start to 2013! (Picture attached) More results from this event include: The U13 race which was 3190m and against 48 competitors. Well done to Tammy Falshaw who came 16th in a time of 13.35 and Paige Macheath who came 34th in a time of 14.57. U17 race which was 4150m and against 23 competitors Congratulations to Anna Myers in year 11 who came in 6th place in a time of 17.20. Their next event is on Saturday 19th January which is the Kent Schools Cross Country Championships at Danson Park. We wish all girls taking part the very best of luck.

Bromley High School breaks Guinness World Record

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0100

26 GDST schools and academies achieve world’s biggest multi-venue science lesson

Guinness World Records have confirmed that Bromley High School has entered the record books by taking part in the world’s biggest practical science lesson in multiple venues.

On Tuesday 13th November, 46 girls in Year 8 from Bromley High School took part in the world record attempt by conducting two science experiments to measure the value of acceleration due to gravity, involving 2,215 girls in total at 26 schools and academies across the country.

Pupils aged from ten to 15, from Portsmouth to Newcastle, conducted one experiment which measured the time taken for an object to drop a set distance, and another which timed a swinging pendulum. All the participating schools were members of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), the leading group of independent girls’ schools in the UK, which celebrates its 140th anniversary this year.

“We are thrilled to have been part of making science history and to have contributed to the GDST's successful bid to stage the largest science experiment in the world in November“, said Louise Simpson, Head.

“The truth is in the Certificate, which arrived at Trust Office just last week. Many thanks and very well done to Mr Viljoen, Head of Physics, and Mrs Dolan, Head of Science and all those involved In the event. Well done to our record breakers”!

“Studies have shown that women who go to girls’ schools are more likely to study stereotypically male subjects like physics and chemistry, both at school and at university. We know this to be true from our own experience, with around 11.4% of our girls studying A-level physics, compared to the national average of 1.6%. Taking part in this world record has created even further enthusiasm around the importance of science in the School”.

http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/2000/largest-practical-science-lesson-(multiple-venues)

Krishni achieves international recognition at Indian Classical Dance Festival

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Krishni J is a Year 7 pupil at Bromley High School. She has been learning Indian classical dancing, Bharatyanatyam, for a few years, travelling to India in school holidays to learn from the multi-award winning famous dancer, Srimathi Rajeswari Sainath. Krishni completed her graduation performance at Fairfield Halls, in front of an invited audience of over 800 guests, for which Ms L Simpson, Head at Bromley High School was Chief Guest. Following her outstanding performance there, she was invited to perform in India, at the celebrated Chennai Dance Festival on 3rd January 2013. She danced at Sri Thyaga Brahma Gana Sabha, one of the oldest and prestigious dance venues in Chennai. This performance was streamed live, and viewed around the world by family and friends. Critics who were present were amazed by her ability at such a young age, and there are already several invitations for performances in larger halls for the festival next year! Krishni herself is unfazed by the attention, and is simply looking forward to meeting up with friends at school! When asked by local journalist how she remembers such complex steps, which much older artists would struggle with, she simply said “I can just feel the rhythms”. She also said, ”I enjoy travelling to India to learn this dance. My mum and I have travelled many times to Hyderabad and Chennai and the last year has been a whirlwind, with my Arangetram in London and performance in India, not forgetting starting Senior School at Bromley High”. “We are so proud of Krishni’s high profile achievements in Indian Dance. The opportunity for all of us at the school to benefit from her involvement on an international stage is a brilliant one and we wish Krishni continued success in her performances”. Louise Simpson, Head, Bromley High School.

Link to Krishni's performance

An outstanding performance at Indian Classical Dance Festival, Chennai, India

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Krishni Jaishankar is a Year 7 pupil at Bromley High School. She has been learning Indian classical dancing, Bharatyanatyam, for a few years, travelling to India in school holidays to learn from the multi-award winning famous dancer, Srimathi Rajeswari Sainath.

Krishni completed her graduation performance at Fairfield Halls, in front of an invited audience of over 800 guests, for which Ms L Simpson, Head at Bromley High School was Chief Guest. Following her outstanding performance there, she was invited to perform in India, at the celebrated Chennai Dance Festival on 3rd January 2013. She danced at Sri Thyaga Brahma Gana Sabha, one of the oldest and prestigious dance venues in Chennai. This performance was streamed live, and viewed around the world by family and friends. Critics who were present were amazed by her ability at such a young age, and there are already several invitations for performances in larger halls for the festival next year!

Krishni herself is unfazed by the attention, and is simply looking forward to meeting up with friends at school! When asked by local journalist how she remembers such complex steps, which much older artists would struggle with, she simply said “I can just feel the rhythms”. She also said, ”I enjoy travelling to India to learn this dance. My mum and I have travelled many times to Hyderabad and Chennai and the last year has been a whirlwind, with my Arangetram in London and performance in India, not forgetting starting Senior School at Bromley High”.

“We are so proud of Krishni’s high profile achievements in Indian Dance. The opportunity for all of us at the school to benefit from her involvement on an international stage is a brilliant one and we wish Krishni continued success in her performances”. Louise Simpson, Head, Bromley High School.

Link to Krishni's performance

the Silent Bride

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

the Silent Bride

Fed up with trying to find a decent script for his pupils to perform, Simon Graham, Head of Drama at Bromley High School decided to capitalise on the wealth of performing talent available and write his own play.

Utilising several Dickensian archetypes, the Silent Bride is set in the smoke of Victorian London at Christmas time and weaves a tale around the misfortunes of Lucy Harrington (Tara Jennett) who finds herself lost and alone in a loveless marriage with business magnate Thomas Townsend (Emma Herring). Her only companion is a dictatorial housekeeper, Mrs Scribbins (Olivia Courtney) and it is left to her father Arthur Harrington (Bethan Boxall) to try and track her down and rescue her from an unhappy future.

With a cast of 40, the play used a live soundtrack from a four piece band. The integral music was arranged by Iain Sansom and performed by the solo vocal talents of Catherine Pope as narrator Mary Harrington along with the collective voices of the Year 7 choir who provided the rich accompanying delights of carols both before and during the performance.

"A fantastic show, full of humour, history and incredible characters. We are so lucky to have such talented pupils at Bromley High. The acting, music and dance combined to make this a memorable show in every way". Louise Simpson, Head

Photos courtesy of Paul Knivett

Carol Singing in the Glades

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High School musicians and choir took time off their studies to support ChildAid Charity last week. For the past three years, the school have entertained the Christmas shoppers in the Glades Shopping Centre with music and song raising funds for the charity ChildAid.

They received many positive comments about their singing and playing, and were delighted to find out that they had raised a magnificent amount; over £700, this year.

Martin Wilcox the Charity Manager was delighted and thanked the school and Mrs Kathryn Ridgeway, Head of Music for bringing the girls to the Glades.

“As always amazing singing and playing and we received so many positive comments – a credit to the school and themselves”.

http://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/10121408.Bromley_High_School_pupils_play_a_tune_for_charity_at_The_Glades/?ref=twtrec

Carol Singing in the Glades

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High School musicians sung Carols at the Glades in Support of ChildAid. Bromley High School musicians and choir found time away from their studies to support ChildAid Charity.

