Burgess Hill School for Girls Prospectus

The forging of strong links with parents wasat the core of the School’s foundation andthis remains one of our top priorities. Wevalue the open and friendly partnership wehave with our parents as we believe thatthis will give the children the best start in life- a good education.

The excellent relationship which existsbetween staff, pupils and parents is one ofthe School’s greatest strengths. Teachersknow the girls very well and they work hardto help them learn to build upon theirstrengths, grow in confidence and be atease with themselves.

We uphold traditional values and aim toteach the girls to work and play hard and totake pride in all they do; to have goodmanners; to develop empathy and to growup into self-disciplined, responsible youngpeople who will want to contribute to theircommunity. K

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27. BURGESS HILL SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

FORGING STRONG LINKS

Engender a sense of

� Community

� Partnership

� Pride

� Humanity

Demonstrate

� Courtesy

� Respect

� Compassion

� Generosity

� Charity

The School is a flourishing day and boardingschool for girls between 21/2 and 18 years.We also welcome boys into the Nurserydepartment. The School is small enoughthat your child is known as an individual yetlarge enough to provide breadth, choiceand opportunity. Each phase retains its ownidentity whilst being supportive of the restof the School. Senior students benefit fromthe opportunity to work with the youngerchildren and are excellent role models inreturn. The mix of ages, working togetheron the same site, gives the School a specialcharacter valued by all.

This is a busy school founded on a cultureof mutual respect which values learning.Pupils, teachers and parents work inpartnership to make the most of theeducational opportunities available. Yourdaughter can strive for excellence whereverher talents may lie. Most pupils take part ina wide range of activities and learn the skillsof time management and prioritising as anatural consequence of their enthusiasm forjoining in as much as they can. There is astrong tradition of accomplishment in everyarea of the curriculum and beyond.

The vibrant and friendly atmosphere is bestexperienced in person.

A WELCOME FROM THE HEADMISTRESS

2.

Welcome to our prospectus in which weaim to give you just a snapshot of life atBurgess Hill School for Girls.

BURGESS HILL SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

“Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, alife” – that was the philosophy of BeatriceGoode when, in 1906, she responded tothe requests of local parents in Burgess Hilland the surrounding area for a qualifiedteacher to educate their children.

One hundred years later, Burgess HillSchool for Girls is still going strong and that

initial philosophy continues to this day withthe girls displaying fine talents in art, drama,music, sport and technology as a perfectcomplement to strong academicperformance.

(source: article from ‘PrivateEducation’ Issue 10)

A PROUD TRADITION

School areas

� Nursery School

� Junior School

� Senior School

� 13+ entrants welcome

� Sixth Form

� Boarding - from Year 7

Entrance

� Entrance at all ages subjectto available spaces

� Academic & MusicScholarships available forentry into Years 3, 4, 7, 8, 9and the Lower Sixth.

� Creative Scholarships;Sport, Drama and Artavailable into Year 9 and theLower Sixth

� Technology Scholarshipsavailable into the Lower Sixth

� Bursaries available

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3.3. BURGESS HILL SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Burgess Hill School for Girls is anenvironment in which girls can fulfil theirpotential and are motivated to do so. Weseek to develop each pupil’s ability tolearn and communicate and to beresponsive and confident to meet andaccept new challenges.

From Reception onwards, the School isdedicated to meeting the specificeducational needs of girls. Care for theindividual pervades the pastoral andacademic structure. We believe youcannot separate academic performancefrom pastoral care. Our small classes andapproachable staff will ensure that yourdaughter will receive the individualattention she deserves. Enthusiastic,highly qualified teachers and excellentresources facilitate an enviable ambiencefor teaching and learning.

We aim to inspire a love of learningthrough challenges, both inside andoutside the classroom. The range ofextra-curricular options available isimmense from Sixth Form girls assistingin our own and other local Junior Schoolsto ‘Racing the Sun’ in an overnight hikeacross the South Downs, from being amember of the Senior or Junior SchoolCouncil to taking part in local YouthCabinet events, from Public Speaking andDebating to performing in numerousmusical and dramatic productions both inschool and in the local community.

Being involved in such a diverse range ofendeavour will encourage your daughterto be aware of her personal qualities,skills, achievements and potential and willenable her to set personal goals. Throughparticipation she will learn to manage

TURNING VISION INTO REALITY

4. BURGESS HILL SCHOOL FOR GIRLS : www.burgesshill-school.com

praise and criticism and success andfailure in a positive way and learn fromthe experience.

