13 March 2026
Mrs Sarah Lane, Head of Year 8
Year 8 recently exhibited the impressive results of their Personal Enterprise Projects to parents and senior staff. Their work was the culmination of a six-week journey that asked them to think independently, manage their time carefully and pursue something they were genuinely interested in. It was a process that required commitment and resilience, and the growth we saw over that period was just as impressive as the final outcomes.
From the very beginning, lessons spent on the project were filled with purposeful energy. Some girls began with a very clear direction; others started with a broad interest that gradually developed into something much more focused. Those early lessons were about shaping ideas into workable projects: deciding on a clear aim, considering how to approach it, and mapping out the next steps.
The research and planning stage was crucial. Students learned how to select appropriate sources, organise their findings and structure their work. For some, this meant exploring significant historical events, such as the Chernobyl disaster, in real depth. Others filled sketchbooks with design drafts, tested materials, trialled techniques and refined digital concepts. On occasion, ideas had to be adjusted or approaches reconsidered, and it was encouraging to see the girls respond thoughtfully and determinedly. Such adaptability was an important part of the learning.
As the weeks progressed, students’ plans moved into production. The building phase took place partly in lessons, where guidance and feedback could shape the next steps, but a significant amount of work was also completed at home. This required real independence and careful time management. Models were constructed piece by piece, canvases developed layer by layer, fabrics were measured and stitched, and digital designs were refined. We saw boats and horses crafted with precision, detailed 3D-printed skulls and faces, striking horror-film makeup concepts, as well as beautifully made bracelets and creative nail design portfolios. The range of work demonstrated not only imagination, but sustained effort over time.
What stood out most clearly was the girls’ increasing confidence. By the latter stage of the project, they were evaluating their own progress, making informed decisions and talking about their work with clarity and conviction, explaining the process they had gone through and the thinking behind their choices.
For many of the girls, the exhibition was the most challenging part of the journey. Standing beside their work, waiting to explain it to parents and staff, was understandably nerve-wracking. You could see the anticipation in those first few moments. However, as conversations began, something shifted. The girls spoke with clarity about their inspiration, their research and the obstacles they had overcome. They answered questions thoughtfully, explained their design choices and reflected honestly on what they might improve next time.
The afternoon concluded with the presentation of prizes:
Students’ Favourite - Eva (rabbit picture)
Most Creative - Annie (horror makeup)
Best Digital Project - Isla (soldier art and digital film)
Best Researched Project - Kitty (horse anatomy)
Overall Winner - Sarah (corset top and skirt)
While these awards recognised particular strengths, every student demonstrated perseverance, creativity and a willingness to take ownership of her learning.
Over six weeks, ideas developed into substantial projects, and uncertainty grew into confidence. The Personal Enterprise Project has shown what Year 8 can achieve when given both structure and freedom and it has been a privilege to see them rise to that challenge.