teaching
Class sizes are small — maximum 14 in the sixth form. Ninety academic clinics covering every subject run each week, providing one-to-one support on demand. Approximately 70% of leavers progress to Russell Group universities, with a growing number securing places at US institutions. The Oxbridge programme invites former pupils to mentor and speak to applicants, and many gain places. Last year every pupil who took D&T at A-level achieved an A* or A. The Futures department provides careers guidance through presentations, careers fairs, and specialist programmes including MedSoc and Women in STEM. A new sixth-form centre housing the Futures department is due to open in September 2026.
pastoral
The SEND department provides individual and group support, guided by the motto 'Happiness Is the Soil in which Children Grow'. The house system promotes belonging, loyalty, and responsibility. A life-skills programme delivers age-appropriate social and economic skills to all pupils. Sixth-formers complete the Stortfordian Diploma, encompassing voluntary activities, paid work, extra qualifications, and sporting and artistic achievements. The pupil voice is strong, with leadership roles voted for by peers. Parents are mainly local; an increasing number of weekly boarders travel from central London, facilitated by a school day running from 7.15am to 7.15pm.
last word
Described as a large school where pupils meet and exceed their own expectations in a nurturing environment of mutual respect and understanding. The reviewers highlight a feeling of égalité — all pupils receive exactly what they need, from one-to-one academic clinics to coaching and championing in their individual passions.