In partnership with
La Retraite Roman Catholic Girls' School
As families across Wandsworth and Wimbledon weigh their choices for secondary education, La Retraite Catholic Girls School stands as a beacon of academic excellence, strong moral values, and an unwavering commitment to the holistic development of every student.
Recently rated Outstanding for the third time by Ofsted and receiving top honours from the Catholic Schools Inspectorate in 2024, La Retraite continues to cement its reputation as one of London’s most respected schools for girls.
Welcoming students of all faiths, the school offers a nurturing and inclusive environment grounded in Gospel values.
We spoke with Dominic Malins, the headteacher of La Retraite, to learn more about what makes the school so distinctive — and why so many local families are choosing to make it their number one choice.
A tradition of excellence
"La Retraite has been delivering Catholic education for over 140 years," says Mr Malins. "It’s that legacy — rooted in faith, compassion and high expectations — that makes our community so special."
This legacy is evident in the school’s wide and ambitious curriculum, exceptional pastoral care, and strong academic outcomes. In 2024, La Retraite celebrated some of its best GCSE results to date, with over 92 per cent of students achieving a Grade 4 or above in English, and nearly 80 per cent doing so in Maths.
Such success is no accident. Mr Malins attributes these achievements to "dedicated and highly skilled staff, a culture of continuous improvement, and our commitment to nurturing the whole child."
Faith and values at the core
At La Retraite, the Catholic ethos is not an afterthought — it is the foundation of school life. "Our students live the Gospel values daily. Compassion, integrity, and service aren’t just words here — they’re embedded into how we treat one another, how we learn and how we grow."
In June 2025, the school received the national Oscar Romero Award in recognition of its dedication to Catholic Social Teaching. This award highlights La Retraite’s commitment to dignity, solidarity, and the common good — values that students carry with them into the wider world.
Open events: a window into school life
Prospective families attending La Retraite’s open events are met with a warm welcome and an authentic glimpse into life at the school. From student-led tours showcasing modern classrooms and unique spaces like the school’s state-of-the-art podcast booth, to teacher Q&As and curriculum presentations, visitors gain real insight into the school’s dynamic learning environment.
"These events allow families to experience our community firsthand — the energy, the respect, the care. Parents often say they’re struck by how happy and engaged our students are," Mr Malins says.
The school also offers a comprehensive transition programme, including subject masterclasses, a ‘Friendship Afternoon’ and primary school visits from the SENDCo team — all designed to help incoming Year 7 pupils start their journey with confidence and support.
Beyond the classroom
La Retraite’s commitment to developing well-rounded young women is clear in its vibrant enrichment offering. From Navy Cadets and sports clubs to a thriving music programme with subsidised instrumental lessons and small-group teaching at Key Stage 3, the school ensures students can explore and grow in multiple areas.
"We’re proud to offer opportunities that build confidence and leadership," Mr Malins adds. "One of our highlights this year was a team of Year 12 students winning the Sheriffs’ Challenge at the Old Bailey — an inspiring example of how we develop public speaking and critical thinking skills."
The school also celebrates student leadership through programmes like the Duke of Edinburgh Award and the Jack Petchey Awards, and students regularly take part in trips — including a Sixth Form visit to Berlin this July and a pilgrimage to Rome in the coming year.
Preparing for the future
La Retraite offers an impressive post-16 pathway, including six T Level qualifications — career-focused courses that include 45-day industry placements. Its co-educational Sixth Form ranks in the top five per cent nationally for student progression, with graduates securing places at elite universities including Cambridge, or landing degree apprenticeships with employers such as Lloyds, Amazon, and the NHS.
"Our careers programme begins in Year 7 and is backed by the Investors in Careers Level 3 award. We support every student to find the pathway that’s right for them — whether that’s university, employment, or further training."
This September, the school will open a dedicated Autism Resource Base, further strengthening its exceptional SEND provision. "It’s part of our belief that every child deserves to thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally."
A final word to families
Asked what he would say to parents considering La Retraite, Mr Malins' message is clear and heartfelt:
"Choosing a secondary school is one of the most important decisions a family makes. At La Retraite, you will find a school that puts your child’s happiness, success, and wellbeing first. Our Outstanding results, our dedicated pastoral care, and our values-led approach all come together to create an environment where young women grow into confident, compassionate leaders of the future."
Open Mornings and Evenings at La Retraite Catholic Girls School will be held this autumn. For more information and to book a place, visit laretraite.co.uk
Share