St Paul's Girls' School is an independent secondary day school for girls from 11-18 years of age. There are approximately 700 pupils with 200 in the Senior School (Sixth Form). Entry at 11+ is by competitive examination held in January. About 20 girls are also admitted at 16+ each year following an entrance examination held in November.
The origins of St Paul's Girls' School lie in the sixteenth century with John Colet's foundation of a school 'for the children of all nations and countries'. The impetus towards educating women at the end of the nineteenth century persuaded the Mercers' Company, guardians of the Colet Estate, to use part of that endowment to establish a new day school for girls which opened in 1904. Today's Paulinas number more than six hundred and fifty and the original school, so beautifully built to Gerald Horsley's design, has grown to accommodate an expanded curriculum.
From the outset, the school established a tradition of liberal education, providing individuals with wide ranging opportunities to develop personal excellence. We continue to place great importance on the development of each girl intellectually, morally and spiritually. Freedom for students to explore ideas for themselves, whilst learning academic discipline, encourages independent minds which are informed and clear-thinking. Creativity and individual enthusiasm are valued here, as are tolerance and co-operation.
This is a stimulating atmosphere in which to learn. Corridors and classrooms are full of lively debate. Girls learn to work together in a community based on mutual respect and a desire to engage with the world beyond the school gates. Schoolgirls mature into confident students, aware of their own strengths and interests, able to take responsibility for themselves and others.
Colet was concerned to ensure that his foundation should prove flexible enough to adapt to changing times. The essence of St Paul's lies in its roots and in its capacity to change and remain dynamic.
Clarissa M Farr
High Mistress