Welcome from the Head
Dear Parents
Since I last wrote, we have said farewell to our Year 13 students as they headed off on study leave. We shared a lovely morning with them, reminiscing and enjoying their anecdotes before they used up any leftover energy on the inflatables filling the VWA! Our Year 11 and Year 13 students are in the midst of their GCSE and A Level exams now, and we wish them well with all their endeavours. We are also very proud of our Key Stage 3 students who are just finishing their assessments, in time for some rest and relaxation over Half Term.
A huge thank you to our fabulous JPA Committee, who hosted the Year 7 movie night here at JAGS last week. It was super to welcome Year 7 students from DC to this thoroughly enjoyable event. Our JPA Committee and Class Reps joined us at the start of the week for a lunch in school to say thank you for all their hard work and commitment to supporting the school and the many events that take place throughout the year.
It has been a busy fortnight within our alumnae community. We are very grateful to St James’s Place for hosting our first London Professional Networking Event, as alumnae from the worlds of finance, law, property and creative industries mingled happily together on a beautiful summer’s evening. On Saturday, we hosted the annual Alumnae Lunch in school. With representatives from across the generations, there was a great hubbub of laughter and memories, and we were very impressed with the turnout from the Class of 1964 for their 60 year reunion!
This week we hosted Goose Green and Lyndhurst primary schools for a morning of percussion in the Community Music Centre; their enthusiastic drumming truly made the VWA reverberate! And we run into Half Term with the House Big Bash this afternoon, a wonderful opportunity for the whole school, from Reception to Year 12, to share an afternoon of fun and games.
Wishing you all a restful Half Term holiday. School returns for all year groups on Tuesday 4 June.
With best wishes,
Mrs Alex Hutchinson
Head
Dates for your Diary
- Monday 27 May to Monday 3 June – Summer Half Term
- Thursday 30 May to Monday 3 June – Year 8 Spanish trip to Barcelona
- Monday 3 June – Staff CPD Day
- Tuesday 4 June – Half Term begins
- Wednesday 5 June – Year 9 Japanese theatre trip
- Thursday 6 June – Parent Talk: Self regulation and managing anxiety (Online)
- Friday 7 June to Monday 10 June – Year 10 Art tip to St Ives
- Tuesday 11 June – 5.30pm – Year 8 Parents’ Evening (Online)
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.
Please complete this form by 8:30am on the morning that your daughter is absent.
Additionally, when informing a teacher of any health issues your daughter may be facing, please remember to cc or School Nurse team on Nurse@jags.org.uk.
Key Stage 4 Update
The term began with our Year 10s sitting their summer assessments. Both Miss Braybrook and I were impressed by the positive work attitude and organisational skills demonstrated by the year group. Since their assessments came to an end, Year 10 have been back in lessons and taking part in a range of trips and activities. The Physics trip to the Greenwich Royal Observatory and Planetarium this week was a fantastic opportunity for the whole cohort after a busy start to the term.
Year 11 have already completed over two weeks of GCSE exams. Ahead of study leave commencing, a celebration morning was arranged to recognise our super Year 11s and all that they bring to JAGS. This involved a delicious brunch, a variety of musical performances (including the whole year group singing and dancing together) and some poignant reflections from the form captains about their time together. I must offer a huge thanks to all the Year 11 form tutors, and in particular Miss Thomson, for supporting Year 11 throughout Key Stage 4. We wish them well in their upcoming exams.
Anna Jones, Head of Key Stage 4
Sixth Form Update
A Level exams are now in full swing and Year 13 have been taking it all in their stride with their characteristic resilience and positivity. Their last week of lessons saw them dress up according to different themes, including; future careers, old school uniform, and Pirates and Princesses on their last day.
They had diligently informed their Head of Sixth Form that “on Wednesdays, we wear pink”. However, as students began filling the VWA for assembly it rapidly appeared that a wind up was going on and it was in fact ‘Mr Weeks Day’.
While it was rather discombobulating to see 100 students dressed as me, it was nevertheless quite the honour!
