About Us

Westwood High School for Girls stands as one of Jamaica's most distinguished educational institutions, gracefully positioned in the historic town of Stewart Town, Trelawny. Founded in 1882 by Baptist Minister Rev. William Menzie Webb, our school was born from a vision of providing quality, unsegregated education for young women during a transformative period in Jamaica's history. For over 140 years, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to academic excellence and character development. As Jamaica's premier all-girls boarding school, Westwood High maintains treasured traditions that set us apart, including our iconic jippi-jappa hats that our students wear with pride. This unique tradition, along with our strong boarding culture, creates an environment where young women develop independence, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships. Our historic campus, with main buildings completed in 1895, provides a inspiring backdrop for learning that connects our students to generations of accomplished alumnae. At Westwood High, we believe in nurturing the whole student through a balanced approach of academic rigor, spiritual growth, and personal development. Our motto 'Ora Et Labore' - By Prayer and By Work - reflects our foundational belief that success comes through both spiritual grounding and dedicated effort. Under the leadership of Principal Karen Francis, we continue to blend our rich heritage with modern educational approaches, preparing our students to excel in an ever-changing world. Today, Westwood High School for Girls remains a beacon of educational excellence in Jamaica, where tradition meets innovation. Our students graduate not only with outstanding academic achievements but also with the confidence, character, and values needed to become leaders in their communities and beyond.