The spirit within the school is exuberant;the girls enjoy being here. Every individualcontributes in her own unique way.Together they develop a confidence intheir own abilities and are empowered bythat confidence to take on challenges,develop holistically, take risks, beadventurous, ambitious and excited by life.

“All of our three daughters were educated atBurgess Hill from the age of 5 - their time atBurgess Hill School for Girls has set themsecurely on the path for their future.”

Parent

Our vision

� Each achieves beyond herexpectations

� Each develops theconfidence, curiosity andskills to face the challengesof the future

� Each takes a pride in all thatshe does

Skills acquired

� Resourcefulness

� Adaptability

� Eloquence

� Poise K

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From the first experiences in ‘Pandas’ and‘Penguins’ Early Years’ classes, having funworking as a team with a parachute orperforming in a Christmas tableau, weprovide a rich and varied curriculum thatgoes far beyond the taught syllabus. Theskills required are developed within andoutside the classroom. Leading by example,

staff expertise and enthusiasm promote theprinciple that there is always more to learn.All areas of the School readily embraceadvances in technology and combine thefinest traditions with developments in bestpractice in teaching and learning.

The atmosphere throughout the Schoolsupports learning, the girls enjoy lessonsand take a pride in what they do. From anearly age the pupils at Burgess Hill Schoolfor Girls support each other in striving forimprovement. Success inspires pursuit offurther challenge.

Personal and social development isfundamental to happiness and fulfilment inlife. Your daughter will contribute to ourfriendly community which gives anexcellent foundation for growth and fordeveloping good relationships and respectfor the differences between people.Learning to work, relax and play togetherhelps to prepare pupils for theopportunities, responsibilities andexperiences they will face in the future. Astrong pastoral system nurtures the girls,fostering self-esteem, encouragingaspiration and building independence asthey mature into young women ready touse their initiative and talents for thebenefit of themselves and others.

AN EDUCATION THAT LASTS A LIFETIME


Values

� Integrity

� Respect

� Reliability

� Fairness

� Consideration

� Compassion

� Tolerance

Attributes

� Aspiration

� Enquiry

� Initiative

� Independence

� Scholarship

� Benevolence

� Diligence

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To be at ease when meeting new peopleand to have the confidence to relate to allage groups is a major strength for any futurecareer. The girls manifest their confidence inmany ways. They act as guides on OpenDays, meet and question speakers from avariety of walks of life, lead assemblies,perform in public, do voluntary work in thecommunity to name but a few. They areuniversally complimented on theirpresence, their manners and their ability tofill these often demanding roles.

The School is keen to support pupils insetting and achieving personal goals - be itin an activity within school or an interestpursued out of school.

The strength of the School across the fullpanoply of subjects and specialisms enableseach pupil to exercise her talents to the full.We support the girls in balancing thedemands of the academic curriculum withtheir other commitments. We understandthe benefit of pursuing interests beyond theclassroom and encourage the girls toembrace opportunities. Whether exploring

a new pursuit, learning the importance andvalue of commitment or taking a talent tofurther heights, it is important to broadenexperience. Throughout the School, eventsand activities are designed to enrich thewider curriculum.

Many extra-curricular activities are popularyear after year whilst others emerge torespond to new interests and enthusiasms.

The girls’ achievements are regularlyapplauded in School assemblies and thesupport they give one another is heart-

RECOGNISING TALENT, REWARDING COMMITMENT


warming. Accomplishment of every kind iscelebrated, from national awards received torecognition of voluntary work. The girlsthemselves nominate recipients for goodcitizenship awards for particular contributionto the School community. In the SeniorSchool, awards are given each year foracademic achievement and for progress.

Accomplishments

� Academic

� Charitable

� Dramatic

� Enterprise

� Good Citizenship

� Musical

� Public Speaking

� Sporting

Characteristics

� Application

� Commitment

� Enthusiasm

� Persistence

� ResponsibilityK

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Challenges come in all shapes and sizes.What is routine for one person mayrepresent a significant personal challenge forsomeone else. At Burgess Hill School forGirls, we believe in encouraging eachindividual to raise her expectations, to setherself targets which will stretch her andgive real satisfaction when those goals areachieved. Your daughter is encouraged not

only to play to her strengths but also toidentify those areas she needs to develop.Our community enables her to push herown boundaries within an environment thatis both supportive and rich in opportunity.

