Links:

https://www.downehouse.net

https://flyhawk.com

Links:

https://thehummingbirdinitiative.org

https://communitiesfornature.org

https://www.instagram.com/brighter_f.utures?igsh=MXEycnp6dG1yMXV4dA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Links:

https://www.downehouse.net

Takeaways

1. Engineering Society provides a unique platform for learning.
2. Teenagers are more engaged in hands-on activities.
3. Building bridges out of simple materials fosters creativity.
4. Community involvement enhances the learning experience.
5. Innovative teaching methods are essential for STEM education.
6. Interactive environments help teenagers thrive.
7. The future of engineering education relies on engagement.
8. Shared experiences build strong communities.
9. STEM activities can be fun and educational.
10. Youth engagement in engineering is crucial for future innovation.

Links:

https://www.downehouse.net/academic/academic-enrichment/

Links:

For anyone wanting to find out more about Theo Clark and her work on women’s health, please do subscribe to her Substack here:

https://theodoraclarke.substack.com/s/breaking-the-taboo

Takeaways

• The Academic Scholars Programme supports academically ambitious girls.
• Students engage in various activities beyond regular learning.
• Curiosity drives the scholars to explore topics deeply.
• Interdisciplinary projects encourage innovative thinking.
• The programme fosters leadership skills among older students.
• Students enjoy the balance between academics and extracurricular activities.
• Ethical discussions are integral to the scholars' projects.
• Support from teachers enhances students' academic journeys.
• The Train of Thought magazine showcases students' research.
• The programme prepares students for future academic challenges.

Takeaways

• Hannah Pilgrim oversees all day girls and ensures their needs are met.
• Day girls have access to the same opportunities as boarders.
• The school environment fosters a strong sense of community among students.
• Day girls can participate in evening activities and sports.
• Flexibility is a key reason families choose day schooling.
• Students appreciate the ability to go home and recharge.
• The school offers a range of extracurricular activities.
• Parents value the immersive education provided at Downe House.
• There is a strong integration between day girls and boarders.
• The new flexi boarding option provides additional flexibility for families.

Takeaways

• The game of assassins promotes integration among students.
• Integration is essential to foster a close-knit community.
• Leadership roles help students learn responsibility and organization.
• Pupil voice is encouraged from a young age at school.
• Extracurricular activities are abundant and student-led.
• Joining Downe House provides a supportive environment for new students.
• The community at Downe House is unique and welcoming.
• Students have the opportunity to pursue their passions.
• Hetty and Rose are both applying to prestigious universities.
• The excitement of the assassins game brings the school together.

In this episode of the Downe House podcast, the focus is on the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), a course designed for sixth form students to develop their research and analytical skills. Ms. Victoria Ryan, Head of EPQ, discusses the structure of the course, the importance of independent research, and how it prepares students for university. Two sixth formers, Camille and Imogen, share insights into their individual EPQ projects, exploring topics related to media influence and ethical considerations in organ donation. The conversation highlights the support students receive throughout the research process and the skills they develop, culminating in presentations that showcase their findings.

Takeaways

• The EPQ is designed to develop research and analytical skills.
• Students can choose topics related to their interests or university aspirations.
• The course includes taught skills lessons to prepare for independent research.
• EPQ counts as half an A level and is valued by universities.
• Students receive support from supervisors throughout their projects.
• Research involves assessing the credibility of sources critically.
• The process encourages students to explore their passions deeply.
• Presentations at the end of the project build confidence and communication skills.
• The EPQ fosters academic resilience and critical thinking.
• Students often find their topics evolve as they conduct research.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode of the Downe House podcast, the host discusses the recent Founders Weekend productions of The Addams Family and Little Women with the Director of Performing Arts, Mr. Rob Castell, and several cast members. They explore the unique challenges and experiences of performing two very different productions in the same venue, the preparation and character development involved, and the memorable moments from the performances. The conversation highlights the importance of creativity and collaboration in the performing arts, as well as the lasting impact these experiences have on students.

