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- Pupils are constantly challenged to aim high. They are taught leadership skills very effectively. Ofsted
Pupils are constantly challenged to aim high. They are taught leadership skills very effectively. Ofsted
DGS Values
A school where everyone is included and valued
At Didcot Girls' School, we are committed to developing confident, compassionate and aspirational young people who are equipped to make a positive difference in the world.
Leadership is a distinctive and highly valued part of school life. We believe leadership takes many forms and encourage all students to develop skills such as teamwork, public speaking, creative problem-solving and decision-making. Supported by a growth mindset approach, our Leadership Ladder provides opportunities for every student from Year 7 to Year 11 to challenge themselves, contribute to the school community and develop as future leaders. Our values of compassion, courage, creativity, inclusion and respect underpin this work.
Students play an active role in supporting local and global charities, celebrating cultural diversity and representing the school within the wider community. Through a range of leadership roles and enrichment opportunities, students gain the confidence to engage positively with others and make meaningful contributions both within and beyond school.
We are proud of our inclusive culture. Diversity Leaders, the Rainbow Club and our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Steering Group help ensure that every member of our community feels welcomed, respected and able to thrive. Throughout the year we actively celebrate events that promote understanding, equality and belonging, encouraging students to develop a broad and informed perspective on the world around them.
A School with High Expectations and Outstanding Opportunities
We have high expectations for all students and are committed to providing exceptional opportunities for personal development alongside academic success.
Our Personal Development, Careers and Citizenship programme encourages students to become informed, responsible citizens who understand the importance of democracy, individual liberty and social responsibility. Students are given meaningful opportunities to campaign, influence change and engage with issues that matter locally, nationally and globally. Participation in projects such as the UK Youth Parliament, First Give and our annual Climate Action work helps students develop confidence, leadership and a sense of civic responsibility.
Students can choose from a wide range of leadership positions and enrichment opportunities throughout their time at DGS. From mentoring and sports leadership to charity work, climate action and student representation, there are numerous ways for students to contribute to school life and develop valuable life skills. Our annual Student Leadership Conference, held to mark International Women's Day, provides students with the opportunity to hear from and engage with inspiring female leaders. We also celebrate student voice and creativity through initiatives such as DGS Speaks, our student-led TED-style event, and our annual Culture Evening, which showcases and celebrates the diverse cultures, traditions and experiences represented within our school community.
We are equally committed to preparing students for their futures. Our highly regarded careers programme, extensive enrichment offer and strong links with employers help students develop ambition, independence and the confidence to pursue their chosen pathways. An impressive programme of guest speakers, industry professionals and community partners further enriches students' experiences and broadens their understanding of future opportunities. With more than 40 clubs and activities running each week, students are encouraged to discover new interests, develop talents and broaden their horizons.
A Safe, Happy and Respectful Community
The wellbeing, happiness and safety of our students lie at the heart of everything we do.
Our School Council provides students with a strong voice and an opportunity to shape school life through campaigns, initiatives and charitable activities. Students are encouraged to take responsibility, demonstrate empathy and contribute positively to the school community.
Every student belongs to one of our seven Houses, fostering a strong sense of identity, belonging and friendly competition. House events, leadership opportunities and community activities help students build positive relationships and develop pride in their school.
Through enrichment activities, leadership programmes, Super Learning Days and our broad pastoral provision, students are encouraged to develop mutual respect, challenge prejudice and deepen their understanding of people from different backgrounds, beliefs and experiences.
At Didcot Girls' School, we believe that an inclusive, outward-looking and values-driven culture provides the foundation for success. Our aim is to nurture confident, resilient and compassionate young people who are prepared to lead, contribute and flourish in an ever-changing world.
Our Mission Statement
"We are a vibrant school community which empowers girls to become resilient and to fulfil their potential as future leaders."
What makes Didcot Girls' School distinctive?
- Our reputation is deservedly a school ‘committed to excellence’
- The school values are tangible and clearly understood by all stakeholders
- The particular strengths of an all girls’ context are widely shared, highly visible and driven through a Growth Mindset culture
- Our commitment to language learning creates an excellent provision
High Quality Teaching and Learning
- The DGS Way defines the framework for high quality teaching and learning across our school
- Students confidently develop skills for life such as problem solving, team working and creative thinking alongside excellent literacy, numeracy and ICT skills
- The creative use of technology creates a cutting edge provision to support high quality teaching and learning
What does this mean?
Students are resilient and confident learners who have a ‘can-do’ attitude which prepares them well for their futures. Staff share a common language for excellent learning and this is evidenced across the school.
A Leadership Culture
- Students are empowered to take leadership roles, especially through the Leadership Ladder, School Council, House system, Prefect team and the Sixth Form Leadership group
- A collaborative leadership community, driven by Senior Team and Middle Leaders, develops where creative ideas are shared, contributing towards the school’s vision
- Professional development for all staff is responsive to need and shares best practice through collaborative training networks
What does this mean?
Students and staff feel empowered to take leadership roles and are well supported in these roles, enabling individuals to ‘make a difference’ to their school and to the community.
Personalised Support and Guidance
- High quality mentoring provides personalised support for students’ learning
- Peer mentoring promotes social cohesion across the school
- The curriculum offers well tailored learning pathways which provide good progression
What does this mean?
All students feel known in the school community and there is a close understanding of each individual’s needs which leads to appropriate support and high levels of achievement. Students fulfil their potential.
An Outward-Facing Learning Community
- Outreach work ensures the best of science, languages, arts, sports and business provision is available to students both in and outside of the school
- An understanding of different cultures and faiths promotes tolerance and respect
What does this mean?
Students have a wide choice of excellent enrichment and extra-curricular provision which increases their aspirations. They are tolerant of difference and respectful of each other and their community. Our students are proud of their school.
Documents
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| DGS Strategic Plan 2021-25 |