For the past three years, the school has entertained christmas shoppers in the Glades Shopping Centre with music and song raising funds for the charity ChildAid. They received many positive comments about their singing and playing, and were delighted to find out that they had raised a magnificent amount, over £700, this year.

Martin Wilcox the Charity Manager was delighted and thanked the school and Mrs Kathryn Ridgeway, Head of Music, for bringing the girls to the Glades.

“As always amazing singing and playing and we received so many positive comments – a credit to the school and themselves”.

Lupus Trust Concert Westminister

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The Music Department travelled to give their annual support to the Lupus Trust Concert at St Margaret’s, Westminster. Our musicians captivated the congregation with their beautiful singing and wonderful quality of music. They are so lucky to have such an impressive stage on which to sing and all are very grateful to Mrs Ridgeway for making this happen for them. "I wanted to say thank you so much to everyone once again for the fantastic performances at the concert". Angie Davidson, Campaign Director, St Thomas' Lupus Trust http://www.lupus.org.uk

Foreign Language Spelling Bee 2012

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Well done to all the 36 girls in year 8 and 9 who took part in the Spelling Bee competition, part of the 140^th GDST celebrations. All contestants had one minute to translate and spell as many words as they could in one foreign language and 18 of them won the first round of the competition.

Congratulations to the French bees: Sophie M (8H), Amy F (8H), Emilie C (8B), Daniela H (9S), Raveena R (9B) and Harshini I (9G)

Congratulations to the German bees: Pascale B (8H), Sophie O(8H), Imogen S (8S), Natalie F(9H), Louisa C(9B) and Imogen G (9B)

Congratulations to the Spanish bees: Mae D (8G), Eluise S (8H), Ophelie P-S (8B), Suzanna F(9B), Victoria C (9S) and Eisha M (9H).

The regional round for this event will take place in February 2013 so watch this hive!

Mme Strange, Head of Foreign Languages

Foreign Language Spelling Bee 2012

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to the French bees: Sophie M (8H), Amy F (8H), Emilie C (8B), Daniela H (9S), Raveena R (9B) and Harshini I (9G)

Congratulations to the German bees: Pascale B (8H), Sophie O(8H), Imogen S (8S), Natalie F(9H), Louisa C(9B) and Imogen G (9B)

Congratulations to the Spanish bees: Mae D (8G), Eluise S (8H), Ophelie P-S (8B), Suzanna F(9B), Victoria C (9S) and Eisha M (9H).

The regional round for this event will take place in February 2013 so watch this hive!

Mme Strange, Head of Foreign Languages

Foreign Language Spelling Bee 2012

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to the French bees: Sophie M (8H), Amy F (8H), Emilie C (8B), Daniela H (9S), Raveena R (9B) and Harshini I (9G)

Congratulations to the German bees: Pascale B (8H), Sophie O(8H), Imogen S (8S), Natalie F(9H), Louisa C(9B) and Imogen G (9B)

Congratulations to the Spanish bees: Mae D (8G), Eluise S (8H), Ophelie P-S (8B), Suzanna F(9B), Victoria C (9S) and Eisha M (9H).

The regional round for this event will take place in February 2013 so watch this hive!

Mme Strange, Head of Foreign Languages

Joy and Christmas Spirit

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Lupus Concert 2012

Sat, 08 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

"I wanted to say thank you so much to everyone once again for the fantastic performances at the concert". Angie Davidson, Campaign Director, St Thomas' Lupus Trust http://www.lupus.org.uk

Foreign Language Spelling Bee

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Well done to all the 36 girls in year 8 and 9 who took part in the Spelling Bee competition, part of the 140^th GDST celebrations.

All contestants had one minute to translate and spell as many words as they could in one foreign language and 18 of them won the first round of the competition. Congratulations to the French bees: Sophie Moss (8H), Amy Fidler (8H), Emilie Clark (8B), Daniela Hunt (9S), Raveena Rao (9B) and Harshini Iyer (9G).

Congratulations to the German bees: Pascale Bibby (8H), Sophie Oliver (8H), Imogen Stoodley (8S), Natalie Falshaw (9H), Louisa Coe (9B) and Imogen Goddard (9B)

Congratulations to the Spanish bees: Mae Daws (8G), Eluise Sheehan (8H), Ophelie Podbielski-Stewart (8B), Suzanna Farmery (9B), Victoria Cheung (9S) and Eisha Moten (9H).

The regional round for this event will take place in February 2013 so watch this hive!

Mme Strange, Head of Foreign Languages

John Downton Awards 2012

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Every year the Art Department at Bromley High School, are invited to submit work for selection at the John Downton Awards. These are prestigious awards open to children and young people living in Kent aged 11 – 18.

The John Downton Awards were first organised in 2000 to recognise the achievements of the young artists of Kent in the fields of painting and drawing.

'Top of Form' Caitlin and Dasha’s work has been exhibited alongside submissions from Isabel Cauchi, ‘Figure of distortion’, Pearl Vernon-Howe, ‘Chair in an Empty Room’, Christina Garbi, ‘Structure’ and Elke Jensen's, ‘Marbles’ in The County Gallery, Sessions House, County Hall, Maidstone, ME14 1XQ

Rebecca Shepley, Head of Art & Design

Anglo Saxon Workshop

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

ANGLO SAXON WORKSHOP

On Wednesday 5^th December Mr Stainsbury and his daughter, Mitra, talked to year 3 about the lives the Anglo Saxons led. We took it in turns to dress Mitra in the clothes that an Anglo Saxon girl would have worn whilst Mr Stainsbury explained about the fabrics used and how they the clothes were made. Next we split up into three groups and took part in typical Anglo Saxon activities.

· Braiding to make bracelets.

· Beading, to make necklaces. We only used the beads appropriate for that time period including a choice of amethyst or amber for the central stone.

· Leather embossing. The Anglo Saxons liked to decorate their leather goods with intricate patterns. We decorated leather tags and wrote our name in runes, the Anglo Saxon alphabet.

The afternoon was great fun and we all learnt a tremendous amount about the Anglo Saxons. We would like to send a big thank you to Mr and Mrs Stainsbury and Mitra for all the hard work they put into the afternoon.

Autumn Cabaret marks the start of the Christmas Season

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Monday night’s Autumn Cabaret concert, whilst not strictly Christmas, is a good way to mark the start of the season. Mrs Ridgeway and her team never fail to impress with the standard, range and quality of the music that we are treated with and Monday was no exception. I especially enjoyed the choral pieces and the flute choir, I wonder what your favourites were? As ever, it was lovely to see so many parents there in support and I send my warmest congratulations to the girls whose talents were on show. It was a memorable evening for us all. And special thanks to Mrs Ridgeway, our wonderful Director of Music, for whom it was her last Autumn Cabaret.

Huge Success at John Downton Awards 2012

Sat, 01 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The John Downton Awards were first organised in 2000 to recognise the achievements of the young artists of Kent in the fields of painting and drawing.

