An Ofsted inspection on 8th–9th October 2024 at Brentford School for Girls rated the school as ‘Good’ in all categories, applauding its inclusive ethos, high standards of behaviour, and positive learning environment.

The report highlighted the school’s well-rounded and robust curriculum, which allows students to begin GCSE studies early, providing a solid academic foundation. Support for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) was identified as a standout strength. Inspectors also praised the school’s unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, particularly its efforts to enhance literacy skills in the sixth form, equipping students with the tools they need for future success.

Safeguarding measures were deemed exceptionally effective, ensuring that all students feel safe, valued, and supported throughout their education.

Marais Leenders: Empowering Brentford School for Girls to succeed in a global future

A major part of the success and development of Brentford School for Girls is the Executive Headteacher, Marais Leenders. Working with her experienced leadership team, the school has clear direction with their vision at the heart of everything they do.

Brentford School for Girls, a dynamic all-girls academy in Hounslow, proudly nurtures confident, capable, and socially responsible young women. With a rich history of serving a diverse community, the school is dedicated to empowering ‘The Brentford Girl’ to thrive in a changing world.

Executive Headteacher Marais Leenders embodies the transformative power of education. Born locally and the first in her family to attend university, she understands the life-changing impact of quality education and believes every child deserves an exceptional learning environment—one she would choose for her own children.

Brentford School for Girls educates 814 students, including its 6th form, and offers a strong, curriculum with a focus on developing their students to fulfil their academic potential. The school’s literacy programs, including reading initiatives, book clubs, and writing workshops, prepare students with essential skills for success. Ms. Leenders, passionate about literacy, personally leads one of the school’s book clubs, promoting a love of reading and intellectual curiosity.

In addition to leading Brentford School for Girls, Ms. Leenders is Executive Headteacher for both Brentford and Worple Primary School. Since taking leadership in 2012, she has driven significant improvement, achieving outstanding results even in disadvantaged areas. As of May 2023, she also serves as an Ofsted inspector, further advancing educational excellence.

The vision of The Brentford Girl

At Brentford School for Girls, the vision of ‘The Brentford Girl’ lies at the heart of everything they do. She embodies confidence, independence, and emotional intelligence, ready to tackle life’s challenges with resilience and grace. A Brentford Girl is resourceful, curious, and equipped to thrive in a fast-paced, globalized, and technological world. She is socially conscious, deeply committed to sustainability, and driven to make a meaningful impact in both her local and international communities.

As well as nurturing strong academic performance, the concept of  ‘every child counts’ is strong in the philosophy of the school. This extends to extra-curricular club which are provided free of charge to all students and the vast number of trips organised by staff; in this academic year there are over 60 trip planned!

Shaping futures

Brentford School for Girls celebrates a proud legacy of student achievement, with many graduates progressing to top universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. The school’s dedication to academic excellence, community engagement, and personal growth ensures that every student graduates as a confident, compassionate, and capable young woman, ready to leave her mark on the world.

BSfG parent survey summary

Ofsted’s findings are vital for any school. However, what parents think is a key stakeholder view that Brentford School for Girls seeks to gain. On November 27th, 2024, a survey of parents at Brentford School for Girls provided valuable insights into their experiences.

Key feedback highlights from the survey included: 

• 91% stated that their child is happy at the school
• 94% of parents reported that their daughters felt safe at school
• 96% of parents stated that the school has high expectations for their child
• 94% of parents feel that their daughter does well at this school
• 92% liked the range of subjects available at the school
• 91% of parents reported that the school ensures that pupils are well-behaved.

To learn more about Brentford School for Girls, visit https://www.brentford.hounslow.sch.uk/contactform or contact them directly by emailing general@brentford.hounslow.sch.uk.