Mat Weeks, Head of Sixth Form
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Leavers’ Day
The student-led leavers’ assembly was simply phenomenal, with a range of performances; from poetry and music to singing and K-pop dancing, as well as an enjoyable trip down memory lane watching Tara’s montage film.
Year 13 then moved outside to enjoy the Leavers’ brunch with their teachers before bouncing around on the inflatables in the VWA.
Well done to everyone involved; it was a lovely morning to celebrate the journey of a wonderful year group.
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Year 12 leadership
Year 12 students have been following in the footsteps of the year above by taking on board the feedback from their assessments in a very mature and conscientious manner.
The new Head Girls, House Captains and School Prefects spent an interesting afternoon learning about leadership, presentation skills and safeguarding at the annual JAGS student leader training event, before participating in a teamwork exercise.
The training has already been put to great use, with the Head Girl team presenting an excellent assembly to introduce themselves and national mental health awareness week, the House Captains delivering House assemblies and vociferously planning the Big House Bash, and the School Prefects taking on their lunch time pastoral duties with joy and professionalism.
Many of them, alongside all students in Year 12, have also found the time to deliver impressive JAGS talks on a variety of topics, from cloud seeding to whether donuts can save the planet.
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Half Term break
It has been a short Half Term, but a productive and enjoyable one in the Sixth Form community.
We wish everyone a super break and continue our good wishes to all students involved in A Level exams.
The student-led leavers’ assembly was simply phenomenal, with a range of performances; from poetry and music to singing and K-pop dancing, as well as an enjoyable trip down memory lane watching Tara’s montage film.
Year 13 then moved outside to enjoy the Leavers’ brunch with their teachers before bouncing around on the inflatables in the VWA.
Well done to everyone involved; it was a lovely morning to celebrate the journey of a wonderful year group.
Year 12 students have been following in the footsteps of the year above by taking on board the feedback from their assessments in a very mature and conscientious manner.
The new Head Girls, House Captains and School Prefects spent an interesting afternoon learning about leadership, presentation skills and safeguarding at the annual JAGS student leader training event, before participating in a teamwork exercise.
The training has already been put to great use, with the Head Girl team presenting an excellent assembly to introduce themselves and national mental health awareness week, the House Captains delivering House assemblies and vociferously planning the Big House Bash, and the School Prefects taking on their lunch time pastoral duties with joy and professionalism.
Many of them, alongside all students in Year 12, have also found the time to deliver impressive JAGS talks on a variety of topics, from cloud seeding to whether donuts can save the planet.
It has been a short Half Term, but a productive and enjoyable one in the Sixth Form community.
We wish everyone a super break and continue our good wishes to all students involved in A Level exams.
Wellbeing Week 2024
Students engaged in a whole host of different activities that promoted mindfulness and good mental health for Wellbeing Week 2024.
During form time, students would begin the day with a guided meditation where it was emphasised how important it is to practise these techniques in times of calm as well as crisis.
The ever popular Just Dance returned to Holst Hall each Rec, while lunchtime saw students take part in different activities each day, with the sessions of bracelet making, art and mindfulness, biscuit decorating and board games all proving popular.
MFL
Russian
“Earlier this term, the Russian Department took a trip to Zima, a Russian restaurant in Soho.
“As soon as we entered the restaurant, we were greeted by the spectacular folk artwork of Irina Zatulovskaya. The interior of the restaurant was incredibly colourful due to the fact it works with so many artists.
“The workshop began with us sampling Mors (a popular Russian drink made from berries) and Piroshki (delicious Russian pies). And then, it was time to make Pelmeni!
“The chefs taught us to roll out the dough, shape it into circles, then add a filling of either beef and chicken or potato and mushrooms. Although my attempt didn’t look quite as professional I was still very pleased. Once assembled, the Pelmeni was boiled for 15 minutes. Both fillings were equally nice, but I personally enjoyed the beef and chicken more!
“Zima prepared a small surprise for us at the end of the workshop – honey cake! It was small but tasty and had a range of berries decorated on the plate. It was a lovely way to end our unforgettable trip.” Jemimah (Y9)
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FURTHER
A special FURTHER session this term highlighted the changing role of women and their style of dress in Slavic countries through the centuries.
