St Augustine's Priory Review 2026: A Catholic Girls' School with Hidden Depths

Founded in 1634 when Lettice Mary Tredway, an English woman desperate to follow her religious calling despite persecution at home, established a convent school in Paris, St Augustine's Priory arrived in Ealing in 1915. The canonesses who staffed it dispersed in 1996, but the school they had nurtured for so long continues under lay leadership. Though technically a Catholic institution, it actively welcomes girls of all faiths. Results place it firmly in the top tier of independent schools: 64% of GCSE grades reached A* or A in 2024 (the England average is 54%), whilst 85% of A-level grades achieved A* to B. The school ranks 240th in England for GCSE performance (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 5%, and 118th for A-levels (FindMySchool ranking), similarly elite. Approximately 500 pupils, from age three to eighteen, spread across four departments, benefit from an uncommonly generous campus where outdoor space shapes the educational philosophy.

Mrs Christine Macallister took the helm as headteacher in 2023, bringing financial expertise and a commitment to stabilising fees. Her own education at the school means continuity and understanding of its particular culture.

St Augustine's Priory does not announce itself loudly. Parents describe it as quietly brilliant. It is unpretentious, set in grounds that feel rural rather than suburban, and staffed by a team that knows every child individually.

The school occupies a purpose-built Arts and Crafts building, with a working farm, wild-flower meadow, orchard, and chapel. These elements create an atmosphere quite distinct from typical London independent schools. Girls press apples to make juice, feed chickens during break, and study in spaces designed a century ago by architects who understood space as educational. The Victorian/Edwardian aesthetic, maintained rather than polished, suits a school more interested in substance than shine.

Discipline is clear without being punitive. A mobile phone ban is enforced rigorously, which simplifies pastoral life dramatically. Behaviour is calm and purposeful. Teachers describe girls as genuinely engaged learners rather than grade-chasers, though results demonstrate both. The Catholic ethos is genuine but not oppressive; Mass is part of the rhythm, but girls of all faiths move through the school unremarked.

Classroom observation reveals engaged pupils. The Recent ISI inspection (November 2024) noted that "leaders provide a curriculum that challenges and engages pupils and enables them to learn well." Teachers have strong subject knowledge, lessons are well-structured, and expectations are appropriately high. Staff turnover is low, and many staff are themselves Priory alumnae, creating institutional memory and continuity.

The school is diverse. Families include those who have relocated into Ealing from around the world — from the Far and Middle East to Central/Eastern Europe, as well as Australia and the USA. This cosmopolitanism, combined with genuinely inclusive pastoral care, creates a genuinely mixed community rather than a narrow social bubble.

GCSE Performance

In 2024, 64% of GCSE grades achieved A* or A (grades 9-7). This compares to an England average of 54%, placing Priory pupils well above the national benchmark. Ranked 240th in England for overall GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), the school sits comfortably in the top 5%. Locally, it ranks 3rd among Ealing secondaries.

The school enters girls for a broad range of subjects. Sciences are taught separately; languages include French, Spanish, and Latin. Humanities, the arts, and technology all feature strongly in the curriculum. The breadth reflects the school's educational philosophy: a genuinely balanced education rather than narrowing into a handful of subjects.

A-Level Performance

At A-level, 85% of grades achieved A* to B in 2024, with 57% at A* or A. Against an England average of 47% for A*-B grades, this represents a material performance advantage. The school ranks 118th in England for A-level results (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 5% and 2nd locally.

Examination results have remained consistent over the past five years, suggesting these are sustainable outcomes rather than outliers. Sixth Form numbers are small (approximately 28 students annually), which allows highly individualised support and a degree of tutorial intensity more typical of university than school.

University Destinations

In 2024, 72% of leavers progressed to university. Popular destinations included Exeter, Leeds, UCL, Nottingham, and City. The school has secured Russell Group places consistently, with recent acceptances including Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College alongside Bristol, Durham, Edinburgh, and Kings College London.

