New Teacher Feature - Miss Noakes

New Teacher Feature - Miss Street

New Teacher Feature - Mr Gardiner

New Teacher Feature - Mrs Suarez

New Teacher Feature - Miss Chandler

Little Downsend shortlisted for Independent Pre-Prep of the Year 2022!

We are absolutely delighted that Little Downsend has been shortlisted in the Independent School of the Year Awards 2022 for Independent Pre-Prep of the Year! Our submission for the award focused on not only the caring, nurturing and playful approach to learning, but how Little Downsend is now pushing the boundaries to deliver an innovative enriched curriculum that will provide children with the skills they

Downsend shortlisted in the Independent School of the Year Awards 2022 for Sporting Achievement

As finalists in 2019, Downsend is back fighting for another accolade in the prestigious Independent School of the Year Awards. We are delighted to have been shortlisted for the category of ‘Sporting Achievement’ in recognition of our holistic approach to sport across the school. Our submission focused not just on wins on the scoreboard, but also how we have worked hard to understand how a

Downsend win National ISFA championship at St George's Park

Huge congratulations to our U11A football team, who have become national ISFA U11 Champions. The blue riband event of independent school football, the ISFA event incorporates all of the independent school associations, including HMC, IAPS, ISA and more, pitting Downsend against the likes of Whitgift, Repton and Manchester GS. Following in the footsteps of their U13 counterparts who won the IAPS national title for their

Little Downsend recognised as Common Sense School

Common Sense, the national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids and families thrive in a world of media and technology, has recognized Little Downsend as a Common Sense School. Little Downsend has demonstrated its commitment to taking a whole-community approach to preparing its students to think critically and use technology responsibly to learn, create, and participate while preparing them for the perils that exist in

Little Downsend achieves Microsoft Incubator Status

“Congratulations. Microsoft is delighted to welcome you to the Showcase School programme, and to work with you on your education transformation journey.” Last week, Vanessa Conlan, Head of Little Downsend, was delighted to receive this communication from Microsoft, signifying the schools’ achievement of Incubator Status, the first Early Years/Key Stage 1 setting within Cognita UK to do so. The Showcase Schools programme links like-minded leaders

Downsend's on a Roll with National Sporting Success

Over the course of last weekend, Downsend pupils travelled the length and breadth of the country participating in various National Championships. Having travelled to Repton in Derbyshire on Friday for the IAPS Hockey Championships, our U12 girls came flying out of the blocks, winning their group with ease and a 100% record as the tournament’s highest scorers. They then discovered how cruel tournament sport can

Green Flag Award for Downsend

We are delighted to announce that Downsend School has recently been awarded the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag Award in recognition of our commitment to pupil-led environmental action. Over the last nearly 2 years, pupils and staff at Downsend have been actively working towards tackling environmental issues, improving our school and local community, and taking steps towards protecting our planet through eco-awareness, education and action. Our

Teacher Spotlight - Mike Underwood - Head of Computing and Year 7 Form Tutor

Hello and welcome to the latest instalment of our Teacher Spotlight Series. Today we'd love to introduce you to Mike Underwood, who joined us last September as a Head of Computing in the Senior School and he also is one of our fantastic Year 7 form tutors. Welcome to Downsend Mr Underwood. Can you tell us about your first day at Downsend? What I can

Teacher Spotlight - Emma Magee - Teacher of PE and Games and Year 7 Support Tutor

Welcome to our latest instalment of the Teacher Spotlight Series where we are meeting with our sports teacher and Year 7 tutor, Emma Magee, super-talented Northern Ireland international netball player and attacked that currently plays for Surrey Storm. Can you tell us about your first day at Downsend? My first day at Downsend was brilliant, I was super excited to get started. I met all

Teacher Spotlight - Sarah Newnham - Year 3 Form Tutor

  Hello and welcome to the latest installment of our Teacher Spotlight Series.  Today we'd love to introduce you to Sarah Newnham, who joined us last September as a Year 3 form tutor. Welcome to Downsend Sarah! Can you tell us about your first day at Downsend? My first day at Downsend was a whirlwind of smiles, excited children and being led by my class

