Over the last 20 years, I have seen the co-curricular life of the school shift, evolve and blossom into a thriving programme which sees countless girls benefit from engaging in a fulfilling life beyond the classroom. From rehearsals before school, to lunchtime clubs, to after school sports fixtures, every day at Sheffield Girls’ pupils take the opportunity to step outside their comfort zone, discover new interests and build the confidence that stays with them long after they leave school.
However, this is not just about participation. Our approach to co-curricular is a rounded, holistic approach, firmly rooted in developing our girls’ character as well as their academic ability. Our thriving character education programme, Girls of Steel, is the result of years’ of honing our approach and crafting it into an initiative that continues to enrich our pupils’ school experiences in immeasurable, insurmountable new ways.
Character That Shapes Futures
At Sheffield Girls’, we know that academic success is just one part of the bigger picture. That’s why our bespoke Girls of Steel character education programme sits at the heart of school life, supporting every pupil to develop the character, values and skills that will guide them far beyond the classroom.
Girls of Steel: Built For Real Life
Developed to reflect the unique strengths and needs of girls, our Girls of Steel programme runs from the Infant and Junior School through to Sixth Form. It’s a framework for personal growth that encourages students to explore their identity, stretch their comfort zones, and develop the confidence to lead with purpose.
Recognised as a significant strength in our December 2024 ISI Inspection, the programme threads through academic lessons, co-curricular opportunities and community initiatives, shaping character in every corner of school life.
“Our approach to co-curricular is a rounded, holistic approach, firmly rooted in developing our girls’ character as well as their academic ability.” – Elizabeth Rodgers, Assistant Head (Co-curricular)
Building Strengths That Matter
Our students leave Sheffield Girls’ equipped with more than just qualifications. Through the Girls of Steel programme, they develop essential employability skills, including:
- Leadership
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Independence
- Critical thinking
- Reflection
These are the traits that universities and employers look for. But more importantly, they’re the building blocks of compassionate, capable young people who know how to navigate the world with confidence and integrity.
Designed for Girls, Delivered with Purpose
What makes our programme unique is how seamlessly it supports girls’ development from childhood to young adulthood. From Year 1, girls begin tracking their personal growth through values portfolios. As they move through School, they gain awards that reflect key character milestones and achievements, with every step carefully scaffolded to suit their stage.
By Year 12 and Year 13, students are ready for Forging Futures, our bespoke Sixth Form enrichment programme that continues to grow their personal strengths and prepares them for the realities of life after School.
Character in Action
Whether mentoring younger pupils, organising charity events, contributing to our eco-initiatives or leading as SEND Prefects, our students live out the Girls of Steel ethos every day.
Because here at Sheffield Girls’, character is not an add-on. It’s a core part of who we are and who our pupils become.
Elizabeth Rodgers, Assistant Head (Co-curricular)
