Before half term, a group of Year 10 pupils went on a visit to the Royal Institution in London, where we took part in an incredible Young Scientist experience.

When we first arrived, we were given some time to look around and explore the museum, go into the auditorium (where the Christmas Lectures are filmed) and have a play on their interactive periodic table. As we looked around the museum, we learnt that 10 periodic table elements were discovered in that very building.

We were then taken into the lab, given our lab coats and gloves and then they explained our situation – we had to test 5 sets of DNA to see which one matched the set that was found at a ‘crime scene’.

By using their amazing scientific technology, we were able to use enzymes to break down the DNA, dye it, inject it into some ‘jelly’, and then look under blue light to see how each set had been broken down. We had to then match the genetic fingerprint to the crime scene.

This was an amazing experience for all of us and we are so lucky that we had the opportunity to take part in it, and use equipment that is usually only in universities. We also had a lecture from one of the Scientists who work at the Royal Institute, giving us an insight on what it would be like to study chemistry and physics further.

Emily I and Gabby F
Year 10

Córdoba is an exciting and historic city in the heart of Andalusia. Once the capital of the Arab empire in Spain, it is home to the famous Mezquita. It is a beautiful walled town, with orange trees lining the streets and whitewashed houses built around tiled patio gardens.

Córdoba was beautiful and was an amazing chance to indulge in the culture especially because our host families didn’t speak any English. Every day was packed with new experiences such as the bull ring, boat trip and the many cathedral visits. Not only this, but travelling to get to these places was also eye-opening seeing how beautiful the surroundings were. The flamenco show was timeless and left everyone asking, “Oh is that it?”. To summarise,  Córdoba was a wonderful opportunity and we will relive those few days forever.

Ivy E
Year 9

The Junior School hosted a lively Diwali celebration assembly led by our Headteacher Miss Pendleton, bringing together pupils and staff to mark the Festival of Lights. The assembly highlighted the meaning of Diwali, focusing on themes of light, hope, and the victory of good over evil. Leela and Sara K in Year 6 shared the story of Rama and Sita, Aaruhi in Year 2 showed her beautiful poster with fascinating facts about Diwali, Keya in Year 4 gave a speech and Ishya and Myra in Year 6 performed a traditional dance. This amazing celebratory assembly helped the pupils learn about the cultural significance of the festival and encouraged everyone to reflect on its values of kindness and positivity.

^{Ishya and Myra performing a traditional dance}

^{Aaruhi showcased her poster with facts about Diwali}

In the spirit of celebration, the girls were invited to dress in sparkly outfits, adding a festive touch to the event. The assembly hall was filled with glitter and smiles as pupils shared their own stories and experiences of Diwali. From shimmering dresses to sequined tops, the sparkle brought an extra layer of excitement, as pupils enjoyed performances and joined in traditional songs to honour the occasion.

The Junior School craft club had fun learning about Diwali and creating artwork to celebrate. Mrs Bower and Mrs Connery were very proud of their independent and aspirational creations.

The celebration left pupils inspired, fostering a sense of unity and respect for cultural diversity within the school community.

Mr David Johnston
Junior School Assistant Headteacher (Co-curricular)

Did you know that Salvador Dalí was from Costa Brava? I discovered this on a recent family holiday when I was lucky enough to visit the Dalí Museum on a day trip to Figueres, which is a picturesque old town on the east coast of Catalonia. He was born there, he died there, and his body is buried in a crypt inside the museum. As you walk around the town, there are also many of his sculptures on display which shows how important he was to the area.

Dalí was involved in the design of the museum from beginning to end, and he definitely put his own unique and quirky mark on it.

“I want my museum to be a single block, a labyrinth, a great surrealist object. It will be a totally theatrical museum. The people who come to see it will leave with the sensation of having had a theatrical dream.”

The museum opened in 1974 and Dalí saw it as a surrealist object. One of the most visible parts of the museum is the geodesic dome which crowns the building. The dome has become an emblem of the museum but also a symbol of the town of Figueres too.

Walking around the museum, it was amazing to see how many people had come to see his famous work, and how big and how many pieces of his art were exhibited for us to see. The pieces dated from 1904-1989 and included drawings, paintings and sculptures which covered all of his career.

My stand-out piece was the sculpture of a face which used paintings for the eyes and sculptures for the nose and mouth which were visible on the wall and floor (pictured below). I also loved being able to stand very close to his work and admire the brush strokes and colour, and take inspiration from the art.

If you get the opportunity to visit, then you really should go!

Wren B
Year 8

On Thursday 7 November, the GDST rally was hosted by Croydon High.  Junior and Senior Schools from across the GDST network competed in cross country, U11 football and U13 hockey. The atmosphere was energetic and lively – it was an incredible event.

^{GDST Cross Country Teams}

^{Cross Country in action}

Well done to our Under 13 hockey team who finished 5th at the rally and our Under 11 footballers who finished 11th!

Huge congratulations to our Junior and Senior teams for becoming overall GDST Cross Country Champions – what a way to start the new half-term!

^{Croydon High crowned GDST Cross Country Champions!}

Visit our Junior School and take a look at our fantastic facilities, and learn about our school from teachers and pupils.

Our Junior School Open Morning will take place 9.15am – 11am and include a talk from the Junior Leadership Team and an opportunity to tour the site.

Book your place today

Our founding Headmistress, Dorinda Neligan is honoured with a plaque at Croydon Minster and this year our service will be particularly special as we celebrate 150 years of Croydon High School. 

We hope our Croydon High families, friends and community will be able to make this wonderfully festive occasion.

Book your place today