The Introduction to Sixth Form programme was packed with activities talks, tours, assemblies, taster lessons and social events – all designed to smooth the transition into the Sixth Form for the Upper Fifth girls and new girls joining in September. The week started with a welcome event for the new girls and their parents with tours of the School and induction sessions. After attending their first Sixth Form Assembly, the girls experienced taster lessons in their chosen A Level subjects and then spent time getting to know the Seniors and Housestaff in York House.
Wednesday brought a fresh challenge – creating a TED Talk! Housemistress, Miss Treacy led a workshop in which the girls watched a TED Talk by DH Alumna, Dr Lucy King given in December 2019 followed by a personal message from Dr King with her top tips and a presentation by Standing Tall on building confidence. In small groups, the girls worked on preparing a talk on the topic, ‘Is the journey or the destination more important?’ which they could interpret in any way they liked. The following day the girls presented their TED Talks to each other and the Housestaff and prizes were awarded to the winners, Fara and Lola, and to the runners-up, Mary, Gabi and Amy J.
The next day was devoted to wellbeing and life skills. In the morning, the girls learnt about nutrition and healthy eating from Nutritional Therapist, Sam Silvester followed by the brilliant Eryca Freemantle who talked about confidence building, self-care and achieving a healthy mental state. Girls also attended a breathing techniques workshop held by DH Alumna and Free Diver, Helena Bourdillon. In the afternoon, the girls selected two Life Skills sessions to attend from a choice of nine which covered everything from managing your workload and staying fit to speaking Arabic and an introduction to the art world.
To conclude the week, the girls were given a whirlwind tour of life as an entrepreneur with an introduction to the world of business by InvestIN and a workshop in which the girls explored how to develop and pitch business ideas. DH LINKS then hosted a Dragon’s Den-style business competition in which DH Alumnae judged their business pitches with the prize going to the West Bubble.
Head of Sixth Form, Ms Stimson said,
Find out more about Sixth Form life at Downe HouseIt has been such a pleasure to have the Upper Fifth girls with us in York House and to welcome our new girls as well. They have all embraced the challenges and experiences of the week incredibly well and should all be very proud of themselves. A huge thank you to all the staff, alumnae and external speakers who supported this week’s programme. We are now very much looking forward to welcoming all the girls back in September to start their Sixth Form life!
The best way to find out more about Downe House is to experience it for yourself. Book a personal tour or join us at one of our Open Mornings, available throughout the year.
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