Thinking beyond an ordinary education
At STAHS, we are always thinking beyond; that’s why everything we do is geared towards preparing our pupils not just for their next steps, but for achieving their long-term goals. We call this our Teach to 25 philosophy. Our vision is that each child is supported to become a happy, resilient young person who embraces life’s challenges and opportunities. STAHS pupils not only achieve excellent academic outcomes, but, more importantly, are prepared to live lives of consequence and make a meaningful impact on the world.
From our Character Education programme, which starts in Reception, to our Super-Curriculum that stretches pupils beyond the limits of exam specifications, to our formal two-year leadership programme for Sixth Formers, Teach to 25 runs through every aspect of a STAHS education. STAHS pupils gain the skills, independence and knowledge needed to navigate their path in the critical early years of adult life.
We are very proud to be consistently ranked amongst the best independent schools in the UK. We have sky-high expectations for and of our pupils and our world-class teaching and rich curriculum help them achieve their ambitions. In and outside the classroom, our pupils are encouraged to and rewarded for giving their best, whatever their passions and aspirations. You’ll see from our leavers’ destinations that we do not cater for a narrow selection of specialist subjects. Each year, the range of courses, universities and other higher education options that our Year 13 leavers embark upon is as varied and individual as they are. Rather than following the crowd, they blaze their own trails. I could not be prouder of them.
Our support extends beyond a pupil’s school years. When you join STAHS, as a pupil and as a family, you join a warm and giving community for life. Our alumni network is global, interconnected and part of day-to-day life at STAHS, providing invaluable advice, mentoring, guidance and support for pupils. As parents, you will not spend long with us before you’ll be invited for a talk or workshop led by someone from our diverse and wide-reaching network. As a pupil, you will benefit from this network from your first day at STAHS and beyond – through your working life and even into retirement!
A STAHS education is truly extraordinary. This prospectus gives a glimpse of what makes us exceptional. But nothing is the same as a visit – STAHS has great warmth and such a buzz of excitement about it that it must be felt in person. I do hope you will visit us soon to see for yourself. You will be very welcome.
Amber Waite Principal, St Albans
Education
Group
Our vision is that each child is supported to become a happy, resilient young person who embraces life’s challenges and opportunities.
BEYOND THE ORDINARY BEYOND THE INDIVIDUAL
Our Teach to 25 philosophy
At STAHS, we think beyond an ordinary education; that’s why everything we do is geared towards preparing our pupils for their future. We call this our Teach to 25 philosophy. Our vision is for each child to become a happy, resilient young person who embraces opportunities. It’s how pupils at STAHS are prepared to live lives of consequence.
Our compassionate, outward-looking ethos
As a school and as individuals we are acutely in tune with the world around us. We celebrate the richness of our diverse culture, work hard to nurture our collective moral compass, and enthusiastically engage in the local community. At STAHS, kindness and generosity of spirit are as important as academic excellence.
BEYOND THE
RESULTS
An intellectual buzz
We are a proudly academic community. We ignite and nurture the joy of scholarship in our pupils. They thrive in an environment of challenge and ambition – bold ideas, creativity, innovation and success are encouraged and celebrated.
BEYOND THE NOW
Our forward-thinking mindset
We are the forward-thinking choice for academic excellence, passionate about progress and always challenging conventions to better prepare children for their futures.
WELCOME TO THE
THE SENIOR SCHOOL
A warm welcome to all of you from the School Officer team here at STAHS! We are thrilled that you have taken an interest in our wonderful school, where every student has the opportunity to become the best version of themselves.
STAHS is anything but a regular school. Here at the Senior School, in the heart of St Albans city, our diverse and strong community allows pupils to thrive academically and blossom into resilient young women.
From the first day of Year 7, students are exposed to a wide variety of subjects. From learning basic cooking skills in Food Preparation and Nutrition to looking at cell structures in Biology, the first two years at the High School aim to enrich pupils’ young minds. We have also recently introduced an MFL carousel, where Year 7s are able to get a flavour of the five languages we offer at STAHS before settling on their two favourites. In Year 9, students are able to narrow down their subject choices to find where their passions lie, and select the GCSE options that best suit their interests.