Downsend U11 footballers qualify for two National Finals

The Downsend U11 football team has made history by qualifying for not one, but two National finals in the same week. On 05 October, the team competed at Trinity School in the IAPS U11 Football Tournament, defeating 8 teams to become the Regional winners, which will see them progress to the National Finals on 28 November at Millfield Prep School. Commended for their stoic play

Teacher Spotlight Series - Marcus Bell - Teacher of PE and Games (Football) and Y9 Form Tutor

Welcome to our latest instalment of the Teacher Spotlight Series. This week we'd like to introduce you to Marcus Bell, Sports and PE teacher and also Y9 Tutor, a Manchester United supporter who joined Downsend from Shanghai with a pit stop via Birmingham and whose passion for football started in the 1990s and still going strong. Can you tell us about your first day at

Teacher Spotlight Series - Meet Maggie Hambleton - Head of Art, Design and Technology

Can you tell us about your first day at Downsend?  My first day at Downsend, daunting initially as I’ve never taught in the private sector nor junior schools before! However, I found it so heartwarming to see all ages in one arena, clearly enjoying school and the atmosphere. I just have to get used to seeing smaller people around!! Normally I’m the shortest! The department

Little Downsend shortlisted for ISA Award for Excellence and Innovation in Early Years

The team at Little Downsend in Ashtead, Epsom and Leatherhead are absolutely delighted to have been shortlisted as a Finalist in the Independent Schools Association Awards 2021. The submission was commended by the judges as extremely high quality with evidence of exceptional practice taking place within the schools. The award, titled ‘Excellence and Innovation in Early Years’ specifically focused on Little Downsend’s work with FIRST

Teacher Spotlight Series - Meet Sarah Stallard Head of Maths

  Can you tell us about your first day at Downsend?  I had a few visits to Downsend before my first actual day. I remember visiting over the summer and Mrs Mercer and Mrs Grimmer taking good care of me. Mrs Mercer introduced me to Chai Latte which she made me from Mr Slivia’s coffee machine. That reminds me Mr Silva I owe you some

What's That You Are Reading? - Lisa Brunt - Assessment & Exams Manager

With my love of mountains, I chose to read ‘Lost on Everest - The Search for Mallory & Irvine’ by Peter Firstbrook. A true story, describing George Mallory and Andrew Irvine’s attempt to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1924. I’d highly recommend this book to anyone with a mutual interest like mine in mountaineering and particularly adventurous historical events. It really leaves you

Downsend School Awarded Primary Science Quality Mark

Downsend School Awarded Primary Science Quality Mark The PSQM, from the University of Hertfordshire in collaboration with the Primary Science Trust, celebrates commitment to excellence in science teaching and learning. “Schools that achieve PSQM demonstrate commitment and expertise in science leadership, teaching and learning. The Primary School Quality Mark programme ensures effective leadership of science, enables schools to work together to share good practice and

5 Tips for prioritising safety in a digital learning environment

We’re so proud of the way our students have responded to being back in the classroom since we re-opened last term. There is clear enthusiasm for face-to-face collaboration, and we have witnessed a boost of renewed energy in lessons. The last period of home learning was undoubtedly a tough time for students and parents yet the ways in which Downsend students responded to that change

Teacher Spotlight - Miss Wilby - Year 3 Teacher

Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? My first day at Downsend was actually back when I was 7 years old as I was lucky enough to spend my primary school years here. Returning as a teacher was both exciting and daunting. Mrs Temlett and I started in Year 2 together and instantly got on which made

What’s that you’re reading? - Kate Timms - Head of Marketing & Admissions

What are you reading at the moment? Invariably I have about 8 books and a kindle on the go at any one time - I love books, and reading. I enjoy almost every genre, from educational to escapism, with newspapers and academic articles thrown in for good measure. I love books that make me think – it could be education related, travel, health and fitness,

Teacher Spotlight – Rebecca Hurley – Teacher of PE and Games - Year 9 Form Tutor

Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how it was? My first day at Downsend was brilliant. I had a very warm welcome from all the staff, pupils and especially from my PE department. To be honest, the first day feels so long ago I can’t really remember too much! I was very excited to meet my Year 9 form

What's that you're reading? - Tracey Tullett - Teaching Assistant Little Downsend, Leatherhead

