Ages 
On their first day, year 7 students write a letter to themselves, stating what they hope to achieve during their time at school. When they open it at the end of year 11, chances are that they will have surpassed their expectations. And not just in terms of results, with the extracurricular equally encouraged and now supported by updated building infrastructure. Likely to suit capable girls able to make the most of the opportunities available; less likely to suit those who struggle academically.
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Overview & data
- Pupil numbers
- 1,294 ·
- Sixth form numbers
- 363 ·
- Religion
- None
- Local authority
- Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
- Area guides
Headteacher
Headteacher
David Sims
Since September 2022, David Sims, previously deputy head. Studied marine biology at Heriot Watt ‘to be by the sea’ before training in London. Held positions at Norton Hill School in Somerset and QE, Wimborne before joining BSG as head of science in
Entrance
Heavily oversubscribed, with almost three applicants for each place. Exams in maths, English and verbal reasoning in the September before entry. Those with an EHCP get priority, then looked after children. Next up are the 130 who scored highest in
- Admissions policy
- Academically selective state school
- Open days
- Afternoons throughout the year - visit school website
Entry and exit data - year 7 entry (average 2020-2022)
Exit
Around a quarter leave after GCSEs, with places promptly filled. Most sixth formers to university, half to Russell Group. Usually a few to Oxbridge – four in 2025; seven medics. Bournemouth, Exeter, Bristol, Portsmouth and Southampton particularly
% students progressing to higher education or training (2021 leavers)
What is this?
The proportion of 16-18 students that progressed to degrees, higher apprenticeships or other study at level 4 or above for at least 6 consecutive months in the 2 years after taking advanced level qualifications (level 3) at this school or college.
Latest results
In 2025, 64 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 32 per cent A*/A at A level (61 per cent A*-B).
GCSE - % of pupils achieving grade 5 or above (A* to C) in English and maths GCSE (2024)
What is this?
This tells you the percentage of pupils who achieved grade 5 or above in English and maths GCSEs.
A level - Average points score (2024)
What is this?
These figures tell you the average grade and average points that pupils achieved in their academic qualifications. A maximum of 60 points are available for a grade A* at A level.
Teaching & learning
Ranked the top performing state school in the area, this is a place for bright and able pupils. Not that this creates a hothouse atmosphere, according to parents. ‘They really don’t realise how bright they are as they are in a self-selective
- Qualifications taken in 2024
- A level
- EPQ
- GCSE
Learning support & SEN
Post Covid, there has been an increase in pupils seeking support and school has invested in additional TAs to offer this in the learning centre, as well as in class. Pupils are referred to the learning centre by either their form tutor or head of
Arts & extracurricular
Parents report that school encourages girls to do non-academic activities: ‘It’s mindful that academics are important but not the be all and end all.’ There are over 50 clubs and activities, covering a diverse range of interests, run by either staff
Sport
Main sports offered are football, netball, athletics, rounders and cricket on a rolling rotation, but there is more besides. Trampolinists vie for space with four large punch bags – used by the popular boxing club – in the sports hall. A new sports
Ethos & heritage
Originally founded in 1918, the school moved to its current site in 1960 and the architecture reflects that era. From the car park, first impressions are of a functional three storey building. A much-needed building programme has updated and expanded
Pastoral care, inclusivity & discipline
Pupils rate the pastoral support. Several avenues are open to girls, from form tutors, house captains and teachers, to the additional TAs hired post-Covid. A sixth form pastoral team provides additional support in the latter years. ‘You’re never
Mobile phone policy
A clear mobile phone policy is a really important part of modern schooling. This school has provided us with their policy.
Mobile phone policy
Provided by the school and not part of our review Mobile phones are banned for years 7-11 during the school day.
Pupils & parents
The very strong PA must be the envy of many a head. Its recent fundraising activities paid for the gym equipment in the new sports centre. Other efforts include the annual year 11 prom held with the local boys’ grammar, while an army of helpers
Money matters
Bursary funding available for sixth formers.
The last word
On their first day, year 7 students write a letter to themselves, stating what they hope to achieve during their time at school. When they open it at the end of year 11, chances are that they will have surpassed their expectations. And not just in
Inspection reports
Ofsted reports
Full inspection: Outstanding
You can read full reports on the Ofsted website
| Personal development | Outstanding |
|---|---|
| Quality of education | Outstanding |
| Behaviour and attitudes | Outstanding |
| Leadership and management | Outstanding |
| Sixth form provision | Outstanding |
Full inspection: Outstanding
| Leadership and management | Outstanding |
|---|
