Why Howell’s School?
Howell’s School, Llandaff has been lighting up learning and educating Cardiff’s daughters since 1860.
Our pioneering approach to girls’ education has always been ambitious, and our future is no less so. At Howell’s, girls are free to be themselves—compassionate, curious, authentic. They can be anything. From a poet to politician; an actor to an astrophysicist. In a culture free from gender bias, Howell’s girls grow up believing that nothing is beyond their reach.
Academic progress that speaks for itself
We are proud to have the highest value-added score in the GDST, meaning that the progress our students make from the time they join us to the results they achieve is the best across the Trust. Your daughter will leave Howell’s not only with outstanding grades but also with the confidence and skills to succeed beyond school.
Exceptional results
In 2025, our students continued to achieve outstanding academic success. At A level, more than 50 per cent of results were awarded A*–A, a testament to the dedication, determination, and resilience of our students. Our Year 11 cohort also achieved excellent outcomes, with 60 per cent of results at A–A/9–7* and an impressive 92 per cent at A–B/9–5*. These achievements reflect both the commitment of our teachers and the determination of our students.
A phone-free, focused learning environment
Students can fully immerse themselves in school life—learning, socialising, and growing without the distractions of smartphones during the school day. Please click here to learn more about how the introduction of Yondr pouches has transformed school life at Howell’s.
Outstanding facilities
From our modern science labs to our beautiful swimming pool, every corner of Howell’s is designed to help students thrive. Our campus provides the perfect balance of tradition and innovation.
The only girls’ school in Wales
Howell’s offers a environment designed just for girls: a place where their voices are heard, celebrated, and championed. Research shows that students in girls-only schools are more likely to seek out leadership roles, speak out in class, and pursue interests in science, maths and engineering—and Howell’s provides the ideal setting for this empowerment.
Part of the GDST family
Being part of the Girls’ Day School Trust means our students benefit from a strong network of schools, collective expertise, and the financial security of the UK’s leading educational charity for girls. From bursaries and scholarships to national events and an incredibly powerful and impressive alumni network, the GDST opens doors for every Howell’s student.
A thriving arts curriculum
The arts are alive and thriving at Howell’s. Our recent productions of Oliver Twist and Mary Poppins have been described as “West End-worthy,” and this year we look forward to Legally Blonde. Our light-filled art studios provide the perfect creative haven for budding artists to produce their masterpieces.
Inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders
We are proud that two thirds of our students choose to study a STEM subject at A level. Our curriculum sparks curiosity, builds resilience, and nurtures future scientists, engineers, doctors, and innovators. At Howell’s, we encourage every student to see themselves as a future “STEMinist.”
Sport that empowers everyone
Sport at Howell’s is more than just physical activity—it’s about confidence, teamwork, and resilience. Our Talented Athlete Programme supports those competing at elite levels, while our wide range of activities ensures every student finds a sport they love.
A four-legged approach to wellbeing
Our school wouldn’t be complete without Disney, our much-loved school dog. She is a key member of the Wellbeing Team, alongside our school nurse and two school counsellors. They work to enhance students’ well-being, resilience, and overall development by offering a safe space to address emotional, social and academic challenges.