Lucy (Y8) was pleased to volunteer as model and wore replicas of a 19th century dress and 18th century headpiece. The headpiece, made by Johann Nikadimus, cost over £1,000 and is an exact replica of what would have been worn at the time.
A special FURTHER session this term highlighted the changing role of women and their style of dress in Slavic countries through the centuries.
Lucy (Y8) was pleased to volunteer as model and wore replicas of a 19th century dress and 18th century headpiece. The headpiece, made by Johann Nikadimus, cost over £1,000 and is an exact replica of what would have been worn at the time.
French Pen Pals
Last week, it was a pleasure to welcome so many new faces to JAGS as students and staff from Collège Saint Robert, Merville, France, paid us a visit.
Students from across Years 6 , 7, 8 and 9 caught up with their French pen pals during a picnic in the sunshine on our playing fields before heading to the VWA for a song competition.
We know the initiative can result in lifelong friendships and it was lovely to see students take full advantage of the opportunity.
Chemistry
School Analyst Competition
Budding JAGS chemists have spent their lessons this week competing in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s School Analyst Competition.
The contest enables students to demonstrate and expand their chemistry knowledge, skills, and aptitude for analytical science through practical experiments.
Students have spent the week acting as analytical chemists assisting the local Trading Standards Office and testing samples from the Super Candy Sugar Store. It has been their task to investigate some unusual sweets, treats and drinks from the store which are suspected to contain restricted ingredients or incorrect amounts.
Their results will be marked against other teams in our region, with the top performing school in line for a prize.
Sustainability
Education Business Awards
We are pleased to reveal that JAGS has been shortlisted for the Environmental Practice Award at this year’s Education Business Awards.
The nomination recognises the school’s commitment to sustainability and huge strides made by our community to reach our goal of becoming Carbon Neutral by 2030.
Winners will be announced at a ceremony on Wednesday 12 June.
Music
Community Music: Focus on Orchestral Percussion
JAGS was delighted to host a community music event this week for two local primary schools – Goose Green and Lyndhurst. The music extravaganza was devised by former Director of Music Peter Gritton in his present role as lead of JAGS Community Music.
The end-of-project workshop and performance involved the current JAGS Music Department who played the orchestral percussion parts in the world premiere of Peter’s The Birthday Party, leading the 85 Year 5 students who were playing on their own portable classroom percussion.
Students were captivated by the sight and sound of the magnificent orchestral percussion and their teachers commented on how enthralled the students were to be involved in the whole project – from the workshop sessions in their own schools that ran from February right through to the final performance.
Blackheath Music Festival
Congratulations to Tania (Y9) who won first prize in the Ivor Novello (U18) singing competition at this year’s Blackheath Music Festival.
A brilliant achievement and tribute to all of the hard work she has put in. Well done!
Drama
Our Year 9s have been working hard exploring the world of set design over the past few weeks – using scale models, miniature lights and colour filters to create the world of the Ancient Greek tragedy, Antigone.
It has been wonderful to see all of their unique visions come to life in 3D form, and to watch as they develop an understanding of the power of set and light in communicating a story to an audience.
Edward Alleyn Award
Congratulations to Orna (Y13) who has received the Edward Alleyn Award from The Dulwich Estate.
Orna is an exceptional member of our school community whose commitment to the bigger picture of school life has made a significant impact on us all. As a committed Eco Champion, she has led numerous school assemblies, supported fellow students in their sustainability projects and spearheaded the popular ‘Climate Café’ wellbeing initiative. On top of this, Orna has displayed an all-round positivity and dedication to the co-curricular life of the school, including the playing in the our symphony orchestra and performing a solo rendition of the Last Post for our Remembrance Service.
The awards recognises students who have demonstrated Alleynian values in the past year. Awards were distributed to seven students from Dulwich Estate beneficiary school at a special event on 16 May.