One Cambridge place in 2024 understates Oxbridge penetration somewhat, but numbers are naturally limited by the small cohort size. The school's value lies in its ability to support girls through rigorous preparation for competitive applications rather than in sheer volume of acceptances.

Curriculum planning reflects the school's philosophy that girls should encounter subjects broadly and deeply. The National Curriculum provides the framework, but it is expanded noticeably.

In the lower school, girls encounter French from Year 3 onwards, with Spanish introduced later. Sets in Mathematics begin in Year 4, recognising that learners progress at different rates. Art, music, and drama are taught as discrete subjects, not integrated into broader creative studies, which allows deeper engagement.

All pupils in the prep phase learn a musical instrument in class; approximately half continue with individual lessons. This universal music education reflects the school's view that musical literacy is foundational, not specialist.

The ISI inspection found that teachers use assessment effectively to tailor learning and that pupils understand how to improve their work through regular individualised feedback. The inspection noted, however, that data use in the prep school could be strengthened — leaders are working on this.

Students with additional learning needs (17% of the school) receive carefully planned support. English as an additional language support (EAL))) support is available on a 1:1 basis for those whose first language is not English. Specialist SEND support carries an additional charge but is reportedly high-quality.

Beyond formal lessons, enrichment includes a Science Fair (won recently by a Year 5 pupil), Bletchley Park visits for STEM-interested pupils (deciphering Enigma machine challenges), and specialist subject clubs.

From Junior School

Most pupils from the Preparatory phase progress into the Senior School at age 11. The transition is relatively frictionless, as they are already in the Priory community and familiar with facilities.

Some pupils from external junior schools enter at this point, sitting entrance assessments in English, Mathematics, verbal reasoning, and participating in classroom observation.

From Fifth Form (GCSE)

Entry to the Sixth Form is not automatic. Girls must achieve specified grades (typically 6s and above in A-level subjects). A small sixth form means places are selective even for internal candidates.

External applicants are welcome and sit assessments plus interview.

Sixth Form Destinations

The pathway onwards emphasises Russell Group universities and research-intensive institutions. With 85% achieving A*-B at A-level, the profile of leavers suits competitive university entry. Medical schools, law schools, and engineering programmes are popular destinations, reflecting strong STEM presence in the curriculum.

The school provides structured university guidance, including a dedicated Careers and Higher Education department that tracks leavers and maintains alumni networks. School literature often cites one former Head Girl who went to Edinburgh, graduated with a first in Business Management and moved straight into a graduate job as an example of the intended trajectory.

St Augustine's Priory's extracurricular offering is extensive: over 50 clubs run each term. Rather than listing exhaustively, the most distinctive offerings merit detail.

Music: A Defining Strength

Music is woven throughout the school rather than confined to specialists. Dr Higgins, Director of Music, oversees a busy department with the assistance of Miss Westley and peripatetic staff.

The school's musical ensembles include a Senior Orchestra, Junior Orchestra, Senior Strings, Junior Strings, Prep Orchestra, String Trio, Baroque Ensemble, Chamber Choir, and Senior Choir. Flute Ensemble, Senior Flutes, and other instrumental groups provide focused pathways. All are open to learners at appropriate levels.

Concerts include the annual St Cecilia's Concert (held in November, featuring year groups from Year 2 to Year 13), the Carol Service held at nearby Benedictine Ealing Abbey in December, and summer concerts. The St Cecilia's Concert has grown into a standing-room-only event featuring everything from Baroque to contemporary pieces, with soloists as young as Year 2.

Music Scholarships are available at 11+ and recognise not just ability but commitment and potential to inspire others. The school actively seeks musicians who will contribute to ensemble life.

Drama: Highly Professional and Accessible

Each year group participates in dramatic productions. The Inspection report noted that pupils "enjoy performing in the school's regular drama productions." The school runs theatre productions involving girls from Year 5 through to Sixth Form, with separate dramatic offerings for younger pupils.

Scripts range from classics to new pieces; productions are staged in the school hall, drama studio, or dedicated performance spaces. The investment in costume, set design, and technical support is evident. Drama facilities include a dedicated drama studio and junior music/drama room, funded through a recent science block development.

