Nottingham Girls’ High School GDST, located at the heart of Nottingham, is a distinguished institution dedicated to providing an empowering education for girls aged three to 18. Celebrating 150 years of all-girls education in 2025, the school has a rich history and a forward-thinking approach that equips students with the confidence and resilience needed to thrive in today’s world. The school operates as a day school with an all-faiths ethos, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds.
The school is renowned for its academic excellence, as evidenced by its impressive performance in national rankings. According to the Times 2024 Parent Power Rankings, the school holds a respectable position at 129, reflecting its commitment to high academic standards. The A-level results are noteworthy, with 19.3% of students achieving an A*, 51% securing A*/A grades, and 78.6% attaining A*/B grades. At the GCSE level, the school boasts a strong performance with 51.4% of students achieving A*/9/8 grades and 72.3% obtaining A*/A/9/8/7 grades.
Under the leadership of Julie Keller, who became head in 2016, the school has seen significant changes both academically and pastorally. Keller’s background in teaching at co-educational comprehensives has informed her approach to creating an environment where girls are encouraged to excel academically while also developing their individual voices. Her leadership style is characterised by energy and enthusiasm, which resonates with both students and parents alike.
The school’s curriculum offers flexibility, allowing students to choose subjects that align with their interests and strengths. This approach is particularly evident in the GCSE programme, where students have the freedom to opt out of compulsory subjects like languages or sciences if they wish to focus on other areas. This flexibility ensures that each student receives a tailored education that meets their unique needs.
The junior school, led by Laura Fowler for seven years, provides a nurturing environment that prepares students for a seamless transition to senior school. Parents appreciate the warm atmosphere and effective handling of this transition phase. The junior school’s emphasis on outdoor learning and interactive lessons fosters a love for learning from an early age.
Nottingham Girls’ High School GDST places a strong emphasis on extra-curricular activities, offering a wide range of opportunities for students to explore their interests beyond academics. The performing arts centre, constructed in 2016, is a hub of creativity where students can participate in drama productions such as Pride and Prejudice and High School Musical. Music is equally important, with orchestras and bands catering for various musical tastes.
Sports at the school are inclusive, encouraging all students to participate regardless of skill level. The new sports facility under construction will provide additional opportunities for team games like football and cricket as well as individual pursuits such as rowing and yoga. This inclusive approach ensures that every student can find an activity they enjoy.
Pastoral care is a cornerstone of the school’s ethos, with a strong focus on wellbeing and mental health support. The presence of a counsellor and dedicated staff ensures that students have access to the support they need. The school’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its diverse student body and efforts to create an environment where every girl feels valued.
The Head of Learning Support oversees provisions for students with special educational needs (SEN), ensuring they receive appropriate support within the classroom setting. With around 74 girls requiring SEN support, mainly for dyslexia and autism traits, the school is proactive in identifying and addressing these needs.
Nottingham Girls’ High School GDST’s commitment to diversity extends beyond its student body to its staff, with a majority female senior leadership team serving as role models for students. This focus on female empowerment permeates every aspect of the school’s culture.
In conclusion, Nottingham Girls’ High School GDST offers an exceptional education that combines academic rigour with a supportive environment tailored to the needs of each student. Its dedication to fostering confident, well-rounded young women makes it a leading choice for families in Nottinghamshire and beyond.
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