A series of occasional blog posts from our Deputy Head, Mr Matthew Godfrey, exploring life and learning at Downe House.
In this blog, Mr Godfrey (Deputy Head) explains why an all-girls school like Downe House is highly effective at preparing young women for our brave new world.
In this blog, Mr Godfrey (Deputy Head) reflects on his link with one of the UK’s most inspiring state schools, which he is proud to support as a Governor.
In this blog, Mr Godfrey (Deputy Head) talks to Downe House teachers about some of the strategies they adopt to sustain high levels of motivation in their lessons.
In this blog, Mr Godfrey (Deputy Head) talks to pupils who are facing GCSE and A Level exams this summer about effective revision strategies - they have some top tips for fellow pupils and even a one or two for parents too!
In this blog, Mr Godfrey (Deputy Head) considers spirituality and the place of Chapel at Downe House. The School’s academic record speaks for itself, but are the girls encouraged to step beyond day-to-day, temporal and material concerns and ask questions of a spiritual and philosophical nature?
As we approach the 100th anniversary of Downe House’s arrival in Cold Ash, our archivist is keener than ever to share stories from the School’s past; from the eccentric 'Giant's Stride' and iconic djibbahs, to the enigmatic and mysterious Miss Nickel.
In his latest blog, our Deputy Head, Mr Godfrey, discusses the path to independent learning with Downe House girls and teachers
"I gathered a group of Sixth Form girls in my office last Monday and grilled them about their experience of my own subject, English. The most important and emphatic message from the girls was how much they valued passion and enthusiasm from their teachers."
One of the most enjoyable and helpful things I did during my first half term at Downe House was to spend an evening in each of the boarding houses. I received a wonderful welcome in all of them.
No organisation that is complacent or which stagnates can flourish. Downe House’s global outlook, its focus on technology and its general lack of stuffiness are all examples of how it refuses to stand still.
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.