Takeaways

• The logistical challenge of staging two productions simultaneously.
• The contrasting styles of The Addams Family and Little Women.
• Students rose to the challenge of ambitious productions.
• Character preparation involved accent work and costume design.
• The emotional depth of performances resonated with audiences.
• The camaraderie among cast members enhanced the experience.
• Directing requires balancing multiple responsibilities.
• Memorable moments often stem from audience reactions.
• The experience of performing is formative for students.
• Creativity in performance is valuable beyond career opportunities.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode of the Downe House Podcast, Simon Jones explores how Downe House School supports multilingual learners, particularly those for whom English is an additional language. He is joined by Mrs Nicola South-Kline, teacher in charge of EAL (English as an Additional Language), along with two pupils, Angel and Angela, who share their personal journeys.

Nicola outlines the school’s comprehensive EAL provision, including assessment, one-to-one lessons, academic writing support, and preparation for IELTS – an internationally recognised English proficiency test essential for university applications, especially in the UK and US.

Angel, from Shanghai, explains how EAL support helped her gain confidence in English Literature during her GCSEs, while Angela, originally from Nigeria, discusses her use of the IELTS course to secure a place at the University of Michigan, with offers from other top US institutions as well.

Takeaways

• EAL support is offered to all multilingual pupils and tailored to their needs through testing, one-to-one tuition, and academic writing assistance.
• Pupils studying on a Tier 4 visa are prepared for the IELTS exam, which is critical for university admissions abroad.
• Downe House celebrates its diverse school community, with over 40 languages spoken and many cultural traditions represented.
• Angel credits EAL lessons with boosting her academic English, particularly for English Literature.
• Angela used her IELTS preparation at Downe House to secure multiple offers from prestigious US universities.
• The school encourages girls to immerse themselves in English, while also embracing their own cultural identities.
• Pastoral care plays a key role in helping international pupils settle in and thrive – emotionally, socially, and academically.
• Pupils are urged to seize every opportunity, from sports to new social connections, to get the most from the Downe House experience.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Welcome to the Downe House podcast where you can learn more about Downe House School. In this episode, we’re shining the light on our Learning Skills Department, a department which focuses on individual progress, in a way bespoke way to suit each pupil. There is no one ‘right’ way of thinking, learning, and behaving and in our school and differences are embraced and supported. Simon Jones speaks to Miss Sophie Appleton Wyeth, SENDCO and Head of Academic Support and three pupils Zara, Polly, and Serena.

Sophie explains how her team of specialist teachers provides one-to-one lessons, tailored to each pupil’s needs, whether they have a formal diagnosis or simply benefit from extra support. The department works closely with families, staff and external professionals to ensure that pupils with conditions such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, autism, and sensory processing difficulties receive the guidance they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.

The discussion highlights the school’s commitment to inclusion, early identification, and destigmatisation of learning differences, as well as its celebration of neurodiversity through initiatives like Neurodiversity Celebration Week and a supportive, open culture among both staff and pupils.

Takeaways

• The Learning Skills Department provides one-to-one support tailored to each girl’s individual learning profile, with over 100 sessions delivered each week.
• Pupils receive help with everything from essay structure and revision to time management and exam techniques, depending on their personal needs.
• The school supports pupils with a wide range of learning differences, including dyslexia, ADHD, autism, visual and auditory processing difficulties, and more.
• Teachers within the department have specialist training and continually develop their expertise through CPD and qualifications in areas such as ADHD coaching.
• Neurodiverse pupils and staff are encouraged to share their experiences openly, helping to foster a culture of understanding and acceptance across the school.
• Pupils like Polly and Serena reflect on how learning support helped them gain clarity around their diagnoses and boosted their confidence, both in and out of the classroom.
• Zara, a younger pupil, shares how she uses her LS lessons to consolidate knowledge in subjects like history and RS, and talks about her love for English and reading.
• The Honours Reading Passport is a literacy initiative that encourages pupils like Zara to explore a wide range of genres and develop a deeper love for reading.
• The school builds strong relationships with parents, often identifying learning needs that may not have been recognised previously and guiding families through the assessment process.
• The approach at Downe House reflects a modern, inclusive understanding of learning differences: there is no one “right” way to learn, and support is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode of the Downe House Podcast, host Simon Jones takes a closer look at life in York House, one of the sixth form boarding houses at Downe House School, as the school prepares to welcome a new cohort of pupils in September. He is joined by Head of House Booth, along with Housemistresses Mrs Beth Mears-Smith and Mrs Stephanie Waite-Roberts, who share insights into the unique character and community of the house.

