

Harrogate Ladies' College
Secular
Updated July 2026
Accreditations
Duchy College is an independent through-school for pupils aged 2 to 18, located in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. From September 2026, the school will transition to a fully co-educational provision across all year groups.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is committed to an 'I Am Me' approach, which celebrates individuality, authenticity, and inclusivity. It aims to provide a tailored educational journey where every pupil is known and supported to achieve their potential. The school believes that academic excellence and pastoral care are intrinsically linked, fostering an environment where happy children succeed.
Programmes
The school provides a continuous educational pathway from Pre-School and Nursery (ages 2-4) through Highfield Prep (ages 4-11) to the Senior School and Sixth Form (ages 11-18). The curriculum is designed to be age-appropriate, with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) forming the basis for later learning. The senior curriculum includes GCSE and A-level pathways, supported by a careers programme and university preparation. Highfield Prep is accredited by the Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS).
Outcomes
The school has a history of academic success, with pupils achieving strong GCSE and A-level results. Graduates progress to a variety of university destinations. The school is recognised for its commitment to inclusivity and personal development, as noted in its 2024 ISI Inspection Report.
Student support
Learning support
The school prioritises individualised support, ensuring every pupil is known and nurtured both academically and pastorally. The 'Flourish' pastoral care programme is embedded across all age groups from 2 to 18. The school maintains a strong focus on the link between home and school to better understand and support each child's unique potential.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- Is Harrogate Ladies' College a day or boarding school?
- Harrogate Ladies' College is a boarding school.
- What accreditations does Harrogate Ladies' College hold?
- Harrogate Ladies' College holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Harrogate Ladies' College co-educational?
- Harrogate Ladies' College is a co-ed school.
- Where is Harrogate Ladies' College located?
- Harrogate Ladies' College is an international school in Harrogate, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The school provides a transparent and straightforward application process for all age groups, supported by a dedicated Admissions Team. Prospective families are encouraged to attend open events or taster days to experience the school environment. The school offers various forms of financial assistance, including scholarships and support for armed forces families.
Calendar
The school operates on a termly basis, with the academic year concluding in early July. The calendar includes a variety of events such as speech days, sports presentation evenings, leavers' services, and term-end commemorations. Enrichment activities and school productions are scheduled throughout the spring and summer terms.
Facilities
About the campus
Located on a 22-acre site in Harrogate, the campus features a mix of historic buildings and modern facilities. Academic resources include science and language labs, IT suites, a business school, art and photographic studios, a textiles suite, and food technology suites. Sports facilities comprise extensive pitches, a purpose-built sports hall, a 25m swimming pool, and tennis and netball courts. Performance and social spaces include a 350-seat theatre, a music house with practice rooms, a chapel, a wellness centre, libraries, and various common rooms.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a wide range of co-curricular activities, including sports clubs such as athletics, rounders, and football, as well as music and dance opportunities like the Junior Orchestra. Students participate in enrichment programmes, including art masterclasses, essay writing competitions, and science-based activities like CSI days. The school also hosts annual productions, such as musicals, and provides opportunities for competitive sports fixtures at regional and national levels.






- Joanna FoxPrincipal
Joanna Fox is the Principal of the whole school community (ages 2-18). She has over 20 years of experience in education, previously serving as Senior Deputy and DSL at the school, and held leadership roles at Ipswich High School and The Royal Hospital School. She is an English teacher and former military nurse.
James Savile, Head of Highfield 2-11Head of Highfield 2-11 yearsJames Savile is the Head of Highfield (2-11 years). He has extensive experience in independent education, having previously served as Deputy Head at Salisbury Cathedral School, Head of Leweston Prep School, and Principal of Dolphin School and Noah’s Ark Nurseries. He is a modern languages specialist and sports coach.
- Sadie HerringHead of EYFS
Sadie Herring is a qualified primary education teacher and the Head of EYFS. She takes strategic responsibility for academic provision at Highfield Pre-School and also serves as a Reception Class teacher in Highfield Prep School.
- Sam PickardPre-School Manager
Sam Pickard is a highly experienced Senior Early Years Practitioner and the Pre-School Manager. She is responsible for the day-to-day academic and pastoral care of pre-school children and serves as the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead for the whole school community.
IB