Welcome from the Headteacher
It is with great pleasure and a sense of privilege being the Headteacher at Copthall School.
This is a wonderful and exceptionally successful girls’ comprehensive school that aims to provide all our students with the very best start in life by providing them with an outstanding education. Copthall School is a popular school with a rich and respected history. Staff and students are on a learning journey together, continuously striving for excellence and to be the best that we can be.
Our mission statement, ‘Excellent Education for All’ and our five values (Responsibility, Respect, Aspiration, Equality for All, and Support and Safety) underpin everything we do to ensure all our students leave us confident, ambitious and determined to be the very best they can be. Our school ensures that each student in our care reaches their full potential academically, and, in addition, develops a broad set of skills that will enable them to be successful, happy, healthy and thrive socially, emotionally and physically in our ever-changing world.
It will not take you long to recognise and appreciate that Copthall School is a warm, hardworking and inclusive community, striving for excellence in everything we do. We are renowned for our strong pastoral care and our focus on student mental health, wellbeing and inclusivity which is woven throughout our pastoral programme and sits at the heart of our school development plan, as does our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
We are a caring community and foster the highest levels of empathy and respect for all members of our community. We require high standards of behaviour at all times as we know that good behaviour is essential for effective learning to take place. We are also committed to the belief that parents are crucial partners and we will keep you regularly informed of your child’s progress.
I very much look forward to meeting you all in the coming weeks and months and hope that you will share in celebrating your child’s numerous successes during their time at our school.
Ms. Maria Winters
Headteacher
Copthall Girls Shine: A School Where Every Student Thrives By Maria Winters
At Copthall School, education is more than just academic achievement—it’s about fostering confidence, resilience, and a deep sense of respect and care that empowers our students to shine. As Headteacher, I am incredibly proud of the strong culture we have built, where every girl is supported to reach her full potential.
A Culture of Respect and Care
Our five core values define everything we do at Copthall, and at the heart of them all is Respect. We model and embrace respect for every school community member, creating an ethos of care, kindness, and empathy. This inclusive environment celebrates diversity and encourages our students to become kind, ambitious, and well-rounded. When you walk through our doors, you immediately feel the warmth and dedication of our staff and students, all striving for excellence together.
Excellence for All—Regardless of Background or Ability
Our approach is based on high expectations. Every student at Copthall benefits from expert teaching, continuous progress monitoring, and a strong partnership between home and school. We believe in Teaching to the Top, ensuring every girl is challenged and supported regardless of her starting point.
Our commitment to student well-being is unwavering beyond the classroom. Our strong pastoral care system and focus on mental health are woven throughout our curriculum and school development plan, ensuring that every girl feels valued and supported in her journey to success.
"We have high expectations for every student, ensuring they are challenged and supported to reach their full potential."
Supporting Year 7s to Feel Safe, Happy, and Ready to Shine
Starting secondary school is a significant milestone, and we work tirelessly to make the transition smooth and positive. Our Year 7 team visits primary schools to build relationships with new students before they start, providing them with a trusted adult from day one.
A well-structured transition programme—including a dedicated Summer School and an engaging Transition Day—helps students feel comfortable, familiar with their surroundings, and excited about the journey ahead. We also have a Year 8 buddy system, ensuring every new student has a peer mentor to guide and support them as they settle in.
Beyond the Classroom: Enriching Lives and Expanding Horizons
Education at Copthall extends far beyond textbooks and exams. We offer a rich programme of curriculum and enrichment trips, including overseas experiences that build cultural capital and broaden perspectives.
Every other Wednesday, our students can participate in Wider Enrichment Clubs, which offer activities ranging from martial arts and debating to jewellery making, drama, and multiple sports. Led by experts, these activities nurture creativity, confidence, and essential life skills, preparing our students for success beyond school.
Why I Chose to Lead Copthall
"Copthall students are our greatest asset—their passion, energy, and ambition inspire me everyday."
The heart of Copthall is its students. When I first visited the school, I was taken on a tour by two incredible students whose enthusiasm, pride, and passion for learning were infectious. Their love for their teachers and school convinced me that Copthall was where I wanted to be—a place where I could help enhance learning experiences and empower students to thrive.
As someone who attended a girls’ school, I deeply understand the value of this environment.
It shaped who I am today, giving me the confidence and opportunities to succeed. As a passionate female educational leader, I am committed to ensuring that Copthall provides an exciting, enriching, and empowering education for every student. Our goal is to equip our young women with the skills and qualities—resilience, adaptability, creativity, and empathy—that will enable them to succeed and have choices in their future.
At Copthall, every girl shines. And I couldn’t be prouder to lead this incredible school.