The School has an outstanding academic reputation and record of places at universities (including Oxford and Cambridge). It prides itself on providing a first-class balanced education for girls from all sectors of society and the opportunity to develop talent and individuality in any field. Music, drama, sport and extra-curricular activities flourish and form a valued part of school life. The School has all the advantages of a location in the centre of an ancient university city and involvement in the local community, joint ventures with other schools, and strong European links add to the real benefits of a single-sex establishment.
The curriculum retains the finest educational traditions whilst promoting newer technologies. All girls take courses to GCSE in English Language, English Literature, French, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and a second modern language, chosen from German, Italian, Russian or Spanish. In addition, they select up to three optional subjects from History, Geography, Religious Studies, Latin, Greek, Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music and Textiles. Information Technology is used across the curriculum to enhance academic work and modules from the Cambridge Information Technology scheme are offered from the Fourth Form. Non-examination courses in Religious Studies and Physical Education are compulsory.
The Sixth Form offers two year GCE Advanced Level and AS courses together with additional GCSEs. Students are required to develop their use of Information Technology, and encouraged to maintain their language skills through FLAW courses with European Work Experience or languages ab initio, including Japanese. All students take a General Course and follow Creative Activities choosing from a wide range of pursuits each term. The value placed on scholarship, the excellent results and relaxed atmosphere attract pupils from both inside and outside the School.
Careers advice is readily available within the School, which is a member of Independent Schools Careers Organisation, and pupils are supported by well-established pastoral structures which foster personal development and informed choice. With over 700 girls in the Junior and Senior Departments and in the Sixth Form Centre, the School is able to create a sense of community and purpose in a friendly and challenging environment.
