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Life at Putney

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Putney High School is one of the UK’s leading schools, with a reputation for providing the challenge of a rich and broad education for bright girls aged 4-18.

We work with clever, inquisitive girls to ensure they are happy throughout. From this basis they achieve astonishing heights and great careers.

I believe a school should be a fabulous extension to the home. We want students to take pleasure in discovery, safe in the knowledge they are in a supportive, nurturing environment.

Our staff are passionate about their subjects and under their expertise, girls develop the resilience and self-confidence they need to take risks, be courageous and to think independently.

Our academic record is outstanding. We place equal importance, however, on ensuring that ours is a friendly school with a distinctive caring ethos. We respect one another and recognise all girls are individuals, each making her own positive and valuable contribution to our community.

Opportunity is everywhere – within Art, Design, Drama, Music, Sport and study trips here and abroad. There are many opportunities for leadership and to contribute to our charity events, helping those less fortunate than ourselves.

There is a great buzz here: do come and see. In the meantime, experience our dynamic, innovative environment by clicking on the augmented reality icons as you move through this prospectus.

Dr Denise Lodge, HeadmistressBSc (London), MSc (London), PhD (London), PGCE (Reading)

Register for an Open Day at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net I 01

Welcome

A very independent girls’ school

From the shy girl who wouldn’t leave her mum on the first day, I’ve been taught to have confidence and find myself surrounded by wonderful friends.”

Year 13 student

We are acknowledged as experts in the education of girls. Understanding how girls best learn and thrive, we create an environment which enables that to happen. Our girls are leaders; they find their voices, and get used to the challenges of leadership. In the classroom they take intellectual risks, ask questions, make judgments and develop resilience – attributes which will be fundamental to their future lives.

Register for an Open Day at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net I 0302 I To find out more about Putney High School, visit us at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net

It’s all about girls

Junior School

From the moment a girl joins the Junior School at the age of four, she is at the centre of all that we do.

We aim to give girls a broad, unique education through extraordinary experiences. No two days are ever the same but each one is filled with exciting challenges.

Staff share a passionate commitment to achieving high academic standards within a warm, secure and nurturing atmosphere.

Putney girls are confident and have an infectious desire for learning. They are also extremely supportive of each other and there is a strong sense of community.

All staff work closely with parents to ensure our girls are given the best possible start to their education.

Please arrange a visit to experience our vibrant and happy school.

Mrs Jo Wallace, Head of Junior School We have always been so impressed and thankful for the amazing support and kindness that our daughter has received. This is administered from the top, through to her form teachers and support staff.”

Year 5 parent


Pastoral care is paramount

Girls develop within a caring environment which has a distinctive family feel. Our excellent pastoral system ensures girls have the support they need and know who to approach should they need additional advice.

Communication between staff is paramount. It allows us to appreciate every girl as an individual, and to respond quickly when extra help or support is needed.

Our rich and varied Lifeskills programme anticipates some of the challenges pertinent to each age group and helps develop girls’ emotional literacy.

We welcome contact with parents as part of a three-way partnership and pride ourselves on swiftly responding to queries and concerns.

There are plenty of opportunities for girls to mix with others outside their year group, and develop friendships outside their form. Each girl belongs to a House, which works to raise considerable amounts of money for its chosen charities and so to help transform the lives of others. There are many opportunities to develop leadership and teamwork skills, within forms, the House system, and later on, as Prefects or as part of a high profile Head Girl team.

The quality of the pupils’ personal development is outstanding.”

Independent Schools Inspectorate 2010

The quality of our pastoral care – along with strong leadership, excellent academic results and extra-curricular opportunities – was praised in our ISI report in autumn 2010. The report stated: “Pupils are friendly and they enjoy excellent relationships, both with one another and with their teachers.”

The inspection also found:“A strong focus on pastoral care supports the spiritual, moral, cultural and social development of girls. The school enjoys close links with parents and the community.”

For more information on the ISI report, please visit www.putneyhigh.gdst.net/ISI-Inspection-Report

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Nurture

An impressive and substantial offering.”

The Good Schools Guide 2012

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The Sixth Form is the most exciting and possibly the most intensive period of a student’s life and we want our girls to have the finest resources to help them achieve their potential.

The Girls’ Day School Trust had the foresight to invest significantly in a state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre, which is now at the leading edge of provision for sixth form students nationally.

With our mantra of excellence and breadth for every student, the centre allows students to achieve the very best academically whilst developing themselves in an effective and independent environment.

Life in the 21st Century is fast-moving and interactive. We have created an environment in which students can prepare to meet such challenges with the confidence that comes from knowing that you have the benefit of effective support. Our centre allows students to prepare for life at university and to learn to balance choices between study and leisure in an ultra-modern technology-driven learning environment.

New Sixth Form Centre

Study areas designed for sixth form specific learning, cutting-edge technology throughout and the latest innovations in design.

Two cafés on demand, a rooftop terrace and many open plan break-out areas for students to meet and discuss their work.

A professionally equipped Fitness Centre only for Sixth Form use.

Many break out areas for independent study, socialising, leadership sessions, liaising with mentors.

Outstanding facilities

State-of-the-art

The centre appears to have more in common with a university than a Sixth Form College.”

Time and Leisure magazine

There is an inevitable work ethic but with our Lounge, Diner and Rooftop Terrace taking up the top floor, there’s a clear separation between work and break; both are made enjoyable through our surroundings.”

Abby Buck, Year 13 student


Achieve


Academic results are consistently outstanding; these girls are overachievers, in the nicest possible way.”

Tatler Schools Guide

Academic results

A* 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 2 1 1 0 0 5 0 1 4 1 0 0 4 0 0 1 31

A 1 13 0 9 2 0 2 3 15 9 1 2 2 0 6 0 2 18 2 0 1 5 0 1 9 103

B 10 3 2 6 4 4 1 3 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 4 0 3 0 3 3 1 3 0 1 62

C 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 12

D 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2

E 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Passes 12 21 3 17 6 4 4 7 22 13 3 4 4 2 12 6 3 29 3 3 7 10 3 1 11 210

Entries 12 21 3 17 6 4 4 7 22 13 3 4 4 2 12 6 3 29 3 3 8 10 3 1 11 211

Pass rate: A* = 14.7%, A*-A = 63.5%, A*-B = 92.9%, A*-C = 98.6%, A*-D = 99.5%, A*-E = 99.5%

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A* 10 44 42 8 3 1 8 11 28 20 23 0 1 9 7 33 4 4 6 4 40 10 1 26 343

A 20 32 27 0 11 0 8 16 45 50 11 11 5 26 3 33 5 8 4 5 25 6 0 9 360

B 3 5 12 0 6 0 1 1 9 11 9 4 0 15 5 15 9 1 1 2 16 0 0 3 128

C 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 2 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 16

D 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6

A* - C 33 82 81 8 20 1 17 28 82 82 46 17 6 50 15 82 23 13 11 11 82 17 1 39 847

Entries 33 82 82 8 21 1 17 28 82 82 47 19 6 50 15 82 24 13 11 11 82 17 1 39 853

Pass rate: A* = 40.2%, A*-A = 82.4%, A*-B =97.4%, A*-C = 99.3%

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The opportunities that Putney gave me from Reception through to Sixth Form, and the confidence that those opportunities created, prepared me well for university. I feel ready to take on any challenge and want to do my best. I know how to balance studying hard with enjoying sport and making the most of the social life that a London university affords.”

Former Head Girl Olivia Archibald, awarded the prize for outstanding 1st year history student at University College London 2011

Leavers’ destinations 2012


University Course

Bath Architecture International Management and Modern Languages

Birmingham Chemical Engineering English with Creative Writing

Brighton Visual Culture Viticulture and Oenology

Brighton and Sussex Medicine Medical School

Bristol Chemistry English English English English and Classical Studies French Medical Microbiology Psychology Psychology Theology and Religious Studies

Cardiff Mathematics

Central St Martins Art Foundation Art Foundation

Dundee Biological Sciences

Durham Biological Sciences Chemistry English Literature History

Edinburgh French and Spanish History Spanish

Exeter Biological Sciences Economics and Politics Modern Languages

Glasgow Psychology

Imperial College Medicine Medicine Zoology

Ambition


University Course

Leeds Greek Civilisation and History History and Spanish History of Art Medicine Spanish

Liverpool Business Studies and Hispanic Studies

London School Management of Economics

Manchester Architecture History of Art

Nottingham Art History and Classical Civilisation Finance, Accounting and Management Geography Management Studies Politics and Economics

Oxford English Language and Literature

Portsmouth Sport and Exercise Science

Queen Mary, Biomedical Science University of London

Royal Academy Music Conservatoire of Music

School of Oriental & Chinese (Modern and Classical) African Studies

Sheffield Psychology

St Andrews Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies

Sussex Psychology Psychology

University College Anthropology London Human Sciences Medicine Modern Languages Neuroscience Politics and East European Studies

USA Skidmore Liberal Arts

USA Brown Liberal Arts

York Economics English


Participation

Putney has a sport for all approach. We want all our girls to get involved and enjoy sport regardless of ability.