    The book I’m currently reading is called "Living is Losing" it is written by a local Dorking man called Cassius Cox it’s his debut novel. The book is about a young boy who witnesses the traumatic event of his brother dying and how he deals with his pain and grief through the years! It’s a great book and it had me gripped right

Teacher Spotlight - Michelle Sehgal - Teacher of Science

  Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? My first day at Downsend was in September 2010. Although it was my first day as a teacher, both my boys were pupils at the school, so I knew a few faces. I was lucky enough to work with an awesome Year 4 team who were so welcoming and

What's that you're reading? - Mrs Sue Wood - HR Administrator Downsend

What are you reading at the moment? Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel This is about Oliver Cromwell who rose from being the son of a blacksmith to become the main advisor to Henry VIII. He was a powerful and ruthless man and yet comes across as caring by handing out food every evening to people waiting at his gate. He also took in the children

Teacher Spotlight - Meet Charlie Gibbons - Head of Science

At Downsend, we are lucky to have some of the very best teachers who are dedicated to providing every child with the most innovative and inspiring learning experience. This term we welcomed one new teacher with a rich and varied educational background and we wanted welcome him to the Downsend community. Ladies and gentlemen meet Charlie Gibbons, our new Head of Science! Welcome to Downsend!

What's that you're reading? Mrs. Tucker - Secretary at Little Downsend Epsom

In this week's instalment of "What's that you're reading?" we are meeting with Mrs Tucker, Secretary at Little Downsend Epsom and we actually mention two books, one by Liane Moriarty who has written the eight novels, including the New York Times bestseller "Big Little Lies" which was adapted into a television series for HBO featuring Reese Witherspoon. What are you reading at the moment or

Teacher Spotlight - Mr. Thomas Hyam - Teacher of PE and Games

  Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? My first day at Downsend was fantastic, I was welcomed wonderfully by both the pupils and the staff. The day was a bit of a blur if I am being honest, but I remember the excitement of everyone to be returning to school and a lovely community atmosphere. The

What's that you're reading ? - Mrs. Skitt - Head of Humanities

What are you reading at the moment?  Unsurprisingly I am reading a History book!  It’s called ‘Travellers in the Third Reich’ and it is a collection of first hand accounts of how Germany was changing under the rule of Hitler and the Nazis.  It is particularly poignant as it demonstrates how easy it is for ridicule and seemingly small acts of bullying to descend into persecution of certain groups in

What's that you're reading ? - Ms. Haylett - Teacher of English, Senior School

  What are you reading at the moment/What was the last book you read?  "The Five – The untold lives of the women killed" by Jack the Ripper by Hallie Rubenhold  Give a brief synopsis. What’s the main message of the book?  It is the devastating narrative of the lives of the women killed by Jack the Ripper. Their histories and deaths have often been misrepresented and

What’s that you’re reading? – Ms. Natasha Ludlam - Year 3 Teacher

I'm reading Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders at the moment. I'm about halfway through but I'm gripped by the narrative style - it is written, unlike any other book I have ever read, with a blend of quotes from historical books, the constant switching of narrators and perspectives and breath-taking use of language. The central theme is grief and loss.  Abraham Lincoln's young son

What's that you're reading? - Mr. Matthew Duffield - Head of English Senior School

Book: "A Place Called Winter" by Patrick Gale This is the book I’m currently reading, which I’m enjoying tremendously. Set in the early 1900s ‘A Place Called Winter’ tells the story of Harry Cane who is forced to flee his wealthy, comfortable life in England for the harsh and unforgiving world of the Canadian plains after an affair. The main message of the book considers

Teacher Spotlight Series - Mrs. Anna Mercer - Teacher of Maths, HoY 7 & Head of KS2/3 Transition

Welcome to this week’s installment of the 'Teacher Spotlight Series", where we meet Downsend teachers who are dedicated to providing every child with the most innovative and inspiring learning experience. In this edition, we are meeting Mrs. Mercer, who is the Senior School Teacher of Maths, HoY 7 & Head of KS2/3Transition. Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how

What's that you're reading? - Vanda Laverock - Year 1 Teacher Little Downsend Leatherhead

Welcome to our latest installment of  "What's that you're reading?" series where we are hearing from the lovely Mrs. Vanda Laverock, Year 1 Teacher, Little Downsend Leatherhead, about her latest read.  At Downsend we adore reading and we share our passion with our pupils from very early years. What was the last book you read? Give a brief synopsis. What’s the main message of the