Using government measures, theachievements of all pupils show significantadded value when compared to pupils in

schools with a similar intake. The benefits oflearning in this, a girls’ school, are tangible andin no small measure due to our ability to focusfirmly on girls and the way they learn. Thesingle sex environment gives the girls spaceand security in which to build their self-esteemand confidence. Our small classes allow staffto get to know each individual well, tounderstand her strengths and her needs.

MEETING CHALLENGES, ACHIEVING NEW HEIGHTS


Teaching approaches are tailored to thephysical, mental and emotional maturity andpreferred learning styles of girls. Every subjectis promoted as a subject in which girls can anddo succeed. At ease and in tune with others inthe class, the atmosphere in lessons is positiveand purposeful. Girls co-operate to solveproblems by team work or compete as theoccasion demands. Girls’ natural tendencies to

aim to please can be channelled to good effectwhilst their reluctance to risk being wrong canbe challenged.

We have high expectations of all our pupils.As Goethe said - “If I accept you as you are Iwill make you worse; however if I treat you asthough you are what you are capable ofbecoming, I help you become that.”

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We offer

� Small classes

� Positive learning ethos

� Supportive peer groups

� Excellent relationshipswith staff

� High standards ofbehaviour

� Extended school day� Outstanding role

models

Your daughter willbe expected to

� Take advantage of the richand diverse opportunitiesavailable

� Give of her time andtalents to support andenrich the school andwider community

� Seek and embracechallenge

Learning in early childhood is the crucialfoundation on which your child will buildthe rest of his or her life. We take the timeand care to enable your child to develop athis or her own pace.

Children learn from all that they experienceand our Nursery provides an idealenvironment in which your child canflourish and develop socially, emotionallyand physically. We offer a varied curriculumthat follows the Foundation Stage guidelines.This comprises six areas of learning:Personal, Social & Emotional Development;Communication, Language & Literacy;Mathematical Development; Knowledge &Understanding of the World; PhysicalDevelopment and Creative Development.

We have a dedicated and caring team witha ratio of one member of staff to eightpupils. We have three, well resourcedclassrooms that house our ‘Wrens’ and‘Swallows’ children. The Nursery has accessto wonderful facilities on the main schoolcampus as well as our own enclosedoutdoor play areas.

We encourage polite behaviour and yourchild will be helped to develop into a valuedand confident individual.

Parent helpers are welcome in the Nurseryand we encourage close partnershipsbetween home and Nursery. Informalparent consultations are held during yourchild’s first term in the Nursery as well as inMarch each year. You will receive a writtenreport at the end of your child’s last term.

BURGESS HILL: THE NURSERY SCHOOL


There is daily opportunity for you todiscuss your child with the ClassSupervisor. We enjoy getting together withour parents at special events which includeChristmas productions, sports’ morningsand coffee mornings.

Children with Special Educational Needsare very welcome provided that the parentsand the Manager feel the Nursery will meetthe needs of the child.

Sessions

� Morning sessions

� Afternoon sessions

� Full day sessions includesnack and hot lunch

� Breakfast and After SchoolClub

Features

� Smooth transition for girlsinto Reception

� Use of whole schoolfacilities

� School Nurse on site all day

� Security keypads onexternal doors

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BURGESS HILL: THE JUNIOR SCHOOL


When you visit our classes you will find avibrant environment which buzzes with thesound of happy, enthusiastic and motivatedyoung children. Every opportunity is takento encourage creativity, individuality and alove of learning. In Reception there is astrong focus on learning through play.

We aim for high academic standards, but ofequal importance are the contributionsindividual girls make to whole school life –to sport, to the creative arts and to thesocial life of the School. The girls work hardbut they have a lot of fun on the way.

Educational visits and visiting speakers aregreatly valued. In Year 6, the girls enjoy aresidential fieldtrip which is always ahighlight of their Junior School career.Every girl is treated as an individual andencouraged to develop as far and as fast asshe is able. Children’s confidence and self-esteem are nurtured through being listenedto, being respected and receiving individualattention as well as through experiencingsuccess and being praised.

The girls learn to work co-operatively andto act with kindness and considerationtowards others. Moral and spiritual valueslay a foundation for life.

