A current parent recalls looking around possible schools for their daughter, some of which wanted to know ‘what the child could do for the school’. That’s not the case at Queenswood, which wanted ‘to find out what they could do for the child, to help them reach their goals’. With a staggering range of facilities and opportunities on offer (pupils can now take A-levels in both media studies and photography, and a DT scholarship is up for grabs), that’s exactly what they
do here, turning out ‘well-rounded young ladies’. The learning-support provisions are excellent, with incredibly knowledgeable SENCO staff on hand, as well as a purpose-built Personalised Learning Centre. (This is a hub for all, from students taking enrichment programmes to those who need extra support; and every pupil is encouraged to utilise the space and ask for help where they need it.) Head Jo Cameron radiates passion for ‘Q’, as the alma mater is affectionately known, and one parent describes her as ‘down to earth, as well as visible in the school’. The bespoke approach covers everything from academics and sport, to the flexi-boarding on offer, as well as door-to-door transport for pupils. In 2021, 61 per cent of leavers bounded off to Russell Group universities, while a further seven per cent hopped across the pond to study in the United States. And this year, after lengthy consultation with students, a dynamic redevelopment of the Sixth Form Centre was completed, which boasts a coffee bar and a social hub.
Location: Brookmans Park, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 6NS
Website: queenswood.org
Head: Jo Cameron, BSc (Hons), since 2016; previously Deputy Head of Ipswich High School for Girls
Pupils: 444 girls: 227 day, 217 boarding
Ages: 11-18
Term fees: Day: £8,925; boarding: £12,800
Oxbridge: Occasional
Admission: School’s own exam, interview and previous school's report
Alumnae: Helen McCrory, former Vice Chancellor of Cambridge University Dame Alison Fettes Richard