At the same time, we support and nurture elite performers who compete at county, national and international level.

Squads enjoy a full fixture list, particularly in netball, lacrosse, gymnastics and tennis. Our lacrosse players compete for Surrey and national squads.

Putney girls regularly represent London in athletics and cross country. Rowing is hugely popular and the school excels in a range of competitions.

More than 100 girls perform in our annual dance show. There’s no audition, just an opportunity for everyone to get involved.

As well as facilities on site, we have the use of the Dover House Road sports ground a short distance away.

We provide quality teaching and a breadth of opportunity for every pupil.

Play

Putney ensured I was not defined by just one part of my life; not only did I play netball and lacrosse but I was also able to be part of the orchestra and participated in school plays. Putney was so accommodating and encouraging in everything I did.”

Sabine van der Linden, selected for the Dutch National Senior World Cup lacrosse team and now studying Liberal Arts at Yale University, USA

I especially like the inclusive element. It’s important that everyone has the opportunity to do sport, not just the elite squads.”

Parent


The Creative Arts

Art is all around at Putney. Taking pride of place on our walls, the quality of work is evident. This culminates with stunning exhibitions of both GCSE and A Level works. We have a strong tradition of sending students to prestigious arts colleges.

Drama empowers students, developing self expression, confidence and communication skills. Through the curriculum and numerous productions, there are opportunities for everyone to get involved, either under the spotlight or backstage. As well as favourites such as ‘The Railway Children’, girls perform their own new work and that written by English and Drama teachers. We take part in the Shakespeare for Schools Festival and productions are staged in our drama studio, hall or even London theatres – our ‘Macbeth’ was performed at the Unicorn Theatre in London Bridge.

The study of Design Technology is an exciting and challenging experience. We prepare students for a technologically advancing society by encouraging risk-taking and innovative problem-solving to produce elegant solutions. The creativity and craftsmanship of work is showcased at the annual GCSE and A Level exhibitions.

Music runs on a vast scale at Putney. Almost half the school sings in a choir and many also play in one of the orchestras. The annual Music Festival attracts 450 entries. In Year 9 girls organise and perform their own opera – everyone gets involved. Suitably talented girls are given the opportunity to conduct/direct choirs and ensembles, to play concertos and to sing arias from major works. They are also encouraged to further their development by joining regional and national ensembles and by study at the conservatoires.


Perform

Great music – choir tours are legendary and colossal, orchestras and ensembles abound.”

Good Schools Guide 2012

Sport

Sporting trips have included visits to the USA and Barbados, Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships, England Netball Matches and Theatre trips for Dance. Pupils have been selected for the prestigious Centex lacrosse programme, Surrey Netball Academy and often go further to represent the school in national competitions. The Junior School runs extra-curricular clubs, including netball and tennis. In gymnastics, elite students have additional training with coaches before school and at lunchtimes.

We have excellent provision for pupils who demonstrate a particular talent.

Art

The Art Department runs lunchtime clubs in art and photography for younger students and an open studio system operates daily, enabling students to develop and extend work further in lunchtimes and after 4pm. Girls are encouraged to use new technology, printmaking and photography. Sixth Form artists have a weekly life drawing class, sometimes taught by visiting artists. Students are encouraged to visit exhibitions and galleries and we participate in external exhibitions and competitions. Artists visit the Junior School to enrich skills and develop technique. Pupils are encouraged to enter competitions, with winning submissions exhibited in galleries.

Design Technology

Students explore the use of complex processes and materials through workshops arranged at lunchtimes and after school. Study days are arranged at The Design Museum and V&A. Students are encouraged to visit other museums and exhibitions independently. They can enter Young Designer competitions and in Year 11 girls apply for the prestigious Arkwright Scholarship.

Drama

The Drama Department runs drama groups for younger girls. More formal activities for older pupils include the Shakespeare Schools Festival, participation in the National Youth Theatre, regular trips to theatres including in the West End and The Young Vic, and visits from professional actors. Drama workshops are offered from companies such as Frantic Assembly and The Almeida Theatre.

Music

The Music Department runs choirs, orchestras and chamber ensembles of many kinds. There is also an annual Music Festival and graded instrumental/singing examinations take place termly. Talented individuals are given the opportunity to conduct/direct choirs and ensembles, to play concertos and to sing arias from major works. They are also encouraged to further their personal development by participation in regional and national ensembles (e.g. National Youth Orchestra and Choir) and by study at the conservatoires. In the Junior School, talented singers are encouraged to participate in a small choir and vocal ensembles and to sing solos at productions. Musicians can join the orchestra and take part in the annual Music Festival. Talented musicians also take part in various chamber ensembles.


Challenge the gifted


We are committed to ensuring each girl realises her academic potential to the full. Our Gifted and Talented provision is designed to create an inspiring learning input to which all students will respond – one which provides real stimulus to pupils who are particularly able.

Some activities are subject-based and quite specific while others are of wider interest and open to all. Activities include school-based co-curricular enrichment activities, out-of-school activities and nationally run competitions. There is a vast range on offer across all age groups.

Early YearsFrom the outset, our curriculum is designed to create opportunities for problem-solving, creativity and thinking skills. Combined with a cross-curricular approach, this enables girls to work at their own level of challenge and at a pace appropriate to their individual needs.

Years 1 - 13Examples of school-based activities include:

• Word Puddle, a weekly group to extend in English language, in the Junior School

• Reading Groups, led by the English Department and in Modern Foreign Languages

• Maths Challenge, offered to Years 7 - 9, and Enigma group, led by the G&T coordinator and Mathematics Coordinator in Years 4 - 6

• Engineering masterclasses and Medical Society organised by the Science Department

• Create Your Own Language Day, led by the M F L Department for Years 6 and 7

• Inter-house debating and balloon competitions

Examples of out-of-school activities include:

• Model United Nations• Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme – Bronze, Silver and Gold• Cambridge/Debating Matters/Mace debating/public speaking and

debates against fellow GDST schools• Historical Association balloon debate

Nationally run competitions and events include:

• UK Linguistics Olympiad• Mathematics, Biology and Chemistry Olympiads• GDST Laurie Magnus poetry competition• UCL Science Poetry competition• Salters’ Chemistry Festival• British Council Mandarin speaking competition

Putney Ideas Exchange (PIE)

Once a fortnight we run Putney Ideas Exchange, a series of talks given by outside speakers on a range of topics. PIE speakers have included:

• Antonia Senior, Editor of The Times Eureka magazine• Roland Schilling, representative of the United Nations High

Commissioner for Refugees

These lunchtime talks are open to girls of any age.

Sixth FormStudents are given tailored extension activities and one-to-one support. The programme includes:

• Higher Education Evening for Year 12 students and parents, including speakers from the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford

• Freedom to attend subject taster days at Oxford and Cambridge• Higher Education Day at school• Extensive help with personal statements for UCAS• AS Extended Project Qualification • GDST Oxbridge Conference at Cambridge• LNAT / UKCAT / BMAT specific courses • Headstart day: run by specialist Oxbridge advisors• Admissions Test preparation • Mock interview practice with other GDST schools• Visits from some university specialists for mock interview practice

As part of our World Class Universities programme, we offer:

• Critical Thinking AS & A2 • Extension Reading List in every subject• Library stocked with university level textbooks • Weekly talks from a diverse range of speakers • Debating (club and competitions) e.g. Model United

Nations Society• Olympiad competitions e.g. Mathematics, Modern Foreign

Languages• Book Club • Weekly Medsoc for aspiring medics and vets

Challenge the talented

Everyone is an individual: not only valued in themselves but also stretched and supported so each person fulfils their own potential.”

Member of staff

The Inside Story

Junior SchoolReception – Year 6


I love Putney because the teachers and my friends are really kind and helpful. I like it when we have class discussions when we all get to join in.”

Georgie, Year 4

Let me introduce you to the Junior School. To view our video, please download the app at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net/ProspectusApp and scan this page, or visit our website at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net/media


One of the best things at Putney is the other girls. They are all kind, welcoming and friendly. I don’t think I have ever had a day when I get home from school and think that I did not love it. I have made some fantastic friendships that I will cherish all my life.”

Alice


“We are encouraged to work hard but have fun as well which is definitely possible with a mixture of lovely pupils and kind and helpful teachers.”

