If you think you’re seeing double, think again: head Jane Lunnon has an identical twin sister who runs City of London School for Girls. They are both ‘forces of nature’ and Jane has led this ‘dynamic and enterprising’ co-ed school since January 2021, arriving with a ‘fresh perspective’ and clarity about what she wants to achieve during her tenure. The school is renowned for its reputation for producing ‘compassionate’ young members of society, illustrated by its outreach programme, which sees Sixth Form students help with classes in local primary schools. Eco matters are taken seriously here, too. Hence the launch of a new sustainability committee, which goes from strength to strength (Ms Lunnon even participated in a panel discussion at COP26). With approximately eight to nine applicants per place, admissions are competitive, in part due to the excellent results the school consistently achieves as well as its leavers’ destinations (67 per cent to Russell Group universities in 2021, and a number heading to the likes of Brown and UC Berkeley in the US). Over 700 pupils represent the school in more than 2,000 sports fixtures annually, and the girls vs boys netball competition is hotly contested. Stereotypes aren’t a thing here, and it’s not uncommon to find a naval cadet who also takes part in ‘formidable’ musicals. The recent interpretation of Guys and Dolls was quirky and radical, widely praised for its gender fluidity and quite simply for being ‘so Alleyn’s!’
Location: Townley Road, SE22 8SU
Website: alleyns.org.uk
Head: Jane Lunnon, since January 2021; previously Head of Wimbledon High School
Pupils: 1,085 day: 523 boys, 562 girls
Ages: 11-18
Term fees: £7,620
Oxbridge: 13%
Admission: ISEB Pre-Test, school’s own exam and interview
Alumni: Caleb Nelson, Eden Cheng
Prep head: Simon Severino
Prep Pupils: 244 day: 118 boys, 126 girls
Prep Ages: 4-11
Prep Term fees: £6,990