Teacher Spotlight Series - Matthew Rowden - Teacher of Science

Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? I can’t remember much. It was in September 2020 just as schools were reopening after the summer lockdown, so there was a lot more to think about than the usual start of a school year. Everyone was very welcoming though. What did you do before you joined Downsend? I’ve had

Teacher Spotlight Series - Martin Skitt - Senior School Leader of Learning and Innovation Head of Languages

  Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? As ever when you start a new job, the first day passed in a bit of a blur, but I remember the warmth of the welcome that I received from my colleagues. I also remember being put on the spot by the external INSET trainer who decided to prove

What’s that you’re reading? Ms. Camilla Coates - Year 6 Form Tutor and Head of Junior School English

What are you reading at the moment/What was the last book you read? Give a brief synopsis. What’s the main message of the book? I am reading Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly. Lilac Girls is a historical fiction novel, inspired by the true story of activist and socialite Caroline Ferriday. The book tells the stories of three women during WWII, beginning with Caroline in

Teacher Spotlight Series – Grant Lawrence - Director of Sport

  Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? It was superb! The weather was outstanding which made the school shine. Everyone was incredibly welcoming (especially the Sports Department!!!). Miss Seivewright & Mr. Albert made a monumental effort to make my first few days/weeks at Downsend such a positive experience. What did you do before you joined Downsend?

Enhancing learning with Artificial Intelligence

At Downsend, we are committed to inspiring our students every day, while ensuring our teachers are equipped with the very best learning tools and resources. To that end, we are delighted to have introduced CENTURY, an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered learning platform, to our classrooms. From April last year, students at 16 schools in the Cognita family have benefited from learning using CENTURY during lockdowns and further disruption caused by the global pandemic. Following

What’s that you’re reading? Ms. Elmas , Teacher of English, Senior School

Just over a week to go until the WorldBookDay, and we are delighted to bring you our second installment of ‘What’s That You’re Reading’, featuring Stephanie Elmas, Teacher of English. What are you reading at the moment/What was the last book you read?  Please give us a brief synopsis. What’s the main message of the book?  I am reading Circe by Madeline Miller. This tells the story of

What's that you're reading? Mrs. Kirkham, Head of Junior School

                        At Downsend we love our books and we decided to launch a new weekly series : ‘What’s That You’re Reading?’. We’ll work our way around the Downsend team to find out who’s reading what, and what they think of it! Keep an eye on our social media each Wednesday and you might even

Teacher Spotlight Series – Jodie Newberry – Head of Year 4

Welcome to our weekly series of The Teacher Spotlight. Today we are meeting our wonderful Head of Year 4, Jodie Newberry adored by all kids in Junior School. Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? I remember my first day at Downsend very well - I was excited but nervous to be teaching somewhere new after 6

Teacher Spotlight Series – Marie Seivewright – Head of Girls' Sport

Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? My first day was very nerve wracking but everyone was so welcoming, and I was made to feel very much part of the 'family' very quickly.  It must have been good as I am still here 13 years later! What did you do before you joined Downsend? I previously worked

Teacher Spotlight Series - Marc Popham - Head of Year 4

    Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? I definitely remember my first day at Downsend. Everyone was so welcoming and there was such a great buzz about the place. I believe it was Mrs Kirkham’s first start to an academic year, having joined in January. Mrs Temlett and Miss Wilby were starting in Year 3

Teacher Spotlight Series – Nicole Allison – Head of Music

Welcome to our weekly series of The Teacher Spotlight. Today we are meeting our wonderful Head of Music, Nicole Allison,  who's passion for music is endless. She is an enormous inspiration to all of us. Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? I remember feeling really worried about all the names I had to learn – pupils

Teacher Spotlight Series – Lee Silva – Deputy Head of Senior School, H of Year 8, Head of Digital Learning, Science Teacher

Welcome to our weekly series of Teacher Spotlight, where we are meeting our academic staff for a little chat. Today is Mr Silva who's positive energy spreads happiness across the school. Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it? I do – I had been into school a few times over the summer so had a chance to

Teacher Spotlight Series – Sally Temlett - Head of Junior School Maths and KS2 teacher

Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it?  I remember my first day at Downsend very well! I was nervous but excited to be joining such a brilliant school. I didn’t have to be nervous though, as when I arrived I found out how lovely everybody was and how supportive the other members of staff were. Miss Wilby

Teacher Spotlight Series - Helen Black - Deputy Head of Junior School & Head of History

Welcome to the new edition of the Teacher Spotlight Series. Today we are meeting with our wonderful Deputy Head of Junior School & Head of History, Helen Black and we will talk, of course some history, but also Jane Austen and we will find out where Ms Black's roots are. Do you remember your first day at Downsend? Can you tell us how was it?

