Dr Anthony Seldon, former master of Wellington College and current vice-chancellor of Buckingham University, argues that independent schools are taking the lead nationally in preparing students for the jobs required for the 21st Century.

He quoted a Harvard University study which found employers need not just the skills developed in exams, but importantly, the ‘soft’ skills including creativity, teamwork, empathy, grit, resilience and honesty. At Queenswood these ‘soft’ skills have always been a part of the broad education on offer.

Two new initiatives are helping girls to develop these even more.

Queenswood Qualities – An All-Round Education for Girls

Firstly, we will soon be launching the Queenswood Qualities, which are characteristics we want the girls to develop. Out of many possibilities we have elected six key characteristics: creativity, courage, curiosity, resilience, resourcefulness and the ability to be reflective. These will be a focus both in the classroom and in other areas of school life, and will be rewarded with house points.

The Richard Programme – Promoting Confidence, Ambition and Compassion

Secondly, we have built on the success of the Queenswood Diploma for Year 8 by introducing the Richard Programme for girls in Year 9 and above. It is named after Dame Alison Richard, OQ, an anthropologist, conservationist and first full time female Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge. As a former pupil she is an ideal role model to current pupils who can see that a Queenswood education equips them with the skills, knowledge and attributes to follow in her footsteps.

This scheme will encourage all girls to get involved in Public Speaking, Leadership and teamwork, Taking Initiative and Problem Solving, Values and Service, The World of University and Work, Women’s Well-being and Life Skills and Research.

We want the girls to be ambitious, push themselves outside of their comfort zone and gain the skills to become leaders in their chosen fields and to make a positive difference in the world.