Our pupils benefit from being part of thewhole School, sharing the excellent facilitiesand modern resources. We have our ownfully networked computer suite with twentyPCs and computers and interactivewhiteboards in every classroom. We have awell equipped music room and spacioushall, a science and technology room,cookery room and library.

Smiles at the end of the day are testimonyto a happy experience and we have thesein abundance. Small classes, a caring staffand an exciting learning programme ensureeach child feels special.

“The Junior School, including the Under Fives,provides an excellent foundation for the nextstage in the pupils’ education.”

Independent Schools’ Inspectorate(ISI) Inspection Report - March 2003

“Pupils talk easily and confidently about theirlife in the school and the extent of theirenjoyment of it. They show greatconsideration for the feelings of others.”


Junior School

� Happy, enthusiastic children

� Self motivated learners

� Confident children

� High expectations

� Small classes

� Automatic entry into theSenior School

� Girls introduced to a widerange of sports

� Strong emphasis on pastoralcare

� Sport, Music, Art and Dramaenjoy a high profile

� Specialist teaching in Music,PE, French and ICT

� Extensive range of extra-curricular activities

� Breakfast and After SchoolClub

� Casual Boarding from 7 years

� Relaxed and opencommunication with parents

� School nurse on site

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As girls enter the Senior School in Year 7 theyare ready and keen to increase theirindependence. They are given moreresponsibility and develop their organisationalskills. The change to a more complextimetable and specialist teachers for eachsubject is both demanding and exciting. Girlssoon become accustomed to the routinesand grow in confidence. Staff support andguide them in establishing good study habitswhich stand them in good stead when theyreach the examination years.

The Learning Resources Centre (LRC) is awelcoming space, well resourced and withqualified librarians on hand to assist withresearch. An early introductory sessionensures that the girls are able to takeadvantage of this excellent facility to supporttheir learning. It is a popular place to work,particularly after school when it is superviseduntil 6pm. Senior School also boasts twocomputer suites and two class sets of lap topcomputers for use in Science and otherclassroom based lessons. Almost allclassrooms are equipped with InteractiveWhiteboards and practical subjects have wellequipped specialist rooms.

Visiting speakers enrich learning and a rangeof educational visits provide context andexperiences that add yet another dimensionto bring subjects and topics alive.

The curriculum is broad and balanced. InYears 7- 9 most subjects are taught in formgroups with Mathematics, P.E. andLanguages set according to ability to ensure

BURGESS HILL: THE SENIOR SCHOOL


appropriate extension and support for eachindividual. The curriculum in these firstyears in Senior School provides an excellentfoundation and it is designed to build uponprior knowledge whilst ensuring that yourdaughter is well placed to take her learningforward. These early years affect not onlyyour daughter’s choice of GCSE courses,but also her attitude and confidence toembrace opportunities in the future.

A second foreign language is introduced inYear 8 which prepares the ground for yourdaughter to take two Modern ForeignLanguages at GCSE or to have a choice ofwhich to take further.

Year 9 sees the start of the optionsprogramme. Your daughter will have aprogramme of talks to help her to makeappropriate subject choices. She will beguided to include a broad range of subjectswhich will keep future course and careeroptions open. An information eveningenables parents and staff to work inpartnership to support the girls as they maketheir choices.

With a few exceptions, based onconsideration of individual strengths andneeds, girls take nine GCSEs. We believe thatthis is a good balance between a desire tocontinue with as many subjects as possibleand the practicalities associated with thedemands of the courses. It is important foryour daughter to use her time, energy andenthusiasm to gain as wide an experience aspossible beyond the narrow confines of any

examination syllabus. With, on average, ninesubjects there is sufficient breadth andchallenge in the taught curriculum with ampletime and opportunity to sample newactivities, develop existing skills or useburgeoning talent to ensure a rich, rewardingand enjoyable experience.

By the time your daughter reaches Year 10she will be ready and prepared to begin herexamination courses. The transition to Year10 brings with it a new maturity born of theopportunity to shape her own future and theresponsibility that comes with it. Experiencedstaff will guide your daughter as she developsher study skills further. The supportiveatmosphere within the peer group aidsdevelopment of a purposeful work ethic andensures enjoyment is achieved along the way.