The conversation explores everything from boarding routines and academic life to friendships, wellbeing, and even dogs. Jemima reflects on her seven years at Downe House, describing her leadership role, academic ambitions, and the sisterhood that defines York. The housemistresses offer their perspectives on how the house supports both existing and new pupils, the benefits of shared and individual dorms, and the importance of fostering an inclusive, nurturing environment.

Takeaways

• York House is one of two sixth form boarding houses at Downe House, offering a modern, supportive, and welcoming environment for girls aged 16–18.
• Pupils usually enjoy single dorms, which change termly to give a fresh start and build new friendships. Some also choose to share, especially in the early stages.
• Booth, as Head of House, represents York at school council and ensures pupil voice is heard and acted upon.
• Dogs are part of the housemistresses’ families and provide comfort for those who enjoy animals. For pupils who are less keen, dogs are always supervised and kept in private areas.
• The boarding experience fosters deep friendships—often described as sisterhoods—especially important for those joining in the sixth form.
• Both house mistresses also teach English, enabling them to support pupils both pastorally and academically.
• The sixth form is rich in opportunities for leadership and enrichment, including events like house drama, sports, and charity initiatives.
• Pupils joining in the sixth form are supported with team-building activities and an induction week, making it easy to settle in and form connections.
• Downe House encourages diversity and individuality, welcoming pupils from a range of backgrounds and cultures to contribute to school life.
• Final advice from staff and Jemima: “Get stuck in, ask questions, and take full advantage of all the opportunities on offer.”

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, Simon Jones explores how Downe House supports pupils during exam season through wellbeing initiatives, focusing on the ever-popular “puppy therapy” sessions. He speaks with pupils Chloe and Lorna, Examinations Officer Mrs Clara Pilkington, and Curtis Henry from Paws in Work, the organisation that provides the puppies. Together, they reflect on how puppy therapy offers a joyful, calming escape from exam stress, and discuss the wider measures Downe House takes to help girls manage pressure and maintain balance during this important part of the academic year.

Takeaways

• Puppy therapy is a highlight of the summer term at Downe House, helping pupils to relax and recharge.

• Labradoodle puppies from Paws in Work visit the school, with small groups of pupils attending 25-minute sessions.

• Pupils report feeling noticeably calmer and more positive following the sessions.

• Attendance is optional, with other wellbeing activities such as bedtime yoga and pamper boxes also available.

• Puppies help create a sense of joy and calm, even among those less confident around animals.

• The school provides consistent, familiar routines around examinations to reduce anxiety.

• Staff offer pastoral support and encourage outdoor time and peer interaction to promote wellbeing.

• Puppy therapy is not just enjoyable – it forms a considered part of the school’s strategy to support mental health and academic success.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're discussing the importance of giving children a slower childhood and not growing up too fast. In this episode, we are privileged to be joined by Mr Andrew De Silva, Head of the Oratory Prep School, one of our feeder schools, together with Serena in Year 8 who's looking forward to joining Downe in September along with Mrs Ellie Llewellyn, our Director of Pupil Wellbeing, and pupil Vanda who's now at Downe but was once at the OPS.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're highlighting exploring Europe, a new programme of discovery for our lower school which is being introduced in September 2025. The programme will be centred around four separate five day trips to different and diverse parts of Europe. Joining Simon in the podcast is Mrs Emma McKendrick, Headmistress, Miss Kate Eaves, Assistant Head of Lower School, Mrs Jenny Grant Head of History and Politics and Mrs Charlotte Sabnis, Head of Modern Foreign Languages.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're spotlighting our Ski Team, which recently returned from four days in Flaine. Competing in the British Schoolgirls Ski Races, where competitors came back with their biggest ever haul of medals and trophies. Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to two of these medal winners, pupils Jennifer and Flora, and Mrs Lamont, who led the trip.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode we're spotlighting our strong and vibrant music department, a department which centres on elite performance and excellence for some, but also has a wider remit of making music accessible to everyone.