Helena

22 I Visit us online at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net

Junior School

“In Reception we grew tomatoes in a pot and painted it. In Year 1 we studied the rainforest and had a day when a man called Dave came in with some exotic animals.

“In Year 2 we had an Indian Day when one of the parents brought in costumes and we wore them for the rest of the day. In Year 3 we performed an assembly to our parents about Ancient Egypt and finished with dancing to “Walk Like an Egyptian”! In Year 4 we went on our first residential trip to Hooke Court to dress up and learn about the Tudors. Year 5 go to the Isle of Wight to learn about coastal erosion and this year we will go to Fairthorne Manor for an exciting outdoor challenge.”

Tamsin and Isabella

“I moved to this school when I was eight and it was the best choice I ever made! I love all the activities and the friendly community. Some of the clubs we do are Netball, Gym, Street Dance, Choir, Orchestra, Chess, Book Club and the unique South Paw Club to celebrate those who are left-handed.”

Allegra

“The playground is exceptional. There is a pirate ship, a climbing frame, a wigwam, a circuit, three tennis courts and a special area just for Reception.”

Sophie

“Every year is different and I have enjoyed every minute.”

Bella

“The teachers are friendly and make every lesson fun, interactive and enjoyable.”

Meera

In their own words


Typical days in the Junior School


Our daughters love life at Putney. It is because they are happy that they are achieving in so many ways, discovering their individual passions... be they in sport, music or academic subjects.”

Mother of three children in Years 9, 7 and 3

Arrive I’m keen to see my friends and catch up with their news.

Assembly Some girls are playing their instruments as we walk in. Everyone gets the chance to put their name down to play in front of the school. Today’s assembly theme is positive thinking.

English In the Library improving our research skills.

French With a Senior School teacher. One of my friends is bilingual so goes to the school bilingual club each week.

Break Can’t wait to play on the pirate ship.

Science In the lab setting up a fair test to find the best thermal insulators.

Singing The whole of Year 4 gets together and sings. We also have class music lessons. I play the violin in the Junior School Orchestra – there are about 50 of us ranging from oboes to French horns to double basses: anyone can join once they’ve achieved Grade 1 standard. Next year, I’ll be in the ‘famous’ Junior School Choir which involves all of Year 5 and 6.

Lunch In the Senior School dining hall. Today I fancy spaghetti bolognaise so I line up in the queue for hot food.

Tennis Club If I’m feeling less energetic, there’s a great Book Club in the Library.

Mathematics Investigating the relationship between the perimeter and area of rectangles.

ICT Trying to narrow down commands to find out what a robot understands.

Home time Other days I take part in clubs such as Orchestra and Chess Club.

Monday

Thursday

Table Club An early start today to go to the Table Club. I bet you can’t guess what that means (clue: the Latin for table is mensa!). We have great fun looking at different ways of thinking.

Life Skills Instead of a whole school assembly, we meet as a class to explore independent thinking skills. I pick up some hints on mind-mapping for revising and planning work.

English Writing – adding some suspense to my story.

Break A good game of skipping today.

Art and DT Into the Art Room to tie dye my fabric for embroidering.

Gymnastics Practising our sequences in the Senior School gym.

Lunch I choose a jacket potato and salad followed by fresh fruit.

Chess Club Competitions.

NRich Maths We’re set some challenging number problems to investigate.

RE Exploring Hindu artefacts and creating chalk Rangoli patterns for Divali.

English Reading and talking about our class text, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Home time Off to watch my sister play in a rounders’ match. Can’t wait for tomorrow...


There’s a really close bond between the teachers and pupils. They always have a smile and make the lessons interesting.”

Teresa, Year 7

Let me introduce you to the Senior School. To view our video, please download the app at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net/ProspectusApp and scan this page, or visit our website at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net/media

Senior SchoolYear 7 – 11


Arrive Arrive at school, hand in homework and head to my form room to prepare my books for the morning’s lessons. Also chat with my friends. If there is time, I sometimes find a teacher to ask a further question on home or class work.

Registration

Classics Greek myths.

Science Looking at how a baby develops and grows in its mother’s womb.

Break Head to the canteen for a snack. Catch up with friends and take the chance to look over my English script one last time.

English We have just started studying a new Shakespeare play and are split into groups to act out the first scene. Afterwards, we watch how different directors have interpreted it.

German In the Language Lab. We use the headphones to talk about foods. The teacher can check on us individually so it’s not embarrassing when I pronounce it wrong.

Lunch Today it’s cottage pie followed by chocolate fudge cake with chocolate sauce. So many choices!

House Drama Club Prepare for the House Drama competition. It’s great to make friends with girls in other years. On other days I do lacrosse or orchestra.

Registration

Assembly Today it’s a whole school assembly by Mandarin students telling us about their recent trip to Shanghai. It sounds amazing.

Art Exploring aboriginal art from Australia. We scan paintings or pictures to tell stories and get to make our own.

Dance Club End of school day but I go to dance club. We work on our routines for the dance show.

A typical day in the Senior School

“The most surprising thing was how quickly we settled in. The whole year was just like one big family. I’ve loved this school from the start.”

Year 7 student

After the bell – enrichment clubs and societies

There is a wealth of clubs from Amnesty and Art Club to Code Breaking, Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Rowing, Trampolining and Textiles. Here are just three examples:

Medical Society

Meets weekly in the Science Department to discuss the fascinating issues as well as the myriad of pitfalls related to a career in Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine. It is a collaborative society with officials in Year 13 helping to organise discussions, presentations and talks as well as one that receives advice and encouragement from teaching staff. Activities range from structure of bodies and the analysis of diseases to very specific support in meeting the requirements of an application to medical school.

Debating Society

Features a variety of debating formats, including the British Parliamentary format used in competitions organised by Oxford and Cambridge, more informal debates and balloon debates. We also practise public speaking skills including the giving, introducing and chairing of presentations and formal talks. The society aims to develop the skills and confidence required for engaging in public debate and speaking in front of large audiences as well as helping pupils to engage positively with moral, ethical and political issues which affect all of our lives.

Reading Groups

Each year has at least one reading group on offer, with books ranging from Shakespeare’s A Comedy of Errors and George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty Four in Year 7 to poetry by Auden and Sir Thomas More’s Utopia in Year 11, as well as a variety of texts and topics chosen by Year 13. Numerous creative writing groups include Anonymous, for Year 12, in which students submit their poems under pen names. The collection of their poetry is then discussed.

“Reading groups widen your knowledge not only of literature but also of its relationship with wider issues, looking at how literature is relevant to our lives, not just what we need to pass exams. It’s great that the groups don’t appeal only to students who love English, but to anyone who wants broad discussion.”

Year 11 student


The Sixth Form Centre is a great space as a learning environment, also as a place to be social and we’re a very close community.”

Ailsa, Year 12

Let me introduce you to the Sixth Form. To view our video, please download the app at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net/ProspectusApp and scan this page, or visit our website at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net/media

Sixth FormYear 12 – 13


Beyond the bell

Monday 4pm

Head to the sports grounds to play lacrosse, no matter what the conditions. I only started playing lacrosse out of lessons in Year 10, yet was welcomed into the team with ease. I have since developed more skill and become a committed member of the team. The hard work pays off – every three years there’s a sports tour. I was lucky enough to travel across America’s East Coast staying with lacrosse-playing families. From there we flew to Barbados to play netball against local teams. What an amazing experience.

Tuesday lunchtime

Drama Studio to meet the Year 7 and 8 pupils in Drama Club. Accompanied by the other drama captain, we play games and encourage pupils to devise small pieces as well as teaching dramatic techniques. We are planning the House Drama Festival. The theme is ‘Handbags’, a challenging and thought-provoking task. Earlier in the year, I performed in ‘The Sound of Music,’ fun and a good way of mixing with pupils from different years.

Wednesday lunchtime

Choir. I’ve been involved since Year 7. Not only do we perform in concerts and assemblies but we also go on a Choir Tour every second year, singing in some of the most famous and spectacular churches and cathedrals in the world. Having spent five days in Venice two years ago, I can’t wait to go to Barcelona this year.

Thursday lunchtime

Netball on the full-sized netball courts in our school grounds. It’s a great way to keep fit and has helped with my teamwork and leadership skills. We play throughout the autumn and spring terms, competing in weekly matches and tournaments. In the summer, the netball courts are transformed into tennis courts.

Friday before school

One-to-one with a teacher. One of the best things about Putney is the teachers. They are always willing to help. This time I’ve had a last minute panic about my English coursework. After sending a worried email, my teacher reassures me by offering to meet me before school to work through the problem.

Saturday

6.45am and the alarm rings for a lacrosse match. My effort with the early start is repaid with a fun coach trip to an away match – and victory.

