Godolphin

This award-winning Wiltshire school has been educating young women for three centuries, with some incredible results. In 2019, Godolphin was awarded The Sunday Times Southwest Independent Secondary School of The Year.  Founded in 1726, this long heritage lives on through the experience and traditional values that touch everything the school does.

Godolphin’s philosophy is simple: a strong academic education is important but so too is the character of each and every individual who passes through the school. Godolphin’s results remain consistent, reflecting both the hard work of the students and the quality of the teaching. 

Academics aside, Godolphin encourages girls to explore the many creative opportunities available to them. In 2018 they were awarded ‘Gold Artsmark Award’, accredited by Arts Council England, in recognition of our high standards in art, drama and music.  

Highlights include Godolphin’s Vocal Ensemble who have inspired audiences at Southwark Cathedral, as well as the ‘International Women’s Day Concert in Salisbury’, ‘The Musical Scholars’ Showcase’ and ‘Pro Corda’. Not to mention their most recent memorable drama production of, ‘We Will Rock You, which involved nearly 60 students. 

Past speakers have included Sir Simon Schama CBE, who inspired students with his journey through history, politics and art.  In 2021, former Labour Shadow Business Secretary Chuka Umanna delivered an evening full of humanity, political insights, and a belief in the potential for change.

Godolphin’s loyal alumnae (‘Old Girls’) return regularly to attend various careers events where they offer words of support and life experience to today’s students. In lockdown, Godolphin launched an online programme, OGA Connect, to ensure students would continue to be offered this much welcomed support.

Their highly popular CCF (Combined Cadet Force) boasts the largest all female contingent in the country.  Godolphin’s sports teams play competitive matches every week, and their focus sports include lacrosse, netball, hockey, cross-country, swimming, athletics, tennis and cricket. Each year, a number of girls are selected for the Lacrosse England Pathway Programme and the senior teams are looking forward to taking part in the National Lacrosse Championships in March 2022.

Importantly, Godolphin is committed to instilling a sense of responsibility and community in their students. As such they regularly visit local hospitals and women’s refugees. In previous years, the School has been proud to be the single largest group to sleep on the cloister floors of Salisbury Cathedral at the ‘Alabare Sleepout’, raising money for the homeless. 

Finally, Godolphin refers to their school motto: “Franc Ha Leal Eto Ge” (frank and loyal art thou’) as above all else they are proud that the Godolphin community still espouses the values of honesty, openness, and loyalty three hundred years on, and they look forward to a bright future.