Looking to the future: Introducing Norwich High School for Girls Sixth Form

In a dedicated modern building, Lanchester House, within the leafy grounds of Norwich High School for Girls, the Sixth Form is a place where each individual girl is supported and encouraged to flourish as they look towards a diverse, rich, exciting and unique future. There is an emphasis on pastoral and wellbeing support, a strong network of opportunities provided through the School’s place in the GDST family of schools, and a student-led and democratic approach. We seek to challenge traditional gender stereotypes, encouraging students to take risks and be adventurous to develop a strong sense of themselves free of any feeling that the script has been written for them. In an all-girls Sixth Form, all the leadership posts are taken by girls; with so many opportunities to lead or create groups, students grow in confidence and thrive in our Sixth Form through opportunities to make an impact on the whole school. Given our size, we can be extremely agile and the staff all do their best to fulfil the needs of each individual student. From asking what they would like covered in tutor time or the PHSE sessions, to sourcing bespoke courses in niche subjects, or finding a speaker or contact in an area of interest – we can adapt and develop our forward programme in accordance with the requests from the girls and what is topical externally. Hazel Packer, Director of Sixth Form commented: “Having just watched the Finale performance of our whole school Winter Arts Festival, I was once again blown away by the confidence, poise and composure of our Upper and Lower Sixth girls on the stage. “By placing our trust in them to take on responsibility, they reward us in turn by giving back and delivering in anything we ask them to do. I am always so impressed with their ingenuity and endless energy for innovation.” The Sixth Form follows the approach of the whole school in prioritising the wellbeing and mental health of all the pupils and they are very well supported through pastoral issues. We can tailor the content of our PHSE sessions to our students, and cover topics which will help prepare the students for their future life – from domestic abuse to trans rights, we aim to equip them with a broad awareness that may benefit themselves or their friends and family in the future. We celebrate cultural occasions and put a great emphasis on mutual respect and pupils being authentic – we have a Sixth Form Diversity Captain who has an increased role and kudos within the school. We have hosted assemblies and discussion groups on a variety of topics around inclusion and diversity. Mrs Packer added: “The Head Girls team this year have launched their own podcast, HeadStrong, and the Big Sister project which supports younger girls throughout the school goes from strength to strength. We are currently reviewing our rosta of Captaincy roles, which currently range from Eco Captain, through Media, Equality & Diversity, Social, Wellbeing and Charities to name a few.” Mrs Packer added: “We forge strong relationships with the students which outlast their time with us, and we are regularly in touch with our alumnae. In fact, any time we call on alumnae to give current girls advice; from university applications to careers talks, we are inundated with offers of valuable help.” We have limited spaces available for entry into our girls-only Sixth Form in Norwich, Norfolk for September 2022. If you are interested in finding out more, please call 01603 453 265 or email our Registrar – [email protected] to arrange a bespoke tour. Nikitha’s Story Having found her voice through being a Form Leader and Year 7 buddy in the Senior School, Nikitha went on to lead the Big Sister team through lockdown and was elected to the role of Deputy Head Girl. Nikitha has also been instrumental in the work of the Biology Inclusion Group who have sought to create a more diverse and inclusive science curriculum this year. A Grade 6 in Bharatanatyam Dance, she has performed for the school on numerous occasions and led a dance workshop for Prep pupils. With a genuine interest in the wellbeing of others, it was no surprise that Nikitha’s ambitions lie in the service of others. Alongside her A Levels and roles of responsibility in school, she has gained plentiful work experience, including volunteering at C-19 vaccination clinics, to support her application to read Medicine at university. Caitlin’s Story With a strong interest in theatre, music and the arts in general, Caitlin performed in many school productions and concerts throughout her time in the Senior School, most notably Miss Saigon. In the Sixth Form not only has she continued to make her mark through her own performances such as in ‘100’ and ‘Made in Dagenham’, but she also initiated, organised and compered an online theatre night involving collaborating with pupils from across the school in Lockdown. In her final year, she adapted Alan Bennett’s well known play, and directed performances of The History Girls with a cast of Senior School actors. In addition, Caitlin is the school’s Duke of Edinburgh Ambassador helping to nurture the confidence and skill set of younger pupils. Caitlin is looking forward to studying Theatre at university. https://www.norwichhigh.gdst.net/looking-to-the-future-introducing-norwich-high-school-for-girls-sixth-form/