This of course wouldn’t be possible without our incredible network of staff. Our teachers create a positive and intellectually stimulating
learning environment where students are encouraged to step outside their comfort zone and embrace their curiosity. More importantly, staff understand that for your child to have the most fulfilling and successful journey possible, they must be comfortable in their working environment. Our pastoral network and Hub wellbeing centre provide students with unparalleled and consistent support for whatever concerns they may have, ensuring everybody at STAHS can flourish.
Speaking of community, students have a plethora of opportunities to connect with those outside their year group. This is mainly through the four House groups – Julian, Mandeville, Paris and Verulam – that are truly integral to the STAHS experience. Throughout the academic year, our competitive spirit is kindled by our inter-House events, whether that be sprinting for your House on Sports Day or playing comedic characters in House Drama. Year 7s will also have a Year 8 buddy to guide them through their first year, and Year 13 Prefects who will visit their forms to provide them with a friendly face higher up in the School.
Students are also widely encouraged to explore far beyond their academic endeavours and partake
in co-curricular activities. Sport is a large part of life at STAHS, with highly successful netball, lacrosse and athletics teams across all age groups. We also strongly advocate for a general love of sport, with students being able to join clubs like Recreational Badminton or try out some of the machines in the gym. The Drama Department regularly puts on enthralling school productions for students to develop both their acting skills and their confidence. Everyone at the High School is excitedly anticipating our production of Les Misérables, which is set to premiere in December 2024. Finally, the music scene at the Senior School is thriving; with opportunities to join bands, a variety of choirs, or take private lessons there truly is a place for everyone.
If you are seeking a school of academic excellence in which your child is able to become a confident, well-rounded adult ready to thrive in the wider world, there is no doubt STAHS is the school for you.
Eleni and the School Officer team
INTELLECTUAL
STAHS is one of the highest performing independent day schools in the UK. We are selective at all points of entry and our admissions process is carefully structured so we really get to know each candidate – and so you get to know STAHS.
There is no ‘typical’ STAHS pupil: we select based on a combination of intellect, talent, skill, curiosity, personality and potential. We form year groups full of girls with a wonderful diversity of interests and abilities, who can inspire each other academically, creatively and culturally.
Our pupils join us from a wide variety of different schools and starting points. We support each pupil in discovering their academic passions and help set them on their own course. We maintain the highest academic standards and expectations and our nurturing approach to education means that all pupils can achieve outstanding outcomes. STAHS teachers are world class; they inspire confidence and support their pupils every step of the way.
Academic life at STAHS is a rich combination of core courses, elective options, extension opportunities, hands-on and experiential learning, and practical work carried out in specialist facilities. Unique to STAHS, our SuperCurriculum takes academics beyond the limits of examinations. Pupils are exposed to the unexpected and are required to flex their critical thinking to develop their own opinions, and to express these through careful research, debate, and presentation.
Our friendly, open and engaging community is at the heart of everything we do. Pupils learn, question, debate and wonder together. When clever, talented young people are inspired by those around them, are encouraged to push beyond their perceived limits, are celebrated for their efforts and successes and are supported by their friends, teachers and families, they are unstoppable. At STAHS, we give our pupils all of this and more – and the proof of our success is in the thousands of successful alumni leading fulfilling lives, giving back to their communities and making the most positive of impacts on the world.
Our friendly, open and engaging community is at the heart of everything we do. The pupils learn, question, debate and wonder together.
INTELLECTUAL BUZZ
CURRICULUM
Year 7 and 8 (KS3)
Pupils in Years 7 and 8 follow a broad, balanced course of study comprising:
• 3D Design
• Art
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Drama
English
• Food Preparation and Nutrition
• Geography
• History
• Computer Science
• Latin
• Mathematics
• Modern Foreign Language (pupils choose two from French, German, Italian, Mandarin or Spanish)
• Music
• Physical Education
• Physics
• Religious Studies
• Textiles
Year 9 (KS3)
Pupils tailor their curriculum and choose five ‘elective’ subjects to continue in Year 9 along with their core subjects.
Core subjects Elective subjects
Biology 3D Design
Chemistry Classical Civilisation*
English Computer Science*
Geography Drama
History Fine Art
Mathematics
Modern Foreign Language (pupils choose two from French, German, Italian, Mandarin or Spanish)
Food Preparation and Nutrition
Greek and Latin (‘Gratin’)*
Physical Education Latin
Physics
Music and Further Music*
Religious Studies Textiles
Those marked with an * are new opportunities in Year 9.