The Art Department is proud and delighted to announce that Caitlin Westgate was awarded the Gold Award in the 11-16 year old category for her series of beautifully crafted and thought provoking Photographs entitled ‘Retribution’. Furthermore, Dasha Veysey was awarded the top prize in the mixed media category for her stunning textile hanging entitled, ‘Age in Six’ from the University of the Creative Arts.It is a particular achievement as work were entered from a great many schools across Kent. 'Top of Form' Caitlin and Dasha’s work has been exhibited alongside submissions from Isabel Cauchi, ‘Figure of distortion’, Pearl Vernon-Howe, ‘Chair in an Empty Room’, Christina Garbi, ‘Structure’ and Elke Jensen, ‘Marbles’ in The County Gallery, Maidstone, Kent. see the photos from the ceremony and some of our award winners collecting their prizes!http://www.flickr.com/photos/kentartsimages/sets/72157632059244898/

Prestigious Engineering Scholarship awarded

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Helen Phillips from Bromley High School GDST was awarded a prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship recently at a ceremony hosted by the Institution of Engineering & Technology, Savoy Place, London. Helen was presented with her Scholarship by Sir John Armitt FREng, Chairman of the Olympic Delivery Authority.

The Arkwright Engineering Scholarships support young people from across the UK who have the potential to be industry’s future leaders in engineering and design. During their sixth-form studies, Scholars receive £600 to support their technical courses and have access to a range of exciting opportunities to learn more about engineering, such as mentoring and company visits. The school also receives £400 per Scholar.

Scholars are selected following a rigorous selection process comprising a detailed application form, a two-hour aptitude exam and an interview hosted at a top engineering university.

The National Director of the Arkwright Scholarships Trust, Dr Martin Thomas, commented: “This year’s assessment process was extremely tough. Any secondary school can become affiliated to enter students, and this year we had 1103 applicants competing for just 335 Scholarships. Helen and all of our new Scholars have absolutely phenomenal potential for future careers in the engineering profession.

"We are delighted that Helen has been awarded this prestigious Scholarship. She is a gifted designer and committed to a career in Engineering so it could not be awarded to a more worthy recipient. Helen has already impressed those with whom she did work experience at London Transport and I am sure she Will go a long way in Engineering. This is a brilliant startign point". Louise Simpson, Head

The photo shows Helen being presented with her certificate by Russell Race, Senior Warden of the Rochester Bridge Trust.

“We are delighted to be supporting an Arkwright Scholar at Bromley High this year and are sure that it will help to inform girls of the tremendous opportunities that exist in the engineering profession for women”. Mrs Karen Bowman, Head of DT, Bromley High School

“I am proud to have been awarded an Arkwright Engineering Scholarship and am very grateful to the Rochester Bridge Trust for sponsoring me. I am looking forward to all the opportunities the Award will bring to get a better insight into the world of engineering”. Helen Phillips, U6th, Bromley High School

World's biggest multi venue Science Lesson

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High School took part in the world’s biggest multi-venue science lesson

On Tuesday 13^th November, Bromley High School attempted to enter the world record books. A science experiment involving around 2,300 girls at 26 GDST schools across the country – including 46 girls in Year 8 from Bromley High School – measured gravity in a bid to set the record for the world’s biggest practical science lesson in multiple venues.

Witnessing the World Record attempt at Bromley High School were Dr Stuart Ashenden, Acting Dean of the School of Engineering, University of Greenwich; Dr Samer S El-Daher, Head of Dept, Dept of Life and Sports Science, School of Science, Greenwich University; Clare Thomson, Institute of Physics, and Tony Payton, former Science Teacher.

The experiment measured the value of acceleration due to gravity. One measured the time taken for an object to drop a set distance, and the other timed a swinging pendulum.

Pupils taking part in the experiments range in age from 10 to 15 years. “This was really exciting,” said one of the girls taking part on Tuesday “not just for me and my class, but for all the other girls all over the country. With luck, we’re going to be part of science history!”

All the participating students are pupils of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), the leading group of independent girls’ schools in the UK, as part of this year’s 140^th anniversary celebrations.

The most disturbing statistic from the Institute of Physics’ recent report was that nearly half of all co-ed maintained schools in England do not send even one girl on to do Physics at A-level.

“It is fantastic at a time when the numbers nationally of pupils studying Science at A Level is declining that our girls showed such aptitude and interest in this physics experiment. I am delighted that the results are so close to perfect and also that Bromley High was able to be part of this national challenge for girls’ Science. Happy 140^th Birthday GDST! Louise Simpson, Head, Bromley High School

In the girls-only environment of the GDST, Science subjects in general and Physics in particular, are hugely popular and successful. At Bromley High School, we have had great success in Physics; last year we had 94% A-A* at GCSE and 100% A* at A Level for Physics.

“We want to build on this success and encourage the younger girls to choose Physics at A Level; we hope that today’s world record attempt shows girls that Physics can be fun and enjoyable whilst learning at the same time. The enthusiasm for this experiment, right across our school, shows the degree to which we’re bucking some of the less encouraging educational trends.”

Mr Johannes Viljoen, Head of Physics, Bromley High School.

Remembrance Service 2012

Sun, 11 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0100

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning,we will remember them.

We will remember them

U15 Trust Netball Rally Champions 2012!!!

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0100

On Wednesday 10th October a squad of ten girls from Bromley High School took part in the GDST U15 Netball Trust Rally. Twenty three other Trust Schools took part in total, from all over the country.The Team made it through the rounds as the runners-up in their section after winning 3 matches, losing 1 and drawing 1. In the Quarter Finals we played Sheffield. At full time it was a draw at 7-7. So we had to play two minutes extra time. After what felt like an incredibly fast but nerve wrecking two minutes with a goal from Bromley we won the game 8-7.

We then went on to meet Newcastle in the Semi-Final, a school known for their strengths in sport. We were delighted to have made it this far. The Team managed to keep their composure and played an excellent game of netball winning 8-2.

So now we had reached the final and were to play against Portsmouth. Remaining mentally and physically focused was the aim in order to repeat the excellent level of play they displayed in the previous match.

This the girls did and if anything increased their level of performance and effort to win the match 8-7. Not only had they won the match but obviously the whole tournament making them U15 Trust Netball Rally Champions 2012!!! Well done girls!

Miss Jo Higgins, PE Dept and Netball team coach

New Term, New Girls and New Uniform

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 00:00:00 +0100

It was lovely to see so many happy faces as we welcomed our new girls to the Junior and Senior School at the start of the new School Year. Smiling and proudly wearing Bromley High’s brand new School Uniform they had clearly thoroughly enjoyed their first day. Below some of the new year 7 girls tell us about their first day at their new school.

“Ever since I started in reception class at Bromley High School I admired the older girls in the senior school. To me it was only a wild dream that one day I would grow up to be like them. I longed to have a lab coat, my own locker, use of DT and Art rooms and all the technical equipment in the science department"

“The morning had finally arrived when I was able to wear my new uniform. My father has never seen me in my new uniform. Before I showed him my new uniform I looked in the mirror taking in all the detail of my wonderful new uniform. I felt so proud of myself. I could not believe the girl in the mirror was actually my reflection”.

