Why choose an all-girls’ school?
As more and more traditionally single-sex schools move to become co-educational, as a parent you may be wondering: is there still a need for an all- girls’ education in today’s world? We would say the answer is a resounding YES!
Research by The Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) confirms that in a girls-only environment:
Girls achieve 20% higher A Level grades in girls’ schools
Girls are 40% more likely to apply for engineering degrees at a girls’ school
Girls play 37% more sport in girls’ schools
84% of parents feel their daughters are empowered to explore every subject equally, supporting future career choices
80% of alumnae, parents and teachers believe girls wouldn’t develop the same confidence in a co-ed school
Whilst many Surrey independent schools have become co-ed, driven perhaps more by market forces than ideology, at Tormead we remain steadfast in our belief in an all-girls’ education.
A Space Designed for Girls to Excel
At Tormead, girls are supported to thrive and challenged to achieve every single day. We provide an environment designed specifically for girls, where their confidence can grow and their ambition is nurtured.
Research shows that girls in single-sex schools often achieve higher academic outcomes, with studies indicating stronger average attainment compared to pupils in mixed settings. ① In our all-girls’ setting, pupils are free from the stereotypes and expectations that can limit their subject choices and participation. This means they are more likely to explore, contribute, and excel across all areas of the curriculum.
Confidence, Voice and Leadership
Without classroom barriers, girls are more likely to speak up, take risks, and lead. At Tormead, girls are encouraged to develop their voice and sense of self from an early age.
Studies show that girls in single-sex environments are significantly more likely to take on leadership roles and participate actively in discussions, helping to build lifelong confidence.② Long-term research also indicates that women educated in girls’ schools are more likely to go on to hold leadership roles and engage in civic life.③
Breaking Barriers in STEM and Beyond
Girls’ schools play a powerful role in tackling gender imbalance in traditionally male-dominated subjects.
- Girls in all-girls’ schools are 2.3× more likely to study Physics and 2.9× more likely to take Further Mathematics at A Level ④⑤
- They are 79% more likely to study Computer Science ④
- They are 4× more likely to apply for maths degrees and 40% more likely to apply for engineering at university ⑥
At Tormead, girls are supported to thrive and challenged to achieve, and their subject choices are driven by passion not stereotypes.
A Tailored Approach to Learning
Our teaching is shaped around how girls learn best. With more individual attention and a deep understanding of girls’ development, our pupils are able to achieve their full academic potential. The results of this approach are evident in the impressive value-added scores we achieve each year (in 2026 pupils exceeded their nationally standardised predicted grades with scores reaching as high as 1.7 grades across several departments).
A Supportive Community Where Girls Flourish
Our school is a place where every girl is known and valued. Strong relationships and a culture of encouragement create a sense of belonging that allows our pupils to grow in confidence and resilience.
Research shows that all-girls’ environments can help close the “confidence gap”, enabling girls to develop self-belief at the same rate as their peers. ④
Preparing Girls for Life
An all-girls’ education doesn’t just prepare pupils for exams; it prepares them for the world beyond school. Our pupils leave Tormead as confident, capable young women ready to shape their futures and make a difference. We are proud to say that in 2026, every one of our A Level students secured a university place.
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11-16 Years
Our pupils enjoy exceptional educational opportunities within a caring and happy environment.
