St Albans High School for Girls

At STAHS we are always thinking beyond; that’s why everything we do is geared towards preparing our pupils not just for their next steps, but for achieving their long-term goals. We call this our Teach to 25 philosophy. Our vision is that each child is supported to become a happy, resilient young person who embraces life’s challenges and opportunities. STAHS pupils not only achieve excellent academic outcomes, but more importantly are prepared to live lives of consequence and make a meaningful impact on the world.

From our Character Education programme, which starts in Reception, to our super-curriculum that stretches pupils beyond the limits of exam specifications, to our formal two-year leadership programme for Sixth Formers, Teach to 25 runs through every aspect of a STAHS education. STAHS pupils gain the skills, independence and knowledge needed to navigate their path in the critical early years of adult life.

We are very proud to be consistently ranked amongst the best independent schools in the UK. We have sky-high expectations for and of our pupils and our world-class teaching and rich curriculum help them achieve their ambitions. In and outside the classroom, our pupils are encouraged to and rewarded for giving their best, whatever their passions and aspirations. You’ll see from our leavers’ destinations that we do not cater for a narrow selection of specialist subjects. Each year, the range of courses, universities and other higher education options that our Year 13 leavers embark upon is as varied and individual as they are. Rather than following the crowd, they blaze their own trails, and I could not be prouder of them.

Our support extends beyond a pupil’s school years. When you join STAHS, as a pupil and as a family, you join a warm and giving community for life. Our alumni network is global, interconnected and part of day-to-day life at STAHS, providing invaluable advice, mentoring, guidance and support for pupils. As parents, you will not spend long with us before you’ll be invited for a talk or workshop led by someone from our diverse and wide-reaching network. As a pupil, you will benefit from this network from your first day at STAHS and beyond – through your working life and even into retirement!

A STAHS education is truly extraordinary. This prospectus gives a glimpse of what makes us exceptional. But nothing is the same as a visit – STAHS has great warmth and such a buzz of excitement about it – that must be felt in person. I do hope you will visit us soon to see for yourself. You will be very welcome.

Amber Waite, Head