St Margaret's School, Bushey

St Margaret's is a progressive, inclusive, and co-educational school that balances modern approaches with historic traditions. It focuses on happiness, confidence, and individual progress, with a strong emphasis on pastoral care and warm relationships. The school encourages leadership, service, and the development of diverse talents, aiming to help every child flourish.

The school provides an all-through education for pupils aged 2 to 18, spanning the Nursery, Junior School, Senior School, and Sixth Form. The curriculum is broad and balanced, designed to provide clear pathways for academic progression. In the Sixth Form, students receive tailored guidance for university applications and career choices, including support for a wide range of post-18 pathways.

The school focuses on helping pupils achieve progress in their examination courses and provides individualised support for university and career preparation. While most Sixth Formers progress to university, the school also supports students pursuing apprenticeships and other post-18 training programmes. Alumni are considered part of the school family, and the institution aims to equip pupils with the skills necessary for success beyond school.

Pastoral support is central to the school's success, with a dedicated team of tutors acting as champions for the pupils. The school maintains small class sizes to ensure staff know their pupils well and can provide individualised attention. Additional support is available should a child encounter difficulties, and the school emphasises the importance of wellbeing and pastoral care in helping pupils flourish.

The school prioritises potential over prior attainment, with the admissions process involving entrance exams, interviews, and a review of school reports. Prospective families are encouraged to visit via Open Days or individual tours. The school accepts mid-year applications where capacity allows, and offers can be deferred for up to two years for Year 9 entry. International students make up approximately 10% of the student body.

The school operates on a termly basis. Boarders are required to return to the school between 6pm and 8pm following half-term breaks, and by 6pm at the start of each term. Full school attendance is mandatory for all pupils.

The campus features a range of facilities, including a dedicated Music Centre and a Sports Centre with outdoor pitches. The grounds are maintained by a professional team to support sports and landscaping needs. The school also provides boarding facilities, with specific protocols for boarders' arrival and departure.

The co-curricular programme is extensive, with all teaching staff involved in its delivery. Offerings include creative, sporting, and enrichment activities, such as youth theatre, pilates, and various sports clubs. Service and charitable work are integral to school life, with pupils encouraged to participate in leadership roles, including as prefects, form captains, and school council representatives. The school also hosts competitive events, such as football tournaments, and provides opportunities for senior pupils to act as referees for younger students.