Year 11 students enjoy the benefits of theirown common room which strengthens theirsense of community and support for eachother. The girls are encouraged to lookoutwards too. For example, an invitation tothe traditional Senior Citizens’ Tea Party,organised and run by Year 11, is highly prizedlocally and never fails to bring a smile to thefaces of our guests.

As your daughter approaches her mockexaminations and subject choices for sixthform study, further support is available fromSenior Staff in the form of individualinterviews. At this stage some feelconfident of their future direction whilstothers have yet to decide, but all are wellon their way to success as self-assured andcaring young women.

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Years 7-9

Subjects studied: � Art � Drama� English� French� German

(from Yr 8)� Geography� History� ICT� Latin � Mathematics

� Music� P.E.� R.S.� Science

- Biology- Chemistry- Physics

� Spanish (from Yr 8)� Technology

- DT- Textiles

Years 10-11

Science available as � Three Separate Subjects

OR� Science and Additional

Science incorporating all three sciences

Additional Subjects at GCSE� Business Studies� Classical Civilisation� Greek (optional extra)� Statistics (optional extra)

When girls return to school after sitting theirGCSE examinations they have maturedthrough their first real challenge on the roadto their future. They are ready to takeresponsibility and are keen to do so. Girlsenjoy a different relationship with staff as aresult of their increased maturity and thegreater emphasis on independent learning.

We offer a choice of twenty four subjects,each taught in small classes by enthusiasticand well qualified staff.

Choosing subjects she really wants to studyin greater depth will give your daughter asense of focus as she makes decisions thatwill influence her future.

In addition to the subjects your daughterwill study at AS and A2 Level, there is a LifeSkills course which will prepare her for awide variety of tasks that she may face as astudent in Higher Education. By the end ofthe Lower Sixth she will have learned basicfirst aid, how to self-cater, to wire a plug,how to perform basic maintenance checks

on a car and she will have been introducedto simple plumbing skills. She will haveregularly applied her problem-solving skillsand worked in a range of team-buildingsituations such as outdoor pursuits at Bowles,Race the Sun, charity fund-raising, YoungEnterprise or as a member of the Ball orYearbook committees.

One afternoon a week is devoted to PhysicalEducation when the Lower Sixth and UpperSixth have shared activities. The emphasis ison encouraging the girls to be physically

BURGESS HILL: THE SIXTH FORM


active now and in the future. Theprogramme is responsive to the interestsand talents of the year groups and includesactivities as diverse as golf and salsa dancing,rowing and hockey, trampolining, self-defence and keep fit in the gym.

In the Upper Sixth there is a vibrantSpeakers’ Programme which introduces arange of topics designed to raise awareness,provoke discussion and inform the girls.Topics can range from analysing Picasso's'Guernica', to investigating the Theory ofKnowledge and considering Student Financeissues, through to hearing insights onsubjects such as HIV or travelling to exoticdestinations.

Extra-curricular activities provideopportunities to develop leadership andcommunication skills or simply to take partand enjoy them.

A regular Symposium Programme is heldafter school in sessions designed toencourage girls to think ‘outside the box’, toextend their horizons beyond their subjectareas and open their minds to new andinteresting concepts.

“I've never had a problem that the supportivestaff haven't helped me solve.”

Sixth Form Student

“Our Sixth Form is a close social environmentthat allows everyone to be who they want to be.”

Sixth Form Student

Sixth Form WiderCurriculum

� Life Skills’ programme

� Speakers’ programme

� PE options

� Extra-curricular activities

� Symposium

� Links with wider community

LeadershipOpportunitiesinclude:

� Magazine Committee

� Young Enterprise

� School Officer

� Performing Arts EventManagement

� Ball and YearbookCommittees

� Running Extra-Curricular Clubs

� Duke of Edinburgh AwardScheme

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A major strength of the School is the CreativeArts. From the age of four girls are proud topresent their musical and dramatic talents.

