Once again, the girls of Blackheath High School GDST have gained excellent results in this summer's examinations. A-level students have been celebrating their achievements as they look forward, with confidence, to starting the next stage of their education at universities of their choice. Headteacher, Mrs Lisa Laws, believes their success is due not only to hard work but also to a broad and challenging curriculum that develops questioning minds and creative thinking.

At Blackheath High School creativity is integral to both the academic and extra curricular aspects of school life. Mrs Laws believes that creativity is essential to meet the needs of the individual child and to meet the changing needs of society. "The rate of change in all aspects of life is now so rapid that our pupils need to be adaptable and to learn to think laterally and to generate and be responsive to new ideas."

Music has long been a strength of the school and pupils are encouraged to learn a wide variety of musical instruments and perform in the school's orchestras, jazz band or other ensembles. The loan of an instrument and free tuition is offered to all girls in both years 2 and 7. Membership of the choirs is also very popular and the girls have enjoyed singing in venues as diverse as the Royal Aeronautical Society and Sienna Cathedral.

Excellent examination results attained in Art and Design Technology are testament to the high quality work being produced within these departments. Students are challenged by working on real projects with Artists in Residence, visits to galleries and the use of hi-tech design equipment.

Drama is also a very popular subject, with many girls choosing to continue it to GCSE and then A Level. Both the Junior and Senior schools have well-equipped theatres which provide exciting venues for productions and concerts. They also facilitate the development of the extra-curricular programme of drama activities, in which the girls participate with great enthusiasm.

Blackheath High School girls are also encouraged to be active and involved in sport whatever their level of ability. Excellent sporting facilities, including an all-weather pitch have enabled the expansion of sporting opportunities. Girls also participate in netball tours, ski trips, orienteering and outward bound expeditions.

Lessons are enriched by activities that encourage creativity. These are supported by excellent ICT facilities and also by field trips, workshops, school journeys and visits to museums, art galleries and other places of interest. This approach helps to develop thinking skills and make learning more enjoyable, enabling Blackheath High School girls to develop into independent learners with enquiring minds and the ability to think 'outside the box.' They not only attain excellent examination results but also acquire a lifelong enjoyment of learning.