A Downe House girl is an inspiring girl, and we are delighted to introduce you to some of our Leavers who have been key to our school community as leaders, mentors, performers, creatives, and innovators, and are now set to go out and make an impact on the world.  

ELLA F 

From the lacrosse pitch to the basketball court, Ella has brought energy, determination and team spirit to every sport she’s played at Downe House. As AGS Head of House, Lacrosse Captain and a sports scholar, she has led by example, inspiring those around her with her dedication and positivity. 

PROFILE

Joined Downe House: Remove
Previous School: St Mark’s Primary
House: AGS
A Levels: Geography, PE, DT
Destination: University of Exeter – BA Geography
Leadership roles: AGS Head of House; Lacrosse Captain; Sports Scholar; Sports Council Member 

Q&A 

What were you most involved in at school?
Sport — without a doubt. I played on the First Teams for lacrosse, netball, basketball, cricket and football. I’ve been a sports scholar since Lower Five, part of the Sports Council since it began, and I coach the younger teams most weekends. Helping others love sport as much as I do has been so rewarding. 

What achievement are you most proud of?
Becoming both Head of House and Lacrosse Captain this year. It meant a lot to be trusted in those roles. 

Who inspired you the most?
The teachers. Their support and dedication really pushed me to keep going, even when things felt tough. 

Favourite memory?
Beating Berkhamsted at National Schools — they were the favourites, and getting into the top eight was surreal. A funnier one? The infamous L5 dorm water fight. Our Housemistress missed getting soaked by millimetres! 

Best thing about Downe?
The support. Whatever you’re passionate about — sport, academics, anything — someone’s always there to push and encourage you. 

What has Downe House given you?
Lacrosse. I didn’t even know the sport before coming here, and now it’s something that’s shaped me completely — it’s taught me discipline, teamwork and confidence under pressure. 

Advice to a girl starting in September?
Don’t hold back. Throw yourself into everything, even if it’s out of your comfort zone. It’ll feel like home sooner than you think. 

Favourite DH meals?
Breakfast: bacon pancakes or hash browns.
Lunch: pork bao bun.
Dinner: katsu curry — always. 

If you could have a superpower?
Time travel — imagine reliving those top matches or skipping to summer! 

Future plans?
Something in sport — maybe management or commentary. I’m excited to see where life takes me.