History

Foundation in Cripplegate

Lady Eleanor Holles was a 17th-century Englishwoman with a strong sense of philanthropy. When she died, she her will stipulated that the ‘overplus’ of her estate, after specific bequests, be used for charitable purposes at the management of her cousin, Anne Watson. Anne chose to establish a charity school for girls, and ‘The Lady Holles’ Charity School’ was born. First housed in Cripplegate its purpose was to educate and clothe 50 girls aged 8–12, focusing on Christian teachings and domestic skills.

Growth and Expansion in the 19th Century

In 1832, the school moved to larger premises on Redcross Street, expanding to 100 girls and later adding an Infant and Industrial school. Following the Endowed Schools Act 1869, a middle-class girls’ school opened in Hackney in 1878, offering a broad curriculum and entrance exams. After a period of decline in the 1890s, the school rejuvenated, closing the elementary school in 1899 and improving facilities at Mare Street. By 1904, it became a public secondary school, extending education to age 17 and earning praise for its standards.

Relocation and Growth in the 20th Century

The school grew steadily, adding a sixth form by 1916 and expanding sports and science facilities. In 1936, the school relocated to Hampton, opening new buildings in 1937 with a fresh uniform and the motto of ‘Hope favours the bold’’.

War Years and Post-War Independence

During WWII, the school adapted to wartime challenges under Head Mistress Nora Nickalls, who led from 1915 to 1944. After the Butler Education Act 1944, the school chose independence over direct grant status, becoming fully independent in 1946.

Post-War Development and Modernisation

Ruth Garwood Scott (Head 1949–73) oversaw major expansions, raising academic standards and introducing a wider curricular and extracurricular activities, including athletics and music.

Margaret Smalley (1974–81) consolidated progress, and Liz Candy (1981–2004) modernised the school with new facilities, extended arts and sports programmes, with emphasis on confidence and community service alongside academic excellence. Gillian Low (2004–14) introduced Sixth Form enrichment and oversaw the award-winning Arts Centre. LEH celebrated its 300th anniversary in 2011. Under Heather Hanbury (2014–23), LEH enhanced resilience and wellbeing programmes, expanded bursaries, strengthened links with Hampton School, and opened our sister school LEH Foshan in China. Heather’s leadership earned national recognition before her retirement.

LEH today

In 2023, Rowena Cole became Head Mistress, supported by the senior team, leading LEH undaunted into the future. Under her headship LEH has unveiled its Facing the Future Undaunted with the vision of providing LEH girls with a distinctive education that prepares them to take their place at the table, in the room and in the world, in their chosen sphere within a culture that supports every pupil to achieve excellence and success, both shared and individual, to be fulfilled, and to have significant impact in every way she chooses.

More Information

Policies

Inspection Report

Alumnae