Arrive Chat with friends and go over any work that I will need for the day.

Chemistry In the science labs. We do a titration experiment to measure the concentration levels of acids and alkalis. We are fortunate to be able to use top quality equipment to produce very precise results.

Mathematics In one of the seminar rooms. Lots of discussion. It’s great to be in lessons with other students who are as passionate about the subject as you are.

Break In the Diner, which serves delicious cupcakes!

Free study period Finish off some Chemistry in the work room. There are so many areas for quiet and collaborative study. It’s the perfect working environment. I find a question tricky so meet with my teacher for a one-to-one to iron it out.

French Listening lesson in the Language Lab, which has computers and headphones to access online resources.

Lunch Buy sushi from the Diner then head for Amnesty Club (I’m a committee member).

Registration

Assembly On the GDST Alumna of the Year, featuring Putney Old Girl Aimee di Marco, who is now at the leading edge of robotic surgery. It was inspiring to see all that she has achieved, especially as I also hope to have a career in medicine.

Biology Perform biochemical tests. Fascinating.

End of day Head home with friends.

A day in the life of a sixth former

“Every other Thursday lunchtime there’s a Putney Ideas Exchange talk. We hear from a range of experts, from criminal law barristers to top research scientists, who share their knowledge and discuss current issues within their chosen field. We’re encouraged to ask questions and probe deeper into ideas which take us beyond the classroom and into the wider world.”

Year 12 student

I enjoyed every one of my seven years at Putney. I applied to university during my gap year and was really impressed at how much help I received from Putney, even though I’d already left the school. The school gave me great advice and arranged a very useful mock interview.”

Charlotte McCutcheon, former Deputy Head Girl, now studying Biological Sciences at Pembroke College, Oxford


The secret of a Putney education A day in the life of a teacher

Arrive The Putney day officially begins at 8.15am, but much earlier than this, pupils begin to emerge. It is around 7.30am when I encounter my first student, dressed in PE kit and wielding a lacrosse stick. This level of activity characterises life at Putney and is what makes it such a vibrant and interesting community of which to be part.

Period 1 Year 7. We have been ‘visiting’ Medieval England, delving into the lives of its inhabitants and discussing the centrality of religion in that period.

Period 2 Year 10 lesson examining whether the Jarrow March was a success. The girls clearly enjoy the opportunity to present their conclusions in the form of some memorable news reports complete with anchorwomen and interviews.

Break I call a parent. We know we are in a three-way partnership with girls and parents and value their input.

Period 3 AS Level seminar on Mao’s China. The intellectual curiosity is infectious; copies of class texts are well thumbed and marked up, and students are eager to share the knowledge and ideas they have acquired during their further reading.

Period 4 Plan and prepare.

Lunch As a Pastoral Head of Year, my door is always open and throughout lunch break a trickle of pupils will pop in to talk through issues. Providing objective and reliable support for pupils and parents within the wider framework of the school system is an essential part of my role. Today it is a friendship issue that is causing concern; I mediate and offer advice. I do, though, find time to call into a Putney Ideas Exchange talk to hear Lord Patten talk about his role as Chairman of the BBC Trust and his extraordinary career path.

Assembly I deliver a short presentation about International Women’s Day using this year’s theme ‘connecting girls, inspiring futures’ to motivate girls in Years 8 and 9 to always persevere and aim high.

Period 5 I brief the girls about our trip to Ypres. Through the cemeteries, museums and narrative of accompanying military historians, this trip helps to bring alive the scale and horror of life on the Western Front.

Home time The Putney day ends as it begins with more activities – from ‘barber-shop groups’ and dance club to photography club and house drama. For me, the day ends in more mundane fashion, a cup of tea and preparation for tomorrow.

Bryony Britten Head of History and Politics and Head of Year 10

Fiona WalportPutney High School 2004-2011Reading Civil Engineering at Imperial College, London

I have had more opportunities than one would think possible. Teachers have always made the lessons fun and interesting, inspiring me to pursue my studies and aim high in life. Teachers are willing to put in extra time and support to achieve the best in everyone. Putney encouraged us to be individuals and go out into the world knowing that our differences are what make us stand out.

Margery InfieldPutney High School 2003-2010Now at St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford, reading Physics and Philosophy

My overriding memories of Putney are ones of contentedness – I was challenged academically, and sometimes that pushed me outside my comfort zone, but I always felt supported and rose to the challenge. I liked it that the school is large enough for each girl to find her own niche, yet still small enough for the staff to know her as an individual.

I miss singing in the choir. I miss the beautiful grounds – especially in spring, when all the bulbs are in flower! Most of all, I miss the intensity of the friendships I made.

The quality of the relationships between the staff and pupils is second-to-none. The teachers take real care over each girl as an individual and, particularly in the Sixth Form, take on more of a mentoring role – encouraging and engaging you in your work, but ultimately leaving you to be pro-active.

I applied to university after I had left Putney, but I was given fantastic support in my applications by several members of staff. It’s this sort of investment of time and care that helped me flourish in my time at Putney.


Teacher’s viewInspiring young minds

Every girl at Putney is encouraged to be themselves, to think independently and not necessarily conform to a particular type.”

Bryony Britten, Head of History and Politics, Head of Year 10

Let me introduce you to the Senior School. To view our video, please download the app at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net/ProspectusApp and scan this page, or visit our website at www.putneyhigh.gdst.net/media


Junior curriculum

Engage

Early YearsIn this crucial, formative year the curriculum is tailored to give girls the chance to explore, play, be creative, make friends and develop a love for learning.

• Development of independent learning skills within a strongly supportive environment

• Emphasis on English and Mathematics• Specialist Music and PE lessons • Dedicated outdoor area

Key Stage 1: Years 1 and 2The curriculum broadens to encourage academic rigour delivered through hands-on, stimulating activities.

• English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, ICT, Art and Design, RE, PE, Thinking Skills and Life Skills

• Specialist Music, Swimming and PE lessons• Cross-curricular links• Emphasis on first-hand experience and active learning

Key Stage 2: Years 3 to 6Girls experience a wider variety of subjects delivered by an increased number of specialist teachers.

• ICT embedded across the curriculum• Modern languages and Latin taught by Senior School staff• PE includes Swimming, Gymnastics, Tennis, Athletics, Netball

and Dance• Wealth of first-hand experiences including educational visits

and residential trips

Examples of extending the Curriculum

Art, Choir, Orchestra, Bilingual Club, South Paw Club for left-handed girls, Chess, Mandarin, Street Dance, Table Club (thinking skills), Enigma (extension Mathematics), Word Puddle (extension English), ICT, Gymnastics, Netball, Judo, Running, Gardening.

Creative Activities

Music is central to the life of the school. The orchestra attracts more than 50 girls. The choir for all girls in Years 5 and 6 has twice been runner-up in the BBC Songs of Praise Choir of the Year competition and is regularly asked to perform at events in London and further afield. All girls are invited to perform informally in assembly. Other events include the Valentine Music Festival, the Performing Arts Festival and Christmas and summer productions.

Working Together

Girls belong to one of four Houses, working together to raise money for charities chosen by themselves and competing in sporting tournaments. A thriving democratically-elected School Council represents the views of all girls. Year 6 girls are given roles of responsibility from House Captains to the school’s Press Pack of roving reporters who create weekly news items for the school website. School assemblies are based around pastoral themes as well as celebrating girls’ efforts, achievements and birthdays.

Senior curriculum


Key Stage 3: Years 7 to 9The curriculum has been developed to provide stretch and stimulus to bright girls.

As well as English Language, English Literature and Mathematics, girls study Art & Design; Classical Civilisation with Greek; Design Technology: Textiles and Resistant Materials; Drama; Geography; History; Latin (from Year 8); Music; Physical Education and Religious Studies & Philosophy.

ICT and Life Skills with Citizenship are delivered across the curriculum, during tutor time and through extra-curricular activities. There is an innovative weekly independent thinking lesson in Years 7 and 8. In Year 9, girls have small group ICT lessons.

Do you set for any subjects?

Girls in Year 7 are not set for any subject so they have an equal opportunity to develop regardless of material covered before. In Years 8 and 9, girls are set for Mathematics.

How big are class sizes?

The standard form size is 28. However, Year 7 girls are taught in smaller groups for approximately 40% of the timetable – for Science, Mathematics, Art, and Design Technology, for example. This enables girls to have more individual attention, use specialist facilities and integrate immediately with a wide number of girls. In Year 8, about half of the timetable is spent in smaller groups, and 90% by Year 9.

How is science taught?

Science is combined in Year 7. From Year 8, Biology, Chemistry and Physics are taught separately.

What languages do girls learn?