“After five minutes of being in school at Bromley High School I had made friends and I was reassured that I really had lots of friends and that nothing would change that"

“The first few days went so quickly. I am already looking forward to tomorrow"

Top Grades All the Way!

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 +0100

After the huge success of last week’s A levels, and against a national backdrop of fewer top grades, we are delighted that the Year 11 girls have come up trumps too, with outstanding GCSE results across the board and some wonderful individual achievements for some exceptional Year 11 girls.

Special congratulations to Julia Bryson, Anna Forbes, Rebecca Hunt, Olwen Mair, Emma Norton, Olivia Rhind and Rebecca Tanner, all of whom scored all A* in their 10 subjects and contributed to our fantastic 33% result of all exams scoring the A*grade.

28 girls scored only A and A* grades, with a total figure of 69% A*/A across all subjects; increasing to 92% when the B grades are also factored in.

Subjects that deserve a special mention are Biology, Chemistry and Physics, with 94%, 91% and 94% A*/A respectively, English Literature, a core subject for all pupils, with 75% A*/A and a remarkable tally of 100% A*/B in 8 subjects, including music, RS and Art. 87% of our girls achieved the English Baccalaureate, despite our free choice options system, another fantastic achievement for them all.

Head, Louise Simpson, said, “We are thrilled with the girls’ achievements. Not only have they done very well across the board, but more importantly, as individuals. The girls’ strengths in particular subjects have shone through, and some individual triumphs, not just for the very brightest, but also for those who have had personal challenges to face are especially pleasing. They have worked hard and deserve to be thrilled with this fabulous set of results!”

I was so happy with my GCSE results, they were more than I could have hoped for and it was lovely that so many of my fantastic teachers were there on results day so I could thank them all. I am really looking forward the Sixth Form and I have chosen Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Geography for A Level to study Medicine at University. I have been at Bromley High since I was 4 years old – it’s an amazing school and I am very proud to be a student here. Alex Chrysostomou, Year 12

Top GCSE Grades All The Way!

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 +0100

28 girls scored only A and A* grades, with a total figure of 69% A*/A across all subjects; increasing to 92% when the B grades are also factored in. Subjects that deserve a special mention are Biology, Chemistry and Physics, with 94%, 91% and 94% A*/A respectively, English Literature, a core subject for all pupils, with 75% A*/A and a remarkable tally of 100% A*/B in 8 subjects, including music, RS and Art. 87% of our girls achieved the English Baccalaureate, despite our free choice options system, another fantastic achievement for them all.

“We are thrilled with the girls’ achievements. Not only have they done very well across the board, but more importantly, as individuals. The girls’ strengths in particular subjects have shone through, and some individual triumphs, not just for the very brightest, but also for those who have had personal challenges to face are especially pleasing. They have worked hard and deserve to be thrilled with this fabulous set of results!” Head, Louise Simpson.

Bromley High Girls aiming higher!

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:00:00 +0100

It felt like an Olympic medal ceremony at Bromley High School as the U6th opened their envelopes to find out whether all their hard work and determination had paid off when they received their A level results. They need not have worried – the results were fantastic and testament to the hard work, commitment and enthusiasm for their studies that has been the hallmark of this U6th year.

21% of all grades were at A*, some three times the national average for 2011. 42% of girls scored only A and A* grades, with the total of A and A* grades numbering 63% across all the subjects and 85% A* to B. Subjects as diverse as Art, Physics, Economics, Music, Photography and the Extended Project Qualification gained 100% A* and A grades, assuring that the U6th leavers will be enjoying success in a wide range of university subjects on some prestigious courses from Law, to English and physics, when they begin their degree courses in the autumn.

Special congratulations to Audrey Bellis, who, after only one year of study in the UK secured two A* and an A grade, to Ellen Cheetham who, with her 4 A* grades will be taking up her place to read Geography at Oxford in the autumn, and to our outstanding musical duet of Sarah Phillips and Amy Yule, who between them achieved 6 A* and 2 A grades in subjects including maths, chemistry and, of course, music. Very well done also to Charlotte Adolpho, Lucy Botham, Emma Cochrane, Ashana Gupta, Mariha Hamid, Clare Skinner, Johanna Raghu and Leanna Ruprai, all of whom have secured places to study medicine, veterinary or dentistry courses at university.

We wish them every success with their future study.

“We could not be happier with the girls’ outstanding achievements. Achieving top scores at A level has many parallels with the world of success in sport; it takes enormous commitment and dedication from the girls first and foremost, but also from their teachers, parents and friends who support and encourage them and help to make these successes reality. It is easy to forget just what a long haul the journey to success at A level is and we congratulate every one of the girls on their individual successes, wherever their destination in life, these grades will open the door to the next step for them and will allow them to pursue their dreams and ambitions, and we wish them luck as we wave them on their way!" Louise Simpson, Head

Amazing A level results!

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High Girls aiming higher!

Head, Louise Simpson said;

OLYMPIC FOCUS WEEK AT BROMLEY HIGH JUNIOR SCHOOL

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 00:00:00 +0100

GET SET GO!

Girls at Bromley High enjoyed an action packed week as they prepared themselves for the forthcoming London Olympics.

Whilst the Senior School has focused on Arts this week, in the Junior School it has been Focus week, with an Olympic theme.

Get Set Go! An impressive array of activities captivated the girls and their teachers and they don’t seem to have changed out of their sports kit once!

The Junior School girls experienced a range of activities including Olympic rowing, ancient Greek Olympic drama, visiting The British Museum as well as investigating healthy eating.

In the ‘opening ceremony’, girls paraded in their House colours, waving their carefully designed flags. The Games were officially opened as the girls were instructed to go “Higher, Faster, and Longer”.

A series of games followed, ranging from hockey, distance running and football to cricket, hurdles and relays.

“Girls learned all about the healthy lifestyles of athletes, the history of the games and challenged themselves to try something new. We held an Opening Ceremony with girls loving their moment of glory as they paraded their flags to an extremely receptive audience. There was dancing, rowing and acting to help the girls explore the Olympic values and international impact of the competition. The lighting of the Olympic flame at Olympus on Thursday gave us an extra spark”. Penny Jones Head of Bromley High Junior School

Year 6 teacher Mr Keith Bugden commented, “The girls thoroughly enjoyed their Olympic themed week and have gained a great deal about the Games, ranging from the ancient to the modern. We definitely brought the Olympic Spirit to the School! I know the girls are really looking forward to the Games commencing.”

The Finale culminated in an amazing ‘Olympic Day’ where the week came to a close with a whole day of sport activities and a fabulous closing ceremony. Older girls lead the younger girls in their impressive dance display! The Prep girls performed the Olympic dance and competitors were awarded with authentic medals. The National Anthem was sung with great pride!

