The Godolphin and Latymer School
Iffley Road, Hammersmith, London, W6 0PG
Pupils
812
Ages
11 - 18
Gender
Girls
Type
Secondary
Head Teacher
Dr Frances Ramsey
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£8,395
ISC Associations
GSA, AGBIS, ISBA, HMC
Religion
Non-denominational
Bursaries
Available
About The Godolphin and Latymer School
The Godolphin and Latymer School, located in Hammersmith, London, is a highly competitive and prestigious girls’ secondary school. With around 900 applicants vying for just 110 places each year, the school is part of the London 11+ Consortium, which introduced a new test in 2023. Successful candidates are invited for an interview, and there is no sibling policy. At the 16+ level, there are approximately 12-15 places available, which are also highly sought after.
The school prides itself on its inclusive intake, with around a quarter of students coming from state schools. It offers extra time for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN), provided the appropriate paperwork is submitted. However, the headteacher emphasizes that students are expected to perform well even with these accommodations, suggesting that if they do not, the school might not be the right fit for them.
The academic results at the school are impressive. In 2023, 97% of GCSE grades were 9-7, and 79% of A-level grades were A*/A, with 93% achieving A*-B. The International Baccalaureate (IB) average score was 41. These results are consistent with pre-pandemic performance, indicating a stable and high-achieving academic environment.
The school’s approach to teaching and learning is focused on achieving excellent results with minimal stress. The emphasis is on creating well-rounded individuals rather than just high achievers. This philosophy is evident in the way students support each other, even when some do not achieve the highest grades. The school fosters a sense of mutual respect between teachers and pupils, which is reflected in the positive feedback from parents and the welcoming atmosphere in classrooms.
The curriculum has recently expanded to include Mandarin Chinese and Computing from Year 7, both available as GCSE and A-level options. Students can choose between A-levels and the IB in the sixth form, with the IB cohort growing steadily. The school also offers a variety of extra-curricular activities, including subject-related clubs and societies, often featuring external speakers. The school has an educational partnership with Kensington Aldridge Academy, allowing pupils to access a wider range of subjects.
The school’s facilities are well-maintained and thoughtfully allocated. The site includes Victorian buildings set in six acres, with modern additions like a new sports hall featuring a climbing wall and fitness suite. The performing arts centre, housed in a converted church, is a highlight, with a moveable floor that can accommodate various events.
Pastoral care is a strong focus, with the school aiming to be respectful, courageous, and remarkable. There are two counsellors, two nurses, and a part-time doctor available to support students with academic or personal difficulties. The school also offers peer mentoring and a buddy system for new pupils. The Challenge Your Limits programme is designed to boost resilience and address the fear of failure, equipping students with the tools to overcome challenges and pursue their goals.
Parental involvement is encouraged, with active parent groups organizing various events and activities. The school fosters a warm and welcoming community, with a focus on cooperation and mutual support. Pupils are encouraged to take responsibility and embrace challenges, starting with small tasks and progressing to public speaking and other activities.
The school’s ethos is to ensure that girls feel free to follow their interests and passions, supported by a balanced allocation of resources. This approach is reflected in the wide range of careers pursued by alumni, from the arts to academia and various professions.
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ISI Review
The Godolphin and Latymer School, an independent day school for girls aged 11 to 18, is located in Hammersmith, London. Founded in 1861, the school transitioned from a boys' boarding school to a girls' day school in 1905. It is governed by The Godolphin and Latymer School Foundation, a charitable company limited by guarantee. The school comprises three sections: the Lower School for years 7 to 9, the Middle School for years 10 and 11, and the Sixth Form. In 2022, the school initiated a building project to enhance its facilities, including a new library and improved dining and outdoor spaces.
The school aims to foster curiosity, intellectual rigor, and independence of thought among its pupils. It encourages them to become compassionate and responsible young adults who are aware of their community and environmental responsibilities. The student body is diverse, with most pupils residing in central London. The school reports that the academic ability of its senior pupils is significantly above average, and it provides support for students with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is tailored to accommodate pupils excelling in sports, music, and drama.
The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a focused compliance and educational quality inspection in November 2022. The inspection assessed the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards and its educational quality. The findings indicated that the school meets all regulatory standards, with no further action required. The quality of education provided is deemed good, with pupils making significant progress in their studies. The school’s GCSE and A-level results from 2020 to 2022 reflect this progress, with high achievement rates across subjects.
The curriculum is well-structured, supported by comprehensive plans and resources, and includes relationships and sex education. The school promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, encouraging pupils to become responsible citizens. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with effective measures in place to safeguard students and promote good behavior. The school maintains appropriate supervision and has a strategic approach to risk assessment.
The inspection also evaluated the suitability of staff, confirming that appropriate checks are conducted to ensure the safety of pupils. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' needs, including adequate toilet and changing facilities. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and policies on behavior and health and safety.
The complaints procedure is effectively managed, allowing for a clear process for addressing parental concerns. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that standards are consistently met and promoting the well-being of pupils.
The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of pupils, who consistently perform at a high level in public examinations and academic competitions. Pupils exhibit strong communication skills, articulate their thoughts clearly, and engage in extensive independent research. Their intellectual curiosity is evident in their questioning and participation in lessons.
The personal development of pupils is also rated as excellent. They are empowered to make independent choices and demonstrate resilience and self-confidence. The school fosters a culture of respect for cultural diversity, and pupils actively engage in discussions about social issues, demonstrating a commitment to understanding and promoting equality.
The school encourages a healthy lifestyle, with pupils recognizing the importance of physical exercise and a balanced diet. They participate in various extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and arts, which contribute to their overall development. The school’s commitment to providing a wide range of extracurricular opportunities is evident, and pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles within these activities.
Pupils display a mature understanding of moral responsibility and are aware of the impact of their actions on others. They engage in community service and social initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to making a positive difference in their local and global communities. The school promotes values of democracy, respect, and tolerance, and pupils actively participate in discussions about contemporary social issues.
Overall, the Godolphin and Latymer School provides a high-quality education that promotes academic excellence and personal development. The school’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment enables pupils to thrive academically and socially, preparing them for future challenges. The inspection findings affirm the school’s effectiveness in meeting the needs of its pupils and maintaining high standards of education and care.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024