History
“On Wednesday, the History Society were lucky enough to have renowned historian Dominic Sandbrook join them via Zoom. They had a Q and A session and learnt so much from his insightful, intellectual answers! He spoke about his popular podcast ‘The Rest Is History’, his career path, and his favourite aspects of history. It was such an enjoyable afternoon, and we really appreciate the time he dedicated to our afternoon.” Olivia (Y12)
Photography
JAGS Wildlife Photographer Competition 2024
Well done to all of the students who submitted photos for this year’s Wildlife Photographer Competition.
This year, they were tasked with creating images on the subject of Time. All of the submissions were to an incredibly high standard making the judges’ job especially difficult.
In Monday’s assembly we congratulated Megan (Y12), Ava (Y11) and Charlotte (Y12) for their winning photographs.
To find out more about this year’s competition and to view the Highly Commended and Winning entries, click HERE.
Sport
ISFA National Finals
Massive congratulations to the JAGS U13 Football team who have earned a place in the Independent Schools Football Association (ISFA) Girls’ Cup National Finals next month.
The team will travel to St George’s Park – the home of England’s national teams – to compete for the top prize.
We can’t wait to cheer them on!
Careers
Careers in Construction
Students in Years 10 and 12 visited Brockwell Hall last week to hear about careers in construction and find out about opportunities for women in this sector. Carol Kirby, Social Value Coordinator at Borras Construction Limited talked about the wide range of existing and emerging careers in construction from planning through to completion, considerations in terms of the environment and social responsibility, skills/workforce shortages and different entry routes.
“This trip was very informative and such a great experience. It really enlightened me about all the different work involved in construction. Everyone on the site was very friendly and I was very happy that they let us go inside the building to see the work happening inside. Construction is now definitely on my list of possible future careers.” Rebecca (Y12)
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Construction continued . . .
“Attending this trip was invaluable because of the further insight I gained into the world of construction. Learning that there are so many different pathways you can take in this industry was very helpful, and it was interesting to hear about the experience of an apprenticeship student on the site. Touring the construction site was exciting, and learning about how the workers stored decorative elements of old buildings to preserve them made clear how meticulous the construction processes can be.” Bititi (Y12)
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Cambridge Law Course
“I found out through the weekly Sixth Form Higher Education Newsletter that the Faculty of Law at University of Cambridge was hosting a conference. This piqued my interest as I want to study Law at University and pursue it as a career. I received a placement at this three-day conference where I was able to engage in insightful lectures led by Cambridge professors and industry professionals, as well as participating in group workshops such as debating and mock trials. I also resided on-campus which made the whole experience truly immersive and unforgettable and gave me a valuable insight into what student life was like at the university. This whole experience deepened my knowledge and understanding of the legal world which I am eager to apply to my future academics/endeavours.” Khadija, Y12
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JAA Networking Event
“This event was useful as it introduced me to networking (which I hadn’t really done before) and allowed me to practise the skill, which I know will be important in the future. I was also able to make connections with and learn about internship opportunities from the alumnae, who were all very encouraging and helpful. They also answered a lot of my questions about their professions which gave me an insight into many different sectors.” Nitya (Y12)
“It was a pleasure to be invited to the first ever JAA London Professional Networking Event. On arrival, I was greeted by friendly faces, handed a name badge, then pointed in the direction of the crowd that already had gathered inside the glass ceiling to floor windows, surrounded by the skyscrapers of London. With a glass of iced apple juice in hand, I made my way around the different groups of Alumnae, speaking with them on a plethora of topics ranging from Law (the subject I will read at university), to Data Science and Finance.
“It was a wonderful experience to meet so many people whose footsteps once filled the halls of JAGS, as well as meeting some parents of current students, who were keen to introduce me to different fields of expertise and opportunities in Law especially. It was also an honour to be a part of the first viewing of the JAGS Bursary fundraising video, a representation of the integral part of JAGS, and core to the charitability of the school. A beautiful piece to experience, it brought tears to the eyes of many Alumnae, parents and staff.
