Each year, The Week brings together an independent panel of expert educationalists to review nominations from leading independent schools across the country. In selecting this year’s top schools, the judges highlighted the exceptionally high standard of entries, noting that they were looking for schools that go beyond purely academic metrics to provide holistic, forward-thinking environments that nurture genuine character, practical capabilities and well-rounded individuals ready for the modern world.

This accolade follows our recent commendation at the Independent Schools Awards for Wellbeing, underscoring our school-wide commitment to prioritising emotional resilience alongside academic achievement.

This recognition highlights our commitment to shaping future-ready young women who leave us fully equipped with the skills, resilience and authentic confidence needed to thrive far beyond the classroom.

At Norwich High School for Girls GDST, we firmly reject the traditional exam factory model. We believe true preparation for life requires the psychological foundation of Mattering – the deep belief that a student’s presence adds value. This ethos ensures every girl feels seen, valued and supported.

Our active learning approach specifically rewards diverse successes outside of traditional testing. This sits alongside Beyond, our pioneering extra-curricular programme building practical life-fluency. Within the timetabled day, Senior students engage in safe-to-fail, non-examined modules ranging from Financial Literacy and Vehicle Maintenance to bullet journaling, crochet, student librarianship and environmental sustainability.

By integrating academic ambition with our core pastoral pillars – Know Yourself, Look After Yourself and Make it Happen – we ensure our students possess a robust portfolio of self.