We are delighted to introduce this year’s Senior Leadership Team at Downe House, celebrating the Upper Sixth pupils who have stepped into roles of responsibility across the school community, from Heads of Houses to Creative Arts, Sport and Global Ambassadors.

Each year, our Upper Sixth (Year 13) pupils proudly represent Downe House by stepping into positions of responsibility as Seniors and School Officers.

These roles are varied, and during their Lower Sixth year, every pupil has the opportunity to put themselves forward for a position or area they are particularly passionate about. This is not only a chance to contribute meaningfully to the school community, but also to inspire and support younger pupils, leaving a lasting legacy of their time at Downe House.

Our pupil leaders take on a wide range of roles, including Heads and Deputies of Houses, Heads of Music, Drama and Dance, Global Ambassadors, Sports Captains, Academic and STEM leaders, and many more. These highly sought-after positions are cherished achievements for pupils at the top of the school, and they wear their Seniors’ gowns with pride, embodying the values of leadership, commitment and community.

The tradition of handing over these gowns to the newly appointed officers is marked by a spirited tug-of-war with the outgoing team — a symbolic and much-loved moment that represents the passing of responsibility and the beginning of a new chapter.

Now, having completed their first term of leadership, it is a pleasure to introduce our Head Senior, Alice B, and Deputy Head Senior, Luli B.

Together, Alice and Luli bring a dynamic and complementary approach to leadership. Alice leads with energy, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility, while also contributing significantly to sport across the school. Luli brings warmth, balance and a natural ability to connect with others. As a team, they set a positive tone for the year ahead, championing inclusivity, enthusiasm and school spirit.

Beyond the Head Senior team, this year’s Senior cohort is an exceptionally talented and committed group. Across the Houses — Aisholt, AGN, AGS, Holcombe and Tedworth — Heads and Deputies have stepped confidently into their roles, leading their communities with pride and purpose.

In the creative and performing arts, Margaret T (Head of Music), Daphney P (Head of Choral), Kerry L (Head of Academic Drama) and Iona R (Head of Dance) are driving excellence and creativity, while Eimear P leads extra-curricular performing arts.

Our ambassadorial and service roles continue to flourish, with Olivia F and Ottavia R as Head Ambassadors, supported by a strong team across the school. Community engagement remains a priority under Pippa D and Amelia K, while global awareness is championed by Katie C and Nina M.

Sporting leadership is equally impressive, with pupils taking on captaincy roles across a wide range of disciplines, demonstrating teamwork, resilience and dedication. Academic leadership also plays a vital role, with Heads of Scholars, STEM and Literary Seniors supporting intellectual curiosity and academic ambition throughout the school.

It has been a joy to see this cohort embrace their responsibilities with such positivity and commitment. As individuals, they bring a wealth of talent, experience and enthusiasm; as a team, they work collaboratively, supporting one another and setting an inspiring example for younger pupils.

We look forward to seeing all they will achieve over the coming terms, and to the lasting impact they will leave on Downe House.