STEM and Technology

Computing features prominently. Year 9 pupils visited Bletchley Park recently, solving coded challenges and learning about the Enigma machine's cryptographic principles. The school values computational thinking as a discipline distinct from coding alone.

Individual pupils have achieved success in the Bebras Challenge (testing logic and problem-solving rather than coding syntax), earning Gold and invitations to the Oxford University Computing Challenge (OUCC). This recognition validates the depth of STEM engagement beyond exam syllabuses.

Clubs include Python programming, reflecting the school's commitment to algorithmic thinking.

Sports: Strong and Inclusive

Primary sports are netball and hockey, reflecting the school's facilities (two netball courts, floodlit all-weather astroturf). Both sports involve competitive fixtures at local and regional levels; the netball tour to Paris in recent years brought competition and camaraderie.

Beyond traditional offerings, the school provides basketball, cheerleading, strength and conditioning, athletics, football, cricket, and tag rugby coached by a former Team GB coach. This breadth ensures girls find a sport that suits them rather than conforming to a narrow athletic identity.

Sports Scholarships recognise excellence and commitment. Water polo and swimming are available through external partnerships.

Creative Arts and Humanities

Art classes culminate in exhibitions. The Inspection report highlighted "excellent artwork produced by older pupils" displayed around the school. Art Scholarships are available at entry points.

English and Languages are supported by speaking and literature clubs. Debating features, though not named as a specific club in available information. Classical Greek is offered as an option for students interested in ancient texts and culture.

Additional Programmes

The school organises subject-specific trips. Geography GCSE students visited New York to study urban development and site factors in Alpha++ world cities. History trips, language exchange visits, and outdoor education features occur regularly.

The Priory Farm School Farming Community engages pupils with animal husbandry, sustainable agriculture, and environmental responsibility. The school’s orchard is used practically too: pupils can buy fresh eggs and apples, linking learning with real-world economics.

Duke of Edinburgh Award schemes run, with girls progressing from Bronze through to Gold.

Over 50 clubs and activities means almost any interest finds a pathway, from practical skills (cooking, photography) through to intellectual pursuits (classical Greek, tea appreciation, chess) and physical challenges (roller skating, fencing). This diversity reflects an underlying belief that education extends beyond examinations.

Tuition fees for 2025/26 are charged termly in advance:

• Senior School: £8,382 per term (£6,985 + 20% VAT)
• Preparatory School: £7,002 per term (£5,835 + 20% VAT)
• Nursery: Flexible options from £2,200 per term for full-time to reduced fees with government-funded early years hours.

All fees are now inclusive of 20% VAT (introduced January 2025). Public examination fees are not included and will be added prior to sittings.

School lunches cost £325 per term (or £250 for Nursery), payable separately and optional. Children may bring packed lunches.

Financial Aid

Bursaries up to 75% of annual fees are available on a means-tested basis for applicants meeting entrance criteria. Hardship awards exist for existing pupils facing genuine financial difficulty. Sibling discounts apply: 8% for a second child, 13% for a third, 20% for a fourth, and 100% for a fifth.

A registration fee of £150 is charged to process applications. An acceptance deposit of £2,000 secures a place; this is refundable when the pupil leaves. For Nursery, the deposit is lower and varies depending on hours booked.

The Fees in Advance Scheme allows families to pay up to three years' fees upfront for a reduction. This provides flexibility for forward planning.

Entry Points

Key intake points are Nursery and Reception, plus Year 12 and Year 7 (and, where relevant, Year 5). Entry is selective. The school uses entrance assessments, interviews, and references from current educational settings to evaluate candidates.

At 11+, girls sit examinations in English, Mathematics, Verbal Reasoning, and a Creative Task. An interview follows. The school is part of the London 11+ Consortium, meaning entrance is competitive. Registration for January examinations requires completion of an online form and payment of a registration fee (£150 currently, inclusive of VAT).

Sixth Form entry requires specified GCSE grades (typically 6 and above in intended A-level subjects) and is subject to interview.

