I am delighted to report on the Ofsted inspection at Lady Margaret School (inspection held 3rd and 4th February).
The new style of inspections started in November 2025, and the grading system has changed, so there is no longer an overall judgement. Roughly translated, the grading of strong is broadly equivalent to what was formerly known as outstanding. The grade of exceptional is extremely rare and difficult to achieve.
The published report is an accurate reflection of Lady Margaret School and we received the top grade of exceptional in the following areas:
- Achievement
- Curriculum and teaching
- Inclusion
- Personal development and well-being
The exceptional judgement is given rarely and means that the practice is exemplary, and other schools nationally can learn from our work. This is viewed to be a higher grade than the previous ‘outstanding’ judgement.
We also received also received a strong judgement in the following areas:
- Early years
- Leadership and governance
A strong grade means that what is we provide is above the expected standard for schools in this country.
Lady Margaret received the expected grade for attendance and behaviour, and this was the most disappointing aspect of the report. Although we do more than most schools to ensure high attendance, decisions made to take children abroad during term time have caused a lower grade.
It is important to note this indicates that the school has met the expected standard, but we wanted so much more.
Despite the behaviour of our children being a strong feature of our school, which Ofsted describes as a ‘real strength’, the judgement could have been higher.
We are extremely proud of our children’s behaviour although it is a shame that because the grade is linked to attendance, we cannot celebrate them more.
The report otherwise shows the exceptional quality of Lady Margaret School.
This is a triumph for Lady Margaret School, its parents, children, staff and leaders.
I would particularly like to thank our governors, and its Chair Mr. Simon Prebble, who volunteer their time to support our children and staff.
Our staff will continue with their relentless drive to provide the best education and standards for your children, and I feel fortunate to work amongst so many committed professionals.
Finally, I would like to thank all our parents and carers whose interest in their children’s education in school and at home helps achievement to be exceptional. Our combined efforts have contributed to ensuring that Lady Margaret is a school that the local community and the wider borough of Ealing can be rightly proud of.
Helen Rai
To read the full Ofsted report
Read the letter from Sir Martyn Oliver His Majesty’s Chief Inspector