Celebrating Cricket at Downsend - Interview with Jon Albert - Assistant Head (Enrichment)

When and how your interest in cricket started? Growing up I was lucky to attend Parkside Preparatory School, where I played my first game of cricket age 10. Up to this point like many other boys, football was my sport of choice. However, my real passion for cricket developed further at City of London Freeman’s School under the inspirational tutelage of Neil Stewart. During this

Teacher Spotlight Series - Anthony Younas - Teacher of Modern Foreign Languages

 Do you remember how was your first day at Downsend? My first day here was very exciting! I was given a very warm welcome and I met lots of very helpful people ready to point me in the right direction. What did you do before you joined Downsend? I was working as Head of German at a large state school in Surrey. What's your best

Teacher Spotlight Series - Susanna Taylor , French Teacher, 2ic Languages

  Welcome everyone to this week's Teacher Spotlight Series. Today we are meeting Sussana Taylor, or as many of you might know as Madam Taylor, our Languages Teacher at the mainsite. Do you remember how was your first day at Downsend? I remember it vividly! I was an NQT teacher and was keen and raring to go! I received a warm welcome from the staff

Prevention better than cure when it comes to mental health matters.

The road of adolescence will never be a completely smooth one. There will always be ups and downs, obstacles to navigate, and every so often maybe even the odd crash. In these unpredictable and uncertain times, young people are suffering more mental health crashes than ever before. As a school we look for any opportunity to help signpost each student along their journey to steer

Tim Pearne, Junior School Leader of Learning and Innovation

In our first instalment of the Teacher Spotlight Series after half term, we are pleased to introduce you to Tim Pearne, who joined Downsend last September as Junior School Leader of Learning and Innovation. In this weekly series we pay homage to our teachers who are dedicated to providing every child with the most innovative and inspiring learning experience. This week we are also expanding

Downsend to provide individual laptops to students to step change the world of learning

As fears of further Covid-related restrictions continue, Downsend School is rolling out a new programme to equip all students in Year 3 and above with their own personal laptop for use in school and at home. This will enable students to transition smoothly between classroom and online learning in the event of local lockdowns and it comes after Downsend benefited from a major technology refresh

Downsend and Pfizer - Inspiring the next generation of scientists

A part of our groundbreaking STRETCH programme, Downsend has partnered with Pfizer UK to take part in their Science Education Outreach Programme. The programme is designed to inspire the next generation of scientific talent, as well as showcase the range of career opportunities that exist with life sciences. Delivered by Dr Davina Kirby, Head of Science at Downsend, alongside Pfizer's STEM ambassadors, pupils are introduced

Teacher Spotlight Series - Vanessa Conlan

Welcome to today's instalment of our Teacher Spotlight Series. This week we meet another new member of the Downsend team, Vanessa Conlan, Head Teacher at Little Downsend Schools. Do you remember how was your first day at Little Downsend?    I started at Little Downsend Epsom officially in January 2017 but from the October half term I went into school one day a week to work alongside the current

Downsend announces elected charity for 2020/2021

At the beginning of every academic year, we reflect on our role within the community and launch our charity fundraising plans. Our community of parents, pupils and teachers help us to support our chosen charities through creative and inventive activities and schemes.  Last year we were baking, pancake tossing, dashing with Santa and his Elves and undertaking household chores for the “Love Me, Love My Mind” charity.  In previous years we have supported the “Children's Trust” and “The Royal Marsden”, charities that are close to our hearts. We are proud to have raised over £40k.   We are now delighted

Teacher Spotlight Series - Meet Craig Moore

Hello, Do you remember how was your first day at Downsend? It was only last year, so thankfully I remember it fairly well. Thankfully Mr Lawrence took me under his wing and pointed me in the direction of some friendly faces, one of whom was Mrs Houlden, a very good friend from my golf club! What did you do before you joined Downsend? I was

Teacher Spotlight Series - Meet Sarah Skitt

Welcome to another installment of our Teacher Spotlight Series. This week we meet another new member of the Downsend team, Sarah Skitt, Head of Humanities: Welcome to Downsend School! How was your first day?   Very busy!  However it was also immensely exciting and I felt very welcomed by staff and pupils.  Downsend already feels like home and I am excited about the journey ahead.  What did you do before you joined Downsend? 