All pupils follow a discrete PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) programme from Years 7 to 9, taught during tutor time.
Years 10 and 11 (KS4)
Most pupils study 10 GCSE subjects. All pupils study the core subjects of English Language, English Literature, Mathematics and Science. The vast majority of pupils take Triple Science (studying Biology, Chemistry and Physics as three separate courses) while some will opt for the Double Science Award (resulting in two, rather than three, GCSE outcomes).
All pupils also study at least one Modern Foreign Language (French, German, Italian, Mandarin or Spanish).
Pupils may then select freely from the following subjects to reach a total of up to 10 subjects where appropriate:
For more information and course descriptions please visit our website
• 3D Design*
• Classical Civilisation
• Classical Greek
• Computer Science
• Drama
• Fine Art
• French
• Food Preparation and Nutrition
• Geography
• German
• History
• Italian
• Latin
• Mandarin
• Music and Further Music
• Physical Education
Religious Studies
• Spanish
• Textiles*
Pupils continue to have discrete Physical Education and Games lessons in Year 10 and 11.
All pupils in Years 7 to 11 follow a structured tutor programme that attends to all areas of PSHE, encouraging discussion and learning, relevant to their year group.
Some pupils will take Music GCSE a year early and then complete the Level 2 Silver Arts Award during their Year 11 course.
* Only one of these subjects may be studied as they follow a similar specification.
INDEPENDENT CONFIDENT BALANCED
At STAHS, wellbeing and academic excellence are not competing factors – they are two sides of the same coin. We recognise that the young people most able to pursue their educational ambitions, take calculated academic risks and achieve top outcomes are those who feel happy, secure and supported at home and at school. This is why we take our responsibility to nurture and care for our pupils very seriously, alongside providing an environment where students are given the freedom and independence to make –and take responsibility for – their own choices.
During Years 7 to 11 we run the STAHS Skills for Life programme to equip students with the knowledge they need to navigate school life and beyond. The programme follows three core themes: relationships, health and wellbeing and living in the wider world, and is a combination of statutory curriculum as well as bespoke lessons developed specifically to support STAHS students.
Students have the support of their Form Tutor and Housemistress or Assistant Housemistress, who have the time and structure to really get to know each student as an individual. They understand their strengths and areas for development, advocate on their behalf, celebrate their successes and encourage them when things don’t go to plan.
For specialist support, students can access the STAHS Student Hub, a building that houses our multi-faith prayer space, the chaplain, nurses, counsellors, plus our PSHE and learning support teams.
All pupils are in one of four Houses, Julian, Mandeville, Paris and Verulam, and the Houses really are like families within the School. The Form Tutor, Housemistress and Assistant Housemistress are fundamental characters in a STAHS pupil’s life.
Alongside our thriving co-curriculum sits our popular House competition programme, led by our fantastic team of Sixth Form House Officers. There really is an event for everyone, from Dance to Debating, Tennis to Trampolining and the hugely entertaining House Drama. House spirit runs deep between the reds, blues, yellows and greens as they go head-to-head to win points for the biggest prizes of the year, the Chapman and Clark Cups.
STAHS provides an education for life. For us, this means so much more than classroom learning. Our expansive and dynamic co-curriculum provides students with the opportunity to explore new and interesting ideas and to discover hobbies and passions that will stay with them long after they leave school.
There really is something for everyone. For some, it’s the thrill of taking part in one of the dozens of recreational and competitive sports on offer, while others are drawn to the adventure and comradery of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. From chamber music and choirs to the production of plays and musicals, from organising House activities to participating in interschool academic tournaments, all passions and interests are catered for.
Fun is of paramount importance when it comes to the co-curriculum, making these activities some of the most rewarding aspects of School life.
There are many opportunities for visits and trips, with destinations including Germany’s Christmas markets, Iceland’s glaciers and volcanic craters and the US, for ski trips or lacrosse and football tours. At the start of Year 7 pupils enjoy a Bushcraft induction trip, where they camp out under the stars and develop new skills from first aid techniques to cooking over open fires.
Fun is of paramount importance when it comes to the co-curriculum, making these activities some of the most rewarding aspects of School life. Because our co-curriculum is ‘live’, always adapting, growing and changing based on student input, every year offers new opportunities. In or out of the classroom, there’s never a dull moment at STAHS.
