Introduction From The Headmistress

The school is a dynamic and exciting place to be; expectations are high and learning is fun. Academic success is a priority but we are not simply an exam factory; teachers are in the privileged position of developing the minds and characters of young women. We recognise that your daughter is unique and has her own strengths and talents. Our size means that every girl in the school is known personally by staff and friendships are formed across, as well as within, year groups. The quality of pastoral care is outstanding and is underpinned by the boarding ethos. All girls benefit from an extended day, wider opportunities and genuine sense of community whether they are full, weekly, flexi boarders or day girls.

Our aim is to give girls the skills they need to live their lives well - through building high self-esteem, enabling independent thinking and problem solving and allowing each one to find her own role in life sure of the positive contribution that she can make.

Princess Helena College is indeed a wonderful place and I am proud to be Headmistress here.

Jo-Anne Duncan

Wider Learning

We believe that an all-round education plays a crucial role in preparing girls for exam success, higher education and life.

We pride ourselves on ensuring that each girl discovers and develops her individual interests and talents.

We offer a wealth of extracurricular activities, opportunities, trips and experiences. We continually enhance the range offered, so that girls experience new and relevant challenges throughout their school life.

Girls are fully involved in activities such as dance, drama, music and sport. Practising, performing and competing in areas such as these helps to instil self-discipline and enables girls to gain self-confidence.

Policies

Click to download the attached file(s):
• Child_Protection_Policy_Jan_10.pdf
• Safer_Recruitment_Policy_2010.pdf
• Student_Leadership_Policy_-_Feb_2010.pdf

Introduction From The Head Girl

Writing this has made me think back and reflect on my life at PHC. One question I have often been asked is, ‘What is you favourite thing about the school?' It's a good question that is difficult to answer … but I would probably say that it is the people. Everyone knows each other, no matter what year they are in; there are always activities to share with other girls, such as dance, sport, art, music, drama, house events and much more. It is the major benefit of being part of a small school.

My first year in sixth form and my time as Head of Gloucester have been exciting and a challenge I have thoroughly enjoyed – although at times it certainly was not easy.

I have received tremendous support from my friends, teachers and parents and I am now very much looking forward to the year ahead. As well as the all important final year of exams, I now have the opportunity to gain experience, give the girls a voice and add a little something extra to the school.

Amy Keast

Aims and Objectives

It is our genuine belief that every girl is an individual and that as a school it is our responsibility to help each girl develop in a way which allows her to make the most of her unique talents and personality.

Our aim is to inspire, encourage and assist every girl to:

• realise her academic potential through well taught lessons in up-to-date facilities;
• develop her strengths and skills outside the classroom;
• grow in courage and compassion, showing consideration for others in the school community and in society generally;
• think independently;
• take responsibility for herself and others.

Basic Facts

Type of School
Founded in 1820, we are one of England's oldest academic girls' schools. We welcome day girls, flexi boarders, weekly boarders and full boarders from age 11 to 18. We are proud of the warmth of our community and of the way in which day girls and boarders live and work successfully together.

Governors

At Princess Helena College, we are very fortunate to have Her Majesty the Queen as our Patron, HRH The Duchess of Gloucester as our President and Miss Mary Beattie MBE JP DL as our Vice President.

Our supportive team of Governors, which works tirelessly on behalf of the college, is led by our Chairman, Dr Mary Buchanan. All of our Governors work closely with the Headmistress and Bursar to develop the School, to provide the best education possible