Welcome

Stratford Grammar School for Girls is one of the best state schools in the country, and is recognised nationally as a centre of academic excellence. Our recent Ofsted report describes the standards that the girls achieve as "exceptionally high" at every level, and comments that teachers "inspire and motivate pupils".

We believe that there is more to education than exam results, however: we believe in a holistic approach, developing the whole person - and there is a real sense of enjoyment here in the business of learning together. We were delighted, therefore, when Ofsted recognised this, rating girls’ personal development as "outstanding", and concluding that "pupils are very happy". The school is described as "a stable and happy community" where "pupils flourish", and the care, guidance and support they receive is classed as "outstanding". Parents are supportive of the school, too: "My daughter loves school; she is happy and so are we" was one comment reported by the Ofsted inspectors; another was "My daughter came home from her first day smiling".

This is a small and very friendly school, the sense of community is strong, and the staff know individual pupils well. Something of the spirit of Shottery can perhaps be gained from checking out some of the photos elsewhere on this website: the decorated classrooms at Christmas, for instance, or the World Book Day costumes – when staff as well as girls dress up as literary characters for the day. We know how to have fun learning together! All kinds of opportunities are made available to girls through a wide range of extra-curricular activities, too – and the take-up is impressive. Girls are encouraged to use their initiative – and do, to excellent effect. One good example of this has been the transformation of an overgrown piece of waste-land to a tranquil cottage garden – the result of the imagination (and hard labour) of a group of sixth-form girls. The school is set in beautiful grounds around the fifteenth century Shottery Manor, which itself forms part of the school buildings. Tradition has it that the betrothal ceremony of Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway took place in the room that is now the Geography Room, and which for many years was used as a chapel. Our environment is truly inspiring!

You should not simply take my word for any of this. Explore the website for yourself and check out the details. Much of it has been put together by the girls themselves – and, as always, they are the school’s best ambassadors. Best of all, come and visit us in person. You will be made most welcome.

Kate Barnett

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