On 21st July, just before the summer break, staff at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls discovered a young cat in the school playground. She was underweight, injured, and clearly in need of care, yet remained remarkably friendly.

The following day, staff ensured her safety and took her to Goddard’s Vets in Thamesmead. Although she was microchipped, her owners never responded. It was then revealed that Polly, as she became known, was pregnant.

Miss Gardner kindly offered her home as a safe refuge. On GCSE Results Day, Polly gave birth to six healthy kittens. Each has since been rehomed within the Poly community, ensuring they remain part of our extended family. Polly herself has been spayed, restored to good health, and now lives permanently with Miss Gardner.

This story reflects the dedication of Woolwich Poly staff, who consistently go above and beyond - not only for students, but also for vulnerable members of the wider community.

We extend our thanks to Miss Gardner, her daughter Emma, and all those who supported Polly’s rescue and care.

Christmas Dinner Day for Students at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls

Get ready for a festive feast on Wednesday 10th December!

Roast Turkey or Winter Squash & Kale Stuffed Wellington

Served with Roast Potatoes, Sprouts, Carrot Batons & rich Gravy

Plus a Festive Cookie – the sweetest way to finish!

All for just £2.75 – the perfect way for students to celebrate the season together.

Save the date!

At Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls, safeguarding and pastoral care are at the core of everything we do. While academic achievement is vital, we believe education goes beyond qualifications. Our mission is to ensure every student develops into a confident, well-rounded individual who embodies our three pillars: Leadership, Excellence, and Resilience. These values prepare our girls with the skills they need to succeed in life.

From the moment your daughter joins us, she will be supported by a dedicated form tutor and Head of Year, who will remain with her throughout her journey. This continuity fosters strong, trusting relationships between the school, students, and parents or carers -creating a partnership that truly nurtures success.

Our pastoral team is compassionate and committed to helping every student thrive academically, socially, and personally. We celebrate the diversity of our community and promote an ethos of respect and acceptance. At Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls, differences are embraced, and every student is valued.

We understand that challenges can arise, and we are here to provide support whenever needed. Our safe and happy environment allows students to flourish, knowing they are cared for and understood.

Celebration and gratitude are central to our culture. We inspire our girls to reach their full potential by recognising and rewarding achievements both inside and outside the classroom. Daily, students and staff show appreciation for one another, fostering mutual respect and a positive atmosphere.

At Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls, we don’t just educate - we empower. We prepare our students not only for exams but for life, ensuring they leave us as confident, resilient leaders ready to make their mark on the world.

Every year, from 20th November to 20th December, the UK observes Disability History Month (UKDHM) - a time dedicated to recognising the struggles, achievements, and contributions of disabled people throughout history. Established in 2010, UKDHM shines a light on the ongoing fight for equality and human rights, while encouraging society to challenge ableism and create inclusive spaces for all. 

What Is Disability History Month?

UKDHM is more than a commemorative event; it is a movement. It aims to:

• Celebrate the resilience and achievements of disabled individuals.
• Educate about historical injustices, from institutionalisation to eugenics.
• Advocate for systemic change, ensuring disabled voices lead conversations about rights and inclusion. 

The month also aligns with key international observances such as World AIDS Day (1 Dec), International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 Dec), and Human Rights Day (10 Dec), reinforcing the global nature of disability rights.

Theme for 2025: “Disability, Life and Death”

This year’s theme, Disability, Life and Death, addresses pressing ethical and social questions surrounding assisted dying legislation currently debated in Parliament. Many disabled activists fear that such laws could undermine their right to life, echoing historical prejudices that once justified sterilisation, euthanasia, and exclusion under the guise of “mercy.” 

The theme calls for reflection on:

• The inherent value of disabled lives, as affirmed by Article 10 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

• Historical lessons, from Nazi-era atrocities to the eugenics movement, remind us why vigilance against discriminatory ideologies remain vital.

How Is It Celebrated?

Across the UK, organisations, schools, and communities host:

• Educational events: Panels, lectures, and workshops exploring disability rights history.
• Arts and culture programmes: Exhibitions like the V&A’s Design and Disability showcase the creative contributions of disabled artists. 
• Campaigns and activism: Trade unions, charities, and grassroots groups amplify disabled voices, demanding better access and inclusion in workplaces and public life.
• Digital resources, storytelling projects, and social media campaigns also play a huge role in spreading awareness and fostering dialogue nationwide.

Why It Matters

Disability History Month reminds us that progress is not guaranteed. While landmark laws such as the Disability Discrimination Act (1995) and the Equality Act (2010) have advanced rights, systemic barriers persist. UKDHM is a call to action: to dismantle ableism, prioritise accessibility, and ensure that disabled people are not only included but empowered to lead. 

Get Involved

Visit UKDHM.org for resources, event listings, and educational materials. Whether you attend a local event, share stories online, or advocate for inclusive policies, your participation helps build a society where every life is valued equally.

Dear Parents and Carers,

We are writing to express serious concerns about the unsafe driving practices observed around our school during drop-off times. We have received multiple complaints from members of the public, and as a result, Greenwich Council will be issuing fines to any drivers who stop on the roundabout to let their daughter out of the car.

In particular, we ask that you do not stop at the beginning of Birchdene Drive to drop off your daughter and then perform a U-turn, as this causes significant traffic build-up and poses a danger to students and other road users.

To ensure the safety of all, we kindly ask that you use one of the following safer alternatives:

• KFC Car Park: Drop your daughter off here and allow her to walk through the underpass, so she does not need to cross the road.
• End of Birchdene Drive: Drive all the way to the roundabout at the end, where it is safe to turn around and drop your daughter off.

Please also avoid using the staff car park entrance to turn around, as this blocks access for staff who need to get to work.

We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our students and community safe.

Kind regards,
WPG SLT