The DGS Way

Pupils are constantly challenged to aim high. They are taught leadership skills very effectively.

Ofsted

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 inclusion, respect and high expectations 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.

The DGS Way

We teach our students the best behaviours to get the most out of their learning and their community. We call these 'Brilliant Basics' and 'Everyday Excellence' and they describe how we expect students to behave in the classroom and around the school site. They also explain the reasons for following these behaviours and how they benefit the school community. In order to develop student confidence at knowing how to interact with others, we teach students how to be 'DGS Polite' - in other words, to make others feel welcome, to be considerate and courteous, and to speak confidently to adults they don't know. 

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?

High Quality Teaching and Learning

A Leadership Culture

Personalised Support and Guidance

An Outward-Facing Learning Community