Leicester High School for Girls

Leicester High School for Girls is an independent day school established in 1906, originally founded as a Christian institution that welcomes students of all faiths and none. The school moved to its current location in 1926 and became a charitable trust in 1975. It is governed by a board that oversees both the junior and senior departments. The school caters to girls aged 3 to 18, with a current enrollment of 316 pupils, including 21 in the Early Years Foundation Stage, 73 in the junior department, 175 in the senior school, and 47 in the sixth form. The school aims to foster a friendly and caring community where each individual is valued, promoting intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and personal values such as respect and determination.

The pupils at Leicester High School come from diverse backgrounds, primarily from the local area and surrounding villages. The school reflects the ethnic diversity of its locality, with a majority of pupils demonstrating above-average ability compared to national standards. The school supports students with special educational needs and disabilities, providing tailored assistance where necessary. The curriculum is designed to nurture individual talents and creativity, ensuring that all pupils, including those identified as highly able, receive appropriate challenges.

The recent focused compliance and educational quality inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that Leicester High School meets all regulatory standards. The inspection highlighted the quality of education provided, noting that teaching enables pupils to make good progress across all year groups. The school’s assessment framework supports effective teaching and learning, with documented curriculum plans that cover a broad range of subjects. The school also provides relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, adhering to statutory guidance and involving parental consultation.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school’s arrangements for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils are robust, with effective measures in place to prevent bullying and ensure health and safety. The school maintains appropriate records and conducts regular risk assessments, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of its students.

The inspection also assessed the suitability of staff, confirming that appropriate checks are made to ensure that all individuals working with pupils are suitable for their roles. The premises and accommodation are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils’ medical and therapy needs, as well as adequate outdoor space for physical education and play. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admissions and behaviour.

Complaints from parents are handled effectively through a structured process, ensuring transparency and accountability. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively and promoting the well-being of pupils.

In terms of educational quality, the inspection found that the academic achievements of pupils are excellent. Pupils of all abilities make significant progress, reflected in their examination results, which enable them to gain entry to higher education institutions of their choice. The school’s emphasis on developing strong communication skills is evident, with pupils displaying excellent attitudes towards learning and highly developed study skills. The curriculum is designed to challenge pupils and encourage independent thinking, with a strong focus on fostering a life-long love of learning.

Pupils demonstrate outstanding personal development, showing respect for cultural diversity and a strong understanding of right and wrong. They engage in various enrichment activities that promote resilience and confidence, achieving notable success in sports, music, and other pursuits. The school encourages pupils to take responsibility for their learning and to contribute positively to the school community through charity work and leadership roles.

The school’s environment fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity, with pupils expressing appreciation for the support they receive from teachers and peers. The emphasis on well-being is evident in initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles and relaxation techniques, helping pupils manage academic pressures effectively.

Overall, Leicester High School for Girls provides a nurturing and challenging educational environment that supports the academic and personal development of its pupils. The school’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its strong academic performance, the quality of its teaching, and the positive attitudes of its students. The recent inspection confirms that the school meets all regulatory standards and continues to provide a high-quality education that prepares pupils for future success.