ACRO GYMNASTICS
TRAMPOLINING
CERAMIC
PSYCHOLOGY
SAXOPHONE ENSEMBLE
ART HISTORY
ASTRO-NUTS
CHAMBER MUSIC
PRIDE CLUB
SALSA BAND
BADMINTON
CREATIVE WRITING
FOOD ARTISTRY
SWIM SQUAD
STAHS NEWS
JEWELLERY
GEOGRAPHY
LANGUAGE SPELLING BEE
WARHAMMER
BOOK CLUB
MATHS CLINIC
NEURODIVERGENCY CLUB
POP BAND
DEBATING
MAGAZINE CLUB
DRAMA
PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS
SCIENCE CLUB
FOOTBALL
WHAT’S
YEAR 9
Higher Education
At STAHS, our Teach to 25 philosophy means everything we do is geared towards our students for their next steps. We encourage them to think beyond the obvious choices and turn their passions into careers.
Our Careers and High Education Teams sit at the very heart of the School. They oversee well-resourced programmes designed to help STAHS pupils understand how the skills and knowledge they are acquiring now can be transferred and applied to any number of post-secondary education and career choices open to them.
Careers events focusing on identifying skills and potential future careers
Careers breakfast
With STAHS parents to learn about a range of careers and to develop networking skills.
Work shadowing
A day to experience the world of work and to identify the skills used in the workplace.
Morrisby Careers Aspirations Assessment
Pupils can start to understand their own interests and growing skill set and research potential careers.
YEAR 10/11
Careers events focusing on developing workplace skills
Morrisby Aptitude test
Discovering more about pupils’ strengths, ambitions and goals.
Careers networking event
Meeting professionals from a range of careers and developing networking skills.
Interview with independent careers advisors
Supporting students to make informed decisions.
NEXT
Alumni breakfast
Recent leavers talk to Year 11 students about their university experiences.
Next 10 event
An opportunity to meet and learn from alumni who reflect where current Year 10 students may be in 10 years’ time, representing a range of academic and career paths, and to look at potential pathways, including the recruitment process; followed by teamwork and leadership development activities.
Higher education
UK AND OVERSEAS UNIVERSITIES
HE evening
Options are explored, including university (both in the UK and abroad), professional and degree apprenticeships and training schemes, as well as how their choices now may impact on their future options.
A Level options day
Experience Sixth Form life.
Moving On Up day
A taster of the Sixth Form Stretch Programme and how to prepare for Sixth Form and bridge the gap between GCSE and A level study.
OXBRIDGE Oxbridge Conference
Students are invited to attend the annual Oxbridge Conference to learn about studying at Oxford or Cambridge from current students.
Open days
Students are invited on a school-led trip to either Oxford or Cambridge.
MEDVETDENT MedVetDent Society
Pupils are invited to attend weekly sessions to develop their interest in and gain a better understanding of careers in Medicine, Veterinary Science and Dentistry.
Alumni
We have a vibrant worldwide community of STAHS alumni who frequently support our current students by giving up their time to attend events or offer guidance in a specific industry.
Our comprehensive careers programme includes an online mentoring network providing Sixth Formers and recent leavers with the opportunity to contact STAHS alumni studying at their chosen higher education setting or working in an industry they are interested in. In addition, we offer a curated Jobs Board and a consultation with a professional careers advisor.
Our online portal enables alumni to stay connected to STAHS and each other via a dynamic and engaging platform, and our regular e-newsletters and annual alumni magazine keep alumni up to date with the latest information on reunions, careers events and alumni news.
To find out more, visit
alumni.stahs.org.uk
88
of all GCSEs awarded were at grades 9–7 in 2024. %
87%
of all GCSEs awarded were at grades 9-7 in 2023.
of all A levels awarded were at grades A*-B in 2024. %
90%
of all A levels awarded were at grades A*-B in 2023.