A lasting tribute to Janet Sondheimer

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Last Friday, just before our annual Prize-giving, we were delighted to welcome Ernst Sondheimer, his son Julian Sondheimer and daughter Judith Robertson and Julian’s family, to a tree planting ceremony at Bromley High in memory of Ernst Sondheimer’s wife, Janet Sondheimer. Janet, who attended Bromley High School and went on to be a Trustee of the GDST for 34 years, was passionate about education, particularly women's education, so it is particularly appropriate to have this ‘living’ memory to her amazingly diverse and rich life, planted in the very heart of her old school; in the grounds of our fabulous new outdoor space, the ‘Quad’. Our girls have already started to enjoy learning and performing on this amazing outdoor stage and the tree will be in very lively company.

We were extremely grateful to Mrs Lorna Cocking, Chair of the GDST Trustees , who joined us for this special occasion, along with Bromley High School Governors, our Junior School Head Girls’ team, Rosannah How, Year 13, Bromley High School, winner of the 2012 Sondheimer Award and other distinguished guests from the GDST, including two former Chairs.

Both Louise Simpson, Head, and Lorna Cocking spoke, expressing deepest appreciation of Janet Sondheimer’s contribution to the work of the GDST and dedicating the Silver Birch tree to her memory. Julian Sondheimer and Judith Robertson planted the tree on behalf of their father, the rain clouds lifted and the sun appeared - shining down to give a warm welcome to this special and graceful tree.

We look forward to watching it flourish.

Prize-Giving 2012, Friday June 29th 2012

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The Prize-Giving Ceremony acknowledged and celebrated the achievements of girls in Years 7-13 and saw them collect their well-deserved awards. Following the Head’s report, we were delighted to welcome Rt. Hon Margaret Hodge MP our guest speaker who presented the certificates, prizes and trophies and congratulated each girl. Margaret Hodge was educated at Bromley High School before obtaining a BSc at the London School of Economics. In 2010 MargaretHodge became the first ever female Chair of the Public Accounts Committee. She was elected by fellow MPs in the first elections to be held for Select Committee Chairs.

Rachel Garvey and Tabitha Swann performed some Irish dancing and Grace Bassett and Charlotte Raven danced to Darkside by Kelly Clarkson. Audrey Bellis, Sarah Phillips and Amy Yule presented their last musical performance in the school.

Following the presentations, Margaret Hodge congratulated all the winners and outlined some significant aspects of her career. We very much enjoyed listening to her speech which had the audience fully engaged as she encouraged our girls to have the determination to succeed. Head Girl, Claire Norton and Deputy Head Girl, Leila Boulden gave the vote of thanks and our Chairman of Governors, Mr Alun Michael drew proceedings to a close by inviting all to light refreshments. Well done to all the prize-winners for their achievements.

Paula Anderson, Senior Deputy Head (Academic)

Bromley High Shine in Track and Field Cup Finals

Sat, 30 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100

ESAA Track and Field Cup Finals, (Saturday 30th June 2012)

Bromley High reached the Finals and were amongst the Top 12 Schools in the Country taking part. All girls performed extremely well after a busy week of competitions. Sabrina Sinha won her 1500m and set a new record We achieved 10th position overall.

Well done to:

Year 7s Tammy Falshaw, Tamara Elliot, Amelia Ward, Paige Macheath, Ore Okikiade, Mary Okolo, Olivia Tikare

Year 8s Sabrina Sinha, Natalie Falshaw, Elizabeth Ibidunni, Isabella Goodwin, Lydia Goundry

A Wonderful Day of Sport

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Despite the threat of poor weather, the school enjoyed a wonderful day of sport. In the morning years 7, 8 and 9 all participated in the annual mini marathon raising money for charity. Some girls displayed their enthusiasm by completing 4 circuits of the course! It was also great to see members of staff running the course with the girls. By lunch time the field events had been completed leaving an afternoon of track events. Many of the girls threw themselves into the house spirit by dressing up in House colours and daubing face paint.

We witnessed some outstanding sporting performances and all participated with great enthusiasm and passion. The finale of the day was the teachers’ relay race which was quite something to witness. Dr Major surprised the crowd and herself with a blistering bare foot run, whilst Mr Sansom and Mr Potter displayed a level of competitiveness rarely seen at an event outside of the Olympics.

A big thank to the PE department for organising such an excellent day.

Spectacular Fashion Show

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100

On Wednesday 27th June, Year 12 at Bromley High held their Annual Fashion Show; this year’s show was entitled ‘Pulse’. Year 12 girls along with boys from local schools modelled clothes from various High Street stores. This is a Bromley High School tradition, organised entirely by the girls. It has been enormously successful in the past, and is a fantastic and entertaining evening, raising a huge amount for Charity. This year we supported Demelza House, who provide Hospices for children and young people who are not expected to reach adulthood, and offer support to their families. Each member of Year 12 participated in the extravaganza which managed to raise over £500. Francesca Evans, one of the Show’s organisers, hosted the evening which encompassed a selection of clothes in varying themes. The atmosphere was electric, as our Year 12 models, together with the male models from local boys schools (who had a fantastic response from the audience), began the Show modelling a variety of ‘day’ clothes from many High Street brands such as ‘Hollister’. Other sections included festival outfits, evening-wear, bridal-wear, sports-wear and night-wear. Featured collections were for ‘Taylor Stevens’ and ‘Daisy Fitness Sportswear’, both available to purchase on the evening. Most memorable was the teachers’ section. Eleven very brave members of Staff took up the challenge of parading their chosen outfits in front of the excited audience. Each had humorous props such as feather boas, canes and fans which certainly prompted an enthusiastic and hearty response from the audience. In addition to the Catwalk, there was an extremely hectic atmosphere behind the scenes. Whether stage managing or styling, everyone one had a vital role. Many thanks are due to the retailers who kindly loaned us their clothing brands, the models, the backstage team and school staff because without their participation the event would not have been a success.

“This year's Lower Sixth did a fantastic job delivering a spectacular fashion show in aid of Demelza House. With teachers adding a certain something new to the joi de vivre of the evening. We never knew they were so up to date with the latest mode! The girls were fantastic, whether as models, running the technical team, backstage or helping with the refreshments, they were brilliant. We really hope that the total raised makes a difference to the children of Demelza House.” Louise Simpson, Head, Bromley High School

Photographs courtesy of Mark Emery Limited

Graduation Ceremony 2012

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100

"Graduation for our U6th girls is a poignant, personal and emotional day in which we thank them for their contribution to the school, welcome them to our Alumnae Network and wish them every success for the future.

This year’s Kathryn MacAdam, opera singer and an old girl of the school, welcomed them to the old girls’ association and then stunned us with her fantastic opera singing.