“Music is in evidence around the schoolthroughout the day, every day. Pupilsobviously take delight in their music makingas does the staff”


80% of pupils in the Junior School play atleast one instrument with many in theSenior School playing three or more andsinging too. Opportunities to perform infront of an audience are many. At everystage girls are encouraged to perform, fromthose at the early stages of learning aninstrument to those with impressive talentand proficiency. There are lunchtimeconcerts in School that parents arewelcome to attend and girls also perform tocommunity groups in local venues. Thereare regular evening concerts; the Scholars’Concert never fails to impress and inspiresothers to redouble their efforts to practisetheir own instrument. The Spring Concertsillustrate vividly the extent of theinvolvement of so many in the wide varietyof musical groups from the orchestras andstring quartets to flute groups and JazzBand. It is hugely rewarding to be part ofsuch a vibrant musical community. The

ability to work together, the self disciplinerequired to learn to play or sing to a highstandard and the confidence required toperform in public are highly desirable,transferable skills which contribute to thegrowth of mature, poised and assuredyoung women capable of making adifference in the world.

Drama too is of the highest standard with

powerful performances fromShakespearean to contemporary andphysical theatre. Year on year, externalexaminers comment very favourably on thecalibre of the improvised pieces producedby the A Level Theatre Studies students.Every age group is catered for with severalmajor productions each year. There isbarely a week in the year that someone isnot rehearsing for a significant performance.

ARTISTIC ENCOURAGEMENT


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The performances range from livelyensemble items to thoughtful and movingitems of Drama dealing with sensitive topicsand contemporary issues. Drama clubs, ledby the Sixth Form Drama students producetheir own plays and explore every aspect ofperformance and production. Commitmentis required and given. The contribution ofeveryone from ‘front of house’, backstageand technical support is valued every bit asmuch as the star performers on the stage.Each performance extends those involvedand adds significantly to their personaldevelopment.

Creativity abounds in Art, Textiles andTechnology. The dedication of the girls canbe seen in the attention to detail andexcellence evident in their practical work.They are given the space, freedom andresources to feed their enthusiasm and

talent. The passion of the teachers for theirsubjects is contagious and each girl gainssatisfaction from her own personalmasterpiece. The positive atmosphere andenergy in the School is reflected in the highstandard of creation from every departmentand in the pride that the girls have in theirown work and in the work of others.

“The art department is very good. It issuccessful and highly popular with the pupils.It provides a caring and supportiveatmosphere in which pupils are encouraged toshine and develop as well-rounded individuals,within the framework the subject provides.Pupils are highly motivated by the very visuallystimulating environment in this busydepartment”


Activities include:

� In-house Performing Arts’competition

� Informal concerts

� Concerts in the community

� Christmas Carol Concert

� Chamber Concert

� Art Exhibition

� Life Drawing Workshop

� Textiles’ Taster Day

� Young Craftsman of the Yearcompetition

� Infant Summer Concert

� Senior and Junior SpringConcerts

� Photography Club

� Senior and Junior DramaProductions

� Creative Arts’ Showcase

Attention to the physical development andwellbeing of our pupils begins with activeplay in Nursery and continues in Receptionthrough BEAM, a programme aimed toimprove co-ordination.

Specialist PE teachers input into the taughtcurriculum from Reception upwards. Initially theemphasis is on co-ordination and movementwith skill acquisition developing alongside fun

personal development. Girls are encouraged toset their own goals and understand theimportance of commitment and perseverancein achieving improvement. In Years 7 to 9, yeargroups are set according to ability in PE whichallows girls to learn and play within a groupworking at a similar standard, thus encouragingeven the less talented members of the yeargroup to feel they can contribute and receiveguidance at an appropriate level.

Whatever her age or level of expertise thereare opportunities for your daughter toparticipate in a wide range of extra curricularpursuits that promote physical exercise. Theclubs on offer at any particular time varyaccording to the interests of the girls or

expertise of the staff, but there is generallysomething for everyone. Girls areencouraged to play sport at local clubs tooand all are encouraged to participate.

The School has excellent facilities on site;the PE department also uses the localleisure centre and other amenities toincrease the range and number of activitieson offer. For example, girls are transported

by school minibus to take part in suchsports as rowing at Ardingly reservoir, golf atMid Sussex Golf Club or swimming, squash,badminton and fitness classes at theOlympus leisure centre.