Teacher Spotlight Series - Meet Stephanie Elmas

Welcome back to our second installment of our Teacher Spotlight Series. Today we meet another new member of the inspirational Downsend team,  Stephanie Elmas, a specialist in English: Welcome to Downsend School! How was your first day?   My first day was hectic but fun. It was great to meet my Year 9 Form and my Year 7 classes.  What did you do before you joined Downsend?   I was an

Teacher Spotlight Series - Meet Paul Harrison

At Downsend, we are lucky to have some of the very best teachers who are dedicated to providing every child the most innovative and inspiring learning experience. This term we welcomed several new teachers with rich and varied educational backgrounds. We wanted to shine a light on our inspirational team, so today marks the start of our 'Teacher Spotlight Series'. We hope to introduce you

Digital Learning at Downsend

Following the huge success of Downsend’s online teaching and learning programme over the last few months of lockdown, we asked Lee Silva, Head of Digital Learning and Deputy Head of the Senior School to share his thoughts on the rise of digital technology in the school environment, and the benefits it brings for today’s young learners. You have been instrumental in ensuring that Downsend staff

Downsend alumnus reaches maiden Test century

The new term at Downsend School will get off to an inspired start as alumnus Dom Sibley hits his maiden Test century against South Africa. The team at Downsend cheered Dom on as he reached the century, eventually brought up from 269 balls. Having restarted his innings on 85, he played it steady, edging closer with boundaries, taking him to 99. At the end of

Global Be Well Day

Friday 27th September saw Cognita’s first ever Global Be Well Day. There were 5 key themes to the day : be Active, Sleep, Let’s Talk, mindfulness and healthy lifestyle. Downsend embraced them all with a huge array of age-appropriate activities across all year groups and all of our school sites, from first steps right through to year 8.

Downsend Alumnus named in England's Test Series Squad

Downsend School alumnus and Epsom-born batsman, Dominic Sibley, has been named in the 15 member squad for England’s two match Test Series against New Zealand in November. The International Cricket Council (ICC) describe Sibley as being in ‘scintillating form of late, leading the run-scoring charts at the County Championship’. The right hander has scored over 1,300 runs and faced over 3,000 deliveries. In an interview

Downsend shortlisted for Independent Schools of the Year 2019 Awards

  Downsend has been shortlisted for ‘Independent School of the Year for Sporting Achievement’, at the Independent Schools of the Year 2019 Awards. We are hugely honoured to be nominated for these prestigious awards, won last year by some of the finest schools in the country: Wellington College, Sedbergh, Canford and Fettes to name but a few. It is a testament to our continued ambition

Maths Challenge

On the afternoon of Monday 13th May, four intrepid Year 3 mathematicians took part in a Maths Challenge afternoon at Halstead Prep School.

Year 7 Trip to the Tower of London

The Tower of London looked beautiful and impressive as we approached yesterday but as we entered by Traitor’s Gate we saw the darker side to this London landmark. In the impressive courtyard we saw where Anne Boleyn was beheaded. 

Cancelled Sports Practices Today

Due to the weather conditions our grass pitches and astroturf remain frozen. We have considered the forecast for this afternoon but it seems there will be little improvement to enable us to continue with our after School practices later today. As a result, the following sports practices are cancelled:

Downsend + Christmas Special - Santa's Grotto

What a fabulous day the children at Downsend + are having today with the Christmas Special including a visit to meet Santa in his amazing grotto! 

The DPA Christmas Fair

The DPA would like to sincerely thank all Downsend parents, children and staff for contributing to the overwhelming success of our Christmas Fair.