In this episode our host Simon Jones meets Mr Alex Leadbeater, our Director of Music, along with pupils Serena and Isabella in the Upper Sixth.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

With World Book Day on the horizon we're spotlighting our wonderful library. A department which engages and develops in our pupils a love for books and reading. In this episode our host Simon Jones, meets our Murray Centre Manager Miss Dani Kirby, along with pupils Phoebe in Remove, Year 7 and Charlotte in the Lower 4th or Year 8.

`Links

GoodreadsThe Midnight Library​

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're looking at boarding, and how boarding at prep school can help ease the transition to boarding at senior school.

Joining Simon Jones on the podcast this week is Mr. Jonny Timms, Headmaster of Walhampton Prep School in the New Forest, Mr. Matt Godfrey, Deputy Head at Downe House, Walhampton pupil Ayley in Year Eight, and two Downe House pupils in the Upper Fourth or Year Nine.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

 In this series, we're shining a light on our feeder schools and looking at how they prepare their girls for their future at down house with over 180 schools who regularly send pupils to us. Girls come to us with varied experiences, but all prepared for the journey ahead with an established set of values and principles. It's our job then to build on them further.

Joining us on the podcast this week is Mr. Magoo Giles, Founder and Principal of Knightsbridge School. Two Knightsbridge alumni, now well into their time at Downe House, Freya and Alice, and Ruth Kingston, Housemistress of AGS.

They talk to our host, Simon Jones, and their springboard for conversation is resilience.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this series, we're shining a light on our feeder schools and looking at how they prepare their girls for their future at Downe House. With over 180 schools who regularly send pupils to us, girls come to us with varied experiences, but all prepared for the journey ahead with an established set of values and principles.

It's our job then to build on them further. To start us off, we're privileged to be joined by Mr. Rupert Hawkins, Head of Thomas's Battersea, two Downe House pupils, Alice and Serena, who are Battersea alumni, and Victoria Ryan, Housemistress of Willis. They talk to our host, Simon Jones, and their springboard for conversation is kindness.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're shining the light on our youngest boarders in the school in Remove, or Year 7, who joined us in September at 11 years old. Joining Simon Jones on the podcast this week is Kim Collingwood Housemistress of Hermitage, one of our lower school boarding houses, and pupils Farah, Zoe and Annabel, representing all three lower school houses.

They joined Simon to talk about their first term boarding.

Downe House online

 Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're discussing screens and how we manage them at school, supporting girls to develop better connections with each other and with their devices.

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to Miss Georgie Taylor, Head of Sixth Form, along with Astrid and Amelia in the Upper Sixth and Lena in the Lower Sixth

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're revisiting global internships and the opportunities offered to our sixth formers to gain valuable work experience, often overseas in a variety of industries. we are privileged to be joined by one of our past parents, Ros Irving, who generously offered a week's internship with Tecora-Co, an event company at the ITW event in Washington, DC, last summer.

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to Ros, along with Mrs. Mireille Cook, Global Internship Coordinator, and Charlotte and Daisy, two of the four girls who were selected to take part.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're looking at a sport which has a long and successful history at Downe House, and that is lacrosse. Often referred to as the fastest game on two feet, lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, with girls aspiring not only to represent their school, but often their country.

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to Anna Neville, Downe house Alumni 2020, currently playing for England, Miss Charlotte Williams, Director of Sport, currently playing for Wales, and Cally, in the lower sixth, who recently represented Hong Kong at the Under-20s World Championships.

Links

williamsc1@downehouse.net

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're looking at women in leadership, and at a program that's available to our pupils in the Sixth Form to empower all girls, whatever their strengths or personality, to lead. The Learn to Lead Project is a bespoke training program using project work, team coaching, and individual mentoring to develop a whole range of skills to make our girls world ready once they leave Downe House.

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to alumni Lucia Labouchere and Natalia Spearman, who are behind the project.

