EXPANDING HORIZONS
Beyond the classroom, opportunities include enterprise and outreach initiatives, volunteering, and engaging with complex ideas. Want to challenge yourself beyond A Levels?
WESTMACOTT PROGRAMME
The Westmacott Programme is one of many ways in which we help students develop into articulate and intellectually curious young adults.
Named after our first Head, Roma Westmacott, this weekly extension session is designed to sit alongside A Level study, with emphasis on oracy, confidence and engagement with the wider world.
Strengthen critical thinking and verbal reasoning through debating; explore contemporary issues, construct persuasive arguments and respond to opposing viewpoints. This is complemented by our thriving Model United Nations programme, which deepens understanding of global politics and international relations with the chance to take part in school-hosted conferences.
Communication skills, teamwork and public speaking are developed further through FHS Radio, offering opportunities to plan, script and present broadcasts. STEM-focused students can gain valuable insight into real-world engineering practice through industry-linked projects with the Engineering Development Trust.
ENTERPRISE AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
We have a long-standing, award-winning tradition of fostering entrepreneurial thinking across all year groups, with a sharp focus in the Sixth Form.
Entrepreneurship is both a mindset and a skillset, inviting you to think creatively, act with purpose and respond to challenges assuredly.
Turn a business idea into a viable plan through our Tycoon competition, with potential to secure funding from the Peter Jones Foundation to launch it. Many students also participate in the Girls Are Investors (GAIN UK) competition, working alongside industry mentors to research investment companies and produce professional stock pitches.
This inspiring culture is further enhanced by our extensive alumnae and parent network, with regular talks held through the ‘Working Lunch’ programme and a diverse speaker programme.
As a result, around 15% of our students go on to study business, finance or related subjects, equipped with resilience and real-world insight.
TEDx
We have proudly held a TEDx licence for the past five years, giving students the standout opportunity to present powerful ‘ideas worth spreading’ on a professional stage.
Explore subjects you care deeply about, refine your voice and communicate persuasively, supported by expert coaching in research, storytelling and public speaking.
Past TEDx talks have tackled bold, thought-provoking topics such as how women get away with murder, the social power of architecture and whether politics damages personal relationships.
About a third of our Lower Sixth cohort each year participates in this challenging but highly rewarding experience.
