New Jewish head at St Margaret’s Hampstead explains why the school is a good choice
A quarter of students at the school are Jewish
Sharron Shackell joined St Margaret’s Hampstead as Headteacher earlier this year. She tells Jewish News what makes the school right for Jewish girls
What are the advantages of a single-sex school for girls?
At St Margaret’s Hampstead, a girls-only education means limitless possibilities. Free from gender stereotypes, every subject is open to every girl whether it’s STEM, the arts or humanities. Our tailored approach fosters collaboration, communication and critical thinking, equipping girls for success at Sixth Form, university and beyond.
Most importantly, we create an environment of psychological safety: a space where girls feel confident to take risks, make mistakes and try again. This builds resilience and independence, shaping fearless leaders ready to thrive, whether captaining sports teams, leading school council or excelling academically.
With up to 170 pupils aged 4-16 and an average class size of 14, every girl is known by name and encouraged to shine in every sphere – sport, drama, music and academics.
1. A True Family School: with up to 170 girls and small classes, we offer a home-from-home environment where every child is known and valued.
2. Academic Excellence: our girls consistently achieve exceptional value-added results, performing significantly above baseline expectations.
3. Psychological Safety: we know that girls who feel secure thrive and we make that happen here.
What is on offer for students?
The broad curriculum offers GCSEs in English, Maths, triple Science, 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. Girls also get the chance to do climbing and rowing.
Why move at Sixth Form?
After years of growth at St Margaret’s Hampstead, our girls leave at 16 ready for new challenges. They are confident, ambitious and prepared for the next stage of their journey. We support this transition with tailored guidance, preparation and one-to-one interview coaching, ensuring every girl embarks on her next chapter with purpose.
Where do the girls go for Sixth Form?
Our students progress to leading schools, both single-sex and co-educational, including Camden School for Girls, Channing, City of London School for Girls, Francis Holland Regents Park, Highgate, Queen’s College, South Hampstead, St Helen’s, St Marylebone and UCS. We guide families every step of the way to ensure the right fit.
Over 25 percent of our students are Jewish and inclusion is at the heart of our ethos. Jewish girls proudly embrace their identity and can easily take time off for key holidays. As a Jewish member of staff myself, I can attest to the warmth and respect within our community.
What pastoral care do you offer?
Pastoral care is central to life at St Margaret’s Hampstead. Every girl benefits from daily tutor time, a strong House system and our unique Family Tree mentoring, where older students support younger peers. Our small size ensures no child is overlooked and every girl thrives.
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