Redmaids' High School GDST

Our annual Looking Ahead event gave our Year 10 students a break from their studies to give thought to their future.

During the morning, they heard from our Horizons Co-ordinator, Ms Lui, about the importance of super-curriculars and how to build a personal statement. She gave them insight into the resources available, designed to help build a deeper interest in their subjects, with reading lists, online lectures and courses to help them secure a place on their chosen course. They also heard first-hand from current Year 12 students about their journey and recent alumnae on their university experience. This included everything from History and Politics to Earth and Planetary Sciences.

Students then had the opportunity to network with over 25 professionals in our Careers Fair to gain insight into different industries including veterinary science, law, creative industries, architecture and interior design, EdTech startups and more.

The afternoon brought 'Project Six' and a chance to explore what learning in a more collaborative and independent environment might feel like. They impressed with their analytical, creative and problem-solving skills and rose to the challenge in small teams to set up a new food bank before they were joined by their parents to hear from a range of speakers including alumna, Nathalie Kenyon. Nathalie is the Business Development Director for Sirius Medical and shared her further education and career pathway to date with lots of warm advice for the group on resilience, flexibility and seizing opportunities.

During the evening, our Director of Sixth Form Dr England, encouraged students and parents to explore the additional skills required for success beyond school and highlighted how we support our students to acquire them. Dr Phil Purvis, Director of Education at GDST, also spoke powerfully about the benefits of single-sex education and the opportunities that studying in a GDST Sixth Form bring. The future is a bright one!

If you would like to find out more about how we support our students with their future, you can read my Redmaids' High Careers Education article here: https://bit.ly/4vTmUeG

Dr Jephcote, Head of Guidance and Futures

As we look ahead to our 2026 production of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’, we’re taking a trip down memory lane to celebrate some of the incredible students involved in our 2019 production- the very first Lower School production as Redmaids’ High.
🍫🎫🐿️🫐📺

🎩 Annie played the unforgettable W***y Wonka , complete with an iconic Irish accent. After leaving Redmaids’ High, Annie spent a gap year directing a high school production of ‘Newsies’ in America and travelling, before successfully auditioning for drama school. She is now studying Musical Theatre at The Tisch School of the Arts in New York City and has just completed her first year of training: “Living in New York City studying musical theatre is a dream come true, and I am so excited to see what comes next.”

💜 Liv, who played the fabulous Mrs Beauregarde, has spent the last three years training at Laine Theatre Arts, recently selected to sing the National Anthem for His Majesty The King at the Epsom Derby, and is now preparing to graduate and begin her career in Musical Theatre in the West End: “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was such a special production to be part of and was where I made friends for life! Looking back, it was a pivotal moment in my journey and gave me confidence that helped shape the performer I am today.”

🎻 Hannah joined the ensemble for the 2019 production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and then went on to take part in numerous school productions, both in ensembles roles and as a musician in the band, developing a love of musical theatre along the way. Hannah is now studying Viola at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester and working part-time across both the Palace Theatre and Opera House: “Being a part of productions at Redmaids’ High made me realise that I wanted to be involved in theatre as part of my future career.”

From performers to musicians, our school productions continue to inspire passions, lifelong friendships, and exciting futures. We can’t wait to see where our 2026 cast’s journey takes them next!

Mrs Armsby, Assistant Head of Drama 🎭

Year 5 impressed during their Outdoor Education trip to Mendip Activity Centre with how well they worked together and supported each others' needs. Bushcraft and survival skills provided hands-on learning as they made tent pegs, built their own shelters, learnt fire-lighting and how to make water filtration systems! Other favourite activities during the week included archery, climbing and paddleboarding! 🔥🏕️🏹💦

Year 5 pupils from the Junior School enjoyed a fun and engaging drama workshop inspired by 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' at the Senior School, ahead of next week’s Year 7–9 production.

The pupils threw themselves enthusiastically into a range of drama warm-up games, supported by our wonderful Sixth Form Drama Captains, enjoyed performing duologues as Violet Beauregarde and Veruca Salt and learnt a dance inspired by the production, taught by Sixth Form House Captain, Ava, which they performed brilliantly. It was a joy to see such creativity and confidence from all involved! ⭐

In a world where technology is always within reach, how do we help children develop healthy digital habits without creating conflict or resistance?

In my latest blog post, I explore:

📱Why technology should be viewed as a tool, not the enemy
🗣️The importance of open conversations over strict control
🤖Why discussing AI with young people is becoming increasingly important
💚How we can help children develop digital resilience and self-awareness

There is no perfect formula for achieving digital balance, but by staying curious, engaged and connected with our children we can help them navigate an increasingly complex online world.

You can read my full article here: https://bit.ly/4ohn0Kt

Mrs Bramley-Dymond, Head of Digital Learning

Helping Young People Build Healthy Digital Habits The Head of Digital Learning at Redmaids' High School discusses helping young people build healthy digital habits.

Our Year 6 Almoners spent a special afternoon with our friends at St Monica Trust Westbury Fields Retirement Village, supporting a fundraising event for the Children’s Hospice.

Throughout the year, our Junior pupils and residents have shared their love of plants and gardening through activities at both the school and the village. This time, the girls helped sell plants grown by the gardening club, served cream teas and handed out raffle tickets, while enjoying time with residents and strengthening the friendships that have blossomed throughout the year.

It was a truly rewarding afternoon filled with community spirit, kindness and plenty of smiles, raising funds for a worthwhile cause and bringing generations together through shared experiences. 💚🌿☕️🍓

Mrs Cheater, Classteacher and Partnerships Lead

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