Year 8 Play - The Addams Family

They’re creepy and they’re kooky…mysterious and spooky…they’re the children from Year 8 who entertained us all last week with their production of “The Addams Family – The Musical”.

Local Schools Public Speaking Competition

On Wednesday evening Downsend hosted Manor House and St Teresa’s for a Public Speaking competition for Year 5's and Year 6's with each school providing a team for each age group.

Year 4 & 5 Bake Off

There was another amazing array of Bake Off entries by Year 4 & 5 today!  Mrs Kirkham had as tough a time trying to judge this week's entries as she did with last week's Year 2 & 3 bakes.

Year 7 Art Trip

On Thursday Year 7 visited Watts Gallery to look at some paintings and sculptures, make some art and find out about George and Mary Watts. We had a wonderful day at the gallery!

Year 2 & 3 Great Downsend Bake Off!

Wow!  What an amazing array of Bake Off entries by Year 2 & 3 today.

Odd Socks Day

Today at Downsend was certainly a colourful one as everyone sported their best odd socks!

Jersey Tour 2018 - Day 3

Acrostic Poem to sum up our Jersey Tour 2018

Jersey Tour 2018 - Day 2

Day 2 was all about the 7S's - swimming, shopping, sun, sand, sport, strikes, spares and sleep!

Buddies!

Year 7 enjoyed meeting their Year 5 buddies yesterday – there was a 5-minute frenzy for the children to find their new buddies and learn some interesting facts about each other.

Brilliant Basics

Over the last four years there has been a dramatic improvement at the school on the sports pitches and this is all down to a change to the provision of sport and a team of staff who embraced it whole-heartedly.

Red, White & Blue Day

A sea of red, white and blue children greeted Mr Thorpe on the turret this morning, as we began our special day of events to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War.

Circus Adventure Week

The Lower School was awash with amazing acrobats, stupendous strongmen and crazy clowns to name but a few of the marvellous characters on show during Circus Adventure Week.

Year 5 Hampton Court Trip

Charity Assembly

In assembly today Jenny Graham, one of Downsend’s Charity Representatives, presented Liz Mullins from The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity a cheque for £17,459.00.

Year 7 Trip to Normandy

Year 7 spent a sunny week in the beautiful Chateau du Baffy in Normandy. Our first full day was an historic one; we enjoyed learning about the events of the D-Day landings in WW2 at the Bayeux Memorial Museum followed by a reflective visit to the Bayeux British War Cemetery.

A Celebration of Public Speaking

Last night we were treated to a Public Speaking extravaganza which saw teams from Years 5 – 8 and even featured a staff team of Mrs Sutton, Mr Thorpe and Miss Friend. It was lovely to be able to showcase what we have been up to in the club and it was great to be able to share this with a sizeable audience.

Year 8 Two Day Play

As part of their ACE programme, Year 8 participated in the Two Day Play. On Thursday morning, they had nothing; on Friday afternoon, they performed three plays to an audience of Years 5-7 plus staff!

Year 7 Careers Development Workshop

Year 7 pupils had a great day yesterday learning about potential future careers, discovering more about their own skills and how they might fit into a future career choice.

A Parcel to Tanzania

The children at Epsom Pre-Prep have been working really really hard to put together some exciting things for their friends at the Bridge Nursery in Dar es Salaam.

Maths Competition

On Tuesday 8 pupils in two teams took part in a United Kingdom Maths Trust inter-schools competition at Halstead Prep. There were 7 rounds of puzzles, algebra, BIDMAS, logic which all required team work or paired work, speed and agility.

Marvellous Minibeasts

This week Year 2 headed off for the wilds of Godstone to visit Bay Pond Nature Reserve as part of their current Science studies about living organisms and their habitats.

Barbados Trip 2018

Over the Easter holidays, thirty one Downsend pupils from Year 7 and 8 and seven Downsend staff headed to the paradise island of Barbados for a cricket and netball tour. It was a truly magnificent experience for all.

Year 8 Sports Leadership Day

This academic year, all Year 8 pupils have worked hard to complete every element of The Young Leader Award which has been written and developed by Sports Leaders UK.

Ranmore Spring Term Winners

Congratulations to Ranmore for winning the Spring Term House Competition, we hope the children enjoyed their treat. 

