Welcome from the Head
Dear Parents
Welcome to this week’s newsletter, following a fortnight packed with Summer Term activities.
Thank you so much to our trip leaders who, since half term, have taken students to London, Stratford, Rochester, Eastbourne, Sussex, Camiers and Morocco in the pursuit of studying Japanese, Geography, History, Art, Biology and French, not to mention the Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. I am sure the students have created wonderful memories from these experiences. Thank you also to the Year 10 parents who offered our Year 10 students the chance to visit Recursion Labs and gain an insight into the world of AI-driven medical research; we are very grateful for this generous opportunity.
Meanwhile, our Years 8 and 9 students have enjoyed their social evenings with Dulwich College; thank you so much to our JPA who give so much time to organising these very successful events. We welcomed our Junior School Year 5 students to experience life in the Senior School this week, while Year 10 enjoyed a day of Sixth Form lessons and toast in the Common Room; it’s always such a pleasure to look forward to future experiences with our students. Year 10 also received valuable feedback during their Parents’ Evening as we reflected on all they had gained from the experience of their Summer Exams season.
We were also treated to a charity Trashion Show and a Cheer showcase as well this week; just two more examples of the helter-skelter of opportunities at JAGS!
Wishing you a lovely weekend,
Mrs Alex Hutchinson
Head
Dates for your Diary
- Friday 20 June – History of Art Sixth Form trip to National Gallery
- Tuesday 24 June – 4.30pm to 6.45pm – Year 13 Leavers’ Ceremony (VWA)
- Wednesday 25 June – 7pm – Summer Serenade (VWA)
- Thursday 26 June – 1pm – Religious Studies Theatre Trip (The Barbican Centre)
- Friday 27 June – School closes at 12 noon
- Saturday 28 June – Founder’s Day
- Tuesday 1 July – 7pm – Founder’s Concert (VWA)
- Wednesday 2 July to Thursday 17 July – Sixth Form World Challenge
- Thursday 3 July – 12 noon – Term Ends
Reporting Absences
A reminder to all parents to use this form to report absence in the Senior School due to illness or to request absence for appointments. This form can also be found on our Contact page.
Additionally, when informing a teacher of any health issues your daughter may be facing, please remember to cc our School Nurse team on Nurse@jags.org.uk.
Key Stage 4 Update
As we move towards the end of the academic year, it has been a busy and productive time for our Key Stage 4 students.
Year 11 continue to work incredibly hard as their GCSE exams draw to a close. It has been wonderful to see so many students making excellent use of their study leave by returning to school to revise and prepare together, supporting one another through this important period.
Year 10 have had an exciting and varied few weeks, filled with enriching experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Our Geographers enjoyed a field trip to Stratford, putting their classroom learning into a real-world context. GCSE Art students visited Eastbourne, where they managed to dodge the rain and spent quality time sketching outdoors and finding creative inspiration by the sea.
Hannah Dodson, Head of KS4
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Recursion Labs visit
Another highlight was the visit to Recursion Labs, where students had the opportunity to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming medical research. They met leading scientists and experienced cutting-edge technology first hand!
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Year 10 Parents’ Evening
It was also wonderful to see so many families at the recent Year 10 Parents’ Evening. This was a valuable opportunity for parents, students and teachers to come together and reflect on the academic journey so far. We hope the conversations provided insight into each student’s strengths and areas for development, as well as practical guidance on how to prepare for the challenges and expectations of Year 11 and their upcoming GCSEs.
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Sixth Form Taster Day
On Wednesday, our Year 10 students had an exciting opportunity to immerse themselves in Sixth Form life during their Sixth Form Taster Day at JAGS. From attending A Level lessons and engaging with current Sixth Formers to taking part in a scavenger hunt, students gained a valuable insight into what lies ahead and had an enjoyable day in the process.
The atmosphere was full of energy and enthusiasm, and it was a real pleasure to see so many students asking thoughtful and curious questions. We hope the day has sparked inspiration and given them plenty to consider as they begin to think more seriously about their post-GCSE choices.
Another highlight was the visit to Recursion Labs, where students had the opportunity to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming medical research. They met leading scientists and experienced cutting-edge technology first hand!
