It has been wonderful to have our School community together again and, whilst it’s still taking time to get used to the new one-way system and meal time routine, and it can be a little difficult to recognise pupils and colleagues in the corridors as we move around the buildings in the obligatory face mask, there can be no doubt that the overriding expression on the faces of all, even behind the masks, has been a smile. The enthusiasm and energy derived from being together in person has been hugely uplifting and provides fertile ground for those positive relationships, both new and renewed, which make Downside the place it is. I am grateful to all, pupils, parents and colleagues, for their help and support in beginning the academic year so positively.
We must build on the solid foundations which have been laid. This requires us all to continue to work together and take responsibility for those things which are within our control. This coming weekend exeat will provide a well needed opportunity to recharge the batteries. Thank you to all who have completed the e-form sent out on Friday 18th September, asking for details of where and how your sons and daughters are spending the exeat. Please could I ask that you make it clear to them that any pupil who is found not to have complied with government guidance will be required to self-isolate until we can be confident that he or she does not pose a risk to the welfare of the School community. We are grateful for your cooperation and hope you can understand that it is essential for us to have this information so that we can keep everyone safe and well and minimise the risk of disruption to the operation of the School. If you have not yet completed the e-form, please could you respond before the end of Thursday 24th September.
Our Virtual Sixth Form Subject Fair is on Saturday 3rd October. It provides an opportunity for your children to talk through subject choices with Heads of Faculties and the range of opportunities at A level.
On 10th October, we are holding our 11-18 years Virtual Open Morning. Families will experience a virtual tour of the School and have a personalised meeting with the Head Master, Director of Admissions and current pupils. Please share the invitation to these events with your friends.
UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS
As we start the new academic year, we draw inspiration from the success of our recent leavers as they embark on the next exciting step of their lives beyond Downside. It was encouraging to see how many secured places at their first-choice university, with an increasing number choosing to study STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Read more.
NEW JOINERS
It's only been two weeks since the start of the Michaelmas Term, but our new pupils are settling in well. Some new joiners have journeyed a long way to join our Downside community, coming from Nigeria, Chile and Hong Kong, for example. They know, however, that, despite the current pandemic, the journey was worth it. Read more.
BACK TO SPORTS
“Let’s celebrate the things we can do, not the things we can’t.” Wise words from our Director of Sport, Mr Richard Jones, as he talked to pupils at the start of term about how we can return to our beloved school sports in a safe way. Mr Jones reminded pupils to have gratitude for what we are able to do in terms of getting active, rather than expressing regret for what we are missing at this time. Read more.You can keep in touch with the Sports Department on Instagram, Facebook and twitter.
ON RETREAT
'It’s the loving, caring and spiritual relationships we have with each other within this one-of-a-kind community that make Downside special.’ Heads of School Katharina and Nicholas wrote to the Third Form last week about ‘The Importance of a Strong Community’ as they went on retreat. Read more.
WE DON'T STOP AT THE WEEKENDS
At Downside, we ensure that our weekend programme offers a wide variety of activity options to get pre-teens and teens off their digital devices, engaged with each other and their environment, and try new things. Since the pandemic, the School has continued to work hard to ensure that the new, ‘bubbled’ Covid-safe weekend programme remains exciting and varied. Read more.
FUTURE PROOF FOOD
Downside’s caterers, Holroyd Howe, take their responsibility towards nutrition at our School seriously. They understand the impact a healthy diet has on these important years of development. Just as seriously, however, is their consideration of sustainable foods, and, as such, this year have introduced a new food initiative: Future Proof Food. Read more.
OPEN MORNINGS
We are holding a virtual Sixth Form Subject Fair on 3rd October and a virtual Open Morning on 10th October. Families can explore the School and talk to Mr Hobbs, staff and current pupils from the comfort of their homes. If you know anyone interested in Downside, please can you share this invitation with them.
The Downside Association works to promote friendship and good communication among parents, hosting events throughout the academic year. You can contact the Downside Association directly at any time by emailing downsideassociation@downside.co.uk