In Year 7 all girls study German and Spanish. In Year 8 they study Chinese (Mandarin) and French. Each of these is for two hours per language per week. In Year 9 girls select their preferred three languages from a list of Chinese Mandarin, French, German, Latin and Spanish.

What sports do girls play in PE?

Girls in Years 7 - 9 have lessons in netball, lacrosse, gymnastics, trampolining, dance, swimming, badminton, tennis, rounders and athletics. Rowing is a vibrant club activity. Inspire

Key Stage 4: Years 10 to 11Girls in Years 10 and 11 study core subjects and are set for Mathematics and Science. Girls have a free choice of four additional GCSE subjects which includes a choice of at least one Modern Foreign Language.

Core subjects:

English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

All girls study GCSEs in three separate sciences for a triple award.

Non-examined core subjects:

Life Skills with Citizenship, Economic Awareness, Current Affairs, Careers and Physical Education.

Girls have two hours of PE per week in both Year 10 and 11. In Years 10 - 13, PE options include basketball, volleyball, football and aerobics.

Pupils choose four GCSEs from:

Art, Chinese (Mandarin), Classical Civilisation, Design Technology: Resistant Materials, Textiles, Drama, French, Geography, German, History, ICT, Latin, Music, Physical Education, Spanish and Religious Studies.


World class

Aspire

We have designed a comprehensive and successful programme for those aspiring to the best universities in the world, such as Cambridge, Imperial College, Oxford, University College London, Yale and Harvard. These universities are ranked in the top 10 globally and the application process is rigorous and competitive.

Designed with world-class universities in mind, our programme is of interest and value to all students as research shows that ‘giftedness’ can be learnt and continually developed. All students enhance both their personal intellectual development and their university prospects by taking part in aspects of this initiative.

The programme starts in Year 12 and continues to December of Year 13 when interviews take place.

Our enrichment programme is focused on both providing breadth and enabling students to gain successful entry to the very best universities. Within the timetable we offer lessons in areas such as Debating, Model United Nations, Critical Thinking AS Level and the Extended Project Qualification. These activities are designed to extend reading ability and knowledge in the chosen subject area and sharpen interview and debating skills.

We offer extension sessions for all students who intend to apply to World Class Universities.

Exploiting the advantages of being part of one of the largest independent school groups, we are able to offer professional training sessions for admission to Oxford, Cambridge, medical school and law degrees.

Our extensive music programme prepares girls for audition at the leading music conservatoires including the Royal Academy and Royal College of Music.

PutneyTripos

Academic Excellence

Personalised EnrichmentIntellectual Confidence

PIE TalksOutstanding Results

Careers Focus GroupsSuper-curriculum Programme

World Class Universities ProgrammeFree and Wide Choice of A Level subjects

Critical ThinkingCommunity Service

Model United NationsExtensive Leadership Opportunities

Overseas Links and PerspectivesCommunity Sports Leaders

Young Enterprise

Ambition, Creativity, ResilienceExtended Project Qualification

Performance WorkshopsDebating ProgrammeHot Topics TalkShops

Medical Society

Sixth Form curriculum


We help students to succeed in the modern and complex world, providing opportunity for them to:

• Become intellectually and personally confident• Be ambitious, creative and resilient• Take intellectual risks, solve problems and work independently• Be a good, community-minded citizen• Further develop leadership skills• Visit other continents, increasing knowledge of the world• Make choices about their learning • Be happy and healthy too!

Students are offered an unrestricted choice from a wide selection of A Level subjects to develop a personal sixth form programme tailored to their own needs and aspirations.

Succeed

Why A Levels?

The beauty of A Levels is that they allow girls to study in great depth those subjects that their hearts desire. Students have a free choice, unencumbered by the restrictions that some alternative systems lay down. At this age, students are responsible and, supported by good advice, can make their own choices. All subject study groups are composed of students who have chosen the subject because they love it, not because they were required to study it.

Our teachers are specialists who demonstrate the value of learning through their own engagement and passion for their subjects.

To enrich and stretch the girls further, we offer Critical Thinking and the Extended Project Qualification at AS Level.

Critical Thinking encourages girls to question the accuracy and reliability of what they are reading and develops their ability to argue academically. The Extended Project allows students to pursue their academic interests in more depth and develops research and enquiry skills required at undergraduate university level. Completion of an Extended Project has a positive impact on university applications.

All girls take part in our detailed Sixth Form Personalised Enrichment Programme which includes lectures from distinguished speakers plus lessons in areas such as debating or the Model United Nations as well as involvement programmes such as Young Enterprise, community service, the Community Sports Leaders’ Award or even the producing the Sixth Form Newspaper.

Our education programme however, does not stop at the school gates. We offer numerous opportunities to engage in the world locally, nationally and internationally. We have links with schools in India and Shanghai and run a successful Outlook programme to the far reaches of the globe (visiting most recently Madagascar and Tanzania).

All girls go on to Higher Education. Our successful and detailed university support and careers programme helps girls achieve their aspirations at the very best universities.

Both academically and pastorally, with our strong support structure, we have established a climate that builds intellectual and personal confidence, enabling our students to articulate and defend their ideas.

Choices

• Four subjects are normally chosen for AS, usually narrowing down to three subjects for A2

• Further Mathematics, Critical Thinking and the Extended Project AS Qualification (which is introduced after the AS Level examinations) may be added to this

Art, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Chinese (Mandarin), Classical Civilisation, Critical Thinking, Economics, English Literature, French, Geography, German, Government and Politics, History, History of Art, ICT, Latin, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Physics, Product Design – Resistant Materials, Product Design – Textiles, Psychology, Religious Studies, Spanish and Theatre Studies.

For the first time I’m studying four subjects I love. Lessons are focused discussions, where we learn and debate all we have discovered through our independent studies. A Levels are an opportunity to explore and question the subjects you care about.”

Year 13 student

Staff and local school governors


Local Governing BodyMr P Wake MSc (Chairman)Mrs C Boardman MA, MBAMr J David BAProf C Kinnon BSc, PhDMrs M Matley MADr C Ozanne BA, MA, DPhilMrs J Railton BAMs A Scott-Bayfield MA, Solicitor of the Supreme CourtMr M WrightMr T Wheare DipEd FRSA, (GDST Council)

HeadmistressDr D Lodge BSc (Lond.) Botany and Zoology MSc (Lond.) Applied Hydrobiology PhD (Lond.) Zoology PGCE (Reading)

All Teaching Staff have professional teaching qualifications

Deputy Head (Academic)Ms O Carlin BSc (Imperial) Biochemistry

Deputy Head (Pastoral)Mrs K von Malaisé MA (Cantab) English

Senior SchoolMrs E Armstrong BA (Lond.) English & Drama, MA (Birkbeck) Psychosocial StudiesMr E Artro-Morris MA (Oxon) EnglishMr J Bacci-Andreoli BA (Goldsmiths) Fine Art, MA (Chelsea) Fine ArtMrs T Back Licenciada en Filologia Inglesa (Oviedo) EnglishMr L Bambridge BA (Hull) French & SpanishMrs M Beaumont BA (Newcastle) GeographyMiss K Biondi BA (Allegheney PA, USA) Environmental StudiesDr J Brandon PhD (Lond.) Musicology, MMus & BMus (Lond.)Mr J Bright MA (Cantab) Applied BiologyMiss B Britten BA (Sheffield) Modern History and PoliticsMiss E Burford BA (Lond.) American Theatre ArtsMiss D Burton BA (Goldsmiths) TextilesMs S Carter BA (Exeter) HistoryMrs C Christie MPhil (Cantab) Sociology & Politics, BA (Lond.) LatinMrs E Cleary BA (Lond.) French with GermanMiss P Coate MA (Oxon) French & SpanishMrs S Fairlamb BSc (Birmingham) Mathematical StatisticsMr S Farrow BSc (Lond.) PhysicsMs K Fereday BA (Cardiff) English LiteratureMiss A Ferris MA (Oxon) Literae HumanioresMs V Filsell BSc (Lond.) PharmacologyMr M Finnemore BSc (Imperial) Mathematics ARCSMrs E Fraser BA (Brighton) Physical EducationMiss L Gill BSc (Nottingham) Economics & EconometricsMr H Gunasekara BSc (Sussex) BiologyMiss C Halls-Moore BSc (Bristol) Mathematics

