Prize Giving and Certificate Presentation Evening

The Downs School recently held its annual Presentation Evening. The event recognised the achievements of the student body in 2010-11and was very well attended with over 300 people packed into the school hall.

The guest speaker was Olympic rower Alice Freeman who shared images of her trip to Beijing and video footage of her Olympic participation. Alice spoke of the need to always give your all and to not be afraid of failure. Her own story of resilience and achievement was inspirational and one that all members of the audience could take something from.

Prizes were awarded not only for academic achievement but for citizenship, contributions to their House, effort and attendance. The event was a true celebration and a tribute to all.

Downs School win 3 Golds!

The Downs School Badminton teams have had deserved success winning three gold medals.

The Key Stage 3 and 4 boys' teams confidently won as did the key stage 4 girls' team, for the third year running, coming first in their categories in the West Berkshire county badminton tournament.

These teams will go forward to the County finals at the end of January and we wish them every success.

Choir Perform at Local Residential Home

Grange Residential Home in Goring were entertained by the Downs School choir and the residents were tapping along to “Mamma Mia” and “I will Follow Him”, from the film “Sister Act”, as well as enjoying quieter moments with “Scarborough Fair” and “The Rose”. Two of the ladies made impromptu votes of thanks to the choir, saying how much they had enjoyed both the melodies and the harmonies. 

Our choir also recently visited Basildon Park to perform their Christmas songs to entertain the visitors to the National Trust property. It was certainly a marvellous experience performing in such an historic setting.

Sixth Form Open Evening

Our recent sixth form open evening was very well attended from both the Downs and other schools. There was plenty of opportunity to talk to various subject staff and current students about subject choices.

The evening finished with around 350 people in the school hall listening to Mr Hartley, Head of Sixth Form, make a presentation about the Downs School's post 16 provision. He covered all aspects, both academic and non-academic, as well as the support given for preparation for life beyond school.

Applications for September 2012 Sixth Form should be received by 3rd February 2012.