Downsend Ski Trip 2018

Well the term ‘climate change’ certainly had relevant meaning this year! What a difference a year makes! Where there was mud and grass last year in Prato Nevoso, it was firmly covered by a layer of at least two metres of snow this year.

ASE Arabic

Mr Rhys Roberts, a former pupil of this school and Reigate Grammar, kindly gave his time to come and teach the scholarship group some Arabic and also to share his experience of living and working in Jordan.

Year 2 Victorian Day

Year 2 travelled back in time to the 1880s last Friday for a taste of school life during Victorian times.

Year 6 Evacuee Morning

On Wednesday Year 6 had an Evacuee morning, which everyone really enjoyed. One of the most fun activities was a tasting session. This included trying Juice or Lemonade and a variety of biscuits and cakes made from real wartime recipes.

Downsend Science Week 2018

In a week were we lost one of our Science heroes, it seems fitting to be celebrating everything about Science. This week was all about being curious, inspiring Downsend students to make sense of the world around them and about shining a light on Science.

Lancing Poetry Competition 2018

Once again the sun shone on us as we ventured over to Lancing college to take part in their poetry competition.

Artist Of The Week

Year 5 have been learning about the printmaking process of collagraphy.

World Book Day at our Pre-Preps

Stories came to life as their characters arrived at Ashtead Pre-Prep last week.

World Book Day 2018

The Lower School has been awash with books, traditional fable telling, quizzes and stunning writing as our younger children embraced a week-long celebration of the power of reading.

Year 6 Visit the Globe Theatre

On the Friday before half term, Year 6 travelled to London to spend an exciting and informative day at the Globe Theatre.

Year 4 Curriculum Collapse Day

Year 4 enjoyed taking part in an 'Iron Man' themed curriculum collapse day on Wednesday, to bring to life the book that they are studying in English.

Rumble in the Jungle

Earlier this week, our intrepid Year 2 explorers visited The Living Rainforest in Newbury where they discovered an amazing array of plants and tropical rainforest animals

Choral Concert at Epsom College

Some of our singers participated in a performance of Ian Assersohn’s Dies Irae last Sunday evening.

Year 3 Greek Week

Year 3 were transported back in time for Greek Week last week through an array of exciting cross-curricular learning opportunities.

Success at the Rotary Club Public Speaking Competition

A few weeks ago Downsend hosted the first round of the Rotary Club’s National Public Speaking Competition. There were six teams taking part in the Intermediate section and just two in the Senior section. The teams came from St John’s, St Teresa’s, Manor House and, of course, Downsend who fielded two teams from Year 8.

Downsend win the 2018 National Science Quiz

On 26th January, the Downsend Science Quiz team travelled to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History to compete in the national finals of the Quiz Club Science competition.

Cognita Chef Swap

Ruben Lopez the Head Chef from El Limonar International School – Villamartín and Vanessa Chavez our Commis Chef from Downsend Prep are taking part in a Cognita Chef swap this month.

Downsend Launches New Senior School And GCSE Expansion Plans

There is now a greater choice for Surrey pupils heading towards their GCSEs with the announcement that Downsend School in Leatherhead will expand to include a Senior School from September 2020.

Egyptian Week

What an exciting week it's been! Year 3 has been transported back in time for our Egyptian week. On Thursday, the school was awash with Pharaohs and mummies as the children came in dressed up for our Egyptian day, and they enjoyed workshops lead by the Open Box Theatre Company and the creation of scarab beetle artefacts.

Parent feedback programme at Downsend wins award for innovation and excellence

A ‘Voice of the Parent’ programme run at Downsend School in Surrey, part of the Cognita group, has won a 2017 Confirmit ACE (Achievement in Customer Excellence) Award. This is the second year that this programme has been commended, with the ongoing feedback received from parents directly inputting into the continuous improvement in schools such as Downsend.......

USA Day in the Canteen!

Downsend Prep School Pupils enjoyed a delicious American themed lunch in the canteen today....

Year 1 Visit Wisley

Year one from Leatherhead Pre-Prep visited Wisley Gardens this week to learn more about plants and the different climates they can grow in, such as deserts and rainforests. They were able to examine some exotic plants with equally exotic names like the Lobster Claw plant and the Red Hot Cats' Tails. The various cacti were popular too and everyone had a go at taking a