All-ThroughCo-educationalISI · Excellent

Forest School

London · E17 3PY

AAB+ A-level

30.1%

9–7 GCSE

63.9%

Day fees

£22k

Inspection

Excellent

Read report

Forest School is a long-established, independent all-through day school in Walthamstow, East London, serving nearly 1,500 pupils from age 4 to 18. Known for its progressive, liberal ethos and strong emphasis on individual development alongside academic rigour, it has built a reputation as a thinking school that values critical engagement and pastoral care. The school combines traditional academic excellence with modern, inclusive approaches to education, drawing families from across London who value intellectual curiosity and a non-conformist educational philosophy.

  • →Progressive educational philosophy emphasizing critical thinking and intellectual independence
  • →Strong pastoral care and inclusive, nurturing community culture
  • →Excellent academic outcomes with a broad curriculum and strong university destinations
  • →Co-educational environment with emphasis on equality and social responsibility

Who thrives here

Forest suits thoughtful, intellectually curious pupils who thrive in a questioning, non-pressurized environment and value community and social responsibility. It appeals to families seeking a liberal, progressive alternative to traditional independent schooling.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports50th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeing100th pct

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeAll-Through · Day
Founded1834
Number of pupils1,495
Age range4–18
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£21.6k/yr
AssociationsISC
Settingurban
LocationLocated on a 44-acre campus in Walthamstow; good Central Line access and extensive bus routes serve pupils across North London and Essex.

Contact & visit

College Place, Snaresbrook

London

E17 3PY

02085201744
Mr Marcus Cliff Hodges, Warden

Nearest stations

Walthamstow Central8 min
St James Street6 min
Leyton12 min

Notable alumni

Angela Rayner

Labour politician; Deputy Leader of the Labour Party

Imogen Stubbs

Actress, theatre director

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Forest School?

Day fees at Forest School are approximately £21,600 per year (2024/25).

How do you get into Forest School?

Forest School admits pupils at 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Forest School's exam results?

At Forest School, 30.1% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 63.9% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Forest School a boarding school?

Forest School is a day school in London and does not offer boarding.

What is Forest School's latest inspection rating?

ISI rated Forest School “Excellent” (2018).

What parents say

Frequently praised

✓Nurturing, supportive pastoral care and inclusive community ethos

✓Development of independent, critical thinking and intellectual curiosity

✓Strong academic outcomes without excessive pressure or competitiveness

✓Progressive values and emphasis on social responsibility and global awareness

Common concerns

!School can lack the competitive edge or elite academic reputation some parents seek

!Progressive approach to discipline may seem permissive to traditional families

!Location in Walthamstow may entail lengthy travel for some London families