A perfect day for all concerned." Louise Simpson, Head

Bromley High excel at Chislehurst 2012 Art Awards

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High girls won awards across all age groups in the Intermediate Section at The 2012 Chislehurst Society Awards held at Bullers Wood School on Thursday 14 June. The annual ‘Alun and Joy Jones Awards for Environmental Studies Competition’ is open to schools and individual students in and around Chislehurst, and this year there were over 1100 entries. Years 7- 10 were Highly Commended for their ‘Bromley High Jubilee Bunting’. Each girl designed a flag to celebrate being British. They were limited to a palette of red, white and blue – of course – and the flags are as individual as they are. The results all go to make up our own varied and colourful collection of Great British Design. Sophie Ware, Katy Cottrell and Ella Burwell received ‘Highly Commended’ Certificates for their Collagraphic prints ‘ A celebration of London Buildings.Heidi Abbott – Year 8 – won First Prize of £40 for her collagraphic print,‘The Built Environment in Britain’ , and then went on to win ‘Most Outstanding Individual’ in the intermediate age group and a prize of £30. Heidi was delighted with her awards; "I am proud to be British and I hope it shows in my print. I looked at many buildings around London - in particular the Gherkin and the London Eye and did an abstract background of the Union Jack flag to keep my work 100 per cent British." 3 groups of Year 9 girls also received Highly Commended Certificates for their Olympic-themed head dresses made from cane and tissue paper in the five Olympic colours. (Panayiota Theodorou, Imane Chenaf and Lorna Hemingway Holly Andrews, Caroline Warren, Jasmina Wood and Olivia O’Sullivan Izzy Duval, Beatrice Forward and Lucy Metcalf). The judges agreed that ‘The standard of work is outstanding and reflects all the hard work of those involved.’ Congratulations to all the Prize Winners. Mrs Gina Upton, Art Department

Girls can 'have it all'

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Following on from yesterday’s brilliant GDST annual conference, the article on the BBC website (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-18410520) and today’s front-page article in the Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/9330117/School-for-husbands-girls-should-be-taught-how-to-find-supportive-man.html), Helen Fraser, CEO of the GDST has been invited on a number of media outlets, including Channel 5 News tonight, and BBC Breakfast tomorrow. Helen’s speech is on the GDST blog at http://gdst.tumblr.com/post/25020825554/helen-fraser-tells-gdst-conference-how-girls-can-have

"Learning should be like a slow casserole and not an instant nugget"

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100

It is the GDST conference tomorrow and below is a link to some media coverage on a speech Helen Fraser is making

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-18410520

Year 1 Video Conferencing

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Year 1 met a ‘motley crew’ from Sheffield High via a video conference between the two schools.

The girls were treated to magnificent display of pirate costumes and treasure by the Year 1 class at Sheffield High, who told stories, sang songs and showed us their pirate puppets. Our girls enjoyed sharing their mermaid maths work, mermaid wanted posters and beautiful shell necklaces. As one girl commented, it was really special to have other children say how lovely their pictures were.

Year 9 Set Up Business

Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

As part of their Enrichment Week Programme, Year 9 girls took part in a 'Dragon's Den' session designed to encourage entrepreneurialism. Girls considered key business terms, objectives and strategies and looked at what factors are instrumental in achieving business success. We considered both ‘Dragon’s Den’ successful products as well as those that were not successful including those that were turned down by the Dragons yet went on to become successful businesses. (Did you know that the ‘Trunki’, a sit-on suitcase for children, was turned down as it was not considered viable for investment and that this is one of Duncan Bannatyne’s biggest regrets?) After an the introduction to the world of business, girls split into groups in order to create a product or service idea, come up with a name and/or slogan, devise a target market, consider costing and pricing implications, understand the competition within the market and plan their promotional tactics and strategies. Girls were incredibly innovative and creative and came up with ideas ranging from a drinking glass that changes colour when a drink is spiked, a drip proof nail varnish, to a revolutionary tooth whitening toothbrush the ‘ Britewhite Mega Brush’ which was the overall winner as chosen by our eminent judging panel: Kieron Smith, ( Skills Development Manager GDST), Elliza Raithby (Bromley High School Alumnae currently studying Leisure management at Bournemouth University) and Louise Dubec, (Regional Marketing Manager for Savills SE, who are themselves sponsors of Bromley High School’s Hockey and Swimming 1st Teams and Equestrian Team).

“Girls who participated should be congratulated on their enthusiasm, creativity and work ethic on an exceedingly hot day. Well done!!!” Mrs Hilder, Head of Economics and Business Studies.

“I was really very impressed with the way the girls had identified gaps in the market and invented new products. They are certainly very creative. It was also pleasing to see that they had an appreciation for what is entailed in getting a product known as well as costs and potential profits. Well done to them all.” Louise Dubec, Regional Marketing Manager for Savills, SE .

Creating a Play in a Day

Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The combined talents of the Music & Drama Departments took Year 7 on the journey of creating a play in a day. 50 girls from Year 7 were presented with the task of staging 2 of ‘Aesops Fables’ armed only with a junkyard accumulation of props, a ragtag array of hats and a handful of show-tunes. The race was on. At 2.45 the pieces were to be performed. Cue a frantic spin through "Food Glorious Food" and "Good Morning Baltimore" whilst dressing up in hats & ribbons, spinning umbrellas, being sheep (!) and generally being as wildly creative as possible. During the process the girls managed to create: a farm, a front room, a market place, a mountain top, a sheep herd, kitchen utensils whilst only using their imaginations as a tool and having to learn songs, dances, movement sequences and the script in barely 5 hours. Phew!

Constructing images in Contemporary Culture

Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Contemporary culture is obsessed with image. We live in an electronic age and we are bombarded by visual information wherever we go. Lots of very highly paid advertising people are engaged in trying to grab our attention and pictures are the easiest way to do it. The advertising industry thinks very carefully about how to construct these images and what goes into them. But do we, the consumers, think carefully about how we are being manipulated? The idea underpinning the brief introduction to the concept of ‘representation’ offered by the English Department in Enrichment Week, is to start the girls thinking about the way that women, in particular, are represented in the media and to learn how to deconstruct some of the connotations. They are introduced to ideas behind camera angles, semiotics (the study of signs), symbolism and signifiers amongst many others. The girls are asked to construct images based on how they would like to represent themselves now, in fifteen years’ time or in their wildest dreams. The results are always surprising and imaginative and what’s particularly important, they had fun doing it! Here are a few of their efforts. Mrs H. Davies, English Teacher

Maths Fun Day was enthralling and fun

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

One of the many great days during enrichment week was ‘Maths Fun Day’. Classes 7S and 7B both participated in the day. It was an enthralling and fun day that everybody enjoyed. The day was run by a visitor, Angela Gould, who runs days in Schools around the country. The girls recount their experiences below:

"First we were given a quick brainteaser which made us think very hard. I found this activity rather difficult compared to the other ones which I could understand better. This may have been because this activity warmed up my brain so I was paying full attention!"

"Maths Fun Day was excellent fun. It was fun at the same time as being challenging and very educational. We did many activities throughout the day such as folding paper into shapes, making a football, a maths quiz and a card game."

"We played a game called 24. We were given cards with four numbers and we had to make a total of 24 with the numbers using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. The cards were graded – one dot for easy to three dots for difficult. In our groups we had to compete against each other to see who could get the answer quickest. When you had the answer you put your finger on the card. If you were right you got to keep the card. Whoever had the most cards at the end was the winner."

"The last event was a sort of quiz where questions and puzzles surrounded the room. We had to work them out and fill in the answers on a sheet we were given. There was one question that we needed help on; it was about a spider climbing out of a drain pipe. Luckily Mr Potter was there to help us. He showed us how it was a trick question – it fooled us.Angela then gave out the prizes which were pens and stationery packs. I remember in the morning Angela told us the prizes were a shopping trip to New York and a weekend in Barbados. I also remember completely believing her!"