It was also wonderful to see so many families at the recent Year 10 Parents’ Evening. This was a valuable opportunity for parents, students and teachers to come together and reflect on the academic journey so far. We hope the conversations provided insight into each student’s strengths and areas for development, as well as practical guidance on how to prepare for the challenges and expectations of Year 11 and their upcoming GCSEs.
On Wednesday, our Year 10 students had an exciting opportunity to immerse themselves in Sixth Form life during their Sixth Form Taster Day at JAGS. From attending A Level lessons and engaging with current Sixth Formers to taking part in a scavenger hunt, students gained a valuable insight into what lies ahead and had an enjoyable day in the process.
The atmosphere was full of energy and enthusiasm, and it was a real pleasure to see so many students asking thoughtful and curious questions. We hope the day has sparked inspiration and given them plenty to consider as they begin to think more seriously about their post-GCSE choices.
Sixth Form Update
With the Class of 2025 fully immersed in their A Level exams (and handling them magnificently, I should add!), Year 12 students have stepped up as the new student leaders within the school community.
House Captains are leading assemblies, School Prefects are fulfilling their pastoral lunchtime duties, the Head Girl team is forging ahead with plans to leave a lasting legacy at JAGS, and Prefects are running clubs and societies. Year 12 are certainly ‘leaning into’ the many JAGS networks and showing they are more than ready to take the reins as student leaders next year.
Mat Weeks, Head of Sixth Form
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Sixth Form Taster Day
On Wednesday, Year 10 enjoyed a smorgasbord of activities designed to help them understand the fun, engaging and enriching experience which awaits them in the Sixth Form. The day featured taster lessons, informative talks from staff and students on Sixth Form life, a student panel and even a scavenger hunt.
Thank you to all involved and to the students for embracing the event. We look forward to continuing the conversation through Sixth Form open evenings, student to student info sharing events in Year 11 and beyond!
Wishing everyone a fun and productive weekend.
On Wednesday, Year 10 enjoyed a smorgasbord of activities designed to help them understand the fun, engaging and enriching experience which awaits them in the Sixth Form. The day featured taster lessons, informative talks from staff and students on Sixth Form life, a student panel and even a scavenger hunt.
Thank you to all involved and to the students for embracing the event. We look forward to continuing the conversation through Sixth Form open evenings, student to student info sharing events in Year 11 and beyond!
Wishing everyone a fun and productive weekend.
Geography
Year 12 Geography students were blessed with four days of glorious weather in the most picturesque of locations during their visit to the Lake District.
Over the first two days, students explored data collection techniques in both human and physical geography through fieldwork in Keswick and the Mosedale Valley. They then applied these methods to conduct independent research in support of their non-examination assessment. Topics covered ranged from the direction of ice flow in the glaciated landscapes to the sense of place in Keswick.
Students share their experiences below:
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Thea (Y12)
“We were lucky enough to visit the Lake District before half term to investigate glacial features and human geography in the Keswick area. Welcomed by sunny weather, we started our trip practising methodology for human investigations. This included collecting noise data, bipolar surveys, traffic and pedestrian counts. On the second day, we prepared to collect physical geography data like sediment analysis, landform profiling and field sketches; this gave us valuable insight into the region.
“As a part of the physical geography group, we were able to further our classroom learning and witness first-hand the landforms we had studied, such as corries, tarns, moraine, hanging valleys and U-shaped valleys. I really enjoyed drawing field sketches of the corries, where I could spend time finding features to describe. Overall, I learnt a lot on the trip to further my classroom understanding, and took away how important it is to ensure methodology is repeatable, even for non-geographers.”
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Maggie (Y12)
“Our recent geography trip was such a fun experience and we were lucky to have amazing weather. One of the highlights was seeing real-world examples of the landforms we have studied, such as corries, drumlins and eskers, as it helped me to visualise everything I’ve learnt in the classroom. I particularly enjoyed working in groups to collect field data, and I loved talking to a wide range of people through questionnaires and interviews.
“I learnt how to apply fieldwork techniques to gather reliable and accurate data for my NEA, so I now feel prepared to write up my investigation. The views were amazing and I was blown away by the beautiful scenery! Overall it was a fun and unforgettable trip.”
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Coco (Y12)
“The team at the field centre near Keswick was extremely knowledgeable about the local area, providing valuable advice on how to best conduct the research for our NEA. Returning from the trip, I now feel fully equipped to tackle writing my NEA and am also much more confident to collect data independently. In particular, I enjoyed the break from London, the scenery from our bedroom windows, the amazing lunch spots and the sunset walk through the hills. It was so nice to spend a few days in the town of Keswick and its surrounding countryside areas with great company!”
