Godolphin and Latymer is an independent day school for girls aged 11 to 18 in Hammersmith, west London. Here are five things to know.
1. It has a surprising history
The school’s roots go back to 1861, but it became a girls’ day school in 1905. For much of the 20th century it was state-aided, and it returned to independent status in 1977 rather than become part of a split-site comprehensive. Its name links it to the Latymer Foundation, which also founded neighbouring Latymer Upper School.
2. There’s a peaceful campus in the middle of the city
The six-acre site near Hammersmith Broadway mixes historic buildings with modern facilities, linked by gardens and courtyards. Highlights include a performing arts centre in a converted church, a music school, a galleried sports hall with a climbing wall, a pottery room, a darkroom and an ecology garden.
3. Sixth formers choose A-levels or the IB
A big draw is the choice between A-levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma, with around a quarter of students opting for the IB. The school is known for particularly strong IB results, and in 2025, 97.5% of A-level grades were A* to B.
4. Languages and the arts shine
Language learning starts in Year 7 with French, German and Mandarin, and music and the arts have always flourished. Extracurricular life includes debating, Model United Nations, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and outreach with local primary schools. Famous former pupils include Nigella Lawson, Kate Beckinsale and Sophie Ellis-Bextor.
5. Entry is at 11+ or 16+
Most girls join at 11+, through entrance assessments, an interview and a reference from their current school, and there’s also a sixth-form entry point. Art and music scholarships are available, along with means-tested bursaries at both 11+ and 16+.
Find out more
Godolphin and Latymer School, Iffley Road, Hammersmith, London W6 0PG. Telephone 020 8741 1936. Visit godolphinandlatymer.com for admissions and open events.