I have 2 girls in JAGS. They are both very different and are both thriving. There are enough girls in a year (c 120 per year group) for them to find their own tribe. Like everywhere else, you do have to do some co-curriculars to widen your circle. The school does mix them up in lessons and year groups, but the closest connections are usually forged outside the classrooms; in the back stage of a drama/dance production or on the field. Only because there’s not a lot of time to chat during lessons!
They do quite a few collaborations with Dulwich College(DC), but your experience with that one depends on the year groups, and who you meet at those collaborations.
We have found that whilst they are going through that phase of life, all girls school makes things more relaxed for the girls. I’m led to believe there’s more pressure to put on make-up every day in a co-ed school as they get older, but in a single-sex school, they’d only do it when there is a collab day with DC, for example.
We thought that when girls are at a sensitive age, the benefit of being in an all girls school means that they learn to be aware of their emotions and talk about their emotions more without fear of being judged or feeling conscious of how it looks with the boys. And it has proven to be right with both our girls, listening in to the conversations they have with their friends. So generally, you do end up with girls that are more in-tuned with their emotions and authentic/genuine in their communication, as they don’t feel they constantly have to appear a certain way in front of boys. And they have more fun, as they are still able to be girls, without trying to be a “young lady” too quickly (that will come, but being in an all girls school gives them more space).
Best thing to do if you are still undecided is to go to another Open Day, and see how you like the vibe. It’s exciting picking a new school! Good luck!