“We were lucky enough to visit the Lake District before half term to investigate glacial features and human geography in the Keswick area. Welcomed by sunny weather, we started our trip practising methodology for human investigations. This included collecting noise data, bipolar surveys, traffic and pedestrian counts. On the second day, we prepared to collect physical geography data like sediment analysis, landform profiling and field sketches; this gave us valuable insight into the region.
“As a part of the physical geography group, we were able to further our classroom learning and witness first-hand the landforms we had studied, such as corries, tarns, moraine, hanging valleys and U-shaped valleys. I really enjoyed drawing field sketches of the corries, where I could spend time finding features to describe. Overall, I learnt a lot on the trip to further my classroom understanding, and took away how important it is to ensure methodology is repeatable, even for non-geographers.”
“Our recent geography trip was such a fun experience and we were lucky to have amazing weather. One of the highlights was seeing real-world examples of the landforms we have studied, such as corries, drumlins and eskers, as it helped me to visualise everything I’ve learnt in the classroom. I particularly enjoyed working in groups to collect field data, and I loved talking to a wide range of people through questionnaires and interviews.
“I learnt how to apply fieldwork techniques to gather reliable and accurate data for my NEA, so I now feel prepared to write up my investigation. The views were amazing and I was blown away by the beautiful scenery! Overall it was a fun and unforgettable trip.”
“The team at the field centre near Keswick was extremely knowledgeable about the local area, providing valuable advice on how to best conduct the research for our NEA. Returning from the trip, I now feel fully equipped to tackle writing my NEA and am also much more confident to collect data independently. In particular, I enjoyed the break from London, the scenery from our bedroom windows, the amazing lunch spots and the sunset walk through the hills. It was so nice to spend a few days in the town of Keswick and its surrounding countryside areas with great company!”
MFL
Italian
Cultural Trip to the National Gallery
Last Friday, the Year 8 Italian classes enjoyed an enriching visit to the National Gallery, where they explored masterpieces of Renaissance art.
Students had the opportunity to put into practice their Italian vocabulary related to descriptions, animals, and colours, bringing their classroom learning to life.
The cultural visit was perfectly rounded off with a proper Italian pizza – an authentic taste of Italy to end a truly inspiring day!
Charity
Charity ‘Trashion’ Show
On Monday, our talented ‘trashionistas’ transformed the VWA into a sustainable fashion showcase.
From bottle caps to bin bags, nothing went to waste as students let their creativity shine through their incredible designs.
The event, a collaboration between our Charity Club and Eco Champions, was a wonderful celebration of sustainability here at JAGS and raised money in aid of The Children & Young People’s Cancer Association.
Sustainability
Porpoise Conservation Society
Our Eco Champions were also busy before the half term break, when they staged a bake sale which raised £183 in support of the Porpoise Conservation Society.
The vaquita porpoise is critically endangered and faces a high risk of becoming extinct in the wild.
The Eco Champions were also delighted to receive a heartwarming message of thanks from Dr Anna Hall and Marcus Wernicke, PCS President and Vice-President respectively, who explained the difference their fundraising efforts will make.
Read the full message below:
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“Young people can make a real difference”
“What an incredible surprise to learn about your bake sale and the amazing £183 you raised for vaquita conservation! We’re absolutely thrilled that you chose to support these remarkable little
porpoises through your (delicious) fundraising efforts.
“Your contribution comes at such a perfect time. This summer, your donation will help fund an exciting study in Newfoundland to test new fishing gear that could be a game-changer for vaquitas. We’re supporting this important work alongside our partners at Pesca ABC in San Felipe, Mexico, as they test equipment designed to keep vaquitas safe while still allowing fishers to make their living.
“To the Eco Champions who organised this wonderful bake sale – thank you for your leadership. You’ve shown that young people can make a real difference for wildlife conservation, and that’s
something truly special.
“While you’re learning about vaquitas in far-off Mexico, did you know that vaquitas have relatives living much closer to home? Harbour porpoises can be found not too far from where you live!
They may not be critically endangered like the vaquita, but they still need our help and protection.
You might be interested in learning about the Harbour Porpoise Special Areas of Conservation in the UK. This species has recently made a return to the English Channel, so perhaps you can spot a
porpoise the next time you visit the coast?