Links

www.thelearntoleadproject.com

lucia@thelearntoleadproject.com

natalia@thelearntoleadproject.com

handmedowne.net

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode we are given a very special insight into two trips that the school recently made to Kenya, where pupils where given a unique insight into the rich culture of this very special African country and where also encouraged to give back and make a difference. Our host Simon Jones speaks to Mrs Genevieve Ford, Deputy Head Pastoral who lead the trip and Mrs Sofie McClymont, Director of Boarding who accompanied her. He is also joined by three girls who went on the trip, Joeleen, Eliza and Olivia.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

We begin this series with two very special guests who are joining our headmistress, Emma McKendrick, to discuss the new changes we're bringing in in September 2025. To give more choice to our families, we're widening the way you can access a Downe House education, increasing our day pupil numbers and introducing flexi boarding for the first time.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

If you're a new parent to Downe House, or you're thinking of choosing Downe House for your daughter, then you may be interested to learn more about the role of parent ambassadors, and how they support the school. We'll be looking at their role in admissions, and ways they support new and prospective families in future episodes.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're looking at enterprise and at some of the ways Downe House girls are empowered to develop their business, financial and entrepreneurial skills.

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to Mrs Nina Cochran (Teacher of Economics and Business), and pupils Isabella and Charlotte both in the Lower Sixth (Year 12).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we're looking at the school site and the wonderful opportunities and benefits it offers the community. We're fortunate to be situated in some of the most stunning countryside Berkshire has to offer, but also close enough to get to London in only 40 minutes by train.

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to Mrs Hannah Pilgrim, Head of Co Curricular, Miss Georgiana Oldham, Housemistress of Willis, and pupils Freya and Harriet from the Lower Sixth (Year 12).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Pupil wellbeing is a buzz word in education that we hear a lot but what does it look like in practice? In this podcast, we’re focusing on wellbeing and its importance in our community at Downe House.

Our host Simon Jones, is joined by Mrs Ellen Llewellyn (Director of Pupil Wellbeing) and two Wellbeing pupil Ambassadors, Alice and Emi, from the Lower Sixth (Year 12).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Our host, Simon Jones speaks to Miss Georgina Taylor (Head of Sixth Form) and pupils Zoe and Eve, who joined us new last year.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we are looking at what happens next if you are joining our Upper School in Upper Fourth (Year 9) or Lower Fifth (Year 10).

Our host Simon Jones speaks to Mrs Alison Compton-Ilott (Head of Upper Fourth), and pupils Libby and Belle who joined us new last year.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to Miss Kate Eves (Head of Lower School), and pupils Sadie, Amrit and Bea, who joined us new last year.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Our host, Simon Jones, is joined by Miss Anna Lister (Housemistress of Hill), Sydney in Remove (Year 7) and Ms Karen Coles, Headmistress of Sarum Hall, one of our popular feeder schools in London.

Previous Boarding Episode

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-pack/id1556421306?i=1000619476708

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3yxRi2cS5nFHV1B33Kzveh?si=3b_jYgvgQquyeJcsPhxcEg

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, our host Simon Jones speaks to Ms Marya Akhtar (Director of Global Partnerships), and pupils Jocelyn, Iona and Zara from the Upper Sixth (Year 13).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode our host Simon Jones, speaks to Mrs Emma McKendrick (Headmistress), Mrs Jane Basnett (Director of Digital Learning) and Digital Ambassadors, Astrid in the Lower Sixth (Year 12) and Sophie in the Lower Fifth (Year 10).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode our host Simon Jones, speaks to Mr Hugh Grant (Deputy Head - Academic), Dr Andrew Atherton (Director of Learning and Research) and pupils Yasmin and Anjola from the Lower Sixth (Year 12).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode our host Simon Jones, speaks to Marya Akhtar (Director of Global Partnerships) Adele O'Doherty, (Principal, DH Riyadh) and pupils Molly and Ruby both in the Upper Sixth (Year 13) at Downe House, UK.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode we look at the strategic partnership Downe House shares with Radley College and in particular the Respect Project, a pupil led project which brings the two schools together to collaborate socially, academically and across co-curricular activities.

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to Mr Matt Godfrey, Deputy Head, pupils Zara and Will in the Upper Sixth from the two schools and Author and Researcher, Chloe Combi.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

From tree decorating and festive parties in the boarding houses to carol services and the famous Downe House Christmas lunch - the festive spirit is alive and well at Downe House!