LEAVERS’ DESTINATIONS 2022–2024
2024
ANGLIA RUSKIN Biomedical Science
ARTS UNIVERSITY BOURNEMOUTH
Film Production
BATH Politics and International Relations; Psychology
BIRMINGHAM International Relations with Economics; Computer Science with Digital Technology
BRISTOL Geography
CAMBRIDGE Philosophy; Natural Sciences (2); History; English
CITY, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON International Politics
DURHAM Geography (2); History; English Literature; Modern Languages and Cultures; Sports and Exercise Sciences (2)
EDINBURGH International Relations; Economics; History; German and History
EXETER Psychology with Professional Placement; English; History and Ancient History; Flexible Combined Honours; Geography
IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON Mechanical Engineering; Pharmacology
KING’S COLLEGE LONDON
Pharmacology and Drug Discovery; Economics and Management; Geography and Environmental Science; Psychology with Professional Placement; Business Management
LEEDS Social Policy, Sociology and Crime; Theology and Religion; International History and Politics; Philosophy, Politics and Economics; International Relations; Psychology
LIVERPOOL Veterinary Science; Psychology
LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS AND POLITICAL SCIENCE Law
LOUGHBOROUGH Geography with Economics
MANCHESTER Biology with a Modern Language; Psychology
NEWCASTLE Psychology; Biology
NOTTINGHAM Chemistry and Molecular Physics; History; Geography (2); Medicine; Psychology and Philosophy; Veterinary Science; Veterinary Medicine; Film and Television; Natural Sciences; Sports and Exercise Sciences; Cancer Sciences
NOTTINGHAM TRENT Product Design
OXFORD Philosophy, Politics and Economics; Classics and German; Classical Archaeology and Ancient History
PORTSMOUTH Criminology and Forensic Science
SHEFFIELD General Engineering; Law with Criminology
SOUTHAMPTON Psychology; Law
ST ANDREWS Computer Science
SUNDERLAND Medicine
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON Biological Sciences; European Social and Political Studies; Economics; Chemical Engineering; Biochemistry; Medicine
WARWICK Economics, Psychology and Philosophy; Politics and International Studies
YORK History; Law
LONDON Google Apprenticeship
2023
BATH Business; Economics
BIRMINGHAM Business and Management; Computer Science; Geography and Urban and Regional Planning; Geography; Psychology
BRISTOL Civil Engineering; History; Mathematics; Veterinary Science
CAMBRIDGE History of Art; Veterinary Medicine
CARDIFF Computer Science
CENTRAL SAINT MARTINS
Art and Design Foundation
CITY, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON Accounting and Finance
DURHAM Ancient, Medieval and Modern History; Classics; Natural Sciences (2); Physics
EDINBURGH French and Politics
EXETER Applied Psychology; Geography; Law; Medicine; Psychology
GLASGOW Computer Science & Psychology
HULL YORK MEDICAL SCHOOL Medicine
IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON Biological Sciences; Medical Biosciences; Physics; Theoretical Physics
KING’S COLLEGE LONDON
Biomedical Science; Medicine (2); Philosophy
LANCASTER Biology; Business Economics; International Business Management
LEEDS Advanced Psychology; Biomedical Sciences; Civil Engineering; Law; Economics and Geography; Geography; Economics
LEEDS BECKETT Product Design
LEICESTER Economics
LIVERPOOL Business Economics; Psychology; Veterinary Science (2)
LOUGHBOROUGH Computer Science; Economics and Geography; Philosophy, Politics and Economics; Sport and Exercise Science
LOYOLA MARYMOUNT, USA Art History
MANCHESTER Architecture; Physics
MANCHESTER SCHOOL OF ART Art
MOORE KINGSTON SMITH Apprenticeship
NEWCASTLE Fine Art; Nutrition; Psychology Sport and Exercise Science
NOTTINGHAM Ancient and Modern History; Geography; Liberal Arts; Politics and American Studies; Politics and International Relations
OXFORD Chemistry; English Language and Literature; French and Spanish
PLYMOUTH Medicine
ROYAL HOLLOWAY
Computer Science; Economics; Music
SOUTHAMPTON Geography; Law
ST GEORGE’S, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON
Biomedical Science
ST ANDREWS Medicine
SURREY International Relations