Mrs S Hamma BSc (Huddersfield) Textile DesignMr D Hansell BA (Dunelm) Music, MA (Dunelm), ARCO (CHM)Mrs B Hawkins BSc (Hull) Mathematics & ChemistryMrs M Hayes Cert Ed (Anstey College) Physical Education Miss J Heap BEd (Cantab) Religious Studies & EducationMrs I Heycock BSc (Leicester) MathematicsMs J Holl BA (Reading) FrenchMs K Jeffrey BA (Cantab) English, MA (Tufts, USA) English & American Literature, (Lond.) Secondary EnglishMrs G John BSc (Exeter) Mathematics, MSc (Lond.) Medical Statistics, MSc (Sheffield Hallam) Applied Statistics with Statistical EducationMiss E Keeble BSc (Cardiff) PsychologyMr J Kendall BA (Oxon) Politics, Philosophy & EconomicsMs S Knowles BA (Lond.) Soviet & Eastern European HistoryMrs M Lewis BA (Lancaster) Religious Studies & History, MA (Lond.)Miss H Lin MA (Lond.) Theatre – Applied Drama, BA (Soochow, Taiwan) English Language & LiteratureMrs S Longstaff BA (Dunelm) EconomicsMr N Marshall BA (Cantab) English, MBA (London Business School)Mrs E Matthews BA (Exeter) GeographyMrs S Meakins BA (Cantab) History, MA (Cantab)Ms M Mescall BEd (Surrey) Home EconomicsMr N Murray BA (Camberwell) History of Drawing & PrintmakingMs J Nicholls BA (Bristol) MusicMiss S Norman BA (Brunel) Design & Technology with EducationMr M O’Brien BA (Cantab) Social AnthropologyMr M Ogretme MSc (Istanbul) Secondary School Science and Mathematics Education, BSc (Istanbul) Teaching PhysicsMrs J Patton MA (Oxon) French & GermanMrs R Peacock MSc (Cranfield) Software Techniques for Digital Signal & Image Processing, BSc (Southampton) PhysicsMrs R Pugh BA (Lond.) Classics, PGDip Central School of Speech and DramaMiss L Rigon BSc (Australia) Exercise & Sport ScienceMs K Scuffil BSc (Birmingham) Sport & Exercise ScienceMiss J Sharp BA (Newcastle) English, MLit (Newcastle) Miss A Simmons BA (Bristol) HistoryMr A Stylianou BSc (Lond.) ChemistryMr S Turner MEd ((Birmingham), BSc (Southampton) GeographyMrs D Tizzano BA (Cantab) English LiteratureMrs I Vickers BA (Oxon) Fine ArtMr J Walia BSc (Lond.) ChemistryMiss L Westcott BSc (Manchester Metropolitan) Sport with Exercise and CoachingMrs G Witty BA (Liverpool) LatinMiss J Wyer BA (Lond.) English & History of Art, MA (Camberwell)Miss H Zhang BA (Shenyang) Chinese Language & Literature, MA (Brunel) Education

Junior SchoolHead of Junior SchoolMrs J Wallace BMUS (Manchester), MA

Deputy Head of Junior School (Academic) Miss A Musgrove BA (Warwick) Education Studies & Art

Deputy Head of Junior School (Pastoral)Mrs W Archibald BA (OU) Education, Psychology & Literature

Junior SchoolMiss C Bonham BA (Dunelm) Anthropology, MEd (Exeter)Miss T Bodeker BEd (Kwazulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa), MA (Roehampton) Special & Inclusive EducationMiss A Brennan BA (Surrey) Primary Education & Early Childhood StudiesMs A Cross BSc (Swansea) Early Childhood StudiesMiss D Dickson BA (Goldsmiths) Sociology & CommunicationsMiss B Dopson BSc (Bristol) Psychology & SociologyMrs G Donald BA (Cantab) Social & Political Science, MA (Cantab), MEd (Cantab)Miss S Edwards BSc (Bath) PsychologyMiss I Franks BA (Kingston) Applied Social SciencesMiss A Grimwood BA (University of the West of England) HistoryMrs E Hooper BA (Thames Polytechnic) Business StudiesMrs E Johnston BA (Bournemouth) Communications Miss R Keenan BEd (Melbourne, Australia) PrimaryMiss T Kemp BSc (Birmingham) Sport and Exercise SciencesMrs M Lewis BA (Lancaster) Religious Studies & History, MA (Lond.)Miss L Nordan BA (Roehampton) Sport & Dance, (Middlesex) Secondary Physical EducationMr A Perryer BA (Bristol) Primary EducationMrs L Wakefield BA (Leeds) Early Childhood Education Mrs R Wyatt BSc (Lond.) Mathematics & Psychology

Support StaffSchool Business Manager Mrs A Hinkson, BA (Sussex), MBA (Kingston)PA to Headmistress Mrs H Gordon-Smith, BA (Exeter) German with ItalianSecretary to Head of Junior School Mrs L Carmichael, BA (OU)PA to Senior Leadership Team Mrs C Prime, BMus (Birmingham)Director of PR & Marketing Mrs S FearonAdmissions Registrar Mrs M RobertsonDirector of Development Miss C Buswell BA (Dunelm) Anthropology & Archaeology, MA (Dunelm)Examinations Officer Mrs P CockerAdmin Officer Junior School Miss D Della ValleFinance Manager Mr G Murphy, BA (OU)Admin Officer Teaching Support Mrs N JacksonAdmin Officer Receptionist Ms A WhiteCover Supervisor Mr S ClarksonLibrarian Mrs G Dyos, MCLIPTeaching Resources Officer Ms J Johnson, AVA (City & Guilds), Dip IT (RSA)

Library Assistant Mrs I Knights, MA (Brighton) Information & Library Studies, MA (Reading) Medieval Studies, BMus (Royal Holloway)Graduate Gap Placement Miss A Lambe, BA (Southampton) English LiteratureICT Strategic & Operational Director Mrs M Bautista-Harman, BSc (South Bank University, London)Teacher ICT Support Mrs G Oliver, MA (Cantab)ICT Technician Mr L BurtonICT Technician Mr A PikeICT Technician Mr C SticklandArt Technician Mrs G Cook, BA (de Montfort) Early Years TeachingArt & Textiles Technician Mrs K HowardDesign Technology Technician Mr Cordel Blackstock BA (Kingston) Product & Furniture DesignScience Technician Ms G AlexanderScience Technician Mr J Blazeby, BSc (Lond.) Musical InstrumentsScience Technician Mrs T Oliveira Teaching Assistant Mrs M Cook, BA (Kingston) Early Years TeachingTeaching Assistant Ms E House, NVQ3 Early Years & EducationTeaching Assistant Mrs E McCarthy, NVQ3 ChildcareTeaching Assistant Mrs J Raffety, NVQ3 Childcare & EducationTeaching Assistant Mrs V Samuel, BSc (Manchester) European Studies with LanguagesTeaching Assistant Miss L Westall, BA (Manchester) French & SpanishLanguage Assistant Spanish Mrs T Back, Licenciada en Filologia Inglesa (Oviedo) EnglishLanguage Assistant French Mrs S Butler, DEUG (Toulon) EconomicsLanguage Assistant German Dr E Holle-Winterberg, Doktor of Philosophie (Hamburg)Caretaker Mr T MorrowAssistant Caretaker/Maintenance Mr J LanningGardener/Caretaker Mr M GousSchool Doctor Dr G Provost

Peripatetic StaffMiss H Ashenden BMus CelloMs E Bloom BMus RecorderMrs C Coulter-Young BMus (Royal Conservatoire of Scotland) Performance, FluteMrs A Eddie BMus Clarinet, Saxophone Ms J Edwards ARCM, RCM ViolinMs K Halsall Dip RCM, ARCM PerformerMs J Holland LRAM ClarinetMs E Hosker ARCM, GRSM ViolinMs G James AGSM Double Bass, FluteMrs A Kendall ARCM VoiceMr S Keogh GGSM, ARCM TrumpetMrs M McGhee BEd (Cantab) Music & Education, ABRSM Flute & PianoMs R Munro BA (Lond.) VoiceMr T Murray MMus Piano Mr L O’Donnell BassoonMs C Philpot ARCM OboeMrs J Raeburn BA (Dunelm) Music, ARCM Flute/RecorderMr I Stott HornMr P Taggart ARCM FluteMr M Wheeler ACM PercussionMr G Williams RCM Saxophone


Fees

From September 2012, the fees are:Junior School: £3,800 per termSenior School: £4,692 per term

Payment of Fees

The usual way of paying fees is termly on or before the due date through the direct debit system but parents can also pay in monthly instalments (four per term). Please note that there is a service charge of £24 per term for monthly payments. To arrange payment please contact the Fees Department at the Trust Office.

The fees cover the regular curriculum, school books, stationery and other materials, external careers consultancy, choral music, games and public examination fees but not optional extra subjects or school lunch.

Lunch is compulsory for all pupils in Reception through to and including Year 11. The current charge per term is £152 (Reception and Years 1 and 2) and £184 per term (Year 3 to Year 11). This is charged separately on the fees account. Lunches for the Sixth Form can be purchased on the day in our Sixth Form Diner.