Today our host Simon Jones speaks to our Chaplain Rev. Platt and pupils Sidney and Phillipa both in the Remove (Year 7) and Olivia from the Upper Sixth (Year 13).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Every term one of the faculties in the school hosts a residency in the Murray Centre for all of the school to enjoy. This term has been the turn of the Religion, Psychology and Philosophy Faculty which is headed up by Mr Matt Hall.

Our host Simon Jones spoke to Matt after the residency and was joined by Clemmie from the Upper Sixth (Year 13).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we'll be hearing from two alumna who attended the recent Five Year Reunion for the class of 2018.

Our host Simon Jones, speaks to Bethany Perry and Isabel Wood about their time at Downe House and the beginnings of their career journey after university.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Just last weekend, we hosted the annual House Drama Competition, a competition which involves every pupil in the school and encourages the houses to make new bonds across the year groups.

Our host, Simon Jones, spoke to Mr Chris Gould, Director of Dance and Drama, straight after last weekend's event. He was joined by pupils Hope and Helena, Both from the winning house, Aisholt in the Lower Sixth.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

We have, of course, just welcomed 118 new pupils and their parents to the Downe House community.

Our host Simon Jones speaks to Sophie Hughes, Housemistress of Darwin, and pupils Emily and Hannah, both in the Upper Sixth (Year 13), about how these pupils are supported and encouraged to make friendships across the school.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this special episode, we'll be looking at the Sixth Form and all the wonderful opportunities on offer in the final top two years of the school. We're proud at Downe House that nearly all girls stay on for the Sixth Form benefiting from the strong relationships they've made with their teachers over their time here.

In this episode, our host Simon Jones speaks to Miss Georgie Taylor, Head of Sixth Form, with pupils Louise and Hannah, both in the Upper Sixth.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

What better way to start than to take a look at Founder's Weekend, our biggest and best weekend of the year.

Our host, Simon Jones, spoke to Mrs Philippa Toogood, Assistant Head (Operations) who oversees the weekend, straight after last term's event. She was joined by pupils Cecilia, now in the Upper Fourth (Year Nine) and Izzy, now in the Upper Sixth (Year 13).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we'll be learning more about what to pack. Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to our Assistant Head of Lower School, Ms Kate Eaves, and pupils Anya in the Lower Fourth (Year 8) and Cassie in the Lower Sixth (Year 12).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we'll be learning more about one of the most important aspects of the Downe House experience - the food!

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to our Head Chef, Mr Phil Weston, and two pupils, Clemmie, in Remove (Year 7) and Sasha in Upper Fourth (Year 9).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Downe House has a dedicated Health Centre onsite with 24/7 medical care available if girls need it.

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to; Miss Gemma Palmer, Nurse Manager of the Health Centre, Mrs Justine Rigby, Matron of one of the Upper School Houses, and pupils Eliza and Tabisa from Upper Fourth (Year Nine).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we'll be learning more about the parent experience and how the school works in partnership with parents to support their daughter at every step.

In this episode our host, Simon Jones, speaks to Mr Matt Godfrey, our Deputy Head, and parents Laura and Andy from the UK, and Nathalie and Gilles from the Netherlands.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we'll be learning more about the Microsoft Surface, which all pupils are required to use when they join Downe House.

We'll be learning about how pupils use them in the classroom and how Downe House is proudly accredited as a Microsoft Showcase School.

Our host Simon Jones speaks to Jane Basnet, Director of Digital Learning, and Digital Ambassador Sion from the Lower Sixth (Year 12) and Poppy from Lower Fourth (Year 8).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode we'll be learning more about the speech and drama opportunities open to all year groups when girls join Downe House. Our host, Simon Jones, will be speaking to Mrs Rebecca Watson, Head of Extra Curricular Drama, and pupils Eliza from the Lower Sixth and Ottavia from UIV (Year 9).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, our host, Simon Jones is speaking to Mrs Tara Reeve (Director of Admissions) about everything you can expect between now and September. We'll also hear from Maddie and Leya who are both in Remove (Year 7) and Charlotte in Lower LIV (Year 8).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we find out more about the World Ready programme, an array of opportunities in the Sixth Form, preparing girls for life beyond Downe House. In this episode our host Simon Jones speaks to Miss Kerry Treacy, Housemistress of York and Head of Lower Sixth Designate, and pupils Willow and Mo in Upper Sixth (Year 13).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we find out more about the Global Exchange Programme, an opportunity for girls in Lower Fifth (Year 10) and Lower Sixth (Year 12) to experience life in one of our partner schools around the globe, and for their girls to spend time with us here at Downe.

