Before I begin my highlights for this newsletter, my first message must go to our wonderful Bromley High School Parents’ Association, who generously support the school throughout the year. Chaired by the inspirational Tanya Endacott, the BHPA not only raises significant funds for the school but also promotes a sense of community and cohesion, especially with families who are not yet a part of Bromley High School.

Recently, Bromley High School hosted its annual fireworks event, where 3,000 people gathered to celebrate and enjoy the festivities. Fun was had by all as we enjoyed the funfair, food, and fireworks! Stacy Harman led the event, and I’d like to express my gratitude for the hard work that he and his team put into making the evening such a huge success. I remain in awe of the extra mile our parents go to engage with our school and make it the very special place that it is.

Our estates project is progressing well – the weather has been on our side! Blakedown are currently on schedule, and we are starting to see small areas take shape. Thank you for your ongoing cooperation in terms of how you are using our site. The mud won’t be here forever!

Last Friday, I attended the International Confederation of Girls’ Schools (ICGS) symposium at our sister GDST school, Wimbledon High School. 200 international delegates from state and independent girls’ schools gathered to celebrate our collaboration and drive for equality.

As always, the keynote speakers were impressive, including Dorothy Byrne, President of Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge; Maggie Alphonsi MBE, Rugby World Cup Winner, Broadcaster & Columnist; and our very own Cheryl Giovannoni, Chief Executive of the GDST. Ms Giovannoni launched our new GDST research report: Designing the Future of Girls’ Education. She spoke powerfully about our role in giving girls the agency and ambition to create their own futures.

The event also featured a brilliant keynote address from Maggie Alphonsi MBE, who posed a thought-provoking question:

‘What is our why?’

Our ‘why’ is clear. When thinking specifically about the relevance of girls’ schools in the 21st century, as well as the individual context and needs of each of our pupils, we consider the world our young women are entering as they leave our school. Our ‘why’ is to continue the significant strides already made for girls and women in creating a more balanced world.

How we do this is by creating a learning environment designed specifically for the needs of girls. We give them an environment free from prejudice. We create a curriculum where every subject is a girls’ subject. We build relationships where our girls can know their own minds, follow their passions (rather than the crowd), and have the confidence to use their own voice.

As I reflect on the conversations from the ICGS symposium, it’s crucial to remember that our commitment is not just about immediate goals but about creating lasting change for the future.

In a month where politics have not supported our cause, both at home and across the Atlantic, the conference was a much-needed reprieve where we could celebrate being a part of the largest and most impactful movement in girls’ education: the GDST. The girls in my school give me my true north, and we will continue to ensure that the education we design for them makes their future dreams and success a reality.


Mrs Emily Codling, Headmistress