Ages 
There’s something special in the air here. A rich diet of academic stimulation, focus on individual development and celebration of the arts means that Camden produces admirably well-rounded individuals ready and keen to take on the world on a wide variety of fronts. A vibrant place to learn and grow.
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Overview & data
- Pupil numbers
- 1,050 ·
- Sixth form numbers
- 451 ·
- Religion
- None
- Local authority
- London Borough of Camden
Headteacher
Headteacher
Kateryna Law
Since 2021, Kateryna Law. Born in Ukraine but when she was nine, her scientist parents moved to Sheffield, where she attended King Edward VII state school – ‘similar liberal values’ to Camden. First class degree in maths from New College, Oxford,
Entrance
Relatively small intake at year 7 compared with other local state schools, based on an assessment test which places all applicants in one of four bands – 30 admitted from each band. Priority given to those with an EHCP, then looked-after children,
Entry and exit data - year 7 entry (average 2020-2022)
Exit
About a third leave at 16, either because they don’t make the grade or because they prefer a sixth form college, apprenticeship or employment. Vast majority of leavers at 18 to university – more than three-quarters to Russell Group, with Bristol,
% students progressing to higher education or training (2021 leavers)
What is this?
The proportion of 16-18 students that progressed to degrees, higher apprenticeships or other study at level 4 or above for at least 6 consecutive months in the 2 years after taking advanced level qualifications (level 3) at this school or college.
Latest results
In 2024, 54 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 50 per cent A*/A at A level (77 per cent A*-B).
GCSE - % of pupils achieving grade 5 or above (A* to C) in English and maths GCSE (2024)
What is this?
This tells you the percentage of pupils who achieved grade 5 or above in English and maths GCSEs.
A level - Average points score (2024)
What is this?
These figures tell you the average grade and average points that pupils achieved in their academic qualifications. A maximum of 60 points are available for a grade A* at A level.
Teaching & learning
Inclusive intake notwithstanding, this is an academically ambitious and successful school, albeit with less pressure than some of its selective competitors, say students. Stimulating teaching by high-calibre staff who really know their charges –
- Qualifications taken in 2024
- A level
- EPQ
- GCSE
Learning support & SEN
Two calm, light-filled classrooms equipped with comfy bean bags, books and games provide a quiet space for anyone needing down time and are also used for one-to-one and small group work. Full-time SENCo plus team of six teaching assistants including
Arts & extracurricular
Music standards are high, both curricular and extracurricular – ‘I’ve never worked in such a great school for music,’ enthused one teacher. Large suite of shiny Macs for budding composers, instrumentalists get to work with Odyssey Festival Orchestra
Sport
Not known as a sporty school, but ‘we try and participate in as much as possible’. MUGA court and gym on site, plus the Cantelowes sports ground just across the road, with a floodlit Astro and skateboard park where year 7s have lessons. Trampolining,
Ethos & heritage
Founded in 1871 by renowned educationalist and suffragist Frances Mary Buss in her mother’s home in Camden Street, as an affordable alternative to her other school, North London Collegiate. NLCS moved out to Edgware in 1938; the Camden site was
Pastoral care, inclusivity & discipline
Warm and inclusive atmosphere with well-integrated pastoral support network: ‘There are so many people you can go to,’ said our guides. School ‘works very hard’ to get to know its families, resulting in the highest attendance in the borough (c96 per
Mobile phone policy
A clear mobile phone policy is a really important part of modern schooling. This school has provided us with their policy.
Mobile phone policy
Provided by the school and not part of our review Mobile phones are not allowed during the school day.
Pupils & parents
Bright, friendly and self-confident, epitomising Camden cool but with real heart – these are students who can think for themselves, care about the world and are not afraid to share their views. And share they did. Unlike some schools we’ve visited
Money matters
Camden is a voluntary aided school and has to contribute 11 per cent to its building costs. Parents give generously and there is an annual fundraising appeal, with monthly donations from £10.
The last word
There’s something special in the air here. A rich diet of academic stimulation, focus on individual development and celebration of the arts means that Camden produces admirably well-rounded individuals ready and keen to take on the world on a wide
Inspection reports
Ofsted reports
Full inspection: Good
You can read full reports on the Ofsted website
| Personal development | Good |
|---|---|
| Quality of education | Good |
| Behaviour and attitudes | Outstanding |
| Leadership and management | Good |
| Sixth form provision | Outstanding |
Full inspection: Outstanding
| Leadership and management | Outstanding |
|---|---|
| Sixth form provision | Outstanding |