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON Comparative Literature; Earth Sciences; Medicine; Psychology
WARWICK History and Politics; Philosophy
WELLESLEY COLLEGE, USA Psychology
YORK Social and Political Sciences
2022
BATH Natural Sciences (with placement)
BIRMINGHAM Economics; Economics and Politics; Medicine (5 years); Philosophy
BRISTOL Business and Management with Innovation; History; Physics with study abroad in a Modern Language
CAMBRIDGE Architecture; Medicine; Music
CARDIFF Financial Maths with a placement
CITY, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON Civil Engineering
DURHAM Anthropology and Sociology; Engineering (Aeronautical); History; Liberal Arts
EDINBURGH History
EXETER Medicine
HARVARD Computer Science
HERTFORDSHIRE Civil Engineering
IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON Computing
KING’S COLLEGE LONDON
Electronic Engineering; Medicine
LEEDS Economics and Geography; Economics and Politics; Geography; Law; Modern Languages; Philosophy and Politics (2); Psychology (2)
LEEDS ARTS Art Foundation
LEICESTER Politics and Economics; Psychology with Cognitive Neuroscience
LIVERPOOL Architecture; Geography; Mathematics and Economics; Veterinary Science (2)
LONDON Solicitor Degree Apprenticeship
MANCHESTER English Literature; Law; Music
NEWCASTLE Fine Art
NORTHAMPTON
Interior Architecture and Spatial Design
NOTTINGHAM Criminology; Economics; Microbiology; Philosophy, Politics and Economics; Veterinary Medicine
OXFORD Chemistry; French; Law (2)
PORTSMOUTH Pharmacy
QUEEN MARY LONDON History and Politics
READING Environmental Science
ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH & DRAMA Design for Performance
SHEFFIELD Philosophy, Religion and Ethics; Psychology
SOUTHAMPTON Biomedical Engineering (Electronics) with Industrial Studies; History
ST GEORGE’S, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON Biomedical Science BSc
STOCKHOLM Foundation Year in Academic
Swedish followed by degree in Political Science at the University of Uppsala
SUSSEX Law with Criminology
SWANSEA Criminology and Criminal Justice
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON History; Medicine (6 years); Physics
WARWICK Biological Sciences; French and Economics; Modern Languages and Economics
EDINBURGH (5) SUNDERLAND (1)
DURHAM (16)
GLASGOW (1)
LEEDS ARTS (1)
LEEDS BECKETT (1) LEEDS (24)
LANCASTER (3)
MANCHESTER SCHOOL OF ART (1)
MANCHESTER (7)
LIVERPOOL (11)
LOUGHBOROUGH (6)
NOTTINGHAM (22)
NOTTINGHAM TRENT (1)
BIRMINGHAM (11)
WARWICK (7)
OXFORD (10)
SWANSEA (1)
CARDIFF (2)
BRISTOL (8) BATH (5)
PLYMOUTH (1)
EXETER (11)
ARTS UNIVERSITY BOURNEMOUTH (1)
INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS:
HARVARD, USA (1)
LOYOLA MARYMOUNT, USA (1)
WELLESLEY COLLEGE, USA (1)
ST ANDREWS (2)
NEWCASTLE (6)
YORK (3)
SHEFFIELD (2)
LEICESTER (3)
NORTHAMPTON (1)
HERTFORDSHIRE (1)
CENTRAL ST MARTINS (1) CITY, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON (3)
IMPERIAL COLLEGE (7)
KING’S COLLEGE (11)
LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS AND POLITICAL SCIENCE (1)
ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH & DRAMA (1)
QUEEN MARY (1)
ROYAL HOLLOWAY (3)
ST GEORGE’S, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON (2)
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON (13)
GOOGLE APPRENTICESHIP (1)
SURREY (1)
SUSSEX (1)
PORTSMOUTH (1)
SOUTHAMPTON (6)
READING (1)
ANGLIA RUSKIN (1) CAMBRIDGE (10)
ASPIRE SCHOLARSHIPS
The STAHS Scholarships programme opens a range of opportunities for Scholars to stretch themselves, extending their learning and developing their skills. Our Scholars are role models, leading by example in their attitude and approach and passionately promoting engagement in their areas.
Academic Atkins Scholars
Year 7
Atkins Scholars are members of the exclusive 1889 Club and have access to the myriad of scholarly activities, workshops and events on offer through the Club each year. The research, critical thinking and debating skills learned through the Atkins Scholarship not only prepare pupils to take on ambitious academic challenges later in life, but also provide the solid foundation on which the Hodgkin Scholarship is built.
