Harrogate Ladies' College

Harrogate Ladies’ College, located in the heart of Harrogate, offers a nurturing and academically rigorous environment for girls aged 2 to 18. The school is known for its flexibility in entry points, welcoming students at ages 11, 13, and 16, with additional entry points considered on a case-by-case basis. For Year 7 entry, the process includes a taster day in the autumn term, a school test in Maths and English, an interview with the principal, and references and reports from the previous school. Highfield, the linked co-educational prep school, sees about half of its girls continue to Harrogate Ladies’ College, while the rest often opt for the strong state provision in the area.

Sixth form entry is also flexible, requiring a minimum of five 5s at GCSEs and an assessment in English and Maths. International pupils, who make up around half of the 90-strong sixth form, sit the school’s own English and Maths tests under independently supervised conditions and are then interviewed by the principal. The school offers EAL support but is clear that poorer English skills may be a barrier to success. A variety of scholarships are available, including academic, music, drama, art, textiles, and sporting programmes.

The school sees about half of its students leave post-GCSEs, often due to the appeal of strong state sixth form provisions in the area. However, over 90% of sixth formers proceed to a wide selection of universities, with many attending Russell Group institutions. Popular destinations include Durham, Newcastle, Northumbria, Sheffield, and York St John’s, with a couple of students heading to the University of the Arts London. In 2023, two students gained places at Oxbridge, and one pursued a medical degree. Overseas destinations are also popular, with students heading to universities in France, Spain, and Germany. The range of courses pursued is broad, including Economics, Business, International Relations, Politics, 3D Design, Architecture, Medicine, PPE, Engineering, Mathematics, and Law.

The latest results place the school comfortably as the highest performing in the Harrogate area for both GCSEs and A levels. In 2023, 57% of GCSE grades were 9-7, and 41% of A level grades were A*/A, with 68% A*-B. The school offers a traditional curriculum with a strong focus on cross-curricular links and developing independent learning skills. This initiative is led by input from both sixth form students and staff.

The sciences are a particular strength, with well-equipped, albeit slightly dated, labs and the option for double or triple science at GCSE. During a recent visit, students were engaged in a mock CSI investigation, donning hazmat suits and analysing crime scene samples. The school offers a good range of subjects, and most pupils are able to get their desired choices, with the curriculum built around students’ preferences wherever possible. All students take Latin, French, and German from Year 7, with the option to introduce Spanish by Year 8. A modern language is preferred at GCSE but not compulsory. Top set Maths students do Further Maths as standard, and it is also an option at A level. The EPQ has a 30% take-up in the sixth form.

A strong tracking and monitoring system ensures that every girl is on track and receives support if needed. Subject clinics are highly praised, and pupils can email teachers at any time for help. Homework is substantial but adjusted if necessary. Boarders have 90 minutes of prep after school, with day girls welcome to join. The school fosters a two-way learning process, involving girls in their own learning journey.

Class sizes are a maximum of 24, with many much smaller. The girls are well known by their teachers, and classrooms are a mix of old and new but well maintained. The school boasts a superb library and red-carpeted corridors throughout.

Careers education is taken seriously, with a new programme launched in 2019 under the title ‘Inspire – preparing today for tomorrow’s workplace’. Activities include weekly careers talks, fairs, and a work experience programme for Year 11.

Around 10% of students have SEN, mainly dyslexia, ADHD, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia. The Head of Learning Support leads a small additional needs team, and the school uses primary data and its own screening to identify specific needs. In-class teacher support is free, and there is a scale of charges for more individual programmes. The school accommodates physical disabilities, though the age and layout of the buildings could be limiting.

Music is a vital part of school life, with a dedicated music house and numerous ensembles. The chapel choir is a strength, with tours in the UK and overseas. Drama is also well-supported, with a drama studio and assembly hall with retractable seating. Art, Photography, and Textiles are offered at A level, with excellent facilities.

The school offers over 20 extra-curricular clubs, including science, business, and charity work. Sports are a major part of school life, with lacrosse at the heart of its success. Facilities include tennis and badminton courts, a multi-gym, a newly redeveloped 25-metre pool, and a sports hall.

Boarding houses offer a home-from-home atmosphere, with comfortable rooms and a real sense of community. The boarding staff provide outstanding care, and the town location allows for a degree of independence for older girls. Weekly and flexi boarding are available, with full boarding offering a range of weekend activities.

The school was founded in 1893 and combines Victorian buildings with modern additions on a leafy site. The chapel hosts services three times a week, reflecting the multicultural nature of the pupils. The separate sixth form centre offers shared studies, a study centre, kitchens, an AV room, and a stylish coffee shop.

Uniforms are smart, with a blazer and tartan skirt for the main school and a business suit for the sixth form. The dining room has seen a marked improvement in the choice and quality of meals, with staff and girls dining together.

The school has a strong alumnae network, with notable former pupils in various fields. Pastoral care is committed to supporting mental health and wellbeing, with a wellness centre offering a range of support services. The school fosters a happy and inclusive community, with a focus on individuality and respect.

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