Girls’ sport in UK private schools has seen a huge shift in recent years. Today, many schools offer high-performance coaching, outstanding facilities and specialist support tailored to girls’ athletic development. Whether your daughter is a rising star in netball, football, athletics or hockey, it’s never been easier to find a school that nurtures her passion and potential.

Here’s what to look for when exploring girls’ sport programmes at UK private schools.

A Growing Focus on Girls’ Sport

For a long time, girls’ sport was seen as a secondary priority in many schools. That’s changing fast. More UK private schools are now building elite teams, hiring female coaches and offering sports scholarships specifically for girls.

Benefits of schools that focus on girls’ sport include:

• Strong fixtures against other high-performing schools

• Female role models in coaching and leadership

• Access to high-quality strength and conditioning

• Tailored sport science and injury prevention

• Mentorship for girls navigating both sport and academics

At The UK Boarding School Advisors, we’ve helped families choose schools where girls’ sport is not only encouraged, but invested in at every level.

Which Sports Are Commonly Offered?

Most UK private schools offer traditional team sports like netball, hockey and tennis. But more schools are now adding girls’ football, cricket, swimming and athletics into their core sports programmes.

Ask about:

• Opportunities to compete at county or national level

• Coaching credentials and weekly training hours

• Leadership opportunities through sport

• Whether the school has links to professional clubs or universities

• Availability of girls-only or mixed training environments

We help families shortlist schools where your daughter’s sport is given equal time and attention, no matter which path she’s on.

Balancing High Performance with Personal Growth

Athletic development is just one part of the picture. The best schools also focus on character building, confidence and wellbeing. For many girls, sport is where they find their voice, their team and their sense of purpose.

Look for schools that also offer:

• Excellent pastoral care for sport-focused pupils

• Strong academic support and scheduling flexibility

• Role models and alumni networks in women’s sport

• Programmes that empower girls beyond the pitch or court

We take time to understand what your daughter needs — not just as an athlete, but as a young person learning to thrive.

Conclusion

Girls’ sport in UK private schools is thriving, and the right environment can make all the difference. From elite coaching to long-term personal development, these schools offer the space, structure and support your daughter needs to succeed.

Speak to our team for tailored guidance on the best UK private schools for girls who love sport. We’ll help you find the perfect fit — both on and off the field.