Hodgkin Scholars
Year 10
Hodgkin Scholars begin to work more closely with staff and De Beauvoir Fellows through participation in workshops, off-timetable conferences, events and charitable activities. The Hodgkin Scholarship programme builds on the academic skills learned through the Atkins Scholarship (although being an Atkins Scholar is not a prerequisite to becoming a Hodgkin Scholar) and it continues to develop high-level thinking and analytical skills, debating and public speaking skills and offers increased academic freedom to independently explore their own areas of interest.
Art
Year 10
Art at STAHS supports a pupil’s creativity, independence and expression and –especially at A level – encourages risk-taking, critical thinking and extensive research. Art is celebrated throughout the School and over the entire academic year: from gallery showings and exhibitions to work with our Artist in Residence, there is always something going on. STAHS artists enjoy a bright, naturally-lit and spacious specialist study space to work in, with access to all manner of media and equipment with which to produce their work.
Design and Technology Year 10
At STAHS, provision of Design and Technology education is second to none. We genuinely value the range of opportunities and the breadth of skills that can be developed through the study of Design and Technology. From Food Preparation and Nutrition to 3D Design and Textiles, STAHS pupils can try their hands at several creative and technical pursuits through our Design and Technology curriculum.
Drama
Year 7 and 10
Drama at STAHS values both academic and performance disciplines. Students access a rich, diverse programme, gaining experience and drawing inspiration from professional theatre practitioners. Drama scholars are proactive participants, leading projects, mentoring others and embracing challenges – they are the theatre makers of tomorrow, whether as playwrights, directors, performers or technicians, and thrive on the freedom this affords them. As well as acting, stagecraft and technical theatre skills, the transferable skills of creativity, problem-solving, teamwork and leadership are developed over a variety of theatrical genres.
ASPIRE
Music
Year 7 and 10
Music is integral to daily life at STAHS and we offer both instrumental and choral scholarships in Year 12. Our curricular and co-curricular music programme enables pupils to develop into well-rounded musicians who possess both excellent musical and aural skills as well as technical proficiency on their instruments. Music Scholars act as ambassadors for the department and are expected to perform in concerts and events throughout the school year.
Sport
Year 7 and 10
Our Sports Scholars lead by example and represent STAHS at all levels. In return we cultivate not just athletic prowess but also leadership skills, outstanding sportsmanship, and all-round resilience. We believe in developing multi-disciplinary talents, ensuring students thrive both on and off the field. Our Scholars partake in the Elite Athlete Support Programme which offers personalized guidance from dedicated teachers and expert coaches to help them develop physically and psychologically, empowering them to achieve their personal sporting ambitions. Aside from our Scholars’ programmes there are also ample opportunities for all pupils to enjoy recreational and competitive sport, both at a team and individual level.
For a step-by-step guide to the scholarship application process and key dates please visit our website.
EXCITED
Providing an education for life means so much more than classroom learning. With an average of two trips or visits from external speakers per week across all year groups, pupils benefit greatly from our exciting and enriching programme of events.
STRUCTURE OF THE DAY
EXPRESSIVE
With over 100 clubs and societies to choose from, there truly is something for everyone. Pupils are given the chance to explore hobbies and express passions that will stay with them for life.
NOURISHED
Pupils are nourished with varied and interesting lunchtime options, catering for special diets. Drinks and snacks are available at break and lunch times from our on-site coffee and tuck shops.
COMMUNITY
Thought-provoking and inspiring Assemblies bring our School community together, with a strong student voice and collective sense of purpose.
PURPOSEFUL
The School is open to pupils from 07.30 to 18.00 –days are fun-packed and productive. Before school, the library is available for quiet time or pupils can start the day with a workout prior to registration. The selection of co-curricular clubs on offer before and after school and at lunchtime makes for an industrious day!
RESPONSIBLE
From the buddy system for incoming Year 7 pupils, to elected House Tutor group positions, and ultimately leadership roles within co-curricular activities, Houses and the School Officer Team, pupils are given exciting opportunities to take the lead.
CHALLENGED
There is no ‘typical’ STAHS pupil – our rich curriculum and nurturing approach to education enables everyone to chart their own path. With 27 GCSE and 28 A level subjects, students are able to achieve outstanding outcomes.
CONNECTED
Our extensive coach network has been serving STAHS for over 40 years, covering 15 different routes and transporting over 400 pupils each day from the surrounding areas of Hertfordshire and North London.
