Sydenham High School announces Antonia Geldeard as Head

Following an extensive recruitment process by the Girls’ Day School Trust, Sydenham High School have announced Antonia Geldeard as Head from September.

Antonia grew up in Surrey and Sussex and read English Literature at Trinity College, Cambridge, and later a PGCE in English and Drama.

After early years spent working as a television journalist, in factual programmes, she joined Alleyn’s School, in Dulwich, as an English and Drama teacher and was appointed to the role of Head of House and Head of Film/Media Studies before being promoted to Head of English.

In 2017, Antonia moved to Trinity School, Croydon, to take up the role of Head of Sixth Form and then in 2019, she was promoted to Deputy Head.

Antonia said: "Visiting Sydenham High, it is clear that it is small enough that each child can feel that they are really known, part of the community, but large enough to be able to enjoy diversity and variety in all aspects of school life.

"I spent a day at the school during my application process and, walking around, it was so evident that the girls are happy, confident, and curious – they were quick to ask me questions and volunteered all sorts of stories showing their utter engagement and joy in school life.

"This is a great testament to the ethos of the school and the atmosphere to which all the community contribute."

She continued: "I feel honoured to have been offered the role and I very much look forward to getting to know the staff, pupils and parents, and to working with this vibrant school community in the years ahead."