Siblings and Scholarships

Sibling priority is given, but siblings must still meet entrance criteria. Scholarships are available at 11+ and 16+ in academics, music, sport, art, and drama. The Modern Languages Scholarship is available at 14+ (Year 9).

Bursaries (means-tested financial aid) are offered up to a maximum of approximately 75% for exceptional candidates who meet admissions criteria but face financial hardship.

Getting In

The school is selective and popular. Entry is achievable for academically able girls; parents should not assume offers are automatic. Entrance assessments are more rigorous than baseline curriculum assessments, testing reasoning and application as well as recall.

The ISI Inspection confirmed that leaders "actively promote a school community of mutual respect through daily acts of worship and the school's informative personal, social, and health and economic (PSHE) education curriculum." Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) is age-appropriate and well-taught.

Pupils have a clear understanding of how to improve through regular individualised feedback. Form tutors oversee academic progress and pastoral wellbeing. The Inspection noted that "governors and leaders possess the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding to fulfil their roles and promote the academic, physical and emotional wellbeing of the pupils effectively."

Safeguarding is taken seriously. The Inspection affirmed that the school meets all statutory requirements in this area.

Counselling support is available, and staff are trained to recognise and respond to wellbeing concerns. The no-phone policy dramatically simplifies pastoral life, eliminating social media-related conflicts during the school day.

Parents report feeling genuinely supported; staff know their daughters individually and contact home about concerns or achievements regularly.

School day: 8:50am to 3:20pm (Senior and Prep). Nursery operates from 8:30am with flexible hours.

Breakfast and after-school care: Available until 6:00pm, providing wraparound childcare for working families.

Transport: Public transport links include the Central, District, and Piccadilly Lines at various distances. The school is adjacent to Hanger Lane. Local bus routes serve the site. On-site parking is limited; many families walk or arrive by car during a specific arrival window to manage congestion.

Holiday clubs: Camp Beaumont runs holiday camps on-site during school holidays, offering flexible childcare with activities.

Uniform: Required for all pupils; cost not included in tuition.

Selection and academic demand: This is a selective school. Entrance is competitive. Girls need to demonstrate genuine academic ability; this is not a school for those who excel at one subject but struggle broadly. The curriculum and teaching pace assume engagement with learning across the board.

Size and anonymity: With approximately 500 pupils, the school is smaller than many London independents. This is a strength for pastoral care but means fewer friendship options if a girl finds her peer group mismatched. Families seeking a large sixth form should look elsewhere (28 pupils per year group).

Catholic character: Though welcoming to all faiths, the school is Catholic. Mass is part of school life; religious education is taught explicitly; faith-based service and charity feature in the curriculum and ethos. Families uncomfortable with this should be frank in assessment.

Space and outdoors: The thirteen acres are a unique asset in London, but the school's ethos depends partly on outdoor learning and space. Girls who thrive in highly urban settings with clear boundaries may find the openness unusual.

Fees and bursary reality: Fees are rising due to VAT and economic pressures. Bursaries are available but only for exceptional candidates. Families relying on bursarial aid should assume competitive assessment; assuming need alone leads to offers is risky.

St Augustine's Priory succeeds because it refuses to chase trends. The school invests in space, pastoral care, music, and liberal learning rather than marketing itself as cutting-edge. Results are strong, but they are a byproduct of engagement rather than the primary mission. Girls who thrive here are intellectually curious, reasonably independent, and willing to embrace a community larger than their immediate friendship group. The farm, the orchard, the chapel, and the quiet purposefulness all create an educational experience quite distinct from the typical independent school.

Best suited to girls with genuine academic ability, parents who value pastoral care over prestige, and families comfortable with a Catholic ethos. Not ideal for those seeking a large, high-profile London name or a narrowly specialist school. Best for girls aged seven to eleven and thirteen to sixteen; the sixth form's small size means it is perhaps most suited to those seeking intensive tutorial support and clear university guidance rather than the social vibrancy of a large sixth form.