A passionate advocate for girls’ education, Sharron highlights research showing the benefits of single-sex schooling, particularly in building confidence. At St Margaret’s, she observes that girls are more willing to take risks and support each other, especially in areas like public speaking and STEM subjects.
St Margaret’s prides itself on fostering both personal and academic growth. With only about 170 students and small class sizes, teachers can truly get to know each girl, understanding her strengths and areas for development. The school’s academic results are impressive, with students typically achieving three grades above their baseline predictions at GCSE.
The curriculum is broad, offering GCSEs in core subjects like English, Maths, and triple Science, as well as Spanish, French, History, Geography, and Art. There is a strong emphasis on preparing students for life beyond school, with a five-year strategic plan guiding ongoing curriculum review. Physical education is a highlight, with six lessons a week and a variety of sports, including football, which is especially popular. Because the school lacks on-site facilities, PE takes place at professional venues, giving students opportunities to try activities like climbing and rowing.
Diversity and inclusion are central to the school’s ethos. The community is made up of students from a range of religious and cultural backgrounds, and this diversity is celebrated and built into the school’s informal curriculum through assemblies and “belief” lessons. While formal religious studies are not currently offered at GCSE, this is under review as part of the school’s ongoing development.
Extracurricular activities are seen as vital for students’ well-being and personal growth. The school offers a wide range of clubs, from sports and art to electronics, languages, drama, and coding. Sharron is keen to expand these offerings further, encouraging girls to step out of their comfort zones and try new things.
Looking ahead, Sharron is focused on strengthening pastoral care, character education, and growth mindset. She has introduced initiatives like “Girls on Board,” which helps students develop conflict resolution skills and manage friendships independently—important life skills that will serve them well beyond school.
What makes St Margaret’s truly unique, Sharron believes, is the combination of academic ambition and individual care. “Every teacher knows every child—not just their strengths, but also their fears and how to gently push them further,” she says. The school’s small size allows for a bespoke approach, and its not-for-profit status ensures that all resources are reinvested into the students’ education.
In a landscape where many independent schools are merging or being acquired, St Margaret’s remains proudly independent and focused on its mission: to know, support, and inspire every girl to achieve her very best.
Learn more at www.st-margarets.co.uk