"We had loads of fun and I enjoy maths more now that I know there is more to it than just sums and times tables. We all thank Angela very much for organising it and making it happen."

Compiled by Mrs J Wilcock, Maths Dept from contributions by 7B girls

The Diamonds and Tiaras Ball

Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The Diamonds and Tiaras Ball intended to celebrate The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee did just that. The theme of being British featured throughout with classical singers, The Scarlet Divas followed by The Beatles with music dating back to the 1960s and lots of Flag waving, we also had time for The National Anthem and a toast to the queen. The food was delicious and the DJ who followed the Beatles had those still standing, dancing until 1.30am. We had many kind donors supporting us with very generous raffle prizes and auction items. Some were donated by parents such as The Vintage Sweetshop who provided a sweet hamper as well as an old fashion style candy buffet which was thoroughly enjoyed by the guests. So thank you to all our sponsors.

The photos are available to view and purchase online at www.event-photos.co.uk/buy.html. All the money we raise usually around £25,000 a year is then ploughed back into the school for new equipment or special projects such as the Sensory Garden. I would like to thank the committee for their hard work all year round. The committee being Debbie Watts, Paula Challis, Clare Jones, Adrienne Jordan, Richard Campbell, Vicky Fenlon, Stuart Jones, Kesh Dhatariya, Julie Compton, Naureen Khalid, Sarah Brierley, Alexis Roberts, Aba Taiwiah, Aasma Saddiqui, Afira Sait, Samantha Garrett, Andrew Foyle and Helen Post.

Upper Sixth 'Jailbreak'

Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The Upper Sixth had their final day at school today before beginning their A level exams. We are always sad to see our most senior pupils go, but this group, well organised to the end, found a way to make it a positive occasion rather than a sad one. They are absolutely ready for their ‘jail break’! They will give much to their new lives on the ‘outside’ and I wish them every success! Louise Simpson, Head

The Jubilee Garden Party

Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Our Jubilee Garden Party was a great success and it was lovely to be able to socialise as a school community. The children enjoyed themselves in the lovely sunshine. Contributions of food was overwhelmingly generous and we had enough left over to do it all again! The Junior School was left a huge hamper to enjoy this week. Thank you to everyone for helping to make the afternoon such a wonderful event. The Junior School Diamond Jubilee Sensory Garden was opened by a Reception child to mark the occasion and is a truly wonderful addition to the playground. All the credit for this garden must go to 2 Junior School teaching assistants, Mrs Berry and Mrs Love, whose brainchild it was. They have done an excellent job on the Sensory Garden which is greatly enjoyed by all the girls. Mrs Jay Sharma, Chair, BHPA

Photographs by Mark Emery Photography "MARKSE

A Royal Welcome to Bromley, Tuesday May 15th 2012

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High School joined the supporters and lined the streets in force to welcome the Queen to Bromley. 24 girls from Year 5, 6, 7 and 8 attended the official welcome event, lining the Streets as Her Majesty the Queen arrived. On the other side of the Glades all the Hawthorn girls unable to go with their parents waited with members of the Junior School staff to catch glimpses of the Queen as she left Bromley. The girls were very excited and felt extremely lucky to have actually seen her. We are sure they will remember this historic day for the rest of their lives!

“The buzz in the playground and the Staffroom was that this was an extremely special day. The girls have been so excited by their glimpses of the Queen and have been telling me how lucky they feel to have actually seen her!” Penny Jones, Head, Bromley High Junior School

http://soundbible.com/480-Kids-Cheering.html

Annual GCSE Art and DT show

Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The annual GCSE exhibition showcases the work of our talented Art and Design & Technology students. The imaginative work produced is excellent and reflects a diverse range of skills and processes; from traditional media through to contemporary mixed media and digital work.

“The tremendous hard work and skill of the girl’s has led to a show reflecting the breadth of the course.

Girls have developed their ideas through, Painting, Textiles, Print, Photography and Film as they seek to respond to and represent the world around them. The pupils work is personal and dynamic. We are proud of their achievements.” Miss R Shepley, Head of Art

“We continue to be delighted by both the range and quality of products that GCSE pupils have designed and made this year. A wide range of products are exhibited ranging from children’s furniture to kitchen accessories, lamps, photograph display units and wine racks. Girls have made particularly good use of computer aided design and manufacture to give their products a professional touch. Individuality, creativity and hard work shine through – the girls can be justly proud of their achievements, as indeed we are.” Ms. K. Bowman, Head of Design Technology.

“Each year the girls impress just a little bit more – and we were delighted with this year’s GCSE show. The variety, imaginative approach, creativity and risk taking in the girls’ work is a real credit to them. What a treat!” Louise Simpson, Head

No Noughts or Crosses for Malorie Blackman

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100

‘No Noughts or Crosses for Malorie Blackman’

A unique address to Bromley High Sixth Form girls by the best-selling author, Malorie Blackman April 25^th 2012 We were delighted to welcome Malorie Blackman to Bromley High Senior School to address one of our Year 12 English Groups on the topic of ‘Jane Eyre’ and the controversial character, Bertha Mason. In particular I had asked if Ms Blackman would care to address the issues raised by Bertha Mason’s Caribbean Creole origins and the post-colonial critics who accuse Charlotte Bronte of racism. We were fortunate that Ms Blackman chose to discuss Jean Rhys and her prequel novel to ‘Jane Eyre’, ‘The Wide Sargasso Sea’ which provides an alternative interpretation of Mrs Rochester’s story and how she came to be “the mad woman in the attic”.

This was particularly valuable in helping the girls to address the demands of other readings required at AS level. We are very thankful that Ms Blackman could find the time in her very busy schedule to share her ideas and uniquely well informed perspective, and that she made it so accessible and enjoyable. Hilary Davies, Bromley High School, English Teacher.

“With World Book Day still uppermost in our minds, we are delighted to have been able to welcome such a high profile author to Bromley High. Our English Department instils such a passion and love of literature in the girls, it is a real treat to have real writers in school to talk to them about their work.”

Louise Simpson, Head, Bromley High School

Bromley High Win First Prize at Page Turner 2012

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100

We are delighted to announce that Holly Andrews, Caroline Warren, Jasmine Wood and Olivia O’Sullivan’s head sculpture has won the first prize out of over 300 entries, in the ‘Olympic Award for Interpretation of the Theme’ category.

The awards ceremony, hosted by Jon Holmes (the seven times Sony award-winning and double Bafta winning British writer, comedian and broadcaster!) at the University for the Creative Arts, Canterbury was an excellent evening celebrating aspiring artists in Kent. The girls I am sure will have great fun with their prize; a video camera each!The girls will also have their work displayed at The Turner Contemporary, Margate

The work may be viewed at www.pageturner.org.uk

Double win at the National Schools’ Modern Biathlon Challenge!

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High School celebrates double win at the National Schools’ Modern Biathlon Challenge, Crystal Palace, Sunday March 25th 2012

There has been more exciting news from the weekend of Tamara-Elise Elliott in Year 7 and Sabrina Sinha in Year 8 at Bromley High.

