The early years at St Paul's are designed to open new intellectual horizons, to develop skills in research and debate and to establish the good habits of time management and self-discipline. These are essential if girls are to take full advantage of all that St Paul's has to offer, or the choice could become bewildering.

Years 7-9 follow a set curriculum that gives them a chance to build a broad academic foundation with IT skills woven throughout. Languages, the humanities, maths and sciences are balanced with sports, art, music and drama.

Right from the start, we expect the girls to do most of their reading out of school, so class is free for discussion. We try to build the habit of reading to feed their souls – feeding reading.

The GCSE years mark the transition from child to young adult, while the girls gain an increasing amount of control over their studies – there are seven mandatory and 12 optional GCSE/IGCSE subjects, plus school-directed courses in art and music.

They are also encouraged to look forward and outward – to think about future degrees and careers, start work experience and develop communications and team-building skills. Community service also features, with projects such as a pre-Christmas tea for senior citizens.