Interview: Surbiton High School

EXPERT INTERVIEW

Interview with Rebecca Glover, Principal of Surbiton High School

Tell us a little about Surbiton High School? Surbiton High School is an independent school in Surbiton, well-connected to London by a 17-minute train journey. The School comprises Boys’ Preparatory School, Girls’ Preparatory School, Girls’ Senior School and Girls’ Sixth Form. Founded in 1884, Surbiton High School continues to flourish under a strong Local Governing Body, the Senior Leadership Team and the current Principal, Rebecca Glover. Whilst the ethos and vision of the School has changed over time, the overarching aim to provide a superlative education for girls (and boys) which ensure they are at the forefront of technology and education practice; whilst providing an engaging, innovative curriculum; is one which is still at the heart of the School today.

What are Surbiton High School’s aims and ethos? Surbiton High School is a vibrant learning community, which inspires every child to discover and embrace their individuality, to grow in their intellectual curiosity, and to enjoy and develop their independence. Surbiton High School inspires, encourages and empowers our young people to discover and liberate the very best of themselves, exceeding their potential in an intellectually rigorous and challenging academic environment, balanced with outstanding pastoral care and support.

What would you say are the standout features that make Surbiton High School so special? We know that choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make. We believe the happiness and success of your child are key foundation upon which their future is built. That is why we are a school which genuinely delights in the individual. We are a place where every child is valued, every child is encouraged to give their very best, and every child has the chance to grow in confidence by participating in a wide range of inspirational learning experiences. Staff within the School are inspirational; dedicated to delivering a rich curriculum and programme of activities which challenge each child to explore ideas for themselves. Whether engaged in learning in the classroom, or through musical, artistic, sporting, enterprise or charitable activities, Surbiton High School pupils are constantly encouraged to connect with the wider world, embracing new experiences to build their confidence - a confidence built not on arrogance, but on self-belief and a ‘can do’ attitude.

Tell us about the sporting facilities across the Preps and Senior School? Here at Surbiton High School, we offer a broad curriculum and co-curricular programme in order for our pupils to find the joy and importance of involvement in physical activity, whether it be competitive or not. The Girls’ Preparatory and Boys’ Preparatory take a personalised approach to the Games programme and PE curriculum as they teach technical skills, develop tactical understanding and build theoretical knowledge of health, fitness and nutrition. Both Schools host regular local borough tournaments to allow our younger pupils an opportunity to experience competitive sport within a fun environment. The Senior School offers three pathways for pupils to follow - competitive, all-rounder or artistic. All pupils have the opportunity to participate in our Super 8 Sports – cricket, football, gymnastics, hockey, netball, rowing, skiing and tennis as well as a wide breadth of co-curricular clubs. Our 39 acres of sports grounds are based a short drive away across two sites - Hinchley Wood Playing Fields and Oaken Lane.

If you had to choose an aspect of school life that you are most proud of what would it be? The pastoral care and commitment to the well-being of every member of our community underpins the very essence of school life here at Surbiton High School. We are proud to inspire, encourage and empower our pupils to build their own lives. Through careful guidance and nourishment, they are able to discover their strengths, celebrate their successes, build life-long relationships and flourish. Equally, our focus on the future ensures all pupils are equipped when they leave Surbiton High School with the right mindset, learning habits and outlook to have a successful and happy future.

Surbiton High School is a private independent school in Surbiton in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Greater London, England. 13 - 15 Surbiton Cres, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2JT TEL : 020 8546 5245 www.surbitonhigh.com