“Thank you to the JAA team for organising such a brilliant event and thank you especially for extending the invitation to Sixth Form students who wished to attend, it was a lovely evening.” Angelina (Y13)
“Attending this trip was invaluable because of the further insight I gained into the world of construction. Learning that there are so many different pathways you can take in this industry was very helpful, and it was interesting to hear about the experience of an apprenticeship student on the site. Touring the construction site was exciting, and learning about how the workers stored decorative elements of old buildings to preserve them made clear how meticulous the construction processes can be.” Bititi (Y12)
“I found out through the weekly Sixth Form Higher Education Newsletter that the Faculty of Law at University of Cambridge was hosting a conference. This piqued my interest as I want to study Law at University and pursue it as a career. I received a placement at this three-day conference where I was able to engage in insightful lectures led by Cambridge professors and industry professionals, as well as participating in group workshops such as debating and mock trials. I also resided on-campus which made the whole experience truly immersive and unforgettable and gave me a valuable insight into what student life was like at the university. This whole experience deepened my knowledge and understanding of the legal world which I am eager to apply to my future academics/endeavours.” Khadija, Y12
“This event was useful as it introduced me to networking (which I hadn’t really done before) and allowed me to practise the skill, which I know will be important in the future. I was also able to make connections with and learn about internship opportunities from the alumnae, who were all very encouraging and helpful. They also answered a lot of my questions about their professions which gave me an insight into many different sectors.” Nitya (Y12)
“It was a pleasure to be invited to the first ever JAA London Professional Networking Event. On arrival, I was greeted by friendly faces, handed a name badge, then pointed in the direction of the crowd that already had gathered inside the glass ceiling to floor windows, surrounded by the skyscrapers of London. With a glass of iced apple juice in hand, I made my way around the different groups of Alumnae, speaking with them on a plethora of topics ranging from Law (the subject I will read at university), to Data Science and Finance.
“It was a wonderful experience to meet so many people whose footsteps once filled the halls of JAGS, as well as meeting some parents of current students, who were keen to introduce me to different fields of expertise and opportunities in Law especially. It was also an honour to be a part of the first viewing of the JAGS Bursary fundraising video, a representation of the integral part of JAGS, and core to the charitability of the school. A beautiful piece to experience, it brought tears to the eyes of many Alumnae, parents and staff.
“Thank you to the JAA team for organising such a brilliant event and thank you especially for extending the invitation to Sixth Form students who wished to attend, it was a lovely evening.” Angelina (Y13)
Southwark Schools’ Learning Partnership
Neurodiversity and AI in the classroom
Teachers from 12 SSLP schools joined together at JAGS for the final Aspiring Leaders: Neurodiversity event of the year.
We were delighted to be joined by guest speakers Anne Sheppeen (neurodiversity consultant and dyslexia specialist) and Fee Kempton (EdTech consultant). They delivered training and an interactive workshop specialising in the application of AI in the classroom to support neurodivergent learners. Colleagues were able to try out a range of AI-powered apps designed to support specific executive functioning needs, such as time management, organisation, and task initiation. It was also a wonderful opportunity for colleagues from across the SSLP schools to connect over dinner.
Attendees from BT and Microsoft showcased Microsoft Surface devices and how they can be used to support accessibility. They also very kindly ran a prize draw to win a Microsoft Surface laptop sponsored by BT. We are delighted to announce that Liam Myron from Westminster City School is the winner!
We look forward to continuing to develop further discussions and resources across the partnership around this year’s theme of neurodiversity.
Lara Brookes, Head of Careers
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Student Voice
SSLP Student Voice – Neurodiversity project showcase day
As part of the SSLP Neurodiversity theme this year, JAGS and Harris Academy Boys, East Dulwich, worked together on a ‘written word’ project, assisted by Mr Houston.
Students attended regular Teams meetings where they put forward ideas and suggestions for the project. After some lengthy discussions, they decided that they would run an SSLP Creative Writing Contest where students from SSLP schools would be tasked with composing a piece of writing linked to neurodiversity. Entries and awarded prizes were based on four categories: Most Creative, Most Informative, Most Inspirational and Most Relatable.
On Wednesday 8 May, students were invited to present their projects at the SSLP student project launch! Members of the audience included Marcia Brissett-Bailey, author of Black, Brilliant and Dyslexic and Anne Sheppee, a dyslexia consultant. The afternoon consisted of celebrations, students ate Domino’s pizza and danced the afternoon away in the form a silent disco! It was a wonderful event to be part of and our students did a fantastic job representing JAGS. Well done to all involved!