Whenever possible, a term’s notice will be given of the intention to increase the fees for tuition, lunch or extra subjects. However, if circumstances arise in which costs (e.g. substantial increases in teachers’ salaries) have to be recouped immediately, the Council of the Trust may be forced to increase fees at less than a term’s notice.

Entrance ASSESSMENT Fee

A fee of £100 (£150 for overseas applications) is charged which is not refundable.

Registration Deposit

A registration deposit of £1,000 is charged on the acceptance of a place. This registration deposit is refunded after the pupil has left (after deducting any outstanding amounts due to the school or the Trust). This fee is not returned if a pupil is withdrawn after the place has been accepted.

Music Fees

The fees for instrumental and vocal tuition are set by our specialist visiting teachers.

Tuition is available in voice (Senior School only), piano, harp, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, recorder, horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, violin, viola, cello, double bass and drum kit.

Junior School – £174 per 10 x 30 minute individual lessons, £93 per 10 x 30 minute shared lessons (if these are requested and can be timetabled).

Senior School – £231 per 10 x 40 minute individual lessons; £122 per 10 x 40 minute shared lessons (if these are requested and can be timetabled).

Piano tuition is not available as a shared lesson.

Accounts for tuition will be sent direct by the teachers concerned.

Please note that 30 lessons will be given each year, though the number per term may vary – 12, 10, 8 is a common pattern.

It is expected that all pupils receiving instrumental and vocal tuition in school will complement their individual studies with participation in choral and orchestral activities. Pupils who study outside school are also welcome, of course.

Scholarships & BursariesAn access enabler, the GDST aims to seek out the brightest, most deserving girls for bursaries and scholarships so that the largest possible number of girls can benefit from an excellent education.

In the Senior School, we offer scholarships to girls who excel in the 11+ entrance examination as well as for exceptionally talented musicians. Our scholarship programme is designed to recognise potential and offer opportunity. Expectation is high – and our staff work with scholars to nurture their progress.

All scholars are named on the Scholars Boards in the School Hall. The award of a music scholarship brings more opportunities to perform and scholars are expected to participate fully in the musical life of the school.

For girls aged 16+, Academic, Art, Design, Drama, Music and Sport scholarships are available. Travel scholarships in Modern Foreign Languages and Sciences are also available for internal applicants.

Connect

We are part of the Girls’ Day School Trust. The GDST is the leading network of independent girls’ schools in the UK, with nearly 4,000 staff, and 20,000 students between the ages of three and 18.

As a charity that owns and runs a network of 24 schools and two academies in England and Wales, it reinvests all its income in its schools. Founded in 1872, the GDST has a long history of pioneering innovation in the education of girls, and is the largest single educator of girls in the UK (and the UK’s largest educational charity).

With almost 50,000 former students and staff in the GDST Alumnae Network, our girls can access a range of wisdom and experience when considering higher education and future careers.

GDST schools aim to inspire:

Confidence: Motivated by a spirit of enquiry, our girls seek to explore and evaluate ideas and arguments in a generous, critical and constructive way.

Courage: Girls meet new challenges with resourcefulness and resilience. They are enterprising and adventurous, willing to take the initiative, not afraid to aim at tough targets.

Composure: GDST girls are intrinsically motivated, taking responsibility for their own learning.

Commitment: Our girls value connectivity – in creating and sharing knowledge. They are receptive to new ideas and keen to learn.

For more information, please visit www.gdst.net.

The Girls’ Day School Trust, Address: 100 Rochester Row, London SW1P 1JP Tel: 020 7393 6666 Fax: 020 7393 6789

A Limited Company registered in England No. 6400 Registered Charity No. 306983

Policies: For details of all our school policies please contact the school office or visit www.putneyhigh.gdst.net


Application form for 201 entry

Please complete this form in BLOCK CAPITALS and return it to the school together with a non-returnable Registration Fee of £100.00.

Details of Child

Applicant’s surname

Details of Parents/Guardians

Forename(s) (preferred names underlined)

Date of Birth

Day Month Year

Proposed Date of Admission

Month Year

Age on admission

Please note that a candidate for Reception will not be considered until after her third birthday.

National Curriculum year group on admission

Nationality as shown on child’s passport

NB If and when a place is offered, evidence of a valid visa will be required for all candidates who are not UK residents or residents of the EEA or Switzerland.

Position in family (i.e. 1st of 2)

Name and title of Mother/Guardian

Address

Postcode

Occupation

Tel No: home

Tel No: work

Tel No: mobile

Email

Please state relationship to child

Please indicate if you are the primary carer YES/NO

Name and title of Father/Guardian

Address

Postcode

Occupation

Tel No: home

Tel No: work

Tel No: mobile

Email

Please state relationship to child

Please indicate if you are the primary carer YES/NO

(Please state if a parent is deceased).

If the applicant has any family members who are attending or have previously attended Putney High School or another GDST school, please give names and dates here.

Name and relationship to candidate School and dates of attendance

The GDST Scholarship & Bursary Scheme (for candidates entering the Senior School only)

Bursaries are means tested and may be awarded to families that require financial assistance.

Do you wish to apply for a bursary? YES/NO

Academic scholarships are awarded on merit and all 11+ candidates are automatically considered for an award. Applicants for 11+ music scholarships are invited for audition. 16+ scholarships are offered for Academic, Art, Design, Drama, Music and Sport. All applicants for academic scholarship sit a Scholarship paper.

Do you wish to apply for a Music Scholarship at 11+? YES/NO

If you wish to apply for a 16+ Scholarship, please visit www.putneyhigh.gdst.net for full details and a scholarship application form.

How to join us

RegistrationThe first step is to register your daughter. Complete the application form and return it to the Admissions Registrar together with a cheque for a non-refundable entrance assessment fee of £100 (or £150 for overseas applications). Full details of entrance assessments will then be sent to you.

Admissions – Junior School4+ Entry#:

Registrations can only be made in the year prior to entry and girls must be 4 years old by the 31st August prior to entry in that September. Places will be offered following a friendly, informal assessment which takes place in our Junior School. This takes approximately 1.5 hours.

For admission in September 2013, assessments will take place on Wednesday 16th January 2013.

7+ Entry#:

Places will be offered following a friendly assessment, which takes approximately 3 hours. Girls are asked to complete papers in English, Mathematics and Non Verbal Reasoning.

For admission in September 2013, assessments will take place on Thursday 13th December 2012.

Occasional Vacancies in the Junior School

From time to time, vacancies do arise in year groups – for example because parents move out of the area. If you are considering entry at a time other than 4+ or 7+, please contact the Admissions Coordinator or call 020 8788 6523. We welcome all applications at any time.

Admissions – Senior School11+ Entry*:

All applications should be submitted when your daughter enters Year 6 in her current school, together with a non-refundable entrance assessment fee of £100 or £150 for overseas applications. The entrance examination comprises English and Mathematics papers. There is an interview, arranged in December. The official examination date is Wednesday 16th January 2013 and includes questions of a scholarship level. Please visit our website for details of the syllabus for 11+ entry.

Sixth Form Entry**:

Conditional offers depend on candidates achieving six GCSE subjects at grades A* or A, with A* or A in the subjects they wish to study at AS Level. English and Mathematics must have been awarded at least a B grade, if these are not chosen for AS study. For subjects new to the Sixth Form, there are specific requirements which can be found in the AS Choices handbook. There is an interview with the Head of Sixth Form and Heads of Department.

For Sixth Form entry, please fill in the extra sheet (available on our website) giving details of your career aspirations and future direction, including your particular interests and GCSEs to be taken and/or results. Please also include a passport photograph with your name on the back.

Students wishing to apply for Sixth Form scholarships should apply before 4pm on Thursday 15th November 2012 to sit the examination on Friday 30th November 2012 for September 2013 entry.

Occasional Vacancies in Senior School**:

Vacancies do occasionally become available in our Senior School in other year groups. Assessments can take place at any time during the school year, arranged through the Admissions Registrar. We welcome applications at any time. Please contact the school for more information.

Scholarships and Bursaries:

If you wish to apply for a Bursary (Senior School only) please tick the appropriate box on the application form and financial forms will be sent to you so an assessment can be made. Bursaries are based on income of parents and assets and are means tested. 11+ applicants must apply for a Bursary before the closing date for registrations, Friday 23rd November 2012, as funding is allocated when offers are made in February.

Academic scholarships are awarded on merit up to the value of 50 per cent of fees and all 11+ candidates are automatically considered for an award when sitting the paper. Music scholarships are awarded on the basis of an audition. Please complete the separate application form.

