Our School : Senior

Girls normally enter the Senior School in Year 7 but, if space allows, we are also happy to consider new pupils for entry in Years 8, 9 and at the start of Year 10 as well. We are rarely able to take girls into Year 10 beyond Christmas or into Year 11 at all. There are about 225 girls on role and each Year group is normally divided into three Forms.

Whilst academic achievement is very important - and we have topped the Cornish League Tables at both GCSE and A Level for the past three years and are in the Top 200 of all UK schools - we also focus on helping girls develop their personality, their creative and sporting ability and their friendships. Now is the time to 'stretch talent' and our girls learn to take on responsibility, too. Many girls take their turn as Form Captain, Deputy Head of House, Sports Team Captains and so on as well as forming Committee for the school magazine, Eco Schools, 130-year celebrations, May Balls and so on.

The growing-up years from 11-16 years can sometimes be a difficult time emotionally but we are extremely proud of our 'outstanding', supportive pastoral system. Each girl has the same Form Tutor from Year 7 - 11 and there are also trained Sixth Form mentors who are available on a daily basis in our Chat Room.

The girls themselves have a very positive attitude to work and study. They work well independently and, just as successfully, in a team or group. One of the most special things about the School is that you will always hear kindly, joyous laughter between girls and staff. Here, we are all on the same side and this was commented upon in our most recent Inspection (2008):

'A major strength of the School is the keeness of all pupils of all abilities to learn and to do their best. Small class sizes in all age groups enable much attention to be given to each individual.'

'Teaching staff are well organised, knowledgeable and have excellent rapport with their classes....Expectations of industry and achievement are high and are communicated skilfully. As a result pupils have an upbeat attitude to study and behave very well.'

'All pupils feel valued, helping them to grow in self-esteem and self-confidence. Pupils also benefit from positive relationships with teacher and other pupils at all levels.'