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SSLP Chess Competition
In early May, Mr Hodgkins took Eliza (Y7), Felicity (Y8) and Sophie (Y9) to the annual SSLP chess competition at Harris Academy Boys, East Dulwich. You could hear a pin drop as students from five schools competed across the different rounds.
The pre-game handshakes and post-game discussions perfectly captured the wonderful camaraderie and atmosphere of the event and I am pleased to reveal that JAGS finished joint second place.
SSLP Student Voice – Neurodiversity project showcase day
As part of the SSLP Neurodiversity theme this year, JAGS and Harris Academy Boys, East Dulwich, worked together on a ‘written word’ project, assisted by Mr Houston.
Students attended regular Teams meetings where they put forward ideas and suggestions for the project. After some lengthy discussions, they decided that they would run an SSLP Creative Writing Contest where students from SSLP schools would be tasked with composing a piece of writing linked to neurodiversity. Entries and awarded prizes were based on four categories: Most Creative, Most Informative, Most Inspirational and Most Relatable.
On Wednesday 8 May, students were invited to present their projects at the SSLP student project launch! Members of the audience included Marcia Brissett-Bailey, author of Black, Brilliant and Dyslexic and Anne Sheppee, a dyslexia consultant. The afternoon consisted of celebrations, students ate Domino’s pizza and danced the afternoon away in the form a silent disco! It was a wonderful event to be part of and our students did a fantastic job representing JAGS. Well done to all involved!
In early May, Mr Hodgkins took Eliza (Y7), Felicity (Y8) and Sophie (Y9) to the annual SSLP chess competition at Harris Academy Boys, East Dulwich. You could hear a pin drop as students from five schools competed across the different rounds.
The pre-game handshakes and post-game discussions perfectly captured the wonderful camaraderie and atmosphere of the event and I am pleased to reveal that JAGS finished joint second place.
JAGS Alumnae
London Professional Networking Event
We were delighted to host our first ever London Professional Networking Event on Wednesday 15 May. Very kindly sponsored by St. James’s Place, the evening took place in the sun-drenched event space at St. James’s Place Lombard Street office and brought together alumnae and parents working in finance, property and law sectors along with their creative and associated industries.
Head Alex Hutchinson and all of us at JAGS were thrilled to have so many alumnae, parents and students in attendance with guests from Deloitte LLP, PwC, JP Morgan, Barclays, HSBC, Simmons & Simmons LLP and Boult Wade Tennant LLP amongst other organisations to create a fantastic networking opportunity for everyone.
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Upcoming networking events
With the overwhelming interest in this event, plans are in the works for the next London Professional Networking Event in 2025, along with other professional networking and industry sector events.
Please don’t hesitate to contact the Alumnae Relations Team on alumnae@jags.org.uk if you have any questions following the London Professional Networking Event, ideas for other networking events or a venue for hosting a future event
With the overwhelming interest in this event, plans are in the works for the next London Professional Networking Event in 2025, along with other professional networking and industry sector events.
Please don’t hesitate to contact the Alumnae Relations Team on alumnae@jags.org.uk if you have any questions following the London Professional Networking Event, ideas for other networking events or a venue for hosting a future event
Alumnae Reunion Lunch
On Saturday, the Holst Hall was once again packed out as our flagship Alumnae Reunion Lunch returned. Alumnae from the Class of 1950 to the Class of 2018 took the opportunity to celebrate their time at JAGS, alongside Head Alex Hutchinson, the Alumnae Relations Team, former Head Marion Gibbs CBE, current teaching staff and the Head Girls team.
The occasion started with a welcome drinks reception in Holst Hall before alumnae set off on a trip down memory lane with school tours before they enjoyed a wonderful three-course lunch in the Dining Hall.
Helen Stein, Head of Library and Archive, created a fascinating archive display enjoyed by guests. Everyone had a wonderful day meeting with friends old and new and hearing about what our JA’s have gone on to do since leaving JAGS.
We are already looking forward to the Alumnae Reunion Lunch next year!
