As Newcastle High School for Girls celebrates its 150th anniversary, Head Amanda Hardie reflects on the enduring power of an all-girls education – and why its impact begins from the very earliest years.

Having spent almost three decades at the school, Amanda’s connection to its ethos runs deep. From joining as a newly qualified teacher in 1997 to becoming Head, she has seen first-hand how a 3–18 education designed specifically for girls can shape confident, capable young women ready to lead.

“We’ve always been driven by one simple belief,” she says. “That our girls can learn without limits and become the person they want to be.”

Q&A with Amanda Hardie

Why does an all-girls education still matter today?

“Even though education has changed enormously over the last 150 years, the need for spaces where girls can thrive without limitation is still incredibly important. Our environment levels the playing field. It allows girls to develop self-belief, leadership skills and confidence, free from stereotypes or expectations about what they ‘should’ do.

“When girls are given that freedom, they take intellectual risks, speak up and fully participate. That confidence carries forward into the wider world.”

How does that confidence develop across the 3–18 journey?

“It starts very early. From age three, girls experience a world where everything is open to them. Whether it’s sport, STEM activities or creative pursuits, they are encouraged to explore without judgement.

“As they move through the school, that foundation grows into something more powerful. By the time they are making GCSE or A-level choices, they’re making decisions based on genuine interest and ability — not external expectations. That’s the real strength of a 3–18 journey: it builds confidence over time.”

How does the school environment support the way girls learn?

“The environment we create is incredibly important. Everything is designed with girls in mind — spaces where they feel comfortable contributing, collaborating and taking risks.

“Whether it’s classrooms, creative spaces or outdoor learning areas, we want our girls to feel a sense of ownership and belonging. When that happens, they engage more fully, they ask more questions, and they’re more willing to push themselves beyond their comfort zone. It’s about creating surroundings that actively encourage curiosity, confidence and participation.”

What role does leadership play in school life?

“Leadership isn’t something we introduce at Sixth Form — it begins in Junior School. We want girls to understand that their voice matters from the very beginning.

“They lead initiatives, contribute ideas and shape their own learning. The more they see themselves as leaders, the more naturally that confidence develops. It becomes part of who they are.”

How does NHSG prepare girls for future careers?

“We are very focused on the future. Since becoming Head, I’ve worked to build strong connections with businesses, universities and industry leaders so we understand where opportunities are growing.

“Whether it’s cybersecurity, engineering or finance, we want our girls to feel confident entering fields where women are still underrepresented. It’s about giving them both the skills and the belief that they belong there.”

What makes the NHSG community unique?

“There’s a real sense that every girl is known, supported and valued as an individual. That’s fundamental. When girls feel seen and celebrated for who they are, they flourish.

“Our alumnae community also plays a huge role. When girls hear from women who once sat in the same classrooms and are now succeeding in diverse careers, it makes those aspirations feel real and achievable.”

Quick Fire with Amanda

What do you love most about the North East?
“The people, without question. There’s such warmth and community spirit — it’s a privilege to work with young people here and see them give back to the region.”

Your go-to place to switch off?
“A long walk outdoors, either along the Derwent Walk or the Northumberland coast. Fresh air and beautiful scenery always help me reset.”

Proudest moment?
“Becoming Head at NHSG. After nearly 30 years at the school, it means so much to lead a place I care so deeply about — especially during its 150th anniversary year.”

Best piece of advice?
“Focus on what you can control. It’s something I use every day and share with the girls — it makes a real difference.”

Three words to describe NHSG girls?
“Confident, curious, and courageous.”

As Newcastle High School for Girls marks this milestone year, its mission remains unchanged: to empower girls to be leaders, trailblazers and world-shapers.

“The most important thing,” Amanda adds, “is that every girl leaves us knowing her voice matters and feeling confident in her place in the world.”

From those first steps at age three to stepping out into the future at eighteen, it is a journey designed not just to educate, but to transform.