SPORTING ENDEAVOUR


events designed to encourage physical activity.The ability to play in a team develops naturallyin sport, and games take place within classesand lead on to the beginnings of competitivesport with other local Junior Schools. Sportencourages not only physical fitness but also

The School has an enviable reputationlocally for sporting prowess. Teams regularlygain success at County level and oftenprogress to National Finals in a range ofsports. The excellent standard achieved bythe girls and the high level of motivation andcommitment result in the School fielding asignificant number of teams to play fixturesagainst other schools. Competition forplaces in school teams is often fierce,however, there are also House matches inthe major sports of hockey, netball,rounders, tennis, cross country and athleticswhich give further opportunity for girls toplay competitively. The highs and lows ofsecuring a place in a team or not, of winninga game or losing, of gaining a place in thefinal or being knocked out by a last minutegoal, are all part of taking part and building

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character, confidence and sportsmanshipwhich are vital personal attributes for thefuture.

Throughout the PE programme, weintroduce the girls to a wide variety ofsports. The activities are used to developphysical fitness, team spirit and self esteem.In Year 10 and above the girls choose theirown programme from a selection ofactivities of a more recreational nature suchas salsa dancing, badminton, squash and golfto further training in hockey or netball. Theemphasis is on the girls trying a mixture ofoptions which will, perhaps, introduce anew interest, or simply encourage them totry other things in the future. Most of all wewant the girls to enjoy their sport anddevelop a healthy lifestyle.

Sport

� BEAM programme for Infants

� Specialist teachers fromReception

� Excellent facilities on site

� Access to specialist facilities off site

� Classes set by ability

� Strong extracurricularprogramme

� Extensive range of School Teams

Benefits

� Healthy lifestyle

� Stamina

� Commitment

� Perseverance

� Team spirit

� Teamwork

� Enjoyment

� Leadership


Technology is now embedded within theschool curriculum. It is as natural for a childto turn to the computer to do research onthe internet, type up her essay orcommunicate via email as it is for her toturn on the television. New technologiesare ever on the horizon. The role thereforeof the School is to prepare your daughterfor a future in which an ability to learn andadapt is absolutely crucial. At Burgess HillSchool for Girls your daughter will benefitfrom the advantages that a well equippedschool can provide.

ICT skills are now a core requirementalongside numeracy and literacy and thedevelopment of these skills begins early, butnot at the expense of the traditionalcompetences which every child needs toprogress in her learning. Girls receive a firstclass grounding in the essential buildingblocks such as word processing, databases,spreadsheets and graphics’ packages, givingthem confidence to embrace technology ina wide range of contexts in the future. Theskills acquired are used to support otherareas of the curriculum. Learning isconsolidated through applications such asproducing news sheets for activities in JuniorSchool, or presenting a final investigationreport in Senior School, where all aspectsof the presentation and analysis have beenenhanced by utilising appropriatetechnology.

Technology is used to enhance the learningexperience and our staff use theirprofessional expertise to ensure that thereis appropriate balance and a varied andstimulating approach. The girls areencouraged to use the media best suited tothe task in hand and to learn to seetechnology as an instrument to assist themrather than becoming a slave to the latestgimmick. The Interactive Whiteboards(IAWB) are a powerful and versatile tooland are used to excellent effect in all yearsand across the whole curriculum. The girlslove pitting their wits against the clock in afraction matching game or watching a livenews feed on a significant world event. Inthe music technology suite, your daughterwill be able to share her individual musiccomposition readily with the class via theIAWB. Presentation skills are much inevidence with PowerPoint slides used withease and panache from Year 5 upwards.Use of the IAWB allows not only interactionwith the software being used but alsoencourages class interaction in a wide rangeof activities. In addition to three computersuites across the School, there are class setsof lap top computers with wireless linkswhich enable the technology to be availablewhen and where it is needed.

The Senior girls are involved in developingand monitoring the School protocol for thesafe use of technology. The benefits and thedangers are recognised and the need toeducate young users to handle current andfuture technologies wisely is central to theICT policy.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

At Burgess Hill School for Girls, boardersexperience life in a typical day school withthe added dimension of making their homein one of three comfortable boardinghouses. The School facilities are available inthe evenings and at weekends. Themusicians particularly enjoy doing theirinstrumental practice in the Music Schooland the younger girls take advantage of theLearning Resource Centre and computersuites when doing their homework. SixthForm girls generally choose to work in theirown study bedrooms.

A diverse range of weekend activities isarranged and includes such outings as iceskating at Somerset House in London, a dayat a local theme park, visits to the theatre orcinema and the ever popular shopping tripsto Brighton or other retail centres.