In this episode, our host Simon Jones, speaks to Mrs Katherine Adams, who organizes the exchanges and pupils, Isabella and Alice in Upper Fifth (Year 11), and Sara in Upper Sixth (Year 13).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode, we find out more about STEM at Downe House and the opportunities for girls to explore all things relating to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Our host Simon Jones, speaks to Mr Charlie Littledale (Head of STEM) and pupils, Charlotte and Alice, both in the Lower Sixth (Year 12).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Today, we spotlight DH LINKS, a network which brings together alumnae, parents and girls to share professional knowledge, guidance and advice.

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to our Director of External Relations, Mrs Alexandra Barlow and pupils, Gabby and Hermione in the Upper Sixth (Year 13).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Our host Simon Jones, speaks to Miss Rosie McCann, Housemistress of Holcombe, along with pupils, Camilla from the Lower Sixth (Year 12) and Sophia from the Lower Fifth (Year 10).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode we learn more about down time at Downe and the opportunities girls have to build strong friendships through shared experiences and fun.

This weekend the fair came to Downe and our host Simon Jones speaks to Mrs Hannah Pilgrim, Head of Co-curricular Activities with pupils Mia and Anna both in Lower Fourth (Year 8).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Today, we spotlight the Futures department, a large team of specialist staff, who support and advise pupils on higher education, careers and other exciting pathways and opportunities after Downe House

Our host, Simon Jones, speaks to Mrs Sarah Barnard, Director of Futures with pupils Amy, Anya and Izzy all in the Upper Sixth (Year 13).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Today, we spotlight the Elective Programme, an academic selection of university-style super-curricular modules girls can take alongside their curriculum classes to inspire learning for learning's sake and to challenge the academically curious.

Our host, Simon Jones, talks to Mr Tim Breeze, Head of Electives, along with Ivie and Maria (Lower Fifth/Year 10) and Anjola (Upper Fifth/Year 11).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

A spotlight on Drama and Dance – Today, we spotlight the Drama and Dance department which has recently taken residency in the Murray Centre, showcasing all that the department has to offer.

Simon Jones speaks to Rob Castell, Head of Drama Enrichment, and Drama Scholars Honor and Rose, sisters in the Lower Sixth and Lower Fifth (Years 10 and 12).

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

A spotlight on Sport – Today, we spotlight sport, but particularly elite sport, and the opportunity for pupils to play at national and international level in a number of different disciplines.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

A spotlight on Art – our vibrant department where students can explore a range of disciplines from Fine Art, Textiles, Photography and 3D Design. Our host Simon Jones speaks to Mrs Kirsten Mortimer, Director of Creative Arts with pupils Ophelia and Alice in the Upper Fifth, year 11.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guests today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

What are the benefits of single sex boarding? Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guests today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Why is being resilient so important? Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guest today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Why is being outward looking so important? Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guest today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Why is collaboration so important? Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guest today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Why is creativity so important? Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guest today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Why is aspiration so important? Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guest today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Why is being compassionate so important? Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guest today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Why is being outward looking so important? Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guests today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Why is communication so important and how does it actually look in school? Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guests today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

How does aspiration look from one day to the next at Downe House. Come with us into this episode to find out about this and to hear from our guests today.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode we talking about creativity at the school and how it translates into each of their worlds of music, art and photography.

So come with us as we step into this episode of the podcast.

Danna's Instagram page:

www.instagram.com/chy.kreatz

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

In this episode we ask both girls what it's like to be in Year 13, what their plans are for next year, how they spend their time when they need to take a break from studying, and why resilience is so important in 2021.

So come with us as we step into this episode of the podcast.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

Together we discuss what life is like at the school through their eyes, what it means to be a Head of House, and what opportunities there are at school to collaborate with others.

So come with us as we step into this episode of the podcast.

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net 

We also find out who Jenny's crush was when she was young. but you have to promise not to tell anyone...

Find out here in Episode 002.

Website: www.downehouse.net

Instagram: downe_house

Twitter: downehouse