There’s something truly special about the bonds formed within an all-girls community. It’s not just about learning in the same classrooms, participating in the same activities, or even walking the same corridors. It’s about the unique and powerful connection that develops—a sisterhood—that stays with you long after you’ve left. And here at The Queen’s School, we believe that sisterhood isn’t just an added benefit of being part of our community; it’s one of the most important aspects of the experience.
As Headmistress, I’ve witnessed countless moments where our girls lift one another up, encourage each other to reach new heights, and celebrate every success—big or small. It’s in these moments that the true power of sisterhood reveals itself. It’s about having people who ‘get’ you, who understand your journey, and who stand beside you through the twists and turns of life, both in school and beyond.
At our Year 11 end of year assembly this summer, one student gave a heartfelt speech about how much she felt part of Queen’s School as a family. She spoke about her teachers and the support she received during exams, the encouragement when she doubted herself, and the simple acts of kindness that made all the difference. She told us how she always looked on the older students as her ‘big sisters’ throughout her time at Queen’s. At our recent Prize Giving ceremony, the guest speaker told us how, even now years after she has graduated from university, if she is having a bad day or feeling challenged, she calls up her best friend from Queen’s and they sing the school song together, giving her the pep to reset and move forward. These small examples struck me how lucky our girls are to belong to a school community where they are not just classmates but sisters.
The Queen’s Approach: Fostering Sisterhood
At Queen’s, sisterhood is woven into everything we do, and this is particularly true of our alumni mentoring programme. I often see how these connections provide a sense of bonding and support, and can also open doors, or provide an invaluable source of both inspiration and guidance. It’s amazing to see how our ‘old’ girls offer advice, share experiences, and are often a reassuring presence.
Collaborative projects and shared experiences further strengthen these bonds. Whether it’s working together on a drama production, joining forces in a charity event, or simply navigating the ups and downs of the school year, these moments are the building blocks of friendships that stand the test of time. I’m reminded of a pupil who said during last year’s charity bake sale, “It’s not just about raising money; it’s about working with my friends to make a difference—and having a great laugh!”
And then there are the trips. Oh, the trips! Whether it’s a local visit to the theatre or an overseas adventure in Tanzania, these shared experiences are often the catalyst for some of the deepest connections. It’s in these moments—away from the day-to-day routine—that the sisterhood truly comes alive. You see girls supporting each other through the excitement (and sometimes the chaos!) of travel, coming together in ways that are both heartwarming and hilarious.
The Stories That Last a Lifetime
We often hear from our alumnae about the lasting impact of these relationships. One former student, now in her 30s, recently shared with me how her Queen’s friends were the first people she called when she landed her dream job. Another alumna recounted how her classmates stood by her during tough times in university, and how they continue to be her closest circle of friends today. This is the sisterhood effect—relationships that endure, no matter where life takes you.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the staff. As teachers and mentors, we too are part of this incredible community. It’s not uncommon to see us laughing with the girls, sharing stories, and offering advice—like older sisters ourselves. We may not be blood-related, but we are family.
A Community That Lasts a Lifetime
I’ll end this blog by saying, how not only as Headmistress, but as a mum with her daughter here too, Queen’s genuinely prepares our girls academically, socially and emotionally for the future. We’re nurturing them to become strong, confident women who support each other through life’s challenges. The bonds they form here extend far beyond the classroom. They grow into a network of women who continue to inspire and lift each other long after their school days are behind them.
So, to the parents reading this, I encourage you to consider the value of this supportive, connected environment for your daughter. Queen’s isn’t just a school; it’s a sisterhood that lasts a lifetime. And as someone who sees this every day, I can assure you—it’s one of the most valuable gifts we can offer.
Here’s to another year of learning and lifelong bonds!