“Thank you again for caring so deeply about wildlife and for turning that care into action. Your generosity means a lot to us.”
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Education Choices Awards 2025
We are delighted to announce that JAGS has been selected as a finalist in the Supporting Sustainability category at the Education Choices Awards 2025.
It’s fantastic to see the hard work of our students, staff and wider community recognised as we continue to take meaningful steps towards living more sustainably and reducing our carbon footprint.
“What an incredible surprise to learn about your bake sale and the amazing £183 you raised for vaquita conservation! We’re absolutely thrilled that you chose to support these remarkable little
porpoises through your (delicious) fundraising efforts.
“Your contribution comes at such a perfect time. This summer, your donation will help fund an exciting study in Newfoundland to test new fishing gear that could be a game-changer for vaquitas. We’re supporting this important work alongside our partners at Pesca ABC in San Felipe, Mexico, as they test equipment designed to keep vaquitas safe while still allowing fishers to make their living.
“To the Eco Champions who organised this wonderful bake sale – thank you for your leadership. You’ve shown that young people can make a real difference for wildlife conservation, and that’s
something truly special.
“While you’re learning about vaquitas in far-off Mexico, did you know that vaquitas have relatives living much closer to home? Harbour porpoises can be found not too far from where you live!
They may not be critically endangered like the vaquita, but they still need our help and protection.
You might be interested in learning about the Harbour Porpoise Special Areas of Conservation in the UK. This species has recently made a return to the English Channel, so perhaps you can spot a
porpoise the next time you visit the coast?
“Thank you again for caring so deeply about wildlife and for turning that care into action. Your generosity means a lot to us.”
We are delighted to announce that JAGS has been selected as a finalist in the Supporting Sustainability category at the Education Choices Awards 2025.
It’s fantastic to see the hard work of our students, staff and wider community recognised as we continue to take meaningful steps towards living more sustainably and reducing our carbon footprint.
Design & Technology
Japan House and Design Museum
“Last month, Design and Technology students from JAGS visited Japan House and the Design Museum in central London. We began at Japan House, where we explored a variety of beautiful traditional Japanese woods, tools, templates, joints, and more. We examined the fascinating art of Japanese joinery – two pieces of wood joined without any additional materials, relying solely on skill and precision. We were also invited to smell different types of wood shavings.
“We were shown a range of Japanese templates used in traditional houses and buildings, along with many historic tools. The intriguing art styles were amazing to see and very different from those I’m used to in other cultures.
“Next, we travelled to the Design Museum, which offered a striking contrast, showcasing hundreds of art forms from various cultures and time periods. The experience was incredible. We saw the work of artists we had studied in class, such as Philippe Starck’s iconic ‘Juicy Salif’ and Dieter Rams’ simple yet innovative designs.
“Overall, the trip was thoroughly enjoyable and has inspired many new ideas for my own design work.” Maya (Y10)
Art
Inspiring Women
We are grateful to Isabella (Y7) for illustrating a beautifully crafted fold-out booklet celebrating inspiring women and paying tribute to JAGS Heads throughout history.
Botany Gardens Project
It has been a pleasure watching our KS3 artists’ study of our historic Botany Gardens bloom over the Summer Term.
From single sketches in the school grounds to large-scale collaborations in Holst Hall, the project has blossomed into a beautiful tribute to the natural world.
JAGS Alumnae
Founder’s Day 2025
Come and say hello to the JAGS Alumnae Association at Founder’s Day 2025!
We are looking forward to celebrating the incredible JAGS community and sharing more about the benefits of the alumnae association for both students and alumnae.
We will also be showcasing the newly formed 1741 Club, which supports fundraising for the JAGS Bursary Fund, and displaying some fascinating alumnae archive materials. You’ll find us alongside the JPA pre-loved clothing stall – make sure to stop by on Saturday 28 June!
JPA
Second-hand Uniform Sale
We are so grateful to the JPA for their work across so many areas of the school community. On Monday 30 June, the JPA will be hosting the second-hand uniform sale for our incoming Year 7 families. This is always a very busy event, and the JPA would be very grateful for any uniform contributions you could make in advance of this sale. We kindly ask that students drop off any donations to Pupil Reception, clearly labelled as ‘Second-hand Uniform Donations’.
Thank you.