Newcastle High School for Girls: A Parent's Guide
Part of the Girls' Day School Trust, rated Outstanding by ISI in 2024, and based on Tankerville Terrace — a guide to one of Jesmond's leading independent schools.
Newcastle High School for Girls is one of three prominent independent schools in Jesmond and the city's leading all-girls school. Part of the Girls' Day School Trust (GDST) — the UK's largest group of independent girls' schools — it educates around 970 pupils from age 3 to 18 across junior and senior sites in Jesmond.
Here's what parents need to know.
History
The school in its current form was created in September 2014 through a merger of two established Newcastle institutions: Central Newcastle High School (founded 1895 as a Girls' Public Day School Trust school) and Newcastle upon Tyne Church High School (founded 1885).
The merger brought together two schools with deep roots in the city, and the combined school moved into new facilities on Tankerville Terrace in 2016. The site incorporates the former Church High building alongside a purpose-built three-storey block of over 3,600 square metres — a significant investment in modern teaching spaces.
Who It's For
Newcastle High takes girls from age 3 to 18. The school is split across two sites:
- Junior School — based at Sandyford Park, for girls in Early Years through to Year 6
- Senior School — on Tankerville Terrace in Jesmond, from Year 7 to the Sixth Form
Total enrolment is approximately 970 pupils. The school is an all-girls environment throughout, with a strong ethos around confidence, ambition, and academic achievement.
Best for: Ages 3–18. Around 970 pupils across junior and senior sites, both in the Jesmond area.
ISI Rating
Newcastle High was inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in January 2024 and rated Outstanding — the highest grade. The inspection praised the quality of education, pastoral care, and the school's commitment to developing confident, articulate young women.
The school consistently ranks in the top five independent schools in the North East and in the top ten nationally in some league tables.
Academic Life
As a GDST school, Newcastle High follows the GDST's educational approach — a curriculum designed specifically for girls, informed by research on how girls learn best. The school offers GCSEs and A-levels, with strong results across both.
The GDST network also brings benefits that a standalone school can't easily match: shared resources, professional development, and connections with 25 other GDST schools across the UK.
Facilities
The 2016 move to Tankerville Terrace gave the school modern, purpose-built facilities alongside the character of the former Church High building. The campus includes:
- Modern science labs, art studios, and technology spaces
- Performance and music facilities
- Sports provision including netball, hockey, and athletics
- Outdoor learning areas at the Junior School
The Senior School's location on Tankerville Terrace places it in the heart of Jesmond — close to West Jesmond Metro and within walking distance of the city centre.
Notable Alumnae
The school's predecessors produced a number of distinguished former pupils, including:
- Andrea Riseborough — actress (Birdman, Mandy, To Leslie)
- Esther McCracken — playwright
- Miriam Stoppard — doctor, author, and broadcaster
Admissions
Entry points are at Nursery/Reception for the Junior School, Year 7 for the Senior School, and Year 12 for the Sixth Form. The school holds open days and taster sessions throughout the year.
Admissions are managed through the school's own process, with entrance assessments at the main entry points. Bursaries and scholarships are available — the GDST has a strong commitment to means-tested financial support.
Visit the Newcastle High website for current admissions information and open day dates.
Practical Information
- Address (Senior School): Tankerville Terrace, Jesmond, NE2 3BA
- Ages: 3–18
- Type: Independent girls' day school (GDST)
- ISI Rating: Outstanding (January 2024)
- Approximate roll: 970 pupils
- Nearest Metro: West Jesmond (5-minute walk)
Considering Newcastle High for your daughter? Get in touch — we're happy to help families exploring their options in Jesmond.