About girls' schools

From the many myths about independent girls' schools: hot-houses, bitchy girls, superior swots, man-hating... to all the positives: happy places where girls feel special, form life-long friendships and succeed. What's the truth?

Marianne Fry (nee Newman)

Q. Your school?

Malvern Girls’ College

Q. Your current occupation?

Retired

Q. Your favourite subject at school?

History

Q. Your best and worst memory of your school days?

Best: Lasting friendships
Worst: Chilblains (This was during the war when heating was difficult!)

Q. What or who inspired you to follow your career?

The headmistress, Iris Brooks, who also taught History

Q. What do you feel you gained by attending a girls’ only school?

The lack of pressure from boys

Q. Any advice for parents choosing a school for their daughter?

Look for a school where the children are happy, relaxed and cheerful

Q. Any advice for girls planning their university and/or career choices?

Choose subjects which are truly enjoyed.

Q. Any other comments you would like to make?

Had it not been for the inspiration and dedication of the staff who taught me I
would not have achieved a place at university.

Case studies

Read other families experiences of raising and educating girls. How did they research, debate and decide on the best school for their daughters? Was it the right choice for their daughter and how do they know? Read the real-life stories…

View case studies

FAQs

Read our experts’ replies to those questions that every parent asks. Our “agony aunts” draw on their experience as parents, teachers and Heads to offer suggestions, explanations and solutions

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