The boarders integrate quicklyand regularly participate inmusical and dramaticperformances and other

School events. Throughout the year, the girlsalso create and perform their ownentertainments. Invitations to join the boardersat their 'International Evening' or 'Quiz Evening'are enjoyed by the whole School communityand a great deal of fun is had by all.

Each individual contributes a great deal tothe richness of the School and gains muchin return. The unfailingly positive and cheeryapproach of the girls is ample proof of thehappy environment within boarding.

BOARDING AT BURGESS HILL

Amenities

� Boarding from age 11

� Casual boarding from age 7

� Comfortable family styleboarding houses

� Sixth Form girls have singlerooms or share a doubleroom

� Younger boarders sharewith 2 or 3 other girls

� Easy access to Londonairports, trains and ferries

Strengths

� Strong sense of community

� Happy and friendlyatmosphere

� Excellent English Languagesupport

� Safe and secureenvironment

Key

poi

nts


The House system in both Senior Schooland Junior School succeeds in promoting apowerful sense of identity and ensurescommunication between the year groups isstrong and constructive. Major events eachterm provide openings for girls of all ages andtalents to take part and support their Houses.

In the Senior School, Performing Arts' Dayin November each year sees an impressivenumber of girls entertain and inspire therest of Senior School with their Houseinterpretation of a given theme. Lower

Sixth students plan, rehearse and present, aforty minute performance of theatre, musicand dance involving girls from Year 7upwards. All eagerly await the verdict of anexternal judge as their performancesreceive critical acclaim and the all importantwinner of ‘House Drama’ is announced.

The Spring Term involves a different yeargroup each week in a General KnowledgeQuiz with the Grand Final on the lastafternoon of term. Keenly fought, theafternoon is a spectacular example of team

spirit with everyone rooting for their ownHouse yet appreciating and applaudingeveryone who takes part.

The Summer Term sees the annual sports’days when girls willingly represent theirHouses in a wide variety of field and trackevents in pursuit of the coveted trophies.The atmosphere in the Hall or on theSports field on these occasions is quitesimply fantastic. The nature of this Schoolcan be seen for what it is; challenging,enjoyable and supportive.

THE HOUSE SYSTEM


The forging of strong links with parents wasat the core of the School’s foundation andthis remains one of our top priorities. Wevalue the open and friendly partnership wehave with our parents as we believe thatthis will give the children the best start in life- a good education.

The excellent relationship which existsbetween staff, pupils and parents is one ofthe School’s greatest strengths. Teachersknow the girls very well and they work hardto help them learn to build upon theirstrengths, grow in confidence and be atease with themselves.

We uphold traditional values and aim toteach the girls to work and play hard and totake pride in all they do; to have goodmanners; to develop empathy and to growup into self-disciplined, responsible youngpeople who will want to contribute to theircommunity. K

ey p

oint

s


FORGING STRONG LINKS

Engender a sense of

� Community

� Partnership

� Pride

� Humanity

Demonstrate

� Courtesy

� Respect

� Compassion

� Generosity

� Charity

The School is a flourishing day and boardingschool for girls between 21/2 and 18 years.We also welcome boys into the Nurserydepartment. The School is small enoughthat your child is known as an individual yetlarge enough to provide breadth, choiceand opportunity. Each phase retains its ownidentity whilst being supportive of the restof the School. Senior students benefit fromthe opportunity to work with the youngerchildren and are excellent role models inreturn. The mix of ages, working togetheron the same site, gives the School a specialcharacter valued by all.

This is a busy school founded on a cultureof mutual respect which values learning.Pupils, teachers and parents work inpartnership to make the most of theeducational opportunities available. Yourdaughter can strive for excellence whereverher talents may lie. Most pupils take part ina wide range of activities and learn the skillsof time management and prioritising as anatural consequence of their enthusiasm forjoining in as much as they can. There is astrong tradition of accomplishment in everyarea of the curriculum and beyond.

The vibrant and friendly atmosphere is bestexperienced in person.

A WELCOME FROM THE HEADMISTRESS

2.

Welcome to our prospectus in which weaim to give you just a snapshot of life atBurgess Hill School for Girls.

BURGESS HILL SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

telephone 01444 241050 web www.burgesshill-school.com email [email protected]

Keymer Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex RH15 0EG

INSPIRING MINDS

OPENING DOORS

Burgess Hill School for Girls Prospectus

Documents

Transcript of Burgess Hill School for Girls Prospectus