“Character, courage, conscience.” These are not just words here. They’re the guiding principles of Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich.
Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich stands in the East Dulwich area of London. It is more than just a school. It is a place where young women are prepared to lead.
The academy opened in September 2006. It was formerly known as Waverley School. Lord Harris of Peckham founded it. Today, it is part of the Harris Federation.
In fact, Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich is a single-sex school. It is smaller than many other secondary schools. The academy serves a diverse catchment area. A large percentage of students are eligible for free school meals. Around 85% of students are from minority-ethnic groups. Many students speak English as an additional language.
Back in 2012, Ofsted judged Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich as outstanding. This exempted it from Section 5 inspections ever since.
Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich has a joint local governing body. This it shares with Harris Boys’ Academy East Dulwich. The Harris Federation oversees both academies. The Local Governing Body includes trustees, parents, and staff. They work together to ensure the academy’s success.
Here at Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich, learning is key. The curriculum is broad and challenging. Teachers inspire curiosity. Students are encouraged to take risks in their learning. Mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth.
Almost all pupils go to university. A significant percentage join Russell Group universities.
Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich offers many opportunities for personal development. Students participate in Debate Mate and Jack Petchey Speak Out competitions. They also work towards the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Students exhibit their art at the Peckham Festival. They also showcase their musical talents at local music festivals.
Students support each other. They serve as subject specialist ambassadors. They also act as mental health ambassadors.
The academy celebrates its rich diversity. Culture Day raises money for local and national charities. Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich frequently wins the Harris Federation sports day. The school also wins the Federation Debate Mate and Spell-a-thon. Student poetry and art are proudly shared on Instagram.
Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich aims to develop caring, resilient, and thoughtful adults. The academy prepares the next generation of leaders. It empowers students to challenge misogyny and sexism. It ensures each pupil has genuine choices available to them.
So as you stand here, remember the values of Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich. Academic success is important. So is developing happy, confident, and ambitious young women. This academy is a source of pride for the local community.