Sheffield Girls’ GDST Celebrates Top Marks in ISI Inspection

Imagine a school where every girl is encouraged to take risks, grow in confidence, and develop into a leader. That’s exactly what Sheffield Girls’ GDST is all about. And now, their hard work has been recognised in the latest Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report, which gave them glowing praise across the board.

After an inspection in December 2024, the ISI report confirmed what students, parents, and staff already knew—this is a place where girls thrive academically, socially, and personally.

What makes Sheffield Girls’ GDST stand out?

The inspectors were impressed by many aspects of the school, but some highlights included:

📌 Incredible teaching – The school’s teachers aren’t just knowledgeable; they bring energy and passion to their lessons, making learning exciting.
📌 Supportive atmosphere – Girls are encouraged to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from them without fear.
📌 Respect and discussion – Open debate is encouraged, helping students develop confidence and appreciate different perspectives.
📌 Leadership opportunities – The well-known "Girls of Steel" programme nurtures strong, confident young women.
📌 Beyond the classroom – From sports to music, clubs, and competitions, students have endless chances to grow and explore their interests.
📌 Caring community – Pastoral care is a priority, ensuring every student feels valued and supported.

Words from the head

Sarah White, Interim Head, couldn’t be prouder of the school’s achievements:

“We are delighted that this report recognises the exceptional work of our staff and the enthusiasm of our pupils. The ISI team saw first-hand the confidence, kindness, and positivity that define Sheffield Girls’ GDST and were particularly impressed by our Girls of Steel programme, which nurtures confident and mature female role models.”

She also highlighted how important it is to provide an all-through education, supporting girls from the age of 4 to 18. She added:

“This recognition reinforces our commitment to providing an outstanding education, where every girl is encouraged to develop her potential. I’d like to thank our staff, pupils, and parents for their ongoing support. This achievement belongs to our entire school community, and we look forward to celebrating it together.”

A school that invests in its students

Sheffield Girls’ GDST is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), the UK’s largest network of independent girls' schools. With nearly 4,000 staff and 20,000 students across 23 independent schools and two academies, the GDST reinvests all its income back into its schools.

It’s no wonder Sheffield Girls’ GDST continues to be a place where girls don’t just learn—they flourish.

Want to read the full ISI report? You can find it here.