DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
We are rightly proud of our reputation as an inclusive school, where girls know and understand themselves and others. A sense of belonging permeates our community.
ISI, 2024
We are proud of the inclusive nature of our school. Focusing on tolerance and respect for yourself and others is a cornerstone of our ethos. We believe in the importance of hearing, and acting upon, the voices within our community and ask for regular feedback and suggestions on how to improve our school. We understand that not all differences are visible and aim to ensure that a sense of belonging is instilled throughout our community.
Undivided is our annual programme of whole-school initiatives which celebrate a broad range of events throughout the year which are reflective of the diverse community that is Sydenham High School. We have staff members coordinating activities and training throughout the year.
Our pupils speak out to drive social change, with one of our alumnae setting up the Halo Code. ISI also noted: Pupils “firmly reject discrimination of any kind on any grounds”. In Prep, our Undivided prefects Our active Diversity & Inclusion prefects in Sixth Form, act on pupil voice and organise our annual Culture & Diversity Day, as well as assemblies on neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+, supported by our Head of Learning Support and Neurodiversity Council, and Deputy Head Pastoral.
Culture & Identity Day
Every autumn, our Diversity & Inclusion Prefects run a day for everyone to showcase their heritage, culminating in a very popular ‘fashion show’ where girls and staff display the cultural dress of their heritage. People discuss what makes them who they are and our caterers showcase cuisine from the nations of our kitchen staff.
Black History Month
Every year we ensure that we use the opportunity of Black History Month to amplify Black voices and honour Black heritage through a series of enriching activities, workshops, and discussions. Last year’s theme was ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ and we enjoyed hearing from pupils and staff as well as external speakers. Understanding each other’s heritage and experiences enriches us as a community.
South Asian
Heritage Month
At the end of the summer term, everyone is invited to wear the colours of the flags of the countries of South Asia: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, in celebration of South Asian Heritage Month. We enjoy a culturally rich assembly led by our teachers and pupils, who share their heritage, culture, and family stories with us. It is important for all of us to learn, understand, and embrace each other’s cultures so that we can continue to show support and respect for one another.
Neurodiversity Champions
At Sydenham, we value courage, character, and kindness — and respecting differences is key to upholding our school community. Neurological differences mean that some may find certain things challenging that others find easy — and vice versa. Neurodiversity is about understanding that these differences are not “abnormal,” but simply another way of thinking and being.
