Manchester High School For Girls
MHSGSecular, Founded 1874
Updated July 2026
Languages
Manchester High School for Girls is an independent day school for girls aged 3 to 18, recognized as the first academic girls' school in the North of England. It provides a seamless, all-round education that balances academic rigour with personal development.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
Founded in 1874, the school is committed to empowering girls and fostering a community where curiosity, confidence, and potential are unlocked. It emphasizes the importance of authenticity, self-acceptance, and friendship, challenging the narrative of competition among girls. The school promotes a holistic education that prepares pupils for happy, successful lives, with a strong focus on wellbeing and resilience.
Programmes
The school offers a continuous educational pathway from Pre-School (3+) through to Sixth Form (16-18). The Preparatory curriculum includes subjects such as History and Mandarin in Key Stage 2, alongside outdoor learning. The Senior School and Sixth Form curricula are supported by subject specialists, with a focus on preparing students for future careers and higher education. Optional instrumental music and speech and drama lessons are also available.
Outcomes
The school has a long history of academic success and prepares students for university destinations. Notable alumnae include the first female helicopter pilot in the British Army, the first female solicitor in England, the first female Chief Cashier of the Bank of England, and the first female Bishop of the Church of England. Pupils are encouraged to develop a 'can-do' attitude and are prepared to be articulate and capable individuals.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides pastoral care and wellbeing support across all age groups. In the Preparatory School, teachers and Senior School subject specialists support pupils, while the Sixth Form offers dedicated pastoral care and careers guidance. The school is also screen-aware, limiting digital device use and promoting engagement in rich, offline experiences to support student mental health.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- How much is tuition at Manchester High School For Girls?
- Annual tuition at Manchester High School For Girls is £13.5K–£18.1K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is Manchester High School For Girls a day or boarding school?
- Manchester High School For Girls is a day school.
- Is Manchester High School For Girls co-educational?
- Manchester High School For Girls is a girls school.
- Where is Manchester High School For Girls located?
- Manchester High School For Girls is an international school in Manchester, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025/26| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Infants (Reception – Year 2) | 4–7 | £13.5K |
| Juniors (Year 3 – Year 4) | 7–9 | £13.5K |
| Juniors (Year 5 – Year 6) | 9–11 | £13.6K |
| Seniors (Year 7 – Year 13) | 11–18 | £18.1K |
Other fees(2)
| Mealsyear· Infants (Reception – Year 2) - £274 per term | £822 |
|---|---|
| Mealsyear· Juniors (Year 3 – Year 6) and Seniors (Year 7 & 8 only) - £301 per term | £903 |
Admissions
The school provides a seamless education for girls aged 3 to 18. Prospective families must register via an online application account for all points of entry, including Pre-School, Preparatory School, Senior School, and Sixth Form. The admissions process includes specific procedures for each stage, and the school encourages families to book a tour to experience the campus firsthand.
Calendar
The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer. The 2025/26 Autumn term begins in early September, with half-term in late October and the term concluding in mid-December. The Spring term runs from early January to early April, and the Summer term spans from late April to early July, with scheduled bank holidays and half-term breaks throughout the year.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus is located on Grangethorpe Road in Manchester. Facilities include a dedicated music wing, a Sixth Form Centre, and various spaces for sports, arts, and academic study. The school also provides transport services and lunch facilities for students.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a vibrant extracurricular programme designed to help pupils discover their interests. Activities include sports fixtures, music, drama, and language clubs. In the Preparatory School, pupils engage in themed days, visiting experts, day trips, and residentials, while Sixth Formers have access to enrichment opportunities and leadership roles, such as the Head Girl Team and Ivy Prefects.





Helen JeysHead MistressAs Head Mistress, she provides leadership for the school and contributes to the Head's Blog on topics such as the importance of girls' education.
Sam GibbonsHead of Preparatory SchoolAs Head of Preparatory School, she oversees the Prep School and frequently writes for the Head's Blog on topics including student wellbeing and the impact of technology.
Jennie HodsonSenior Deputy Head Mistress
Diana BruceDeputy Head (Pastoral)
Robert CrumptonDirector of Sixth Form
Rebecca FairgrieveDirector of Finance & Operations
Jon HavesDirector of Digital Solutions