For girls aged 16+, Academic, Art, Design, Drama, Music and Sport scholarships are available. Travel scholarships in Modern Foreign Languages and Sciences are available for internal applicants only.

Admissions for siblings:

We welcome applications from sisters of girls who already attend Putney High School. However, places are allocated on merit only.

Junior School telephone: 020 8788 6523Senior School telephone: 020 8788 4886Website: www.putneyhigh.gdst.net

Returning your form# For Junior applications please send application form marked

for attention of Admissions Coordinator, Junior School.

* For 11+ applications please send application form marked for attention of Admissions Registrar, Senior School.

** For applications for Sixth Form/Occasional Vacancies in the Senior School, please send application form marked for attention of Admissions Registrar, Sixth Form.

Please make all cheques payable to GDST and return all application form to: Putney High School, 35 Putney Hill, London SW15 6BH.


Present School/Nursery (if any) (from whom a reference will be sought)

Name and title of Head

Address

Telephone Number

Type of School(Independent or State)

Date Started

Previous Schools (if any) (from whom a reference will be sought)

Name and title of Head

Address

Telephone Number

Type of School(Independent or State)

Date Started Date Left

Are you applying to any other schools? If YES, please list names

Does your daughter have any special educational needs or disabilities which may require any special arrangements to be made in respect of the assessment process? Please give details and enclose a copy of her educational psychologist’s report.(A disability is a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long term adverse effect on the ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities).

Please provide details of languages spoken at home other than English

Checklist

I enclose:

The completed application form

The completed Sixth Form Supplementary Sheet

A cheque for £100 payable to GDST (entrance assessment fee)

A cheque for £150 payable to GDST for applications from

overseas (entrance assessment fee)

A passport sized photograph of the applicant with her

name and date of birth printed on the back

A photocopy of the applicant’s birth certificate

For Junior School applicants only, a photocopy of the latest

school or nursery report

Signed (Parent/Guardian)

Date

Please tick one or more of the following

How did you learn about Putney High School?

From advertisements in the local press

From school guides

From local knowledge

From a friend, family or colleague

From our website

Other (please specify)

Did you choose this school because:

You have another daughter here

You attended the school

It has a good local reputation

It has a good academic record

It has a good reputation for pastoral care

The fees are competitive

You liked the atmosphere at the Open Day

It is a GDST school

Please note that if and when a place is offered and accepted you will be required to complete and sign the GDST’s acceptance form/terms and conditions which will constitute the formal contract between yourselves and The Girls’ Day School Trust.

We would like to hold the information contained on this form for the purpose of conducting our own internal market research and for providing you with information on the school, and on events and other activities at the school, which we believe may be of particular interest to you. We confirm that this information will not be shared or divulged to any body or person outside Putney High School or The Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST). Please tick the box if you do NOT wish us to use this information for the purposes stated above.

Music scholarship for 11+

Preparing For Your Music Scholarship Audition

The audition will include tests in Sight Reading (instrumental and vocal) and Aural Tests. These will be of approximately Grade 4/5 standard though they do not exactly match the style of test in the Grade exams – there is an element of ‘initiative test’ here. You must prepare for these at least as thoroughly as you practice your pieces. Very often it is the achievement in this area of the audition that decides whether or not you will be successful overall. In addition, we will ask you to play some Scales and Arpeggios. Be prepared to tell us which ones you know! (You can write this down and bring the list with you if you like).

When deciding what to play, please bear the following in mind:

Length – no more than 5 minutes per piece please (and less is fine). We would hate to have to stop you but in fairness to all candidates we have to keep to the timetable.

Difficulty – choose pieces that you can play comfortably and musically. A performance of a Grade 4 piece that is absolutely accurate and full of musical interest and detail will impress us far more than a rather undignified scramble through a Grade 6 piece.

Be prepared to tell us something about your chosen pieces – what keys are they in, what the time signature means, any interesting features and perhaps a little general information about the composer (such as when they lived and any really famous pieces that they composed but don’t spend hours on research when you should be practising your scales).

Pianists – organise your pedalling and be prepared for the fact that our grand piano may sound quite loud. We’ll let you have a quick warm-up before we start listening properly to your playing.

String players – you should be able to tune your own instrument. Make sure your intonation and bowing are secure – above all use the whole bow to produce a full sound.

Wind players – organise your breathing. If your instrument has a reed make sure you keep a nice one for the audition but have a spare that’s nearly as good in case of accidents. Don’t tire your embouchure by warming up too much.

Singers – work on your breathing too and sing your words clearly.

Everyone – we would like to hear you all sing – a Christmas song that you may have learned with your school choir is fine. Bring the piano accompaniment if it has one. A final point – for everything that you perform think carefully how you play/sing the last note. Above all, make it long enough and end it musically, don’t just chop it off. Many last notes have pauses on them and are preceded by a rallentando!

Please complete this application form if you wish your daughter to audition.

David Hansell, MA (Dunelm), ARCO (CHM)Director of Music

A number of Music Scholarships are available. Candidates must also satisfy the Putney High School entry requirements at 11+. Any girl accepting a scholarship will be expected to participate fully in the school’s orchestras, choirs and chamber ensembles and to complement her practical activities with the academic study of Music to at least GCSE level. We look to our Music Scholars to lead by example in every respect – artistry, technique, commitment and punctuality.

Music Scholars should be prepared to lead or direct a vocal or instrumental ensemble, perform solos and represent the school in Music Festivals and other events as appropriate.

Girls who apply for scholarships will be expected to have reached a standard of Associated Board Grade 5 on their first instrument and have some keyboard ability. We award a number of scholarships up to the value of 50%.

Auditions are in two stages

First stage – on the Interview Day in December, ALL candidates are invited to attend a preliminary audition at which they play one piece on their main instrument and sight read on that instrument. We provide an accompanist. Some girls will then be selected to go on and prepare for the full auditions in January.

Second stage – full audition (in the afternoon of 11plus examination):

• One piece of the candidate’s own choice on the first instrument, no longer than five minutes

• For candidates with a second instrument: one short piece, no longer than two minutes

• Scales and arpeggios• Sight reading, vocal and instrumental• Aural tests• All girls are asked to sing a short song, either with or without

accompaniment

For both stages – an accompanist can be provided if requested at the time of application.

It makes me inexpressibly happy to arrive at Putney every morning. Almost every day, when I walk through the gates, I smile. I feel a great sense of pride and know that I’ll be accepted and belong.”

Year 13 student

Signed (Parent/Guardian)

Date

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How to find usMusic Scholarship Audition for 11+

Application formPlease complete this form in BLOCK CAPITALS.Please return this form by Friday 23rd November 2012. Initial auditions will be held on Wednesday 12th December 2012.

Details of Applicant

Candidate’s full name

Date of Birth

Day Month Year

Tel. No: home

I wish my daughter to be auditioned for a Music Scholarship at Putney High School. I understand that if she is successful, she will undertake to participate fully in Musical activities at the school. I understand that any award offered must be accepted by the same date for acceptance of a place at Putney High School.

Main instrument

Most recent examination result in this instrument:

Year

Grade

Mark

Board

Number of years this instrument has been studied

Second instrument

Most recent examination result in this instrument:

Year

Grade

Mark

Board

Number of years this instrument has been studied

Musical Experience

Experience of choirs and choral singing

Experience of orchestral and ensemble playing

Do you require the school to provide an accompanist? Yes/No

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Regular South West trains run every 4-7 minutes in the morning from Waterloo to Putney Station with a journey time of 15 minutes. Trains connect to Reading via Richmond, Chiswick and via Clapham Junction to the rest of Network South East.

East Putney tube station on the district line from Wimbledon and Earls Court is less than a 10 minute walk from the school.

Cycle routes to the school are accessible from Richmond, Wimbledon, Wandsworth, Fulham and Kingston.

For more journey information, please visit journeyplanner.tfl.gov.uk

Putney High School35 Putney HillLondon SW15 5BH

www.putneyhigh.gdst.net

Senior School:

T: 020 8788 4886F: 020 8789 8068E: [email protected]

Junior School:


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Putney’s excellent transport links

Regular buses to Putney from:• Tottenham Court Road - 14• Piccadilly Circus - 22• Peckham - 37• Clapham Junction - 337, 37• Kingston - 85• North Cheam and Wimbledon - 93• Tolworth - 265• Richmond - 337• Stevenage Road/Fulham Football

Club - 424• Roehampton - 430

Putney High School35 Putney HillLondon SW15 6BH


www.putneyhigh.gdst.net

Follow us on Twitter @PutneyHigh

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Life at Putney - ucetw.ac.inucetw.ac.in/newwebsite/ULTRA/userfiles/putneyhigh/... · Putney High School is one of the UK’s leading schools, with a reputation for providing the challenge