COACH ROUTES ADMISSIONS PROCESS
For prices and more information visit stahs.vectare.co.uk
For routes and prices please visit stahs.vectare.co.uk
Directions and transport
We are a city school located in the heart of St Albans, ideally situated for access to all areas of Hertfordshire, as well as Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and north London.
Coach network
Daily coaches run to and from the School from surrounding districts. Please contact coaches@stahs.org.uk for help with specific enquiries.
Public transport
St Albans is well served by bus routes, and we are a few minutes’ walk from St Albans City station.
Cycling
We provide bike shelters for pupils who cycle to school.
ADMISSIONS PROCESS
Visit Us
The best way to get to know us is at one of our open events, which showcase the enormous range of opportunities and facilities at STAHS. Alternatively, you can book an individual tour at a time that suits you.
Book your place online and we’ll look forward to meeting you soon.
Entry
We have approximately 130 pupils in Year 7 and as we are a through school our Year 6 pupils make up around one third of the cohort.
Sometimes we have occasional places available in year groups other than our standard entry points and it is always worth contacting us to check.
Selection
Our selection process is designed to identify pupils who are able to benefit from our balanced and well-rounded education, thrive in our academic environment and make a positive contribution towards the life of the School. Selection is based on a combination of performance in entrance assessment tests, an interview, and references from previous schools.
Fees
Fees cover all tuition. Additional costs include trips, extra music tuition, speech and drama, and some co-curricular activities. Termly fees are payable in advance or by monthly direct debit.
Full details of fees and uniform costs are available online at stahs.org.uk/admissions.
Bursaries
Bursary awards are available to pupils applying for Year 7 and Year 12 and provide up to 100% assistance with school tuition fees. These awards are typically granted to pupils with a strong academic record. For more information, please visit our website.
Applying for a place
Please complete the application form on our website at stahs.org.uk/admissions. Your application is confirmed by paying a non-refundable fee. If you are on a low income and applying for bursary support, we may be able to waive the application fee –please contact us for details.
Once you have applied for a place, you will be invited to one of two optional Entrance Assessment Taster Days. These can help pupils understand what to expect on Assessment Day, take part in a range of activities and get to know the School.
Assessment Day
Assessment Day combines formal testing and a taste of a STAHS school day, with the chance for candidates to meet our staff, pupils and each. Pupils sit the Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB) Common Pre-Test, along with a written communications task, experience a taster Senior School lesson and take part in educational activities as part of a team.
Some pupils will be able to take the test at their own school if it acts as an invigilation centre for the Common Pre-Test; where this happens, pupils will be with us for around half a day for the other elements of Assessment Day.
Practice tests are not available, but examples and practice questions, where relevant, are provided during the tests so that pupils understand what they have to do. In addition, a familiarisation test is available that demonstrates the look and feel of the tests.
Entrance Assessment Taster Days
Saturday 12 October 2024
Saturday 9 November 2024
Application deadline Friday 15 November 2024
Assessment day Tuesday 7 January 2024
Interviews Late January 2024
Offers made Friday 14 February 2025
Interviews
Interviews are with senior members of staff and no preparation is required. The sessions are a relaxed and enjoyable experience, with pupils taking part in stimulating group activities whilst they are with us.
At the same time, parents meet individually with our Head and Deputy Heads. The meetings are purely for parents’ benefit and form no part of the assessment process for pupils.
Our Admissions Policy is available on our website at stahs.org.uk/about-stahs/policies
STAHS does not unlawfully discriminate in any way regarding entry. The School welcomes pupils with disabilities and/or special educational needs, provided we can offer them the support that they require and that our site can accommodate them. STAHS welcomes applications from prospective pupils of all faiths and none.
We strongly advise parents of children with special educational needs or physical or mental disabilities to discuss their child’s requirements with the School before they sit the entrance assessment so that we can make reasonable adjustments if necessary. Parents should provide a copy of an educational psychologist’s report or a medical report, if they have one, alongside their daughter’s application form.
The information in this prospectus is correct at the time of printing. The admissions process is kept under review and may be adapted according to circumstances at the time. Please check our website for the latest information.
If you have any questions about the admissions process, our Admissions team are always happy to help.
St Albans High School for Girls
Townsend Avenue, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 3SJ
admissions@stahs.org.uk
Admissions: 01727 792 509
Date of printing: 09/2024
