THE CAMDEN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS in Greater London, Camden

Education Centre Information: The Camden School for Girls:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Aided School
Phase of Education: Secondary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Camden
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Has a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: None
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 1006
Number of boys: 155
Number of girls: 851
Admissions: Comprehensive
Age Range: 11-18
Gender: Girls
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Background:

The school was founded in 1871 by Frances Mary Buss, Victorian pioneer of girls' education. Its current site was occupied by the North London Collegiate School, Buss's first foundation, until the war. Major rebuilding was undertaken in the 1950s as a result of severe bomb damage. The school was then a grammar, but became comprehensive in 1976. It occupies 'a motley collection' of older, new and temporary buildings which 'though cramped, have real character'. The only school in the education authority to offer Classics, which is thriving. A-level groups in Latin and Classical Civilisation are offered, as well as occasional Greek. Outstanding results in art have been a constant feature, as has the 'remarkable orchestral tradition'. 'The school has a strong tradition for encouraging independence and individuality, and for maintaining the founder's wish that girls should aspire to as high achievement as their abilities make possible.' Relaxed atmosphere; teacher-pupil relationships based on respect and tolerance. Identified by Ofsted as 'outstandingly successful'. Speicalist music college status. Over-subscribed, with more than five applications per place. Beacon status; DfES achievement award. Ethos: 'Rooted in a tradition of promoting opportunities for girls within a creative and tolerant environment that values independence of thought.