Competing alongside other young athletes from across the UK, both Tamara and Sabrina tackled a swim and run during the day and emerged as champions. Within their respective year groups they both achieved the highest scores, with Tamara now Year 7 Champion of the National Schools’ Biathlon and Sabrina the Year 8 Champion. Both girls also won the fastest run in their respective year groups.

This joint win means that Bromley High are the only school in any age group, boys or girls, to have two National individual champions. A good statistic to own!

The competition was organised by Pentathlon GB, the national governing body for the Olympic sport of modern pentathlon, and took place at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre. Some 900 young athletes competed during the day.

http://pentathlongb.org/pentathlongb/index.php?news=1570

Trust Cross Country 2012

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0100

There were some excellent running followed by brilliant results from the Year 7-10 Bromley High Cross Country Team:

Year 7 Race:

Tamara Elliot-2nd
Tammy Falshaw- 17th
Paige Mcheath- 20th
Olivia Tikare- 42nd
Helping their team achieve an excellent 3rd place overall

Year 8/9 Race:

Sabrina Sinha - 1st
Natalie Falshaw-11th
Charlotte Brazier- 17th
Elizabeth Ibidunni- 23rd
Ellie Trew- 39th
All helping their team achieve a fantastic 2nd place overall
A special mention must go to Anna Myers who was the only one from Bromley High in the Year 10 race and she came an impressive 3rd place. Well Done Anna.

Miss J Higgins, PE Dept Bromley High School

Sabrina Sinha wins her first International England Vest

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to Sabrina Sinha, (12 years old), in Year 8 at Bromley High School in her amazing achievement over the weekend at the AVIVVA ESAA Cross Country Championships. Sabrina ran brilliantly to become Bronze Junior Medallist at the Championships. She was beaten to 3rd place by two girls a year older than her from Year 9, but gains her first International England vest.

Sabrina travels up to Perth in 2 weeks’ time to represent England in a friendly home international against the best from Wales, Scotland and the whole of Ireland. This will be the junior age group again (combined Years 8 & 9)

“Sabrina has made a fantastic impact on Bromley High since arriving at the start of the academic year. A gifted athlete and swimmer, we have seen her support and encourage her team mates and set the standard by achieving such incredible individual successes. I am delighted that she has been selected to represent her country and look forward to watching her succeed!” Louise Simpson, Head Bromley High School GDST.

TRUST GYM RALLY 2012

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to all gymnasts who took part in the Trust Gym Rally last week.
The results are as follows:

The U14 team came 4th with Natalie Falshaw coming first overall on floor.

The O14 team retained their title coming 1st overall. Sianah Brock got the highest marks on floor and Helena Coleman got the highest marks on vault. This was a fantastic team effort with outstanding performances from all the girls.

Include- Emma Cochrane, Jessica Wimble, Ella Lawrence, Katie Everest, Sianah Brock and Helena Coleman.
Well Done Girls.

Miss J Higgins, PE teacher Bromley High School

Shortlisted for Page Turner Competition

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High School recently entered a selection of our Year 9’s fabulous Olympic Headdresses into ‘Page Turner Art Competition 2012’ - Turner Contemporary’s Primary and Secondary Schools Art Competition.

We are delighted to announce that Holly Andrews, Caroline Warren, Jasmina Wood and Olivia O’Sullivan’s work has been shortlisted. They along with their families have been invited to attend the Page Turner 2012 Prize Giving Evening at the University for the Creative Arts, Canterbury where competition winners will be announced on the night and prizes will be awarded.

The Turner Contemporary is a dynamic visual arts venue in Margate offering world-class exhibitions, performances and events. (Turnercontemporary.org)
The work may be viewed at http://www.pageturner.org.uk/

Congratulations!!!!

Becky Shepley, Head of Art & Design, Bromley High School

India Day 2012

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bromley High Junior School Girls bring their geography topic to life

Girls in Year 4 at Bromley High Junior School enjoyed a whole day learning about Indian Culture to bring their geography topic to life. They came to school dressed in Indian Costume and took part in a range of activities organised by parent helpers; including making Rangoli patterns, writing in Hindi and cooking and eating Indian food.

In the afternoon they had a taster Yoga session and learnt both traditional and Bollywood Indian dances. At the end of the day they performed these dances and the Indian songs they had been learning during their music lessons. The audience was amazed at what the girls had managed to learn in such a short time.

The day was put together by a wonderful team of enthusiastic parents from Years 3 and 4; without their skills India Day would not have been possible. We would like to say a very big ‘Thank you!’ to everyone involved.

Some quotes from girls from Year 4:

“ I loved the Indian cooking because the food was really tasty.” Lina Euba

“I really enjoyed acting out the Indian story in drama.” Nikita Dhatariya

Quote from one of the parent helpers:

“This was a wonderful colourful, fun-filled day for the mums and children. I thoroughly enjoyed my day at School!” Mrs Yamna Baloch, mother of Aleena Usman, Year 4, Bromley High.

Quote from Penny Jones, Head, Bromley High Junior School

“Today the school was filled with the sights, sounds and smells of India. Bringing a whole continent to us allowed the girls to experience the best that India has to offer without the long haul flight. It is wonderful that our parents and teachers work so closely together to create such amazing occasions.”

International England Vest for Sabrina!

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Congratulations to Sabrina Sinha, (12 years old), in Year 8 at Bromley High School in her amazing achievement at the AVIVVA ESAA Cross Country Championships. Sabrina ran brilliantly to become Bronze Junior Medallist at the Championships. She was beaten to 3rd place by two girls a year older than her, but gains her first International England vest. Sabrina travels up to Perth in 2 weeks’ time - Friday 30th March to run on Saturday 31st March - to represent English Schools in the Under 15 Home Countries’ School’s Cross Country International which is being held in Perth, Scotland. Teams from Scotland, Wales and the whole of Ireland will be competing in a friendly Home Countries’ International against the best from Wales, Scotland and the whole of Ireland. This will be the Junior U15 years age group again (combined Years 8 & 9).

“Sabrina has made a fantastic impact on Bromley High since arriving at the start of the Academic year. A gifted athlete and swimmer, we have seen her support and encourage her team mates and set the standard by achieving such incredible individual successes. I am delighted that she has been selected to represent her Country and look forward to watching her succeed!” Louise Simpson, Head Bromley High School GDST.

Ski Trip

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0100

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL SKI TRIP TO BULGARIA, 2011

The ski trip to Bansko, Bulgaria during the Christmas holiday was a huge success. The hotel was lovely, with spacious rooms, good facilities and food and friendly staff. The slopes were a 25 minute bubble car ride away. We had been worried about the lack of snow but despite the fact that there wasn’t a great deal everyone got to go out onto the slopes every day.

All the girls were brilliant – no exceptions! Each of the different group members supported each other, they had a go at everything and helped others who had fallen over or were less confident.

The girls participated enthusiastically in our après ski timetable which included a treasure hunt, bowling and karaoke as well as plenty of opportunity to explore the town.

Dr Angela L Major, Ski Trip Coordinator and Head of Year 7